Bitcoin is testing major support levels on both the weekly and 4 hour charts, with price sitting near the weekly 200EMA and the range low. Meanwhile, a liquidation heatmap shows heavy liquidity stacked above and another pocket below, setting clear zones for the next reaction.
Bitcoin hovers near weekly 200EMA as sellers press long-term supportBitcoin traded near $66,316 on the weekly BTC/USD chart as price continued to hover around the weekly 200-period exponential moving average, a long-term trend gauge highlighted by chart analyst Daan Crypto Trades.
The latest weekly candle showed Bitcoin pulling back from recent highs and settling near the moving average, with price down about 0.7% on the week at the time of the chart snapshot. The 200EMA has acted as a reference level during prior market phases, and the current test places price close to a long-term support zone that has drawn attention on higher timeframes.
Bitcoin Weekly 200EMA Test. Source: Daan Crypto Trades on X
Price action leading into the level showed a sequence of lower weekly closes after Bitcoin rolled over from its recent cycle peak. The pullback unfolded after several months of choppy trading near the upper range, followed by a sharper decline that brought price back toward the rising long-term averages. On the same chart, the weekly 200-period simple moving average sat lower than the 200EMA, creating a band of longer-term support beneath spot price. This clustering of long-term averages marks a compressed zone where price previously paused during broader trend resets.
The weekly structure now reflects a transition from expansion to consolidation, with recent candles showing deeper wicks into the moving-average area before partial recoveries. Earlier in the cycle, Bitcoin respected rising long-term trendlines during corrective phases before resuming higher. The current positioning near the 200EMA places price at a level that has historically aligned with shifts in momentum on the weekly timeframe.
Bitcoin tests range low as liquidation heatmap shows nearby liquidity pocketsBitcoin traded near $65,040 on the 4-hour BTC/USDT chart on Binance as price extended lower into the bottom of its recent range, according to data shown on a liquidation heatmap shared by Columbus.
The chart mapped dense liquidation bands above and below spot price, with the heaviest clusters concentrated between roughly $70,000 and $85,000 overhead and another pocket building below the current level. The latest move carried price into the lower boundary of the range after a sharp downswing, placing Bitcoin at a defined reaction area on the intraday timeframe.
Bitcoin Range Low Liquidation Heatmap. Source: Columbus on X
The selloff into the range low unfolded in a steep, directional sequence, with successive red candles pushing through prior intraday support. On the heatmap, that move coincided with the clearing of nearby liquidity, as brighter bands faded near the breakdown path. After the flush, price began to trade sideways near the lows, forming a narrow consolidation band while remaining under thicker liquidity layers overhead. This structure shows price compressing after an impulsive leg, rather than building a broader base during the decline.
The heatmap also highlighted the next notable liquidity pocket below the current range, indicating a lower zone where resting positions cluster if price accepts beneath the range floor. At the same time, dense bands above mark potential magnet areas if price re-enters the prior range. With Bitcoin holding near the lower boundary, the chart frames a near-term inflection area where price response to the range low defines whether trading rotates back toward overhead liquidity or extends into the next lower pocket.
2026-02-23 10:0919d ago
2026-02-23 04:4119d ago
Robinhood users rotate beyond BTC, ETH as dip-buying grows
BTC is trading around $68,000, slightly up on the day but down over the week, and Robinhood’s crypto head says their users are using this environment to buy dips and diversify beyond just BTC and ETH.
Summary
BTC trades near recent lows after multi-week decline amid persistent ETF outflows and extreme fear readings. Robinhood users increasingly rotate from just BTC, ETH into a broader basket of tokens during the downturn. Staking demand for ETH and SOL on Robinhood remains strong since its December launch, signaling active on-chain use, not passive holding. Cryptocurrency investors are diversifying their holdings beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum during the current market decline, according to a Robinhood executive.
Johann Kerbrat, head of crypto at Robinhood, stated in a recent interview that many platform users view the ongoing market downturn as an opportunity to purchase digital assets at lower prices. However, trading activity has expanded beyond the largest cryptocurrencies, Kerbrat said.
“Customers see the current market as a buying opportunity. However, they are expanding their transactions beyond the two or three most popular cryptocurrencies to include a wider range of assets,” Kerbrat stated.
The executive reported that clients are actively using their tokens rather than simply holding them on the platform. Interest in staking has remained strong since Robinhood launched the feature in December, according to Kerbrat.
The shift in investor behavior comes as overall market sentiment remains at extreme levels of fear, according to market indicators. U.S. spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds have experienced net outflows for several weeks, data shows.
Despite the negative market conditions, interest in decentralized finance use cases is increasing, Kerbrat noted.
Bitcoin and altcoin prices have continued to decline in recent weeks, extending losses across the cryptocurrency market.
2026-02-23 10:0919d ago
2026-02-23 04:4919d ago
Bitcoin risks 2018-style crash if 200-week EMA breaks, warns analyst
Bitcoin trades near 200-week EMA; loss of support could spark 30–60% capitulation.
Summary
Bitcoin trades around $68.4k, above the ~$68.3k 200-week EMA that marks the key cycle support line. In 2018 and 2022, a weekly close below the 200-week EMA followed by a failed retest turned it into resistance and led to sharp selloffs. Analyst Rekt Capital says multiple weekly closes above the EMA keep downside “unconfirmed,” but a breakdown from this level could again trigger accelerated capitulation. A cryptocurrency analyst has warned that Bitcoin (BTC) could experience a significant price decline similar to events in 2018 and 2022 if the digital asset fails to maintain a critical technical support level.
The analyst, known by the pseudonym Rekt Capital, told 563,100 followers on social media platform X that Bitcoin faces potential downside risk if it loses support at the 200-week exponential moving average (EMA), according to statements posted on the platform.
Historical data shows that a weekly close below the 200-week EMA, followed by a post-breakdown retest of the EMA into new resistance, has triggered bearish acceleration in previous market cycles, the analyst stated.
“The 200-week EMA represents the key level,” Rekt Capital wrote, adding that a weekly close below it followed by a bearish retest would likely position Bitcoin for additional downside over time.
The analyst noted that Bitcoin has posted weekly closes above the 200-week EMA for two consecutive weeks, which has prevented bearish confirmation in the near term. However, the analyst cautioned that Bitcoin remains vulnerable without sustained upward momentum.
According to the analysis, historical patterns suggest Bitcoin may struggle to generate significant upward price movement from the 200-week EMA level before an eventual breakdown occurs.
The analyst stated that a convincing breakout above the 200-week EMA resistance level would be necessary to invalidate the likelihood of a price collapse.
Bitcoin experienced major capitulation events in both 2018 and 2022, when the cryptocurrency lost significant value following extended bear markets.
2026-02-23 10:0919d ago
2026-02-23 04:5219d ago
Ethereum Price Faces Resistance at $1,900 Amid Bearish Pressure
The upcoming prominent resistance is around the $1,950 level, and there is also a bearish trend line with resistance at $1,950. Any further loss may send the price toward the $1,740 region, and the big support could be somewhere around $1,720. The price of Ethereum wasn’t able to surpass the $1,900 mark today and posted a fall such as Bitcoin. At the time of writing, the ETH price stood at $1,864.90, and with this, it has entered a bearish zone.
A low was made at $1,848, and after that the price showed a minor recovery wave. The price also went over the $1865 level but didn’t manage to hold longer and has still slipped below the 23.6% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the $1,994 swing high to the $1,845 low.
If the bulls go again over $1,850, then the price could look for another try for an increase; however, quick resistance is witnessed around the $1,880 mark. The first prominent resistance is around the $1,920 level and the 50% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the $1,994 swing high to the $1,845 low.
The Resistance Zone The upcoming prominent resistance is around the $1,950 level. There is also a bearish trend line with resistance at $1,950 on the hourly chart of ETH/USD. A clean move over the $1,950 resistance may push the price to the $2,000 resistance.
An upside break over the $2,000 region may captivate more gains in the near future. In the said situation, Ether could grow toward the $2,050 resistance zone or also $2,120 in the near term.
If Ethereum slips to the $1,920 resistance, it could initiate a fresh decline. The starting support on the downside is around the $1,850 level. The first significant support is around the $1,825 zone.
A clear move under the $1,825 support might push the price toward the $1,780 support. Any further loss may send the price toward the $1,740 region. The big support could be somewhere around $1,720.
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2026-02-23 10:0919d ago
2026-02-23 04:5219d ago
Bitcoin's Dip Under $65K Pushes Crypto Liquidations to $500M
In brief Bitcoin fell from $67.6K to $64.4K in two hours, triggering over $500 million in liquidations across the board. Bitcoin and Ethereum positions accounted for nearly 70% of total liquidations. One analyst told Decrypt that crypto remains "anchored at the far end of the risk curve," rather than a safe haven. Bitcoin's sharp pullback on Monday triggered a flurry of liquidations across crypto markets, wiping out over $470 million in leveraged positions.
The leading cryptocurrency fell roughly 4.6% from $67,600 to $64,435 in less than two hours during early Asian trading, according to CoinGecko data. The sudden collapse has resulted in over $505 million in liquidated positions across all assets over the past 24 hours, per CoinGlass data, with
accounting for $232 million and Ethereum for $126 million.
Bitcoin is currently trading at around $66,280, down 2.7% on the day.
"The downturn was not triggered by a sudden 'black swan' event or unexpected negative news," Tim Sun, senior researcher at HashKey Group, told Decrypt. "Instead, it was driven by policy uncertainty stemming from fluctuations in U.S. tariff policy, compounded by rising geopolitical risks. Together, these factors forced the market to reprice risk assets."
The U.S. Supreme Court’s Friday ruling stated that President Donald Trump’s “reciprocal” tariffs are illegal. That hasn’t stopped Trump from imposing a sweeping 10% global tariff in response to the ruling.
The selloff underscores Bitcoin's continued sensitivity to macro uncertainty, with risk assets repricing amid fluctuations in tariff policy and geopolitical tensions rather than crypto-specific catalysts.
Users on prediction market Myriad, owned by Decrypt’s parent company Dastan, have assigned a 37% chance that Bitcoin’s next move will propel it to $84,000. That probability has dropped almost 10% from Sunday’s peak of 46.4%, reflecting growing pessimism among investors.
Macro catalystsSun pointed to a confluence of pressures: sticky December PCE inflation data, Middle East tensions pushing crude oil to periodic highs, and interest rate markets now pricing out any chance of a March rate cut.
The markets have repriced rate-cut expectations from 90% last week to 96% as of Monday, according to the FedWatch tool, suggesting that the Federal target rate is likely to remain unchanged at 3.50% to 3.75% at the next FOMC meeting. On Myriad, predictors place just a 21% chance on a rate cut of more than 25bps before July, down from 40% earlier in the month.
The broad contraction in risk appetite is a result of these developments, the HashKey analyst said. It is evident in the crypto market’s drop and gold’s 1.23% uptick today, at 5,166 per ounce.
"In an environment defined by policy uncertainty, sticky inflation, and geopolitical risk, risk appetite has contracted significantly," Sun explained. "Assets with high volatility and high liquidity dependence were the first to face pressure, driving the broad correction in risk assets."
Another factor that is playing a critical role in Bitcoin’s drop is crypto assets being treated as ‘risk assets’ by institutional capital. "Instead, they remain firmly anchored at the far end of the risk curve," Sun said.
Looking ahead, he expects limited inflows and a protracted bottoming process due to increased uncertainty that has “dampened the willingness of 'sidelined' capital to enter the market."
He cautioned that bounces are likely to be “technical recoveries” without sustained liquidity support, and any periodic bounces are more likely to be technical recoveries rather than trend reversals."
The key to a crypto market rebound lies in a convergence of macro signals turning positive, Sun said. He pointed to inflation trends, energy prices, geopolitical developments, and stability in traditional risk assets as critical watchpoints.
"If traditional risk assets remain under pressure, crypto is unlikely to rally independently," Sun added. "A stabilization in stocks is a prerequisite for a crypto recovery."
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2026-02-23 10:0919d ago
2026-02-23 04:5819d ago
Bitdeer sold all its bitcoin to fund its move into AI data centers
Singapore based BTC and AI miner sells all holdings to build liquidity for expansion, signaling a broader shift in capital strategy across the sector. Feb 23, 2026, 9:58 a.m.
Bitdeer (BTDR) a Singapore-based bitcoin mining and AI infrastructure company has reduced its bitcoin treasury stash to zero, marking a sharp break from the miner playbook of hoarding coins as a signal of conviction seen by the likes of Strategy (MSTR).
The company reported BTC holdings of zero as of Feb. 20, excluding customer deposits. It produced 189.8 BTC on their weekly update and sold the entire amount. Instead of positioning bitcoin as a balance sheet reserve, Bitdeer is turning production into liquidity.
STORY CONTINUES BELOW
Bitdeer said the decision to sell bitcoin should not concern the broader market, in a post on X, noting it is evaluating multiple powered land acquisition opportunities and believes it is prudent to prepare liquidity now, while continuing to grow hash rate and mine more bitcoin for shareholders.
Operationally, growth remains intact for the company. Bitdeer mined 668 bitcoin in January, up 430% year over year, and increased its self mining hash rate to 63.2 EH per second (EH/s), with total proprietary hash rate reaching 65.1 EH/s.
Bitdeer is accelerating its push into AI infrastructure, rolling out NVIDIA GB200 NVL72 systems in Malaysia and advancing conversions of several sites in the U.S. and Europe from crypto mining to AI data centers.
AI expansion is far more capital intensive than incremental mining buildouts, requiring large scale GPU clusters and data center upgrades.
Bitdeer recently priced a $325 million convertible notes offering and a $43.5 million equity raise to fund datacenter expansion, HPC and AI cloud growth, and ASIC development.
Unlike bitcoin mining, which is tied to price cycles and halvings, AI and HPC contracts can offer more predictable revenue streams. The pivot also represents an attempt by miners to be valued less as leveraged bitcoin proxies and more as digital infrastructure and AI plays.
Peers are moving in the same direction. Riot Platforms (RIOT) recently sold $200 million worth of bitcoin to fund operations and AI expansion. While Bitfarms (BITF) are dropping its “bitcoin company” identity and doubled down on AI in the U.S. MARA Holdings (MARA) is also expanding into HPC and AI through a planned 64% stake in France based Exaion.
Bitdeer shares are down 1% in pre-market, trading at $7.70 per share.
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PEPE remains under selling pressure but a falling wedge signals a potential 758% upside if price breaks above key resistance levels.
Newton Gitonga2 min read
23 February 2026, 09:59 AM
PEPE remains under strong selling pressure after peaking near $0.000004077 earlier in the session. The price gradually declined below the $0.00000405 level as bearish momentum intensified. A sharp sell-off pushed the token down toward the $0.00000385 support zone. This move confirmed increased downside volatility and aggressive distribution.
PEPE is currently trading at $0.00000407, down approximately 0.73% on the day. The rebound from the lows remains weak and lacks strong follow-through. Immediate resistance stands between $0.00000400 and $0.00000405. Sellers continue to maintain short-term market control.
PEPE Forms Falling Wedge as 758% Breakout Target EmergesAccording to analyst STEPH IS CRYPTO, the 1-week PEPE/USDT chart displays a clear falling wedge structure. Pepe price has been trending lower while forming lower highs and lower lows. The pattern shows compression between descending resistance and steady support.
Recent weekly candles are trading around the $0.0000043 to $0.0000045 region. This zone is acting as a major structural support level. Buyers continue defending this area despite broader market weakness. Selling pressure appears to be gradually fading near $0.0000045. The wedge is tightening as price approaches the apex.
A confirmed breakout above the upper trendline could trigger strong bullish momentum. STEPH IS CRYPTO outlines a projected upside of approximately 758%. From the current $0.0000045 level, that suggests a move toward $0.0000035 to $0.0000040. That target area aligns with previous weekly resistance zones. Volume expansion would be needed to confirm breakout strength. Holding above $0.0000043 remains essential for the bullish outlook. A weekly close below support would invalidate the setup and delay recovery.
PEPE Price Holds Near $0.0000039 as Bearish Momentum PersistsOn the 1-day chart, PEPE remains in a broader downtrend, characterized by a series of lower highs and lower lows across the displayed period. Pepe price action recently traded around $0.000003926 after opening near $0.000004051. PEPE reached a daily high of $0.000004054 and a low of $0.000003849, reflecting continued selling pressure.
There was a brief bullish spike earlier that pushed the price higher. However, momentum faded, and sellers regained control, driving the token back toward the $0.0000038–$0.0000040 support zone. The overall structure still favors bears unless price decisively reclaims and sustains levels above $0.0000041.
The MACD (12, 26, 9) shows the MACD line slightly below the signal line, with values around -0.000000127 and -0.000000162, while the histogram remains marginally negative at about 0.000000035, signaling weak bearish momentum but signs of possible stabilization. Meanwhile, the RSI (14) sits near 42.44, with its moving average around 45.20, indicating that bullish momentum is still limited.
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Newton Gitonga covers cryptocurrencies, blockchain, and digital finance. He specializes in breaking down complex trends with clear, data-driven reporting. His work focuses on market analysis, technical insights, and the evolving role of altcoins in shaping global markets.
XRP Ledger Transactions Surge 40%, Approaching 2.5 Million DailyThe XRP Ledger is experiencing a surge in real network activity, reflecting stronger adoption and on-chain engagement.
Daily successful transactions have soared nearly 40% to about 2.5 million, a peak not seen in recent months, according to market analyst Diana.
Notably, XRPL transactions are surging amid market fluctuations, with the altcoin trading at $1.40, just below key moving averages.
Source: CoinCodexBeyond price, the jump in network activity underscores real-world usage, as the ledger powers payments, remittances, and DeFi applications. The Dubai government’s tokenization of $5M in real estate, creating 7.8 million tradable property tokens, marks a major milestone for blockchain-based property markets.
Growing Account Base Supports ActivityThe XRP Ledger now boasts approximately 7.64 million activated accounts, reflecting steady growth from both retail and institutional users.
With activity spanning micropayments to cross-border settlements, rising account activations and transaction volumes signal strong network fundamentals and potential broader adoption.
Dominating 63% of the tokenized U.S. Treasury market, the XRP Ledger surpasses Ethereum, Solana, and Arbitrum as the clear leader.
Real Network Usage Outpaces Price MovementXRP’s surge in ledger transactions is striking, especially as the token trades below key technical levels. This divergence highlights that real-world network usage can grow independently of short-term price movements, showcasing XRP’s value as a fast, low-cost, and scalable payment network.
Meanwhile, Wall Street is going on-chain with the launch of a permissioned DEX on the XRP Ledger, signaling growing institutional adoption.
Therefore, the surge in daily XRP transactions, approaching 2.5 million, signals growing confidence among developers and users. Rising on-chain activity boosts liquidity, strengthens network infrastructure, and may draw more institutional interest.
ConclusionXRP Ledger transactions have surged 40%, nearing 2.5 million daily, highlighting strong real-world adoption beyond price swings. With 7.64 million activated accounts and rising daily activity, the network proves its efficiency and utility as a high-traffic payment platform.
Therefore, this growth signals a resilient ecosystem, reinforcing XRP’s role as more than a tradable asset, a thriving blockchain poised for continued adoption.
2026-02-23 10:0919d ago
2026-02-23 05:0019d ago
FARTCOIN drops 12% as support cracks – THIS suggests more pain ahead
Fartcoin [FARTCOIN] dropped over 12% in the last 24 hours as the broader crypto market declined by 4%.
The memecoin sector slipped 2%, even as trading volume rose 31%.
However, a few memecoins were doing well, especially those with the AI narrative. Despite FARTCOIN having such a narrative, it lacked real-world utility.
Hence, why was the memecoin down, and can bulls step in to reverse this?
Four-month support cracks On the charts, FARTCOIN has been in a sideways market since the 10th of October market crash. The crash saw the memecoin create a low at $0.0933 but has not revisited the level.
Bulls created a support level at $0.2145 and were defending it each time the price approached. Consequently, they would push the price toward the $0.4664 zone.
However, the situation changed in February, as the price fell below the 4-month support level. Bears overpowered bulls, breaking below the $0.2145 level, which confirmed bear trend continuation with a retest.
Source: FARTCOIN/USDT on TradingView
In fact, the bull’s strength had faded completely, as seen in the MACD bars.
However, they reacted very aggressively when the price hit $0.0933 previously. This area could hold for a rebound.
Otherwise, the memecoin would continue crashing.
Derivative positioning reinforced the weakness.
The Long/Short Accounts metric showed 54.25% of accounts positioned short, versus 45.75% long. That imbalance confirmed bearish dominance.
Having said that, leverage clusters added further pressure.
Leveraged short orders accelerate FARTCOIN’s decline Apart from a weak structural outlook, leverage also played a key role in FARTCOIN’s price decline.
The analysis of cumulative long and short liquidation leverage showed bear dominance. On all exchanges, the shorts accounted for about $4 million, which was more than 4x that of the longs at $802K.
Most of the shorts were added around $0.17 to $0.18, where 50X leverage orders topped, followed by those of 25X. Also, the current price levels around $0.15 showed that more of the 50X leverage orders were being added.
Source: CoinGlass
The data showed most of the leverage was on the Hyperliquid [HYPE] exchange.
Cumulative Short Liquidation Leverage was $58.28 million, as per CoinGlass. The result meant about 65.09K FARTCOIN had been shorted, which was about 3X those that had been bought.
FARTCOIN holders lose confidence Additionally, on-chain data showed that holders were losing confidence in the memecoin.
In fact, holders declined from a high of 160.95K to 160.86K, where it has remained this February. The lack of growth showed that traders had no interest in the memecoin.
Source: CoinMarketCap
This meant that the anticipated reversal at $0.0933 could follow the drain if such a situation continues. Therefore, FARTCOIN remains bearish until a market structure break occurs.
Final Summary FARTCOIN lost a four-month support level after falling 12% in 24 hours. Leveraged short positioning and flat holder growth reinforced bearish pressure.
2026-02-23 10:0919d ago
2026-02-23 05:0219d ago
Bitcoin dips under $64.5k as $500M liquidations hit 140k traders
Bitcoin briefly dropped below $64.5k, erasing weekend gains and sending the Crypto Fear & Greed Index back into extreme fear. Around 140k traders were liquidated, with total wrecked positions nearing $500M; the largest single hit was a $61.5M BTC long on HTX’s BTC/USDT pair. Machi Big Brother was partially liquidated on his ETH longs but still holds 1,700 ETH (~$3.2M) with a liquidation price near $1,819, after losses topping $28.8M. Bitcoin (BTC) dropped to its lowest level in more than two weeks during early trading hours, triggering widespread liquidations across cryptocurrency markets, according to industry data.
The rapid decline resulted in approximately 140,000 traders experiencing liquidated positions within hours, data from CoinGlass showed. The total value of liquidated positions increased significantly during the period.
An unidentified whale trader faced a substantial liquidation in the past 24 hours during the bitcoin downturn, according to market observers. The liquidation occurred on the HTX exchange and involved the bitcoin trading pair.
Taiwanese-American entrepreneur and former musician Jeffrey Huang, known as Machi Big Brother, was partially liquidated on his Ethereum position during the decline, according to data from blockchain analytics firm Lookonchain. Huang’s cryptocurrency portfolio had previously fallen below earlier levels, posting losses, CryptoPotato reported days earlier.
Following the latest liquidation, Huang continued to maintain long positions in Ethereum (ETH), currently holding 1,700 tokens, according to the data.
Ethereum’s price declined over the weekend after facing resistance at higher levels, marking its first significant drop since the February 6 market downturn.
Bitcoin is going through a turbulent zone, but the numbers might tell a very different story. Economist Timothy Peterson just published an analysis that catches attention: according to him, the probability that bitcoin will end the year higher than its current level is 88%. Enough to rekindle hope or fuel debate.
In Brief Economist Timothy Peterson estimates an 88% probability that Bitcoin will be higher in December than today. Over the past 24 months, 50% recorded positive returns for Bitcoin. Bitcoin is currently trading around $68,000, which is 25% below its early 2025 level. Analysts remain divided: imminent rebound for some, bottom in October 2026 for others. 50% of the Last 24 Months Have Been Positive for Bitcoin This Saturday, Timothy Peterson shared an analysis that quickly made waves. The economist specializing in digital assets published on X an indicator he closely watches: the number of positive months recorded by bitcoin over a rolling 24-month period.
His observation is clear. Over the past two years, exactly half of the months have posted gains for bitcoin. This seemingly trivial ratio sends a strong signal: according to his model, it implies “an 88% probability that bitcoin will be higher in ten months“, around December 22, 2026.
The numbers support this interpretation. In 2025, BTC ended in the green in January, April, May, June, July, and September—six months out of twelve. The other six ended in losses. A half-hearted performance, certainly, but enough to cross the threshold Peterson considers as triggering his bullish signal.
A Market Under Pressure, but Reasons to Believe The context remains difficult. Bitcoin is trading around $68,000, after opening the year near $80,000. The correction thus exceeds 25% since January. And across the overall crypto market, the record is even harsher: nearly all speculative gains recorded after the November 2024 U.S. presidential election have been erased.
The Fear & Greed Index, a gauge of investor sentiment, shows a score of 9 out of 100, an extreme fear level rarely reached. This environment drives some analysts to caution. Trader Peter Brandt, a respected figure in the sector, believes that bitcoin “won’t reach its true bottom until October 2026.”
Conversely, Michael van de Poppe, founder of MN Trading Capital, bets on an imminent rebound. He notes that the current month is closing strongly higher after five consecutive months of decline.
The Polymarket platform, meanwhile, gives a 17% chance that December 2026 will be the best month of the year for BTC, just behind November, historically the best-performing month with an average return of 41% since 2013.
Ultimately, Peterson’s signal guarantees nothing, but it deserves attention. In a market where fear dominates, historical data remind us that the most powerful reversals often occur when no one expects them. Keeping a cool head remains, once again, the best strategy.
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Fenelon L.
Passionné par le Bitcoin, j'aime explorer les méandres de la blockchain et des cryptos et je partage mes découvertes avec la communauté. Mon rêve est de vivre dans un monde où la vie privée et la liberté financière sont garanties pour tous, et je crois fermement que Bitcoin est l'outil qui peut rendre cela possible.
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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.
2026-02-23 10:0919d ago
2026-02-23 05:0619d ago
XRP Faces Further Downside Risk After $435 Million in Liquidations, Bollinger Bands Warn
XRP recovered after a heavy derivatives reset on the week's opening, worth $435 million in liquidations, but the Bollinger Bands warn that while leverage is out, talk about a "bullish" pivot is premature.
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The last week of February began with one of the most intense stress tests of the month for the digital assets market. According to CoinGlass, there were total liquidations of $435.64 million across exchanges over the past 12 hours, with long positions accounting for $393.43 million of that total.
Although XRP was not the main focus, it was definitely in the mix, with $9.02 million in liquidations over 12 hours as leveraged longs were pushed out.
24H Liquidation Heatmap, Source: CoinGlassLeveraged buyers were caught leaning the wrong way and were forced out. When this kind of overleveraging is removed, the price often rebounds simply because sell pressure tied to margin calls disappears. XRP’s 1.91% four-hour bounce fits that pattern. However, it was a derivatives reset, not a confirmed reversal.
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Why sell-off may not be over for XRPLiquidations change the market's composition. However, they do not automatically change the trend. That is where the chart comes in.
On the daily time frame, the XRP price is below the Bollinger midline and the $1.42-$1.45 zone, which previously acted as support but now acts as resistance. The lower Bollinger band is near $1.29.
XRP/USD Daily Chart, Source: TradingViewNeither has the price closed decisively at or beyond that band, nor has it formed a typical bottom sequence, such as repeated lower-band tags followed by compression and reclaiming the midline. Instead, the bands are expanding, which usually signals active range expansion rather than base building.
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The next thing to watch is a daily close back above the midband, which would suggest stabilization. In contrast, a break below and acceptance of the $1.29 per XRP region would suggest that the downside leg is not over. The liquidation wave eliminated leverage, but the structural decision is still pending.
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2026-02-23 09:0919d ago
2026-02-23 03:1019d ago
Analyst Warns Bitcoin Could Repeat 2018 and 2022 Capitulation Events if BTC Breaches Crucial Support
A widely followed analyst says Bitcoin may repeat an historical capitulation event if BTC fails to hold one key level.
The analyst pseudonymously known as Rekt Capital tells his 563,100 followers on X that if Bitcoin loses support at the 200-week exponential moving average (EMA) it may plummet in value similar to what occurred in 2018 and 2022.
“What would confirm additional downside for Bitcoin? Historically, a weekly close below the 200-week EMA (black) followed by a post-breakdown retest of the EMA into new resistance (red circles) has triggered additional bearish acceleration.
The 200-week EMA (black) represents the price point of ~$68,300. Therefore a weekly close below ~$68,300 followed by a bearish retest of it would likely position Bitcoin for a repeat of history with additional downside over time.”
Source: Rekt Capital/X The analyst notes that Bitcoin must convincingly breakout from the 200-week EMA resistance level to invalidate the likelihood of a collapse.
“Bitcoin has weekly closed above the 200-week EMA (black) for the second week in a row. This 200-week EMA is a key confirmation trigger for additional downside. So by Bitcoin weekly closing above it, it is staving off bearish confirmation.
However, this doesn’t mean Bitcoin is now in the clear. In fact, in the absence of any meaningful upside from here going forward, there is a risk that BTC loses the 200-week EMA in time. History suggests price won’t be able to produce much upside from this 200-week EMA before an eventual breakdown.”
Source: Rekt Capital/X Bitcoin is trading at $65,792 at time of writing, down 3.2% on the day.
Generated Image: DALLE3
2026-02-23 09:0919d ago
2026-02-23 03:1019d ago
U.S. Google searches for ‘Bitcoin to zero' spike amid BTC downtrend
Search interest for “Bitcoin to zero” has surged sharply in the United States, according to Google Trends data over the past five years, as Bitcoin remains under pressure in a downtrend.
Summary
U.S. Google searches for “Bitcoin to zero” have surged to a record high, hitting a peak score of 100 in early 2026, signaling rising retail fear. Similar spikes occurred during prior market drawdowns, but the current jump is stronger than previous peaks. Bitcoin is trading near $65,950, holding above $64,000 support but struggling below $68,000 resistance, with technical indicators pointing to short-term weakness. The latest reading shows the search term spiking to its highest level on record, reaching a peak score of 100 in early 2026.
The chart shows that similar spikes occurred during prior drawdowns, including in 2022 and briefly in 2025. However, the current move is notably stronger than previous peaks.
For most of 2023 and early 2024, interest remained muted, reflecting a calmer market environment. The sudden rise suggests growing retail anxiety as Bitcoin (BTC) consolidates after a sharp decline.
Historically, extreme “Bitcoin to zero” searches have coincided with periods of capitulation or heightened fear.
Bitcoin chart signals caution as fear spikes On the daily chart, Bitcoin is trading near $65,950. This month, Bitcoin has traded in a tight and choppy range following an early February sell-off that briefly pushed the price toward the low-$60,000 region.
After that sharp drop, BTC staged a modest rebound but has since struggled to break above the $68,000 area, with multiple daily candles showing rejection near the short-term moving average.
Price is trading below the 20-day simple moving average, which sits around $68,278. The upper Bollinger Band is near $72,458, while the lower band is around $64,098.
Bitcoin price performance | Source: Crypto.News Bitcoin is currently pressing close to the lower Bollinger Band, suggesting short-term weakness. The Chaikin Money Flow indicator is slightly negative at -0.06, signaling mild capital outflows but not extreme selling pressure.
Immediate support sits near $64,000, aligned with the lower Bollinger Band and recent consolidation lows. A breakdown below that level could open the door toward the $60,000 psychological area. On the upside, initial resistance is near $68,300 at the 20-day moving average. Stronger resistance is seen around $72,500, which marks the upper Bollinger Band and a prior breakdown zone.
Overall, Bitcoin remains range-bound in the short term but structurally weak unless it reclaims the $68,000–$72,000 region.
2026-02-23 09:0919d ago
2026-02-23 03:1319d ago
Ethereum risks going under $1.5K as Vitalik Buterin sells ETH 'faster'
Ethereum’s native token, Ether (ETH), is on track to test and potentially break the $1,500 support level in the coming days.
Key takeaways:
Ethereum has entered the breakdown phase of its prevailing bearish continuation pattern.
ETH price may decline below $1,500 by early March amid founder-led selling.
ETH bear pennant breakdown targets $1,475On Monday, ETH’s price dropped by more than 5.60% to about $1,850 amid a broader de-risking sentiment led by nervousness surrounding tariffs.
In doing so, the biggest altcoin broke below the lower trendline of its prevailing bear pennant pattern, with rising volumes indicating traders’ conviction behind the breakdown move.
Edit the caption here or remove the textA bear pennant breakdown typically resolves when the price falls by as much as the previous downtrend’s height.
Applying the same principle to ETH’s charts would bring its downside target to $1,475, close to the psychological support level of $1,500, by the end of February or early March.
The bulls must therefore reclaim the pennant’s lower trendline as support, followed by a continued rally above the 20-day exponential moving average (20-day EMA, the green line) at $2,085, which may invalidate the bearish outlook.
Vitalik Buterin will likely sell more ETH soonEthereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin’s planned ETH sales have not helped the bulls regain their footing in February.
On Jan. 30, Buterin said he would withdraw and sell 16,384 ETH via his Kanro entity to fund ecosystem work, open-source software and other long-term initiatives during an Ethereum Foundation “mild austerity” phase.
Since early February, onchain tracker Arkham Intelligence has flagged about 9,000 ETH sold in batches, with the pace picking up again over the past 48 hours after a 3,500 ETH withdrawal from Aave.
Vitalik Buterin “is selling ETH faster again,” said onchain monitoring resource, Lookonchain, on Monday.
Source: XEthereum’s price has dropped 18.55% so far in February, aligning with Buterin’s ETH distribution. The overhang could grow if he liquidates the remaining ~7,350 ETH.
History shows how founder-linked supply, including Ethereum Foundation treasury transfers, can amplify bearish sentiment among traders.
For instance, the May 2021 35,000 ETH transfers (about $125 million at that time) preceded a 50% ETH price drop within weeks.
Later, the foundation transferred another 20,000 ETH ($95 million) to Kraken on Nov. 11, 2021, a move that, in hindsight, coincided with Ether’s price peaking near $4,700 before the next leg lower.
Such conditions further increase ETH’s odds of hitting its pennant target below $1,500 in the coming days.
This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision. While we strive to provide accurate and timely information, Cointelegraph does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information in this article. This article may contain forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Cointelegraph will not be liable for any loss or damage arising from your reliance on this information.
2026-02-23 09:0919d ago
2026-02-23 03:1519d ago
Whale Liquidated for $61.5 Million as Bitcoin Tumbled to New Lows
Machi Big Brother was also partially wrecked as ETH's price dropped by $200.
It was another sharp drop for bitcoin earlier this morning when the asset plunged to its lowest level in over two weeks at under $64,500.
Given the extent and speed of the crash, the total value of wrecked positions skyrocketed within hours to almost $500 million. Within this timeframe, almost 140,000 traders were wrecked, according to data from CoinGlass. However, one case in particular raised a few eyebrows.
An unknown whale was wrecked for $61.51 million in the past day during BTC’s painful drop. The liquidation took place on HTX and involved the BTC/USDT trading pair.
Cryptocurrency Liquidations Daily. Source: CoinGlass Another whale that was hit during the dip was Machi Big Brother – the Taiwanese-American entrepreneur and former musician, whose real name is Jeffrey Huang.
Data from Lookonchain shows that he was partially liquidated on his ETH position. CryptoPotato reported a few days ago that his entire crypto portfolio had fallen below $1 million, posting a loss of around $28 million.
Although that amount has risen to over $28.8 million following the latest liquidation, he continues to build on his Ethereum longs, now holding 1,700 tokens, worth $3.2 million.
ETH’s price was rejected at $2,000 over the weekend and plunged to $1,850 for the first time since the February 6 crash, when it bottomed at $1,750.
You may also like: BTC Flash Dump: Why Bitcoin Fell $4K in Hours and What Comes Next Bitcoin Price Pullback: How Whales and Retail Investors Are Reacting ‘Bitcoin Is Dead’ Searches Hit New Highs: Is the Bottom In? The market just crashed, and Machi(@machibigbrother) was partly liquidated again.
But he keeps adding to his $ETH long position.
He now holds 1,700 $ETH($3.21M), with a liquidation price of $1,818.74.
His total loss has passed $28.8M.https://t.co/P6lglcgpyo pic.twitter.com/t9cEDpOzQ1
— Lookonchain (@lookonchain) February 23, 2026
Tags:
About the author
Jordan got into crypto in 2016 by trading and investing. He began writing about blockchain technology in 2017 and now serves as CryptoPotato's Assistant Editor-in-Chief. He has managed numerous crypto-related projects and is passionate about all things blockchain.
2026-02-23 09:0919d ago
2026-02-23 03:1719d ago
XRP Seller Susquehanna Confirms Long-Term Commitment to Bitcoin ETF and GBTC
CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
$870 billion TradFi giant Susquehanna International Group (SIG) has disclosed its holdings in spot Bitcoin ETFs and confirmed its long-term confidence in Bitcoin. XRP ETF seller also highlighted a massive conviction in Grayscale’s GBTC.
Susquehanna Discloses its Spot Bitcoin ETF Holdings Susquehanna International Group, a leading quantitative trading and investment company with almost $870 billion in assets under management (AUM), has revealed $1.3 billion spot Bitcoin ETF holdings.
“As we continue expanding our digital asset landscape, SIG’s spot Bitcoin ETF holdings have quietly crossed the $1.3 billion mark,” the TradFi giant said.
Susquehanna added that Grayscale’s GBTC remains the core of its Bitcoin ETF portfolio. It holds over 17.27 million shares valued at more than $1.09 billion. The company has quietly built its Bitcoin portfolio for years.
The company’s successive SEC 13F filings have also revealed holdings and trades in Ethereum, Solana and XRP ETFs. However, GBTC represents the largest portion, surpassing $1 billion in value as of December 2025.
Susquehanna claims its investment is not short-term trading, but a long-term commitment. Each position is shaped by quantitative models, from liquidity profiles to fee structures. “It’s a long-term conviction in Bitcoin as a premier store of value,” the company stated.
The statement comes despite Bitcoin price plunge amid crypto market crash and rising macro and geopolitical pressure. Spot Bitcoin ETFs also continue to see outflows, but it recorded $88.1 million in inflows on Friday.
Bearish Position on XRP ETF Susquehanna is among the leading sellers of XRP by shorting XRP ETF. It has a put options position of 18,800 shares of Canary XRP ETF (XRPC), valued at nearly $366,000. Citadel Advisors LLC also shorted XRPC, opening put options worth $216,000.
However, many tradFi institutions have revealed exposure in XRP. These include Goldman Sachs, Jane Street, and JPMorgan Chase. As CoinGape reported earlier, Goldman Sachs and Jane Street are driving XRP ETF inflows.
At the time of writing, Bitcoin is trading 3% lower near $65K. Meanwhile, XRP has tanked 7% to $1.36 today. Trading volume has increased significantly over the past 24 hours.
2026-02-23 09:0919d ago
2026-02-23 03:3119d ago
Bitcoin COT Data: Smart Money Goes Net Long With ‘Urgency'
Bitcoin futures positioning among non-commercial traders is swinging sharply toward net long exposure, a move technical analyst Tom McClellan (editor of The McClellan Market Report) says has arrived “with some urgency” in the latest weekly Commitment of Traders (COT) report and one that has coincided with notable market outcomes in prior, similarly extreme episodes.
Sharing a chart of Bitcoin futures (price on a log scale) alongside non-commercial net positioning, McClellan argued that in Bitcoin’s case, large speculators effectively function as the “smart money” cohort, because the market lacks the typical commercial hedger presence seen in traditional commodity futures.
“The non-commercial traders of Bitcoin futures are usually the smart money,” McClellan wrote. “This week’s COT Report shows that they are moving net long with some urgency. Look back at what the last two similar excursions led to. But remember, this is ‘a condition, not a signal’.”
Bitcoin COT data | Source: X @McClellanOsc Why Non-Commercials Matter In Bitcoin Futures McClellan later expanded on how he frames the CFTC’s weekly report, which breaks futures positioning into commercials, non-commercials, and non-reportables. In corn, for example, commercials might be producers or end users; in Bitcoin, he says that category is thin. “In Bitcoin, there are hardly any traders who qualify as Commercial traders,” McClellan wrote. “So in an unusual circumstance, the Non-commercial traders fill the role of being the smart money.”
That distinction matters because COT is not about absolute long or short interest, every futures contract has a long and a short by definition, but about who is on each side. “Every futures contract is simultaneously one long and one short position, held by different parties. So the number of longs will always equal the number of shorts,” he wrote. “What matters is who holds the positions.”
McClellan also cautioned against importing equity-market intuition about short interest into futures positioning. “So a large short position in a stock represents potential energy which could get converted into price movements via short covering,” he wrote. “COT data don’t do that. They just represent expert opinion.”
The core dispute in the X thread wasn’t whether COT can be useful, but how to interpret timing. Trader toni (@tonitrades_) agreed the dataset has value but questioned whether futures positioning simply follows spot momentum. “COT data has historically been a solid indicator, no argument there,” toni wrote. “But non-commercial positioning often lags spot market moves by weeks. By the time futures traders pile in, the initial momentum is usually priced in already.”
McClellan pushed back on that sequencing. “I think you meant that their positioning PRECEDES price moves sometimes by weeks,” he replied, underscoring his view that positioning extremes can show up ahead of meaningful market moves, though not on a predictable schedule.
That’s where the thread landed: with an emphasis on uncertainty. Jim Osman (@EdgeCGroup) summed it up succinctly: “Timing still uncertain.” McClellan agreed. “Exactly, hence my admonition.”
In his longer explanation, McClellan reiterated that most weeks the COT report has no actionable message, but that extremes can be informative with a crucial caveat. “A lot of the time there is no useful message in the COT data for each futures contract,” he wrote.
“But when an extreme develops like now in Bitcoin, then we can get useful information. But as with any overbought or oversold reading on any indicator, COT data only reflect a ‘condition’ not a signal. The data will not tell you when that condition is going to matter, only that it should matter, sometime.”
At press time, BTC traded at $65,663.
Bitcoin must reclaim the 200-week EMA, 1-week chart | Source: BTCUSDT on TradingView.com Featured image created with DALL.E, chart from TradingView.com
2026-02-23 09:0919d ago
2026-02-23 03:3619d ago
ETH RSI Resets to Historical Lows as Momentum Cycles Grow Shorter Each Year
TLDR: ETH gained 5,600% after the 2019 RSI reset, marking its longest and most sustained bull run on record.
Each successive ETH cycle has produced shorter momentum windows, with returns compressing from 5,600% down to 265%.
RSI is back near historical reset zones that preceded major ETH price moves across all three prior market cycles. Traders who waited for chart confirmation after the first 80–100% ETH move consistently missed optimal entry points. ETH has once again drawn attention as its RSI approaches levels that historically preceded major price moves. Over three market cycles, Ethereum delivered returns ranging from 265% to over 5,600%.
Each cycle, however, produced shorter momentum windows. Analysts are tracking a clear pattern: the duration of upside moves keeps shrinking, even as RSI reset zones remain consistent with prior bottoms.
That compression is now the central issue for traders watching current price levels.
How ETH Performed Across Three Market Cycles The 2019 RSI reset marked the start of Ethereum’s longest bull run on record. From that bottom to the 2021 peak, ETH gained roughly 5,600%.
That rally took years to complete fully. The market held fewer short-term traders at the time. Holders absorbed volatility without selling quickly, giving momentum room to expand steadily over time.
The following cycle told a noticeably different story. From the 2022 RSI lows to the next major high, ETH returned around 300%. That move was still strong, but it completed far faster.
Capital rotated more quickly across the market. Leverage had increased broadly, and traders understood cycles better. Momentum accelerated sharply but also topped sooner than the previous run.
The most recent cycle, spanning 2024 into 2026, saw ETH post returns near 265%. The window compressed further still. Liquidity rotated between assets and narratives at a faster pace than before.
Traders exited positions earlier in the move. The market no longer offered the multi-year patience that once defined Ethereum’s major rallies.
A post by Ourcryptotalk captured this pattern directly. The account noted that “momentum isn’t gone, it’s compressed,” pointing to each cycle as supporting evidence.
$ETH doesn’t move the same way it used to.
If you’re waiting for ETH to “feel safe” again, you’re usually late.
That’s how it has worked every cycle.
When RSI resets this deep prices have moved big :
> 2019 : +5600%
> 2021 : +300%
> 2025 : +265%
The pattern isn’t just about… pic.twitter.com/RdGH5JExRF
— Our Crypto Talk (@ourcryptotalk) February 23, 2026
The data across three cycles shows not only shrinking percentage gains but also a consistently shorter duration of sustained upward movement.
RSI Resets and What They Signal for Current Positioning RSI is now back near the zones that marked prior cycle bottoms for ETH. In each previous instance, those levels came before meaningful upside moves.
Traders who waited for price confirmation often missed the most rewarding portion of the rally. That pattern has held across the 2019, 2022, and most recent cycles without exception.
The analyst warned that waiting for the chart to “look obvious” is often already too late. After the first 80–100% move, the window for optimal positioning tends to close quickly.
Early positioning at RSI lows has historically outperformed reactive entry in prior cycles. The same warning applied clearly in both 2019 and 2022.
The key difference now is timing. The market moves faster than it did in prior years. Narratives peak quickly, and capital exits just as fast. ETH may still follow historical patterns, but the available window is narrower than before.
For traders watching current levels, the RSI reset raises a familiar question. History shows these zones have mattered for ETH consistently.
However, waiting for broad market confirmation may no longer be a reliable strategy, given how much faster cycles have become.
2026-02-23 09:0919d ago
2026-02-23 03:4719d ago
Ethereum Price Today Falls Below $1,900 as Vitalik Sells ETH
Ethereum price today fell below its two-week low and is now trading around $1,877, dropping nearly 5.6%. The price drop has also triggered massive liquidations. As the Ethereum price saw liquidations worth over $115 million after falling below $1,900.
The sudden drop has increased concern among investors, as selling pressure continues to rise from multiple sides.
Vitalik Buterin’s Continued Selling of the ETH TokenEthereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has been selling Eth continuously. As in the past two days alone, Buterin sold around 1,869 ETH worth $3.6 million. Following this sell-off, the Ethereum price fell from $1,988 to below $1,880, reflecting a drop of 5.7%.
This is not the first time his selling has impacted the market. Earlier this month, he sold 6958 ETH worth around $14.78 million, and the Ethereum price dropped by 22.7%.
In total, Buterin has sold around 8,800 ETH in February, worth over $16.53 million at current prices of $1879. Some experts believe that these sales may be part of normal financial planning.
Well, it’s not Buterin who is selling. Large Ethereum whales are also offloading huge amounts of Ethereum coin. One OG Ethereum investor recently deposited over 14,183 ETH worth ($42 million) into Coinbase after holding it for nearly 9 years.
Apart from this, whale wallets holding between 100,000 and 1 million ETH have sold around 1.43 million ETH, roughly ($2.7 billion) in the past two weeks. This equals roughly $2.7 billion, showing that major investors are reducing their positions.
This kind of whale sell-off means that major investors are reducing their positions, which indirectly push price down.
Ethereum Price Prediction Looking at the ETH weekly chart, the Ethereum price has broken below key Fibonacci support levels. So, if the ETH price falls below $1,800, the next major support is around $1,573, a level where strong buying happened before.
In a more bearish scenario, the price could drop further toward the $640 zone. This level could mark a full market reset, where weak hands exit and large buyers enter.
If this happens, it may create a strong long-term accumulation opportunity before the next major rally begins. This could lead to a long-term target near $10,048.
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2026-02-23 09:0919d ago
2026-02-23 03:5219d ago
Missouri Introduces Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Fund Bill to Expand State-Level Crypto Holdings
TLDR: Missouri HB 2080 would create a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Fund managed by the State Treasurer under RSMo Chapter 30. Bitcoin donated to the fund must be held for a minimum of five years before it can be sold, transferred, or converted. The bill requires all Missouri government entities to accept Department of Revenue-approved cryptocurrency for taxes and fees. A biennial report detailing Bitcoin holdings, dollar value, security threats, and fund growth would be required under the bill.
Missouri’s 103rd General Assembly has introduced House Bill 2080, sponsored by Representative Keathley. The bill proposes creating a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Fund within the state treasury under RSMo Chapter 30.
If passed, the State Treasurer would manage the fund and accept Bitcoin donations from eligible Missouri residents.
The bill also allows government agencies to accept cryptocurrency for tax and fee payments. This marks a notable step in state-level digital asset policy.
Missouri’s 103rd General Assembly introduced House Bill 2080 (Rep. Keathley) to create a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Fund in RSMo Chapter 30. Managed by the State Treasurer, the fund accepts resident Bitcoin donations or bequests, stores them securely for at least five years, and…
— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) February 23, 2026
How the Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Fund Would Work The bill defines Bitcoin as a decentralized digital asset operating without a central authority. Under the proposed law, the State Treasurer would serve as custodian of the Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Fund.
Contributions may come through gifts, grants, donations, bequests, or devises from Missouri residents or governmental entities.
Once Bitcoin enters state custody, it must remain held for a minimum of five years. After that mandatory period, the treasurer may transfer, sell, appropriate, or convert the assets. This holding requirement aims to prevent short-term speculation with public digital assets.
Security protocols are a core part of the bill’s framework. The treasurer would be required to use cold storage and other secure custodial technologies.
A qualified, U.S.-based third-party cryptocurrency entity may also be contracted to support fund security.
To maintain transparency, the treasurer must conduct regular audits and publish biennial reports. These reports must detail total Bitcoin holdings, U.S. dollar equivalents, fund growth, transactions, security threats, and eligible conversion amounts. Reports are due before December 31 of each even-numbered year.
Crypto Payments and Donor Recognition Under the Proposal Beyond the reserve fund, the bill introduces broader cryptocurrency acceptance across Missouri. Section 30.1030 requires all governmental entities to accept approved cryptocurrency for taxes, fees, fines, assessments, and other charges. The Department of Revenue would determine which cryptocurrencies qualify.
Service fees tied to cryptocurrency transactions may be passed on to the payer. This gives government entities flexibility while still opening the door to digital asset payments. The bill does not specify which cryptocurrencies outside Bitcoin would qualify for this use.
The bill also creates a recognition program for donors. Upon request, the State Treasurer may issue a certificate of acknowledgment to individuals or organizations that contribute Bitcoin. Significant contributions could receive additional public recognition through a formal honors program.
Donor eligibility remains at the treasurer’s discretion. If a donor is found ineligible, their Bitcoin must be returned. The bill strictly prohibits transactions involving foreign countries, entities outside Missouri, or parties known to engage in illegal activities.
Only U.S.-based partners may assist in fund operations. Rulemaking authority granted under the bill would become void if related legislative oversight provisions are later ruled unconstitutional.
2026-02-23 09:0919d ago
2026-02-23 03:5619d ago
Missouri Pushes Bitcoin Reserve Bill Forward as Commerce Committee Takes Up HB 2080
Missouri lawmakers advanced a proposal to create a state Bitcoin strategic reserve after House Bill 2080 moved to the House Commerce Committee this week. The bill would place a new Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Fund inside the state treasury and name the state treasurer as custodian. Lawmakers framed the move as a way to set rules for holding digital assets under state oversight.
The measure allows the treasurer to receive bitcoin through gifts, grants, donations, bequests, or devises from eligible Missouri residents and governmental entities. However, the bill bars transactions tied to foreign countries, parties outside Missouri, or parties linked to illegal activity. Therefore, the language aims to limit counterparties and narrow exposure.
Supporters said the proposal sets a formal process for custody and security. The bill permits the treasurer to contract third-party crypto service providers to support storage and protection. Meanwhile, opponents raised concerns about volatility and governance. The committee took testimony and left the bill pending for further review.
Holding Rules, Reporting, and Payment ProvisionsUnder the proposal, Bitcoin placed in the reserve would face a five-year holding window. After that period, the treasurer could transfer, sell, appropriate, or convert the asset to another cryptocurrency, as defined in the bill. As a result, the fund would not operate as a short-term trading account.
The bill also sets reporting duties. The treasurer would publish a biennial report by Dec. 31 in even-numbered years and post it to the office website. In addition, the treasurer would notify the General Assembly after publication. Lawmakers said the reporting requirement aims to keep the legislature informed about holdings and activity.
Beyond the reserve, the bill outlines broader crypto payment language. It would allow governmental entities to accept approved cryptocurrencies for taxes, fees, fines, and other payments, while permitting service fees tied to processing.
Moreover, the bill authorizes the treasurer to invest, purchase, and hold cryptocurrency with state funds under defined limits. The proposal mirrors elements of a prior Missouri bill that did not pass, and it now faces committee scrutiny before any floor vote.
2026-02-23 09:0919d ago
2026-02-23 03:5819d ago
Hodlers have 'given up' at $65K: Five things to know in Bitcoin this week
Bitcoin (BTC) heads into the end of February on new local lows as $50,000 BTC price targets stay in place.
Bitcoin sellers pile in at the weekly close, with consensus seeing rebounds ultimately failing.
Geopolitics and inflation woes pile up for global assets, with tariffs spoiling the mood.
Bitcoin whales dominate exchange inflows, leading to expectations of a $60,000 rematch.
BTC price behavior continues to copy the 2022 bear market, as viewed through onchain data.
Crypto market sentiment matches historic lows as the Crypto Fear & Greed Index hits just 5/100.
Bitcoin slumps below $65,000 on weekly closeBitcoin saw instant sell-side pressure at Sunday’s weekly close, driving price below $65,000 before a modest recovery.
Data from TradingView puts the latest local low at $64,258 on Bitstamp, with BTC/USD still down nearly 3% at the time of writing.
BTC/USD one-hour chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingView
Commenting, X trading account Castillo Trading was hopeful that those lows would form a suitable long entry. Bitcoin, it noted in a post on Monday, had revisited its naked point-of-control (nPOC) price — a recent high-volume area that had not previously been retested.
The nPOC at $64,979 formed one of several key price points, with an accompanying chart eyeing a rebound as high as $78,200.
BTC/USDT perpetual inverse swap four-hour chart. Source: Castillo Trading/X
Continuing, fellow trader BitBull flagged $76,000 as a potential upside target before another BTC price dip.
$BTC is doing exactly the same thing which it did in Q4 2025.
This means, a pump towards $75K-$76K will happen before the next dump. pic.twitter.com/Ti1ieoHgb0
— BitBull (@AkaBull_) February 22, 2026 Still fully bearish, meanwhile, trader Roman maintained expectations of new macro lows, currently centered on $50,000.
“Volume increasing while price is going down is the definition of strong bearish price action,” he told X followers on Monday.
“We should expect trend to continue lower, especially to 50-52k area. Likely get a bounce there but ultimately I’m expecting lower after that.” Crypto liquidations (screenshot). Source: CoinGlass
The latest data from monitoring resource CoinGlass confirmed cross-crypto liquidations staying elevated, continuing a pattern from recent weeks. These totaled nearly $500 million in the 24 hours to the time of writing.
Markets “on edge” from tariffs, geopoliticsA combination of geopolitics and inflation worries is set to create uncertain conditions for crypto and risk assets this week.
Tensions over Iran provide the backdrop as markets react to new global trade tariffs by US President Donald Trump.
After the Supreme Court ruled some tariff measures illegal last week, Trump vowed to fight back, with US stocks futures opening the week down on news of a 15% replacement.
“We have a busy week ahead,” trading resource The Kobeissi Letter told X followers, describing markets as “on edge.”
Bitcoin itself saw similar pressure, remaining so into Monday’s Wall Street open and leading to warnings of further lows.
“It’s possible that over the next two weekends, the US-Iran conflict escalates, as a new way to divert attention from the Supreme Court ruling that declared the previous tariffs illegal. Bearish uncertainty,” trader CrypNuevo wrote in an X thread on BTC price action.
CrypNuevo argued that BTC/USD should attempt to “fill” its daily candle wick to sub-$60,000 from early February.
“I think price could reach $61k within 2-3 weeks (-10%),” the trader said.
BTC/USDT one-week chart. Source: CrypNuevo/X
Later this week, the January print of the Producer Price Index (PPI) is due, with the previous two months’ releases both coming in higher than expected.
As Cointelegraph reported, last week’s Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) result likewise showed inflation heating up.
“A key report on consumer inflation showed the Fed’s preferred gauge remaining well above target and accelerating the most since last February,” trading resource Mosaic Asset Company commented in the latest edition of its regular newsletter, The Market Mosaic.
“The rally in commodity indexes threatens further upside pressure on inflation.”Whale inflows risk “significant selling” nextBitcoin whales are still keen to sell at current levels, new analysis covering exchange flows warns.
In a Quicktake blog post for onchain analytics platform CryptoQuant, contributor GugaOnChain revealed that whales continue to send large tranches of BTC to exchanges.
Inflows in particular are dominated by whales, with CryptoQuant’s Exchange Whale Ratio metric hitting 70%.
“Historically, levels above 70% have preceded significant selling movements, as whales use exchanges to realize profits,” GugaOnChain wrote.
“At the same time, an atypical movement is observed: old coins are returning to platforms in large volume, while short-term holders continue to realize losses, creating a hybrid supply scenario that tends to push Bitcoin's price toward lower levels.” Bitcoin Exchange Whale Ratio data (screenshot). Source: CryptoQuant
The result is “strategic tension” — willing sellers and increasing BTC supply availability, with few buyers stepping in to absorb it.
GugaOnChain predicts an “imminent flush toward BTC's immediate support in the $60K region.”
“With supply on the rise, caution is warranted,” he concluded.
2022 bear market road map still in playAs 2022 bear-market comparisons multiply, a key BTC price metric is sounding the alarm.
CryptoQuant coverage of anchored volume-weighted average price (AVWAP) now warns of “bearish confluence” between price and onchain data.
During Bitcoin’s early February drop, it closed below its AVWAP — the price point with the largest average volume as measured from its latest block subsidy halving in 2024.
“The last time a similar bearish confluence was observed after an ATH was in May 2022,” contributor Facundo Fama noted.
An accompanying chart showed one of CryptoQuant’s proprietary indicators, measuring growth in Bitcoin’s market cap versus its realized cap. It is currently deep in “bear market” territory.
Bitcoin growth rate difference. Source: CryptoQuant
Earlier, Cointelegraph reported on various realized price levels now on the radar as BTC/USD attempts to find its next long-term floor.
Crypto sentiment matches record lowsBitcoin price action may not yet be at its 15-month lows from the start of the month, but the feeling of doom and gloom is as strong as ever.
This is reflected in the latest readings from the Crypto Fear & Greed Index, a classic market sentiment gauge that continues to diverge from its TradFi equivalent.
Fear & Greed fell to just 5/100 on Monday, representing “extreme fear” and matching its lowest levels on record.
🚨 NOW: Crypto Fear and Greed Index has fallen back to 5, remaining deep in Extreme Fear territory. pic.twitter.com/5PmNwgbRMd
— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) February 23, 2026 “People have given up,” independent analyst Cryptoinsightuk reacted on X.
“I had never seen a 5 on Fear and greed index before this past month. Now I’ve seen multiple.” Crypto Fear & Greed Index (screenshot). Source: Alternative.me
Pseudonymous trader and investor BitcoinHyper added that crypto has now spent longer in the “extreme fear” zone than at any point since the 2022 bear market.
Crypto Fear & Greed Index has been in extreme fear for nearly 3 weeks
It hasn’t stayed this low for this long since 2022 pic.twitter.com/JjRI8UEkZs
— BitcoinHyper (@BitcoinHypers) February 20, 2026 The standard Fear & Greed Index, which covers stocks, currently sits just inside “fear” territory at 43/100. When sentiment first hit 5/100, regular Fear & Greed bottomed out at 33/100 before rebounding.
This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision. While we strive to provide accurate and timely information, Cointelegraph does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information in this article. This article may contain forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Cointelegraph will not be liable for any loss or damage arising from your reliance on this information.
2026-02-23 09:0919d ago
2026-02-23 03:5919d ago
Top 4 Reasons Why Bitcoin Price Will Crash to $60k This Week
CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Bitcoin price dropped on Monday after renewed selling pressure sent the market to its lowest level since early February. The BTC fell to around $65,000 after a steep drop of 5%, a continuation of a one-month pullback of close to 25%. Bitcoin was unable to sustain over $70,000, and its inability to recover made traders even more cautious.
Let’s uncover the top reasons why the Bitcoin price may hit $60k this week.
Tariff Shock Triggers Market Anxiety Bitcoin dropped after President Donald Trump announced a global tariff hike. The rate will rise from 10% to 15% following a recent Supreme Court ruling. The announcement further strained an already weak market.
Uncertainty increased as traders moved to risk-off mode. The sharp fall led to massive liquidations in major exchanges. The positions worth over $461 million were lost in hours.
BREAKING: Bitcoin drops below $65,000 after Trump announces tariff hike from 10% → 15%
BTC down ~5% in 24H to ~$64,290
$461.74M Liquidated | 134,764 Traders Rekt (93% Longs)
$193M $BTC Liquidations in Just 4 Hours
Largest Single Liquidation: $61.51M on HTX (BTC-USDT)
Macro… pic.twitter.com/Z36CVI3Dlu
— Crypto Patel (@CryptoPatel) February 23, 2026
Approximately 134,764 traders were impacted, with a majority of the losses contributed by long positions. Over $193 million in liquidations were experienced in Bitcoin alone. The biggest individual liquidation was $61.5 million on HTX.
Massive Exchange Selling Intensifies Downtrend A wave of institutional-level selling, which suddenly followed, instilled panic in the possibility of coordinated pressure. Statistics showed that significant players sold over 4.5 billion of Bitcoin in about 35 minutes. Binance reportedly sold 53,875 BTC.
🚨 BREAKING
THE EXACT REASON WHY BITCOIN IS DUMPING:
BINANCE SOLD 53,875 BTC
WINTERMUTE SOLD 40,715 BTC
COINBASE SOLD 18,594 BTC
TRUMP INSIDER SOLD 18,574 BTC
BLACKROCK SOLD 11,317 BTC
OVER $4.5 BILLION DUMPED IN 35 MINUTES, AND THEY KEEP SELLING MORE.
PURE MANIPULATION!! pic.twitter.com/DM0a4R47Im
— 0xNobler (@CryptoNobler) February 23, 2026
Wintermute unloaded 40,715 BTC. Coinbase followed with 18,594 BTC. Further massive sales were made through an alleged Trump-associated wallet and BlackRock. The sharp movement contributed to the anxiety about market manipulation and increased bearishness.
Fear and Greed Index Signals Extreme Fear Market confidence weakened sharply as the Crypto Fear and Greed Index fell to 5. The decline placed the market in Extreme Fear territory once again.
💥BREAKING:
This is insane.
Crypto Fear and Greed Index has fallen back to 5.
Remaining deep in Extreme Fear territory. pic.twitter.com/QSjLwlDEFm
— Crypto Rover (@cryptorover) February 23, 2026
Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs also experienced continued outflows among investors. The products posted over $10 billion in withdrawals within four months. Bitcoin funds experienced redemptions of 7.17 billion, and Ethereum products were redemed to lose 2.84 billion.
Broad Crypto Market Decline Adds Pressure The wider cryptocurrency market fell 3.22% in 24 hours. The total market capitalization decreased to 2.26 trillion.
Bitcoin fell almost 5%, reversing its recent gains. Other major altcoins such as Ethereum, XRP, BNB, Solana, Dogecoin, and Cardano also fell by between 3-6%. The general decline solidified the expectations that Bitcoin might reach the $60,000 mark in the near future as the pressure to sell continues.
Will Bitcoin Price Dip Below $60k Soon? As of the reporting, the BTC price crashed to $65,800. Bitcoin slipped after losing support near $66,000
The MACD lines intersected beneath and indicated weakening momentum. The histogram also shifted to the negative side.
The RSI was slightly bounced off oversold conditions. The reading remains on the lower side of the neutral.
If the Bitcoin long-term prediction stays under $66,000, bears may push toward $63,000. A deeper slide could retest $60,000. A break below it may trigger wider panic.
Source: BTC/USDT 4-hour chart: Tradingview Nonetheless, a recovery of over $67,000 may pave the way to $69,000. Any further confirmation of renewed bullish confidence would come after a close of above $70,000.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Bitcoin dropped due to tariff shock news, heavy liquidations, ETF outflows, and overall market fear.
The announcement of a global tariff hike increased economic uncertainty, pushing traders into risk-off mode.
2026-02-23 09:0919d ago
2026-02-23 04:0019d ago
Will Ethereum price drop below $1,500 as multiple bearish patterns emerge amid crypto market crash?
Ethereum price formed a bearish engulfing candle on Monday and dropped over 6% amidst a market-wide crash led by Bitcoin.
Summary
Ethereum price fell over 6% on Monday amid a broader crypto market blood bath. Multiple bearish patterns seem to suggest more potential downside over the coming weeks. Ethereum ETFs have hit a 5-week outflow streak. According to data from crypto.news, Ethereum (ETH) price fell 6.3% to $1,855 on Monday during early Asian hours before stabilizing at $1,874 at press time. Ethereum price tanked amid a broader market crash as fresh U.S. tariff threats on all trading partners and potential military escalation in the U.S. and Iran conflict hurt investor appetite for crypto assets.
Notably, Bitcoin (BTC), the bellwether of the market, has dropped below the $65,000 psychological support level, wiping out millions of leveraged long positions with the shock extending to other major crypto assets such as Ethereum. CoinGlass data show that nearly $108 million worth of ETH long positions were liquidated in the past 24 hours.
Ethereum price analysis On the daily chart, Ethereum price has formed a bearish engulfing candle amid its drop today. The largest altcoin in the market has so far fallen roughly 45% from its yearly high and 62% from its all-time high of $4,946 reached in August 2025.
ETH’s price action has formed a bearish pennant pattern characterized by a flag-like pole and a triangle formation at the bottom. A breakout from such patterns has historically been followed by massive downside risks.
Ethereum price has formed a bearish pennant pattern on the daily chart — Feb. 23 | Source: crypto.news At the same time, zooming out the chart also shows the formation of a multi-month descending parallel channel, another bearish pattern in technical analysis.
Based on these technical indicators, Ethereum could drop to $1,450 if it were to respect the lower boundary of the descending channel pattern. This would mean loss of the $1,500 level, which is an important psychological support.
A breach of the $1,500 psychological floor would represent a significant structural breakdown, likely triggering a cascade of stop-losses. Given the current macro-driven volatility, it could result in a rapid capitulation phase in the coming sessions as liquidity dries up at lower levels.
ETH investors have turned bearish The bearish prediction for Ethereum could gain further traction from the lackluster demand for its exchange-traded products over recent weeks. Data from SoSoValue shows that the nine-spot Ethereum ETFs have recorded back-to-back outflows for the fifth consecutive week, totalling around $1.38 billion.
Meanwhile, the weighted funding rate, which measures the cost of holding short positions, has fallen deeply into the red territory, suggesting that Ethereum bears are increasingly betting on further price declines while paying a premium to long holders.
Ethereum’s weighted funding rate has turned very negative — Source | CoinGlass Disclosure: This article does not represent investment advice. The content and materials featured on this page are for educational purposes only.
2026-02-23 09:0919d ago
2026-02-23 04:0019d ago
‘Gold is up $50, Bitcoin is down 4%' – Peter Schiff highlights the rift between crypto and TradFi
During the weekend, the idea of a safe-haven investment was put to the test. At a time when investors were looking for protection from global economic uncertainty, the market showed a clear divide.
Gold and silver surged to record highs, while Bitcoin [BTC] moved in the opposite direction. Gold crossed $5,175, and silver rose above $87.
In contrast, Bitcoin fell more than 5%, dropping below the key $65,000 support level.
Instead of acting like a reliable store of value, Bitcoin weakened during a period of stress, raising fresh doubts about its role as a safe asset.
Peter Schiff slams Bitcoin once again Economist and long-time Bitcoin critic Peter Schiff highlighted this shift on X. He argued that the growing gap between precious metals and cryptocurrencies was not temporary.
Source: Peter Schiff/X
Needless to say, the crypto community pushed back on Schiff’s comments and added,
“It’s always “Bitcoin is down 4%” on red days but never “Bitcoin is up 300% in a year” on green ones. Zoom out, Peter. The chart still scares gold bugs more than volatility scares us.”
Echoing similar sentiments, another X user added,
Source: The Bitcoin Therapist/X
While gold climbed above $5,100 per ounce, Bitcoin failed to act like a safe asset and was trading about 30% below its October 2025 peak.
At its peak in December 2024, one Bitcoin could buy about 38 ounces of gold. By February 2026, that figure had fallen to roughly 13 ounces.
Source: LongtermTrends
This sharp decline shows that Bitcoin has lost more than 62% of its value compared to gold in just over a year. Even though Bitcoin still looks stable in dollar terms, it is losing real buying power when measured against gold.
Silver’s rise and Bitcoin’s struggle The gap becomes even clearer when we compare Bitcoin with silver. Since May 2025, Bitcoin’s value compared to silver has dropped by more than 70%.
Source: Xe
This change is also visible in global rankings.
According to CompaniesMarketCap, gold and silver now rank first and second in total market value. Bitcoin has fallen to around 13th place, behind many traditional companies and physical assets.
What’s more? All in all, the strong trend of 2024 and 2025, when many people saw Bitcoin as a good way to protect against inflation, is now weakening.
However, some analysts believe that the current low Bitcoin-to-gold ratio could be a good long-term buying chance. They think Bitcoin is cheap compared to gold.
Still, the overall market direction is clear. Even though more money is entering the system, investors are choosing gold and silver instead of crypto.
Therefore, if Bitcoin wants to be seen as a safe haven again, it needs to stop acting like a risky tech stock and start behaving more like a stable store of value.
Final Summary Bitcoin’s drop below $65,000 weakened confidence in its role as a long-term store of value. The sharp fall in the Bitcoin-to-gold ratio shows that Bitcoin is losing real purchasing power, not just price momentum.
2026-02-23 09:0919d ago
2026-02-23 04:0119d ago
TRON Eyes $0.45 Target as February Crypto Markets Cool Down
TRON pushes toward $0.45. The blockchain platform keeps climbing while most crypto markets hit the brakes this February, catching eyes across trading desks and investment firms.
TRX traded around $0.42 on February 21, marking solid gains from earlier levels and showing investors still back the project. TRON’s bet on decentralized apps and gaming keeps paying off, with new users flooding the platform daily. The ecosystem expansion looks pretty aggressive right now. Justin Sun, who founded TRON, keeps pushing these developments as make-or-break moments for what comes next.
Market watchers see the partnerships working.
Major tech companies teamed up with TRON to boost its blockchain tech, and those deals are driving more adoption of TRON-based tools. The platform’s transaction numbers stay healthy despite broader market headwinds. Recent data shows network activity climbing steadily, thanks to efficient tech and cheap transaction costs that beat most competitors.
TRON’s fundraising rounds pulled in fresh cash from new investors. The money goes straight into tech upgrades and marketing pushes to grab more market share. Industry folks think TRON’s innovation projects matter most here – DeFi and NFT work stands out as particularly smart moves that position the platform ahead of rivals in emerging blockchain uses.
But regulatory stuff creates problems. TRON’s team works with regulators to keep operations clean and avoid legal trouble down the road.
Community support stays strong across online forums and social media, where users actively engage and drive momentum that keeps TRON visible. Some risks hang around though – market volatility and regulatory pressure create ongoing headaches. TRON’s leadership knows these challenges exist and focuses on innovation to stay competitive.
The next quarterly earnings report gets announced soon. Investors want details on financial health and future plans, since that report will show TRON’s real direction in coming months. Some analysts stay cautious despite the optimism, noting that broader market slowdowns affect sentiment and TRON can’t escape that reality completely.
TRON didn’t respond when reached for comment. Updates on regulatory approvals remain unclear. Investors wait for the company’s next strategic announcements in what’s becoming a pretty wild market environment. More on this topic: Dragonfly Capital Secures 0M Fund Despite.
On February 20, TRON announced a collaboration with a major gaming company to integrate blockchain technology into gaming platforms. The partnership should improve user experience through more secure and efficient transactions, generating optimism among investors who see it as a catalyst for TRX’s potential price jump toward that $0.45 target.
TRON’s smart contract capabilities grabbed attention recently. Early February numbers showed over 5 million smart contracts running on the TRON network, a milestone that highlights growing appeal among developers who want efficient and scalable blockchain solutions for their projects.
Sun mentioned in a recent interview that TRON’s focus on interoperability with other blockchains ranks as a top priority. The strategic move aims to make transactions seamless across different blockchain networks, which should attract more users to TRON’s ecosystem and boost overall adoption rates.
Market watchers monitor TRON’s price movements closely, especially resistance levels around $0.45. Breaking through that threshold could signal a new growth phase for TRX. Analysts track upcoming developments and announcements that might influence the price trajectory.
TRON unveiled a new DeFi initiative on February 22. The development team spearheaded the move, focusing on integrating more financial tools to attract DeFi enthusiasts and expand the platform’s capabilities. The initiative includes collaborations with established DeFi platforms to streamline user access and improve yields for participants.
TRX trading volume surged, particularly on major exchanges like Binance and Huobi. The uptick responds to TRON’s recent announcements and ongoing commitment to expanding network capabilities. February 23 trading volume hit a new monthly high, reflecting increased investor interest and market confidence. Related coverage: Crypto Search Interest Crashes to 2022.
TRON Foundation acknowledged community feedback’s importance in shaping future projects. The foundation scheduled virtual town halls starting in early March, where stakeholders can voice opinions and suggest improvements. The initiative shows TRON’s commitment to transparency and community involvement.
TRON’s strategic focus on Asia got highlighted, with plans to increase presence in South Korea and Japan. The platform talks with several local companies to facilitate blockchain adoption in these regions. Regional expansion looks critical for TRON’s growth strategy, aiming to capture larger Asian market share.
The company works on multiple fronts simultaneously – tech development, partnerships, community building, and geographic expansion. All these efforts point toward that $0.45 price target, though market conditions and regulatory developments will ultimately determine whether TRON reaches its goal. Trading volume data from February 23 showed sustained interest from institutional and retail investors alike.
The surge in institutional interest becomes clear through recent trading patterns. Major crypto funds increased their TRON positions by 15% in February, according to blockchain analytics firm Messari, while retail investors on platforms like Coinbase and Kraken drove daily trading volumes above $800 million.
TRON’s energy efficiency advantage gains traction as environmental concerns shape crypto investing. The platform consumes roughly 99% less energy than Bitcoin for similar transaction loads, attracting ESG-focused institutional investors who previously avoided blockchain investments due to sustainability concerns.
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2026-02-23 09:0919d ago
2026-02-23 04:0419d ago
Analyst says Bitcoin has 88% chance of rising to $122K by late 2026
Economist Timothy Peterson says Bitcoin may have strong odds of rising over the next 10 months.
Summary
Economist Timothy Peterson says Bitcoin has an 88% chance of trading higher in 10 months, based on a cycle metric tracking positive months over the past 24 months. His model, using data back to 2011, implies an average forward return of 82%, pointing to a potential price near $122,000. The outlook sparked mixed reactions, with some calling it a strong historical signal and others warning that Bitcoin may not follow past averages. Timothy Peterson’s model points to $122K Bitcoin In a post on X, he noted that 50% of the past 24 months have closed positively for Bitcoin (BTC). Based on historical data going back to 2011, that reading implies an 88% chance that Bitcoin will be higher 10 months from now.
Peterson estimates the average forward return at exp(60%) − 1, or about 82%. That would translate to a BTC price near $122,000 over the next 10 months, based on current levels.
He described the indicator as an informal cycle tool. It measures frequency, not magnitude. In other words, it counts how many months were positive, not how large the gains were.
This is an informal metric I use to track Bitcoin cycles. It counts the number of positive months out of the past 24.
This metric measures frequency, not magnitude. So Bitcoin could trend sideways for months and this metric could still go down. But it is still very useful for… pic.twitter.com/D4sbDoNcqL
— Timothy Peterson (@nsquaredvalue) February 20, 2026 Bitcoin could move sideways for months and the metric could still fall. Even so, Peterson says it has helped identify inflection points in past cycles.
A chart shared with the post shows that stronger readings in positive-month frequency have historically aligned with higher forward returns.
Nevertheless, the posts drew divided reactions from users on X.
One user called it a “rare confluence of historical data,” arguing the setup points to a major recovery by the end of 2026. The 82% expected return, they said, remains a guiding signal for long-term investors.
Others were more cautious. One user wrote “Bitcoin doesn’t give a damn about historical averages.”
2026-02-23 08:0919d ago
2026-02-23 02:0219d ago
4 US Economic Events That Could Move Bitcoin In the Final Week of February
4 US Economic Events That Could Move Bitcoin In the Final Week of February Prefer us on Google
Fed speeches could shift rate cut expectations and Bitcoin volatility.Consumer confidence and jobless claims signal growth resilience or weakness.PPI inflation data may determine dollar strength and BTC direction.Bitcoin enters the final week of February on fragile footing, with macro forces (US economic events) once again dictating short-term direction.
After last week’s mixed signals, including moderating PCE inflation, resilient jobless claims at 206,000, and cautious FOMC minutes, markets remain undecided on the pace of rate cuts ahead of the March 17–18 Federal Reserve meeting.
4 US Economic Events That Traders Are Watching CloselyWith rate expectations finely balanced, this week’s economic calendar could inject fresh volatility into crypto markets.
This Week’s Major US Economic Reports & Fed Speakers. Source: MarketWatchFed Officials Take the StageA crowded slate of Federal Reserve speeches runs from Monday through Wednesday, featuring Governors Christopher Waller and Lisa Cook, Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee, Atlanta Fed President Raphael Bostic, and others.
With markets currently pricing in two to three cuts in 2026, any deviation in tone could quickly shift rate expectations.
Interest Rate Change Probabilities in 2026. Source: CME FedWatch ToolHistorically, Waller and Bostic have leaned hawkish, emphasizing vigilance against inflation and data dependence.
If they reiterate concerns about “last-mile” disinflation or signal patience on cuts, Treasury yields could rise alongside the US dollar. Such an outcome could pressure Bitcoin and potentially push it lower.
Conversely, dovish commentary highlighting slowing growth or labor softening could weaken the dollar and spark a relief rally in risk assets.
Clustered appearances also increase the risk of intraday swings, particularly if messaging lacks cohesion. For Bitcoin traders, tone, not policy action, may be the key volatility trigger this week.
🇺🇸FED SPEAKERS THIS WEEK:
• FOMC MEMBER WALLER (MON. 8:00AM)
• FOMC MEMBER GOOLSBEE (TUES. 8:00AM)
• FOMC MEMBER BOSTIC (TUES. 9:00AM)
• FOMC MEMBER COLLINS (TUES. 9:00AM)
• FOMC MEMBER WALLER (TUES. 9:15AM)
• FOMC MEMBER COOK (TUES. 9:30AM)
• FOMC MEMBER BARKIN (TUES.… pic.twitter.com/ivJWvHfqXc
— Investing.com (@Investingcom) February 22, 2026 Consumer ConfidenceThe Conference Board’s February Consumer Confidence Index follows January’s weak 84.5 reading, well below expectations and historically consistent with recessionary signals.
February is projected to improve modestly to 87.5, though sentiment remains subdued amid elevated living costs and persistent inflation.
Last week’s PCE data showed inflation at 2.7% year-over-year, with core at 3.0%, reflecting lingering price pressures.
The Fed's preferred measure of inflation (Core PCE) moved up to 3.0% in December. That was the 58th consecutive reading above the Fed's 2% target level. There will be no Fed rate cut in March and while they won't do it, one could make a strong argument for a rate hike. pic.twitter.com/ZKZ9l27BHF
— Charlie Bilello (@charliebilello) February 22, 2026 A stronger-than-expected confidence print, particularly above 90, would reinforce a resilient consumer narrative and strengthen the “no-landing” thesis.
That could reduce near-term rate cut expectations, lift the dollar, and weigh modestly on Bitcoin.
On the other hand, a downside surprise below 85 would highlight economic fragility. That outcome would likely boost rate-cut odds, which are currently elevated for March, and provide tailwinds for BTC.
Interest Rate Cut Probabilities for March. Source: CME FedWatch ToolHistorically, confidence surprises have triggered 1–2% moves in Bitcoin, particularly when aligned with broader macro trends.
Initial Jobless ClaimsMeanwhile, initial jobless claims remain one of the timeliest indicators of the labor market. Last week’s drop to 206,000 surprised to the downside, reinforcing a tight employment backdrop that has kept the Fed cautious about easing prematurely. Consensus now expects 215,000.
— zerohedge (@zerohedge) February 19, 2026 If claims fall below 210,000, it would signal ongoing labor strength and potentially embolden hawkish Fed voices.
That scenario could lift yields and modestly pressure Bitcoin. Strong employment data tends to delay rate cut expectations, reducing liquidity support for risk assets.
Conversely, a spike above 225,000 would raise concerns about labor cooling, particularly if paired with softer business surveys.
Such a development could fuel recession fears and increase the probability of rate cuts—supportive for Bitcoin as traders anticipate easier financial conditions.
Though weekly claims typically generate 0.5–1.5% BTC volatility, the reaction could be amplified if the data contrasts sharply with earlier Fed commentary.
PPI (Producer Price Index)January’s PPI (Producer Price Index) will close out the week, with headline and core readings expected around 3.0% year-over-year.
Following last week’s PCE release, PPI offers upstream insight into inflationary pressures before they reach consumers.
A hotter-than-expected core reading above 3.2% would likely reignite inflation concerns and diminish rate cut bets. That scenario could mirror post-PCE weakness seen recently, pressuring Bitcoin by strengthening the dollar and lifting real yields.
However, a cooler print below 2.8% would reinforce disinflation momentum. Markets would likely price in more aggressive easing, weakening the USD, and potentially pushing Bitcoin toward $70,000.
Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance. Source: BeInCryptoAs a month-end release, PPI often solidifies weekly trends. Combined with jobless claims, it could produce 2–3% Bitcoin swings if expectations are materially challenged.
With Bitcoin’s correlation to the Nasdaq and the US dollar near multi-month highs, macro remains the dominant narrative.
If this week’s data skews dovish, BTC could rally 3–5%. A unified hawkish tone, however, may trigger a pullback of similar magnitude. Liquidity expectations, not crypto fundamentals, remain in control.
Disclaimer
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2026-02-23 08:0919d ago
2026-02-23 02:1319d ago
Crypto Liquidation Surge as Bitcoin Price Falls Below $65K
Crypto markets turned sharply red over the weekend as investors reacted to fresh macro uncertainty linked to U.S. tariff policy and rising geopolitical tensions. The pullback was broad, with Bitcoin, Ethereum, and major altcoins all moving lower.
Bitcoin slipped from the $68,000 zone to around $65,300 during Asian hours and briefly dipped below $65,000. Ethereum also fell under $1,900, while Solana dropped below $80.
Market watchers say this move looks more like growing investor caution than any crypto-specific problem. Still, high leverage in the market is making the downside more sensitive.
Crypto liquidation levels traders should watchAccording to Hyperliquid data, several key Bitcoin long positions are at risk:
Current price: about $65,011$64,090–$64,536: 40x leveraged whale positions worth roughly $4–$5 million each could be liquidated with just a ~1.4% drop.$49K–$55K: A large cluster of longs worth $16–$22 million sits here.$43.5K–$52K: A pension-linked wallet holds a massive $65 million long that would be liquidated near $43,769.Max pain zone: $49K–$55K, where more than $100 million in longs could be wiped out if selling increases.
Ethereum liquidation risk zonesEthereum is also showing heavy risk below current levels.
Current price: about $1,869$1,779: A 5% drop could liquidate a $24.6 million position.$1,667–$1,743: Multiple positions above $10 million are lined up.$1,270–$1,290: The biggest danger zone, where two large positions totaling about $215 million could be forced out.Max pain zone: $1,270–$1,290.
Solana price volatility warningSolana remains more volatile than Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Current price: about $78.13$66.72: Around $2.6 million in longs would be liquidated on roughly a 15% drop.Because SOL moves fast, these clusters can get hit quickly during market swings.
XRP short squeeze levels to watchThe setup for XRP is slightly different.
Heavy short liquidity is stacked above $1.40High leverage (25x–100x) is buildingIf price breaks $1.40–$1.45, short liquidations could accelerate upwardThis means XRP could see a quick spike if buyers push the price higher.
Recent crypto liquidations dataLatest numbers show the market has already seen notable liquidations:
Total liquidations: about $82 millionTraders affected: 62,900+BTC liquidations: ~$16.6 millionETH liquidations: ~$11.2 millionAt one point, more than $230 million in leveraged longs were wiped out within 60 minutes when Bitcoin fell below $65,000.
What this means for crypto tradersThe market right now looks fragile mainly because of high leverage and macro uncertainty. If Bitcoin loses the $64K area, liquidation pressure could increase toward the mid-$50K range.
On the flip side, if prices stabilize, the immediate risk of cascading liquidations will ease.
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.
FAQsWhy is the crypto market falling right now?
Crypto is sliding on U.S. tariff uncertainty and geopolitical tension. High leverage amplified selling, triggering fast liquidations.
What Bitcoin price levels could trigger more liquidations?
BTC faces risk below $64K. A break could pressure leveraged longs and open downside toward the $55K–$50K zone.
How can traders manage risk during crypto liquidation events?
Use lower leverage, set stop-loss orders, and monitor key support levels. Volatile markets punish oversized positions quickly.
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2026-02-23 08:0919d ago
2026-02-23 02:1619d ago
XRP price tests $1.30 support as realized losses hit 39-month high
XRP price is hovering near $1.30 after on-chain realized losses spiked to their highest level in 39 months.
Summary
XRP is down across major timeframes and has retraced sharply from its 2025 high. On-chain data shows the largest realized loss spike since 2022. The $1.30 level is now the key support to watch. XRP was trading at $1.32 at press time, down 4.7% in the past 24 hours. The token is in the red across all major timeframes, falling 7% over the past week, 30% in the last month, and nearly 48% over the past year.
XRP (XRP) has now retraced about 62% from its July 2025 all-time high of $3.65, closely reflecting the wider crypto market which has struggled to pick up pace.
Spot activity has picked up despite the price drop. XRP recorded $2.35 billion in 24-hour trading volume, up nearly 72% from the previous day, pointing to a rise in market participation during the sell-off.
Derivatives data from CoinGlass shows futures volume up 39% to $4.02 billion, while open interest rose 2.9% to $2.41 billion. The increase in both metrics suggests traders are adding positions as price tests a critical level.
On-chain losses spike as fear intensifies On Feb. 22, blockchain analytics firm Santiment reported that XRP has recorded its largest on-chain realized loss spike since 2022.
The previous weekly realized loss peak, around -$1.93 billion, occurred 39 months ago. Following that event, XRP went on to rally more than 100% over the next several months.
📉 BREAKING: XRP has seen its largest on-chain realized loss spike since 2022. When the previous weekly milestone of -1.93B in realized losses occurred 39 months ago, $XRP proceeded to jump +114% over the next 8 months.
💸 Significant realized losses happen when a large number… pic.twitter.com/gPUU8fYfiY
— Santiment (@santimentfeed) February 21, 2026 Realized losses rise when investors sell tokens below their purchase price. This frequently occurs during sell-offs driven by panic. It can indicate that weaker holders are leaving the market, even though it also shows fear.
In the past, there have been notable increases in realized losses near market bottoms. Under such conditions, there are fewer sellers left to drive prices down after the majority of emotional selling has occurred. That can raise the likelihood of a relief move, but it does not ensure an instant rebound.
XRP price technical analysis The daily chart shows a clear sequence of lower highs and lower lows since the January bounce. XRP trades below its 20-day moving average and has been riding the lower Bollinger Band, which points to sustained downside pressure.
XRP daily chart. Credit: crypto.news The $1.30–$1.35 area is the main level to watch. Price briefly dipped below $1.30 and recovered, showing some reactive buying.
The relative strength index dropped near 30 and is now in the mid-30s. There is no verified bullish divergence, but this points to a slight oversold bounce. Recovery strength would increase if the RSI rose above 50.
Immediate resistance sits between at about $1.55. The mid-Bollinger Band near $1.42 acts as the first hurdle. Until XRP reclaims that level, sellers retain short-term control. On the downside, a daily close below $1.30 could expose $1.20, followed by the psychological $1.00 level.
XRP has just triggered a signal that the market had not seen since 2022. Within a week, the token dropped by about 4 % while on-chain data revealed nearly $1.93 billion in realized losses, an unprecedented level in nearly four years. This shock reflects a wave of massive selling. Is this a capitulation signaling a bottom, or a new warning in an ever unstable macroeconomic environment?
In Brief XRP drops 4 % as on-chain data signals a rare event last seen in 2022. The network records $1.93 billion in realized losses in one week, marking the largest peak in nearly four years. This wave of capitulation reflects massive selling at a loss and a redistribution of tokens towards potentially more patient investors. The current environment differs from 2022, with macroeconomic uncertainties, regulatory evolutions, and persistent volatility. $1.93 Billion in Losses : An Unprecedented Wave of Capitulation Since 2022 While Goldman Sachs bets on crypto, XRP has just recorded “its largest weekly spike in realized losses since 2022.” On-chain data reveals a wave of massive selling materialized by :
$1.93 billion in realized losses in just one week ; Sales executed below the initial purchase price ; The largest spike in losses recorded in about 39 months ; A similar previous episode followed by a 114 % rally over eight months. These correspond to actual realized losses, not just unrealized paper losses. In other words, these are irreversible market exit decisions.
For such losses to reach billions of dollars, both aggressive selling pressure and buyers willing to absorb the supply at lower levels are necessary. Major capitulation episodes often coincide with a return of liquidity at lower price levels.
Historically, these capitulation phases mark a redistribution of tokens: short-term holders give up their positions in favor of more patient investors, who are likely to establish a more stable price base.
A Strong Signal, but a More Complex Macroeconomic Context While the scale of losses on Ripple’s crypto increases the likelihood of sellers running out of steam, the current context is significantly different from that of 2022. The environment includes “macroeconomic uncertainties, shifts in regulatory discourse, and persistently high volatility in major cryptocurrencies.”
Moreover, in previous cycles, sustainable recoveries were not built on a single capitulation peak but on a progressive stabilization of spot demand and a continuous decline in selling pressure. A spike in realized losses raises the probability of sellers exhausting, but it does not remove macroeconomic uncertainties.
If realized losses remain high or start rising again quickly, it would indicate that the distribution phase is not over.
The spike in realized losses marks a turning point for the market. While history shows that these capitulation phases can precede rebounds, nothing guarantees an immediate turnaround. The evolution of the macroeconomic context and spot demand will remain crucial for the XRP price in the coming weeks.
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Luc Jose A.
Diplômé de Sciences Po Toulouse et titulaire d'une certification consultant blockchain délivrée par Alyra, j'ai rejoint l'aventure Cointribune en 2019. Convaincu du potentiel de la blockchain pour transformer de nombreux secteurs de l'économie, j'ai pris l'engagement de sensibiliser et d'informer le grand public sur cet écosystème en constante évolution. Mon objectif est de permettre à chacun de mieux comprendre la blockchain et de saisir les opportunités qu'elle offre. Je m'efforce chaque jour de fournir une analyse objective de l'actualité, de décrypter les tendances du marché, de relayer les dernières innovations technologiques et de mettre en perspective les enjeux économiques et sociétaux de cette révolution en marche.
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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.
2026-02-23 08:0919d ago
2026-02-23 02:2019d ago
Bitdeer Stock Declines as Bitcoin Miner Firm Sells Off Entire BTC Holdings
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The Bitdeer stock has continued declining in value despite its recent offering. This comes as the Bitcoin miner firm sold off its BTC holdings as the token drops further in price.
Bitdeer (BTDR) Stock Drops on Liquidated BTC Holdings According to YahooFinance, the BTDR stock crashed by nearly 3% in overnight hours, continuing the decline seen at the close of the market on Friday. Data showed it had fallen even deeper through the weekend as traders priced in developments with its treasury.
Source: YahooFinance; BTDR stock daily price chart The renewed Bitdeer stock decline came as the Bitcoin miner firm announced that it had liquidated its entire holdings in BTC. The miner revealed that it had mined 189.8 BTC and sold the same amount, while also liquidating the remaining 943.1 BTC reserves.
The company had approximately 2,000 BTC reserves at the end of 2025 and 1,530 at the end of January, only to reduce them to 943.1 BTC by February 13. In the update, the company had mined 183.4 BTC and sold 179.9 BTC.
Source: X This also comes as the economics of mining have become tougher. The difficulty level on the Bitcoin network rose by 14.7% in the last adjustment. The gross margin of Bitdeer also declined to 4.7% in Q4.
A positive for the Bitdeer stock is that the company did not clarify whether the zero-BTC position is a permanent change in the treasury strategy or a temporary need for cash due to its ongoing capital raises.
BTDR Looks Beyond Bitcoin, Seeks Funding for AI Push The company had shared in a release on Friday that it is working an upsized $325 million private sale of convertible senior notes. The sale, which is expected to be completed on February 24, also includes an option to purchase an additional $50 million of notes to be purchased by the initial purchasers.
However, the news did not have much of an impact on the stock price of Bitdeer at the time. Notably, they are not the first treasury firm to make an AI pivot in strategy.
Last month, the XRP treasury Evernorth revealed a new partnership with an agentic finance team to manage its holdings using AI automation. The company aims to increase its reserve through the XRPL and artificial intelligence.
Bitdeer said in the report that it will set aside $138.2 million to repurchase its existing 5.25% convertible senior notes due in 2029. This means that the company has effectively extended its runway through debt restructuring.
2026-02-23 08:0919d ago
2026-02-23 02:2419d ago
Bitcoin holds as NYDIG says investable universe narrows
What NYDIG means by a shrinking investable universe in cryptoNYDIG’s Global Head of Research, Greg Cipolaro, argues the crypto “investable universe” is narrowing as the industry matures and investors gravitate toward finance-first use cases. according to NYDIG, capital increasingly concentrates where blockchains deliver clear monetary or market-structure advantages.
In this framing, applications endure only when blockchain benefits exceed costs, attributes like permissionless settlement, immutability, and censorship resistance matter most for money-like instruments and financial rails. The note highlights core areas: Bitcoin, stablecoins, real‑world asset tokenization, custody, and foundational DeFi infrastructure.
The analysis also situates today’s consolidation within prior cycles when, at peaks such as 2017 and 2021, bitcoin ceded share to rotating narratives. The selection pressure now appears stricter, prioritizing usage, security, and measurable economics over breadth.
Why it matters for institutional capital and market structureInstitutions increasingly demand regulatory defensibility, operational resilience, and measurable cash flows. As reported by BeInCrypto, large investors are prioritizing infrastructure, tokenization, custody, and settlement rails, over speculative long‑tail tokens, pending durable utility and transparent revenues.
That tilt reshapes market structure. Liquidity and price discovery migrate to assets with deeper markets, standardized disclosures, robust security budgets, and clearer compliance pathways. Breadth narrows, correlations can rise, and benchmarks skew toward assets with proven utility.
Editorially, this consolidation is a maturation signal rather than a retreat from innovation. “The ‘investable universe’ is narrowing,” said Greg Cipolaro, Head of Research, underscoring a focus on fewer, stronger use cases over diffuse experimentation.
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A narrower investable set tends to reinforce Bitcoin’s role as a macro, collateral, and reserve‑like asset. When institutions scale exposure prudently, altcoins without strong product‑market fit can face valuation pressure and thinner liquidity.
As reported by Cointelegraph, 2025 functioned as a “repricing” year in which smart‑contract chains and DeFi tokens fell by roughly two‑thirds as investors re‑evaluated fundamentals and business models. The result concentrates flows toward networks and protocols demonstrating sustained usage and revenue.
Core infrastructure, stablecoin issuance, compliant custody, on/off‑ramps, and base settlement layers, benefits from this consolidation. These rails are closer to regulated workflows, enterprise integrations, and cost‑reduction mandates for capital‑markets participants.
At the time of this writing, Bitcoin (BTC) traded near $65,781 with very high realized volatility reported around 11.03% and a neutral technical profile by standard momentum gauges. This is context only and not investment advice.
How to evaluate durable utility and real-world asset tokenizationReal‑world asset (RWA) tokenization succeeds when it reduces frictions in issuance, transfer, and servicing while preserving regulatory controls. Institutions test whether on‑chain settlement meaningfully lowers costs, improves transparency, and broadens distribution under compliant workflows.
RWA programs also hinge on reliable oracles, bankruptcy‑remote structures, reconciliations with off‑chain registries, and clear redemption mechanics. Strong programs document legal enforceability, audit trails, and counterparty risk segregation.
Durability signals: usage, protocol revenues, security, and regulatory positioningDurability begins with provable usage: consistent on‑chain volumes, active addresses tied to economic activity, and retention that is not subsidy‑driven. Sustainable protocol revenues and fee capture show that users will pay for the service.
Security spans economic security (staking or hash power), rigorous audits, and incident response maturity. Regulatory positioning covers KYC/AML alignment, disclosure practices, and custody standards that match institutional due diligence.
Where institutions concentrate now: Bitcoin, stablecoins, RWA, custody, and core DeFi railsInstitutional capital tends to consolidate in assets and services with clear monetary utility, deep liquidity, and operational readiness. Bitcoin functions as macro collateral and store‑of‑value‑like exposure with global settlement.
Stablecoins support fiat settlement and working capital on public rails. RWA tokenization targets yield‑bearing instruments with improved issuance and transfer. Custody and core DeFi rails provide the compliance‑aligned infrastructure layer institutions can underwrite.
FAQ about investable universeWhich crypto sectors and assets are still attracting institutional capital right now?Bitcoin, regulated stablecoins, tokenized real‑world assets, institutional custody, and core settlement/DeFi infrastructure that demonstrates measurable usage and sustainable economics.
How does rising Bitcoin dominance affect altcoins and DeFi tokens?It concentrates liquidity and risk budgets, raising the bar for fundamentals. Projects without durable usage, revenues, or security see tighter funding and greater performance dispersion.
DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is provided as general market commentary and does not constitute investment advice. We encourage you to do your own research before investing.
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2026-02-23 08:0919d ago
2026-02-23 02:3019d ago
Ethereum Drops After Vitalik Buterin Sells Again: Is History Repeating?
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Ethereum slipped over the past two days as on-chain trackers flagged another burst of selling tied to Vitalik Buterin’s wallets, reviving a familiar narrative for traders: founder-linked distribution showing up alongside spot weakness.
Ethereum Pullback Coincides With Fresh Vitalik Sales Lookonchain said Buterin has sold 1,869 ETH (about $3.67 million) over the past two days, a window in which ETH fell from $1,988 to $1,875, a 5.7% drawdown based on the figures cited in the post. The account framed the move as an acceleration: “vitalik.eth(@VitalikButerin) is selling ETH faster again. In the past 2 days, he has sold 1,869 ETH($3.67M). During that time, ETH fell from $1,988 to $1,875, down 5.7%.”
Vitalik Buterin on Arkham | Source: X @lookonchain The sharper edge of the thread was the historical comparison. Lookonchain pointed to a previous episode when it said Buterin sold 6,958 ETH (about $14.78 million) and ETH subsequently fell from $2,360 to $1,825, a 22.7% decline. “Last time he sold 6,958 ETH($14.78M), $ETH dropped from $2,360 to $1,825 — a 22.7% fall,” the post added, linking to an Arkham entity page attributed to Buterin.
The comparison does not prove causation, but it’s exactly the kind of pattern-matching that can matter at the margin in a market primed to trade flows. Founder wallets are heavily monitored, and any hint of renewed supply can become a focal point for positioning—especially when price is already drifting lower.
Lookonchain’s earlier post dated Feb. 22 described the sequence as a return to activity after a pause. “After a two-week break, vitalik.eth(@VitalikButerin) is selling ETH again! 8 hours ago, he withdrew 3,500 ETH($6.95M) from Aave to sell. So far, he has already sold 571 ETH($1.13M),” the account wrote.
That detail matters because it frames the selling as an intentional unwind rather than passive movement between wallets. Pulling ETH from Aave, then selling portions, is the sort of breadcrumb traders look for when trying to distinguish “wallet housekeeping” from outright distribution.
The Feb. 22 posts also land on top of another Lookonchain note from Feb. 5, which described sustained selling over multiple days. “vitalik.eth(@VitalikButerin) is dumping ETH fast!” it said, adding: “Over the past 3 days, Vitalik has sold 2,961.5 $ETH($6.6M) at an average price of $2,228 — and the selling is still ongoing.”
For markets, the immediate question is whether this remains a contained, trackable flow or whether it becomes the kind of recurring headline that pulls liquidity and sentiment lower simply by staying in the tape. If additional wallet-linked sales surface, traders will likely keep stress-testing the “history repeating” narrative against price, rather than assuming the selling is the sole driver.
At press time, Ethereum traded at $1,884.
Ethereum continues to fall towards the black trendline, 1-week chart | Source: ETHUSDT on TradingView.com Featured image created with DALL.E, chart from TradingView.com
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2026-02-23 08:0919d ago
2026-02-23 02:3119d ago
Ripple News: XRP Could Become a State Reserve Asset as Arizona Advances Crypto Bill
XRP is finding itself at the center of a fresh policy discussion in the United States.
Arizona lawmakers have advanced legislation that would allow the state to hold XRP as part of a proposed Digital Assets Strategic Reserve Fund. The bill passed a key committee vote 4–2 and now moves forward in the legislative process.
For XRP, an asset that has spent years navigating regulatory pressure, inclusion in a state-level reserve proposal could mean a shift in tone. It places the token within a public finance framework rather than a courtroom debate.
How the Reserve Would WorkThe proposed Digital Assets Strategic Reserve Fund would be overseen by Arizona’s State Treasurer. The fund would include digital assets seized or surrendered to the state, along with funds appropriated by lawmakers.
Under the bill, the Treasurer would be permitted to invest funds held in the reserve during a fiscal year and lend digital assets to generate additional returns, provided such activity does not increase financial risk to the state. Lawmakers have also stated that the measure is not expected to impact Arizona’s General Fund.
XRP Listed Alongside BitcoinThe legislation outlines broad eligibility criteria. It names Bitcoin, DigiByte and XRP, as well as stablecoins, non-fungible tokens and other digital-only assets that confer economic or proprietary rights.
The bill also introduces a framework for assessing “cryptocurrency fair value,” using metrics such as market capitalization, network activity and decentralization. That language points to a fundamentals-based evaluation rather than a purely speculative view.
For XRP holders, being included in such criteria reinforces the argument that the token is being judged on its utility and network characteristics.
The bill still faces additional debate and votes. Nothing is final. Yet reaching this stage suggests that digital assets, including XRP, are increasingly being treated as components of financial infrastructure rather than niche experiments.
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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2026-02-23 08:0919d ago
2026-02-23 02:5119d ago
Crypto Market Update Today: BTC and ETH Slide Below Key Levels—Is More Downside Ahead?
The crypto market is down today. The Bitcoin price marked an intraday low of around $64,290 from its highs at $67,684, a plunge of over 4.6%. On the other hand, Ethereum also underwent a similar plunge from $1,957 to $1,848 after holding the support at $1,914 for nearly a week. The market dropped by 4.
2026-02-23 08:0919d ago
2026-02-23 02:5419d ago
Bitcoin underperforms risk assets as it drops below $65K, altcoins extend losses
Bitcoin dropped hard in early Asia trading on Monday as fresh nerves over US tariffs hit risk appetite. The world’s largest cryptocurrency fell as much as 5.6% to about $64,090, its lowest level in roughly three weeks.
Ether, the second-largest token, slid 5%. The 12 US-listed spot Bitcoin ETFs just logged their fifth straight week of net outflows, the longest losing streak since February last year. Investors have pulled a total of $3.8 billion over that stretch.
While crypto struggled, Asian equities pushed higher. South Korea’s Kospi climbed for a third consecutive session, jumping 1.7% to a fresh record high. Heavyweights SK Hynix rose more than 3% and Samsung Electronics gained over 2%. The small-cap Kosdaq added 0.74%.
Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 was up 0.17% in early trade, even as the index showed 9,026.00, down 55.40 points, or 0.61%, on the session. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng jumped more than 2%, trading at 27,035.80, up 622.45 points, or 2.36%.
Elsewhere, India’s NIFTY 50 rose 0.37% to 25,665.05. Japan’s Nikkei 225 showed 56,825.70, down 642.13 points, or 1.12%, while China’s Shanghai Composite stood at 4,082.073, down 51.945 points, or 1.26%, though markets in both countries were closed for a holiday.
On Friday in the US, stocks rallied after a Supreme Court ruling that could ease the burden of higher tariffs on companies and calm concerns about stubborn inflation.
The S&P 500 gained 0.69% to close at 6,909.51. The Nasdaq Composite rose 0.9% to 22,886.07. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 230.81 points, or 0.47%, finishing at 49,625.97 after recovering from a 200-point drop earlier in the session following weak economic data.
2026-02-23 08:0919d ago
2026-02-23 03:0019d ago
Why TRON is gearing up for $0.45 despite the market slowdown
Participation slowed across major chains, and sentiment leaned cautious. At press time, TRON [TRX] stood out by holding both network engagement and structural stability.
Meanwhile, competitors showed sharper declines in activity and weaker price behavior. Therefore, focus shifted toward TRON’s relative strength. Is this durability merely temporary, or is it structural?
TRON: Total network activity slips Total Daily Active Users across tracked chains stood at 26.45M, down 4.9%. The slowdown reflected contraction across multiple ecosystems.
Source: X
However, the decline suggested cooling rather than collapse. Activity remained present, but capital became selective. As a result, stronger networks began separating from weaker ones.
This environment tested durability. TRON did not flinch.
Active addresses approach 2025 highs As from the image above, TRON recorded 3.4M Daily Active Users , up 0.4% over 30 days, ranking second behind BNB Chain’s 3.9M. In contrast, Solana dropped 32.2% to 2.1M users.
In particular, TRON’s Active Addresses surged toward levels last seen in 2025, when TRX traded near $0.37. That repeated pattern during February 2026 confirmed sustained on-chain engagement.
Source: Token Terminal
This was not a speculative rotation. It reflected steady usage while others lost traction.
TRX holds ascending weekly support above 50% On the weekly timeframe, TRX maintained ascending support originating from the 2022 bottom. That structure survived multiple market downturns and reinforced its reputation as a crypto winter survivor.
Moreover, TRX traded above the 50% and 61% Fibonacci retracement levels. Historically, holding these zones separated resilient assets from those suffering structural breakdowns.
Source: TradingView
At the time of writing, Open Interest remained elevated around $243M. It did not explode higher, but it held firm and steady. Meanwhile, many altcoins saw derivatives unwind aggressively.
The major support on the chart stood near $0.2575. Failure to hold that zone would shift the tone. However, as long as that floor remained intact, buyers retained control.
Will TRX clear the $0.45 first Fibonacci target? Network strength persisted while broader participation cooled. Structure held where others fractured.
Looking ahead, the first Fibonacci objective stood near $0.45. However, clearing that level required sustained volume expansion. Without volume, the move would lack conviction.
Should activity remain firm and volume build gradually, TRX could attempt that breakout.
Final Summary TRON maintained usage strength and structural stability during market cooling. Holding $0.2575 support and steady OI positioned TRX for a potential push toward $0.45.
2026-02-23 08:0919d ago
2026-02-23 03:0119d ago
Missouri lawmakers advance revived Bitcoin strategic reserve bill to committee
Missouri lawmakers have advanced a strategic Bitcoin reserve bill that would allow the state treasurer to “accept gifts, grants, donations, bequests, or devises of bitcoin from eligible Missouri residents or a governmental entity.”
Summary
Missouri’s HB 2080 would create a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Fund funded primarily through donations. Bitcoin held in the fund must remain in cold storage for at least five years. House Bill 2080 was introduced by Rep. Ben Keathley last month, was subsequently referred to the House Commerce Committee on Feb. 19, and is now pending a committee Hearing.
According to official documents, the bill seeks to establish a “Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Fund” funded primarily by “gifts, grants, donations, bequests, or devises of bitcoin,” but also includes a provision allowing the state treasurer to “invest, purchase, and hold cryptocurrency using state funds.”
All funds received would be stored in cold storage and held for at least five years “from the date that the bitcoin enters the state’s custody”, after which the bitcoin “may be transferred, sold, appropriated, or converted to another cryptocurrency.”
The treasurer can contract with a qualified, independent, United States-based third-party cryptocurrency entity to assist in the creation, maintenance, operation, and administration of the fund’s security, and would be required to publish a biennial report.
Once the bill clears the House Commerce Committee, it will be forwarded to the full House chamber, where it will have to be debated and approved by a majority vote before it may be passed and sent to the Senate for committee review, floor consideration, and a final vote.
HB 2080 is a successor to HB 1217, introduced early last year by Rep. Ben Keathley, with the only notable difference being that it has been referred to the House Commerce Committee instead of the Special Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs, where it previously stalled and ultimately died in committee.
If passed, Missouri will join Texas, New Hampshire, and Arizona in advancing state-level Bitcoin reserve frameworks, out of which Texas and New Hampshire allow direct public fund investments, while Arizona’s law restricts the reserve to Bitcoin acquired through seized and forfeited assets rather than new taxpayer allocations.
2026-02-23 08:0919d ago
2026-02-23 03:0419d ago
Michael Saylor hints at Strategy's 100th Bitcoin buy as BTC price sinks
Strategy founder Micahel Saylor has hinted that the firm may be set to execute its 100th Bitcoin purchase as the flagship crypto continues to sink.
Summary
Michael Saylor’s “The Orange Century” post signals a potential 100th Bitcoin purchase as Strategy’s total holdings reach 717,131 BTC. Bitcoin remains nearly 48% below its $126,080 peak. Strategy has continued buying for 12 straight weeks, funded by debt and equity financing. Saylor shared a cryptic X post on Sunday with the caption “The Orange Century” alongside a screenshot from StrategyTracker, which lists all the previous purchases the company has executed since it began buying Bitcoin in August 2020.
Strategy Bitcoin purchase tracker | Source: x/saylor Markets largely view such posts from Saylor as a signal that the company is preparing to announce another Bitcoin purchase, as has been the case on multiple occasions in the past.
To date, Strategy has acquired 717,131 BTC at an average price of $76,027 across 99 Bitcoin purchases, which means it is now gearing up for what would mark its 100th acquisition.
Strategy has continued buying Bitcoin over the past six years, even during periods of extreme volatility. The company views Bitcoin as a long-term inflation hedge and store of value, and Saylor remains characteristically undeterred, continuing to double down on his maximalist conviction despite the latest drawdowns.
Strategy remains unfazed by Bitcoin volatility Strategy has consistently acquired Bitcoin over the past 12 weeks.
Bitcoin price is down nearly 48% from its all time high of $126,080, but despite the challenging market conditions, Strategy has relied on a complex array of financial maneuvers, including convertible debt and equity offerings, to fund its ongoing Bitcoin accumulation strategy.
Strategy shares, in the meantime, have tested investor conviction and are down over 61% over the past six months. However, it was up nearly 950% since its first purchase buy according to data from Google Finance.
The company’s aggressive Bitcoin treasury model has even sparked concerns that it may face refinancing pressure if Bitcoin price weakness persists. But Saylor has assured investors that the firm could withstand a drawdown to $8,000 per coin without jeopardizing its balance sheet, arguing that Strategy’s leverage remains manageable relative to the size of its Bitcoin holdings.
At press time, Strategy’s total holdings are valued at over $47 billion based on current prices, with paper losses of 13.62%.
2026-02-23 07:0919d ago
2026-02-23 00:0819d ago
Solana (SOL) Loses $80 Floor, Downtrend Signals Intensify Rapidly Across Broader Crypto Space
Solana failed to settle above $92 and extended losses. SOL price is now consolidating losses below $85 and might struggle to start a recovery wave.
SOL price started a fresh decline below $85 and $82 against the US Dollar. The price is now trading below $82 and the 100-hourly simple moving average. There is a key bearish trend line forming with resistance at $82 on the hourly chart of the SOL/USD pair (data source from Kraken). The price could start a recovery wave if the bulls defend $75 or $70. Solana Price Dips Over 5% Solana price failed to remain stable above $95 and started a fresh decline, like Bitcoin and Ethereum. SOL declined below the $90 and $85 support levels.
The price gained bearish momentum below $82. A low was formed at $77.30, and the price is now consolidating losses with a bearish angle below the 23.6% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the $86.68 swing high to the $77.30 low.
Solana is now trading below $80 and the 100-hourly simple moving average. On the upside, immediate resistance is near the $80 level. The next major resistance is near the $82 level or the 50% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the $86.68 swing high to the $77.30 low. There is also a key bearish trend line forming with resistance at $82 on the hourly chart of the SOL/USD pair.
Source: SOLUSD on TradingView.com The main resistance could be $83.10. A successful close above the $83.10 resistance zone could set the pace for another steady increase. The next key resistance is $87. Any more gains might send the price toward the $92 level.
More Losses In SOL? If SOL fails to rise above the $82 resistance, it could continue to move down. Initial support on the downside is near the $77 zone. The first major support is near the $75 level.
A break below the $75 level might send the price toward the $70 support zone. If there is a close below the $70 support, the price could decline toward the $62 support in the near term.
Technical Indicators
Hourly MACD – The MACD for SOL/USD is gaining pace in the bearish zone.
Hourly Hours RSI (Relative Strength Index) – The RSI for SOL/USD is below the 50 level.
Major Support Levels – $77 and $75.
Major Resistance Levels – $80 and $82.
2026-02-23 07:0919d ago
2026-02-23 00:1219d ago
Crypto Crash Alert: Why are Bitcoin, Ethereum and XRP Prices Falling Today?
Global cryptocurrency markets fell sharply on Monday, extending a multi-month downturn that traders say is being driven less by crypto-specific news and more by mounting macroeconomic pressure.
The total digital asset market capitalization dropped roughly 4.4% in 24 hours to about $2.23 trillion, according to market data. The selloff was led by losses in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP, which together account for a large share of overall market value.
Bitcoin Drops Rapidly, Triggers Liquidation WaveBitcoin fell nearly 5% on the day to around $64,800, with prices at one point sliding roughly $2,500 in about an hour. The swift move triggered an estimated $240 million in long liquidations, according to derivatives data.
In leveraged markets, when prices fall quickly, traders who borrowed to bet on higher prices are forced to sell to cover their positions.
Over the past 139 days, Bitcoin has declined close to 49%, wiping out more than $1 trillion in market value. Analysts say that unlike prior cycles, the downturn has not produced a sustained relief rally.
At the same time, U.S. spot Bitcoin exchange traded funds have seen notable outflows in recent sessions, signaling weaker institutional demand. Weekly withdrawals totaling hundreds of millions of dollars have raised questions about whether the strong ETF-driven inflows earlier in the year are losing momentum.
Ethereum Follows as Derivatives Market UnwindsEthereum declined nearly 6% to trade around $1,859, underperforming Bitcoin slightly during the latest drop.
Market participants say Ethereum’s weakness shows both its sensitivity to Bitcoin’s direction and elevated leverage across the crypto derivatives complex. Total open interest across major exchanges remains high, suggesting that many positions were vulnerable to sharp moves.
As Bitcoin fell, Ethereum longs were also liquidated, amplifying losses. This pattern has become familiar during periods of heightened volatility, where price moves are magnified by automated liquidations rather than fundamental shifts in network activity.
XRP and Altcoins Face Broader Risk-Off RotationXRP fell nearly 6% on the day and more than 9% over the past week, trading near $1.33. This reflects a broader retreat from altcoins as investors rotate toward perceived safety or reduce overall exposure.
In risk-off environments, capital typically exits smaller or more volatile assets first. Even large-cap altcoins such as XRP can experience outsized declines when confidence deteriorates across the sector.
Hence, now the total crypto market capitalization is hovering near the $2.17 trillion level, a yearly low set earlier this month.
A sustained hold above that level could allow for consolidation and a potential short-term rebound. A decisive break lower, however, may open the door to a move toward the psychologically important $2.0 trillion mark.
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Bitcoin has suffered another sharp leg down, crushing the hopes of those bulls who expected a speedy recovery.
The flagship cryptocurrency tumbled by more than 5% to drop below the critical $65,000 threshold in early Asia trading on Monday.
The market is currently grappling with the double-whammy of macroeconomic uncertainty and deteriorating technical structures.
HOT Stories
Is $45,000 in the cards? The latest sharp drop has been attributed to the uncertainty surrounding U.S. tariffs.
On Saturday, the White House announced plans to raise global tariffs to 15%.
The announcement came shortly after the Supreme Court struck down his previous use of emergency authority to impose
The asset is down 26% year-to-date and has shed over 47% of its value since topping $125,000 last October.
card
The $60,000 level, which was recently identified as the bottom of the current bearish cycle by Fidelity’s Jurrien Timmer, is now back in play.
DonAlt, a popular pseudonymous trader, has warned that Bitcoin (BYC) would need a daily close above $71,000 to avoid a "slow bleed."
Aggressive bears are waiting for a deeper capitulation toward the $42,000 to $45,000 range.
As reported by U.Today, Anthony Scaramucci of SkyBridge Capital and Strategy’s Michael Saylor recently admitted that Bitcoin was in a bear market.
Massive liquidations According to data provided by CoinGecko, roughly $464 million worth of crypto has been liquidated over the past 24 hours.
Roughly 82% of the entire day's liquidations occurred within a single 4-hour window.
The largest liquidation order was $61.5 million on the X exchange.
2026-02-23 07:0919d ago
2026-02-23 00:2419d ago
Missouri Joins Bitcoin Reserve Push as U.S. States Race to Accumulate BTC
CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Missouri has become the latest U.S. state to join the push for a Bitcoin reserve. Its lawmakers introduced a bill to hold BTC through donations from residents and state funds.
Lawmakers Introduce Bitcoin Reserve Bill in Missouri Missouri lawmakers have advanced a reserve bill to store BTC in its state-managed funds. Representative Ben Keathley had initially introduced a House Bill 2080 that would allow the state treasurer to invest, purchase, and hold the coin using state funds.
Missouri’s proposed Bitcoin reserve bill Thereafter, the Missouri Bitcoin reserve bill was referred to the House committee last week. Here, the new legislation would undergo a public hearing and a committee vote. The committee would also explore amendments in the bill before it is sent back to the House for debate and final approval.
This comes during a growing trend of U.S states looking to adopt digital assets as proceedings for the CLARITY Act progress. In the proposed bill, the state treasurer is allowed to receive gifts, grants, and donations in the form of BTC from Missouri residents or the government to contribute to the reserve.
Another aspect of the proposed bill is that it proposes allowing government entities to accept crypto approved by the Department of Revenue for citizens to pay taxes, fees, fines, or other expenses owed. Meanwhile, a date for the public hearing has not been fixed yet, but it has an automatic effective date of August 28.
Keathley had also introduced a similar Missouri Bitcoin reserve bill in February of last year. However, it did not go beyond the committee stage and was eventually shelved.
Which U.S. States Are Moving to Build a Bitcoin Reserve? Missouri is one of the latest states to join the moving bandwagon in the U.S. Just last week, Arizona lawmakers advanced a bill to hold Bitcoin in its reserve. They approved using seized crypto assets to fund the reserve. The stockpile would also hold XRP. Also, the bill allows the state to loan digital assets in order to earn returns as Missouri joins the Bitcoin reserve trend.
Furthermore, in late January, South Dakota introduced its own bill to hold the token. Its proposed legislation has some similarities to with Missouri’s bill. Its lawmakers dedicated 10% of its state funds to purchase the coin.
Other states advancing their proposals include Kansas, Utah, and Pennsylvania. All these came after Texas became the first state in the U.S. to have a stockpile of BTC. They bought around $20 million worth of BTC last November to start their foray into digital assets.
Crypto prices today fell as Bitcoin dropped below $65,000 and altcoins posted steeper losses amid rising tariff uncertainty.
Summary
Bitcoin fell below a key support level, extending its monthly losing streak. Major altcoins posted steeper losses as sentiment weakened. Liquidations surged as leveraged long positions were wiped out. The crypto market opened the week under pressure. Total market capitalization fell 4.2% in the past 24 hours to $2.3 trillion.
Bitcoin dropped 4.5%, slipping below the $65,000 level and marking its fifth consecutive month of decline. The break of $65,000, widely viewed as a key psychological and technical support zone, has increased concerns about a potential move toward $60,000.
Altcoins posted steeper losses. Solana fell 9.1% to $77, Hyperliquid declined 9.8% to $27, and Zcash slid 8.2% to $234.
Market sentiment remains deeply negative. The Crypto Fear & Greed Index dropped four points to 5, keeping it firmly in the “Extreme Fear” zone.
According to CoinGlass data, 24-hour liquidations jumped 436% to $463 million. Long positions made up $432 million, or about 93% of total liquidations. This indicates that when prices dropped, traders who had been betting on a recovery were driven out.
The total cryptocurrency open interest fell 1.51% to $95 billion, indicating that some traders are closing positions. Weak momentum is indicated by the average market relative strength index, which is close to oversold levels at 33.
The sharp rise in liquidations suggests that leverage played a major role in today’s drop.
Tariff uncertainty shakes risk assets The main trigger for the sell-off appears to be fresh uncertainty around U.S. trade policy.
Over the weekend, President Donald Trump raised a proposed global tariff rate from 10% to 15% through a post on Truth Social. This came after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down earlier emergency tariffs imposed under IEEPA.
Trump then moved to reintroduce tariffs under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, citing balance-of-payments concerns.
The policy shift unsettled financial markets. Gold and silver held up relatively well, while crypto assets sold off. Bitcoin continues to behave like a high-risk asset in times of economic stress.
Interestingly, crypto diverged from some stock markets. Asian equities traded higher in early sessions, while digital assets moved lower. That contrast highlights how sensitive crypto is to sudden risk-off headlines.
Short-term outlook: focus shifts to $60K Analysts had pointed to $65,000 as a key support level for Bitcoin. With that level lost, $60,000 is now the next major area to watch.
In a Feb. 23 update, Glassnode said investor capitulation is still playing out as Bitcoin searches for a bottom.
The seven-day EMA of Bitcoin’s Net Realized Profit and Loss stands near -$480 million, after falling to -$1.24 billion on Feb. 6. Although realized losses have eased since then, selling pressure is still visible in on-chain data.
In the coming days, price action could stay volatile. If macro fears intensify, Bitcoin may test $60,000 or even lower. On the other hand, a quick move back above the $65,000–$68,000 range could trigger a relief bounce.
For now, traders are watching tariff headlines, Federal Reserve signals, exchange-traded fund flows, and on-chain metrics for signs of stabilization. Extreme fear can sometimes mark a short-term bottom, but confirmation has yet to appear.
2026-02-23 07:0919d ago
2026-02-23 00:3219d ago
Vitalik Buterin Sold Over 8,800 ETH in February: Did It Impact the Price?
Vitalik Buterin Sold Over 8,800 ETH in February: Did It Impact the Price? Prefer us on Google
Vitalik Buterin offloaded over 8,800 ETH throughout February 2026.Ethereum inflows to Binance reached highest level since November 2025.Declining staking demand increases liquid supply and short-term price pressure on ETH.Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has accelerated his Ethereum (ETH) sales throughout February 2026, offloading over 8,800 ETH this month.
At the same time, Ethereum inflows to Binance have climbed to their highest level since November 2025. The convergence of high-profile selling and rising exchange deposits comes as ETH remains in a broader downtrend.
Vitalik’s ETH Selling IntensifiesBeInCrypto previously reported that Buterin’s ETH sales began in early February. The move was consistent with his disclosed plan to strategically allocate 16,384 ETH toward long-term initiatives over the coming years.
“I have just withdrawn 16,384 ETH, which will be deployed toward these goals over the next few years. I am also exploring secure decentralized staking options that will allow even more capital from staking rewards to be put toward these goals in the long term,” he wrote on X.
However, in February alone, he has sold more than 8,800 ETH, worth approximately $18.45 million, amid already fragile market conditions.
According to the blockchain analytics firm Lookonchain, Buterin sold 6,958 ETH, worth $14.78 million, in early February. During that period, ETH declined from $2,360 to $1,825, marking a 22.7% drop.
Over the past two days, he reportedly sold an additional 1,869 ETH, valued at $3.67 million.
“During that time, $ETH fell from $1,988 to $1,875, down 5.7%,” Lookonchain added.
Ethereum Price Reaction to Vitalik Buterin’s Sales. Source: X/LookonchainWhile the sales may have added short-term pressure to ETH’s price, it is also worth noting that the broader crypto market remains in a sustained downtrend, with macro uncertainty and declining risk appetite weighing on major assets.
After the recent sales, data from Arkham Intelligence shows that Buterin still holds 224,105 ETH.
Binance Inflows Surge to Multi-Month HighsThe Ethereum co-founder’s sales come as Ethereum inflows to Binance have increased sharply. According to an analyst, total inflows to the exchange over the past 30 days reached approximately $33.3 billion, marking the highest level since last November.
Ethereum Inflow to Binance. Source: CryptoQuantLarge exchange inflows are often associated with heightened trading activity or potential selling pressure, as investors typically transfer assets to exchanges when preparing to transact. However, the analyst noted that the development should not be viewed as inherently bearish.
“In some cases, elevated inflows reflect strategic repositioning by investors or readiness to engage in higher trading activity, particularly during periods of volatility. Furthermore, strong inflows can precede periods of price stability if the additional supply is absorbed by demand,” the post read.
The analyst added that the inflow levels place the market in a sensitive phase. How ETH reacts to this shift will likely determine whether the inflows translate into sustained selling pressure or represent a redistribution phase ahead of the next directional move.
Still, this is not the only indicator flashing caution. BeInCrypto’s recent report highlighted a sharp decline in Ethereum staking demand.
A slowdown in staking inflows may reflect a growing preference for liquidity amid uncertainty. If net staking declines or reverses, it can increase the circulating ETH supply, potentially contributing to short-term selling pressure, depending on market demand.
Together, rising exchange inflows and declining staking demand point to increasing liquid supply and reduced absorption, suggesting elevated short-term supply-side pressure amid broader market weakness.
Ethereum (ETH) Price Performance. Source: BeInCrypto MarketsAt the time of writing, ETH was trading at $1,868.04, down 5.35% over the past 24 hours, reflecting the continued downside pressure.
Disclaimer
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2026-02-23 07:0919d ago
2026-02-23 00:3319d ago
Crypto Market Crash: Here's Why Bitcoin, ETH, XRP, SOL, ADA Are Falling Sharply
CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
The crypto market crash on Monday triggered a sharp 5% fall in Bitcoin to a low of $64,350, erasing all recent gains and positive sentiment. Ethereum (ETH), XRP, BNB, SOL, DOGE, Cardano (ADA), and other top crypto assets also tumbled 6-10% in just a few hours.
The Crypto Fear & Greed Index falls back to ‘extreme fear’ of 5 after Trump raises global tariffs to 15%. The total crypto market cap crashes by almost 5% to $2.22 trillion, wiping out more than $100 billion in the past 24 hours amid massive liquidations by whales and institutions.
US stock market futures also extend losses, with the crypto stocks-heavy Nasdaq 100 down more than 1%. However, gold and silver prices are rising on US macro and economic growth concerns.
Crypto Market Crash: $350M in Bitcoin, ETH, XRP, SOL, ADA and Altcoins Liquidated in 1 Hour Coinglass data revealed almost $470 million in total liquidations during the crypto market crash. Over 135K traders were liquidated in the past 24 hours, with the largest single BTC-USDT liquidation worth $61.51 million happening on HTX.
Over $435 million in long positions and $35 million in short positions were liquidated. Notably, more than $350 million in long positions liquidations occurred in just an hour during today’s crypto market crash.
Bitcoin, ETH, SOL, XRP, HYPE, DOGE, BNB, and ADA were among the most liquidated crypto assets in the past 24 hours. HTX, Bybit, and Hyperliquid led Binance in crypto long liquidations over the last 24 hours, indicating forced liquidations and leverage reductions.
Crypto Liquidations in Hourly Timeframe. Source: Coinglass Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin is selling ETH faster again. In the past 2 days, he has sold 1,869 ETH worth $3.67 million. The last time Vitalik Buterin sold 6,958 ETH, Ethereum price crashed more than 22% from $2,360 to $1,825.
Donald Trump Tariffs Rattle Markets US stock futures and the dollar fell, while gold and silver rose on Monday after US President Donald Trump raised global tariffs to 15% from 10%. This comes following the US Supreme Court’s decision to strike down Trump’s sweeping reciprocal tariffs.
It has sparked fresh uncertainty and volatility in global markets, hurting sentiment. Bitcoin also tanks below $65,000, causing the crypto market to crash amid renewed tariff jitters.
The slower Q4 GDP growth of 1.4% due to the government shutdown and tariffs and core PCE inflation of 3% also weighed on sentiment. This signaled the Fed will hold interest rates steady in the coming months.
Crypto Market Crash Risk Mounts amid On-Chain, Technical Data According to Glassnode, the 7D-EMA of Net Realized Profit & Loss showed losses for short-term holders narrowed from –$1.24 billion/day in early February to –$0.48 billion/day until Sunday.
While the intensity has cooled, the broader regime still signals the crypto market remains under pressure, with participants in the base formation phase continuing to capitulate.
Bitcoin Short-Term Holders Net Realized Profit/Loss. Source: Glassnode One massive bearish candle caused Bitcoin to break below $65,000 and ETH to drop below $1,850, leading to a rise in shorts of major crypto and altcoins.
Popular analyst Cheds Trading noted that Bitcoin is breaching lower Bollinger bands with momentum. Analyst Crypto Tony pointed out a worst-case scenario of a Bitcoin crash to $58K after a pump and rejection from $69,000.
Bitcoin in 4-Hour Timeframe. Source: Crypto Tony
2026-02-23 07:0919d ago
2026-02-23 00:4719d ago
Celo (CELO) Price Prediction 2026, 2027-2030: Is Now the Best Time to Accumulate CELO?
Story HighlightsThe Celo Price today is $ 0.07227387.CELO could target $0.48 in 2026 if buyback and burn plans boost token demand.Reclaiming $0.09 resistance is key for CELO to confirm a bullish breakout toward $0.12.Long term, L2 growth and rising adoption could push CELO toward $4 by 2030.Celo is a mobile-focused blockchain built to make crypto payments simple and easy for everyone. It allows users to send and receive digital money using just their phone numbers, making crypto work like normal messaging.
Earlier, Celo upgraded and became an Ethereum Layer-2 network to improve speed, security, and lower transaction costs.
Now in early 2026, with over 250,000 daily active users and more than 1,000 projects building on the network, investors are asking whether CELO can stage a long-term recovery.
As of now, CELO is trading near $0.0764, down about 83% from its previous highs.
So, let’s explore CoinPedia’s Celo (CELO) price prediction for 2026, 2027, and 2030.
Celo Price TodayCryptocurrencyCeloTokenCELOPrice$0.0723 -5.85% Market Cap$ 42,992,991.7824h Volume$ 4,135,988.2614Circulating Supply594,862,139.00Total Supply1,000,000,000.00All-Time High$ 10.6584 on 30 August 2021All-Time Low$ 0.0702 on 06 February 2026Celo (CELO) Price Targets For March 2026February 2026 is a pivotal moment for Celo due to one major development: a proposed programmatic buyback and burn mechanism.
The community is evaluating a plan that would allocate at least 50% of protocol profits toward buying CELO tokens from the open market. A significant portion of these tokens would then be permanently burned.
Even more importantly, users can pay gas fees using stablecoins like cUSD or USDT, rather than CELO itself.
Combined with rising daily active users and expanding stablecoin transactions in emerging markets, this could push the CELO token to near $0.10.
Technical AnalysisLooking at the 4-hour chart, CELO is currently trading around $0.077, holding near a key horizontal support zone between $0.075 and $0.077. This level has acted as a strong demand area multiple times, preventing further downside.
However, the overall structure remains bearish, as CELO continues to form lower highs and lower lows after rejecting near the $0.09 resistance zone.
For bullish confirmation, CELO must reclaim the $0.09 resistance zone. A breakout above this level could trigger a rally toward $0.10 and $0.12.
However, if support at $0.075 breaks, CELO could decline further toward the $0.07 or lower support levels in the near term.
The RSI is around 32, confirming weak buying strength, though it is slowly stabilizing, which may signal a potential short-term bounce.
MonthPotential Low ($)Potential Average ($)Potential High ($)Celo Price Prediction March 2026$0.055$0.089$$0.12he year 2026 will be defined by three core drivers:
L2 Integration Maturity
Now operating as an Ethereum L2, Celo benefits from improved security and interoperability within the broader OP Stack ecosystem.
Carbon-Negative Positioning
Celo remains a carbon-negative blockchain, allocating a portion of fees toward carbon offsets. This ESG-focused narrative may attract institutions prioritizing sustainability.
Organizational Merger
The Celo Foundation and cLabs merged into a single entity, Celo Core Co., to accelerate platform development and market synchronization.
If the buyback mechanism activates and network usage continues rising, CELO could attempt a move toward $0.481.
YearPotential Low ($)Potential Average ($)Potential High ($)CELO Price Prediction 2026$0.055$0.220$0.481CELO Price Prediction 2026 – 2030YearPotential Low ($)Potential Average ($)Potential High ($)2026$0.055$0.220$0.4812027$0.093$0.365$0.8502028$0.164$0.752$1.272029$0.390$1.05$2.182030$0.826$1.75$3.85Celo Price Prediction 2026If buybacks begin and L2 adoption stabilizes, CELO price could approach to $0.48 level.
CELO Price Prediction 2027By 2027, Celo’s mobile-first infrastructure could expand deeper into emerging markets through partnerships with fintech apps and remittance platforms.
Celo Price Foreacst 2028In 2028, attention may shift toward DeFi scalability and cross-chain liquidity, thus CELO may test $1.40.
Celo Price Targets 2029By 2029, institutional interest in carbon-neutral and ESG-aligned blockchains could become a stronger narrative could move CELO near $2.20.
Celo (CELO) Price Prediction 2030By 2030, if millions of users rely on Celo-based wallets for daily payments and DeFi access, CELO could target the $4 range.
What Does The Market Say?Year202620272030Changelly$0.606$0.882$3.82DigitalCoinPrice$0.88$1.06$2.24Coincodex$0.435$0.308$0.047CoinPedia’s Celo (Celo) Price PredictionCelo is no longer just a standalone Layer 1. As an Ethereum Layer 2 optimized for mobile payments, it is positioning itself as infrastructure for emerging markets.
From CoinPedia’s perspective, Celo’s recovery depends less on hype and more on real adoption and profitability. The proposed buyback-and-burn mechanism could significantly change token dynamics if protocol revenues continue to grow.
If daily active users expand beyond 300,000 and profit-driven burns are implemented successfully, CELO could gradually hit the $0.50 level in 2026.
YearPotential Low ($)Potential Average ($)Potential High ($)2026$0.055$0.220$0.481Never 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.
FAQsWhat is Celo (CELO) and how does it work?
Celo is a mobile-focused Ethereum Layer-2 blockchain that lets users send crypto using phone numbers, aiming to simplify payments globally.
What is the CELO price prediction for 2026?
CELO could trade between $0.055 and $0.481 in 2026, with upside tied to buybacks, user growth, and stronger Layer-2 adoption.
What could CELO be worth in 2030?
If adoption scales and token burns reduce supply, CELO could trade between $0.82 and $3.85 by 2030 in a bullish cycle.
What will 1 CELO be worth in 2040?
By 2040, 1 CELO could trade between $8 and $15 if mobile crypto adoption scales globally and revenue-driven token burns continue.
Is CELO a good long-term investment?
CELO’s long-term value depends on real-world adoption, L2 growth, and revenue-driven burns, but volatility and market risks remain.
2026-02-23 07:0919d ago
2026-02-23 01:0019d ago
Is Iran Still the Cheapest Place to Mine Bitcoin in 2026?
In the global landscape of digital assets, energy is the ultimate currency. While most miners worldwide struggle with rising energy costs and hardware depreciation, Iran remains a global anomaly. As of early 2026, the cost to mine 1 $Bitcoin in Iran stands at a staggering $1,320, while the market price of $BTC holds steady around $68,000. This massive disparity has created a unique, high-stakes environment where geopolitical strategy and underground economics collide.
Can you Make Money Mining Bitcoin in Iran?In short: Yes, but with significant risks. The 50x return on investment is driven by Iran's heavily subsidized electricity, which allows miners to produce Bitcoin at a fraction of the global average. However, this profitability is split between state-sanctioned operations that must sell to the central bank and illegal miners who risk raids to pocket the full profit.
Subsidized Mining EconomicsBitcoin mining is the process of using specialized hardware (ASICs) to solve complex mathematical puzzles, securing the network in exchange for block rewards. In most regions, electricity represents 80-90% of operational costs. In Iran, the government provides industrial electricity for as low as $0.005/kWh.
To produce one Bitcoin, an average setup requires roughly 2,000 to 3,000 MWh. At Iranian rates, this equates to roughly $1,320. In contrast, mining the same Bitcoin in Europe or the US can cost upwards of $40,000 to $100,000 depending on the local grid.
The Dual Economy: Legal vs. Illegal OperationsThe Iranian government legalized mining in 2019 to generate foreign currency and bypass international sanctions. Yet, the sector is deeply divided:
Licensed Miners: These operations receive legal protection and cheap power but are mandated to sell their entire Bitcoin yield to the Central Bank of Iran (CBI) to fund national imports.The Underground (90%): An estimated 90% of Iranian mining occurs illegally. These miners use stolen or subsidized household power to maximize ROI, often hiding rigs in schools, mosques, or rural farms.Why the Government Allows ItFor Iran, Bitcoin is more than a financial asset; it is a tool for sanction evasion. By converting local natural gas into Bitcoin, the state can pay for global goods without relying on the restricted SWIFT banking system. However, this has led to severe domestic issues, including frequent power grid failures and blackouts in major cities.
Comparing Global Mining Costs (2026)To understand the scale of Iran's advantage, compare it to other popular mining hubs using the latest exchange comparison data:
CountryCost to Mine 1 BTC (Est.)Profit Margin (at $68k)Iran$1,320~5,050%Ethiopia$1,990~3,300%Kazakhstan$7,500~800%USA (Texas)$22,000~200%Risk Management and HardwareMiners in Iran often face equipment seizures during government "raids" aimed at stabilizing the power grid. To protect their assets, professional miners utilize high-end hardware wallets and sophisticated cooling systems to hide the thermal signature of their rigs.
ConclusionThe 50x ROI in Iran is a byproduct of unique geopolitical and economic pressures. While the entry cost is low, the operational risks—including jail time and asset forfeiture—remain high. As the global Bitcoin price continues to fluctuate, Iran’s role as a low-cost mining haven will likely persist as long as its energy subsidies remain intact.