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The XRP Price could be set to break its historical February downturn curse amid some key developments in its ecosystem. The Ripple coin has fallen in 7 out of 11 Februarys since 2014. The worst ones experienced really harsh price drops. The value of the coin dropped by 33.4% in February 2014 and by 22.1% in February 2018.

It has also experienced more than 30% of its value being lost this month. It dropped to $1.1 before rising to $1.41. However, there are still significant factors that could lead a price rally.

XRPL Tokenization Boom Sparks XRP Price Breakout Hopes As of the end of January 2026, the total amount of tokenized RWAs, including government debt and tokenized commodities managed by public blockchains, was a bit over $24 billion.

Now, the XRP Ledger is a payment and tokenized RWA issuance network. In that light, the platform has continued to see institutional activity in which the expert believes would increase the XRP Price. Today, the on-chain RWA presence of the Ledger has surpassed $354 million in the past month. Recently, a report revealed that 63% of tokenized US treasuries are on XRPL.

Even companies such as DBS Group and Franklin Templeton are developing trading and lending infrastructure around tokenized money market fund units issued on the XRPL.

Experts have highlighted that as more products move to the ledger, the demand for XRP could grow. Earlier this month, UK investment giant Aviva tapped the Ripple ledger for issuing traditional funds.

$70B Deutsche Bank Integrates Ripple Payments Deutsche Bank is partnering with Ripple Payments to be at the forefront of SWIFT’s new blockchain technology project. It is worth noting that the traditional cross-border payment system is now being criticized for being slow and expensive.

However, the banking giant is now making a clear move away from this payment system with the new XRP-based payment system after Ripple secured its first EMI license. For the altcoin, the implications of the adoption of Ripple’s technology by bank is significant for the value of the XRP price.

Even though banks can adopt Ripple’s technology without necessarily holding the token, increased usage of Ripple’s technology increases visibility and demand.

Notably, crypto expert EgragCrypto noted a change in the structure of the XRP price chart as fundamentals begin to change.

Source:X XRP Funding Rates Show Exhaustion The funding rate for XRP on Binance fell to -0.028%, the lowest level since April 2025. A negative funding rate indicates that shorts are heavily crowded and are paying a premium to maintain their positions. This essentially means that the easy selling has already been done.

Historically, funding rates that are extremely low have been followed by a XRP price bounce. The data from CryptoQuant indicates that this has occurred in the past. The funding rate turned deeply negative in late 2024 and in April 2025.  In both instances, a strong bounce occurred.

Source: CryptoQuant

CryptoQuant analyst Burak Kesmeci has identified four realized price levels that may define Bitcoin’s long-term direction after the asset lost the $88,700 cost basis of new large holders. According to his analysis, that breakdown marked the transition into a classic bearish phase.

Realized price represents the average acquisition cost of coins for specific holder groups. When clusters of Bitcoin share similar realized prices, those levels often act as psychological and structural support or resistance.

Bitcoin Support Levels Now Cluster Between $58K and $54KAfter losing the $88,700 level, the next key zone sits at $58,700, the realized price of Binance deposit addresses. This is viewed as the nearest downside magnet between current prices and the broader network realized price at $54,700.

Bitcoin's realized price. Source: CryptoQuantHistorically, when Bitcoin drops below the cost basis of new major holders, price tends to retest the overall network realized price. That places $54,700 in focus if $58,700 fails to hold.

The final and deepest of the four tracked levels stands at $41,600, the realized price of older large holders.

Together, the four levels now shaping the downside roadmap are:

$88,700$58,700$54,700$41,600These price zones are not predictions but structural reference points derived from on-chain cost data.

46% of Bitcoin Supply Now in Unrealized LossParallel data from CryptoQuant shows a sharp deterioration in sentiment. Approximately 46% of Bitcoin’s circulating supply is now in unrealized loss – the highest reading since late 2022.

Another CryptoQuant analyst, Darkfost, noted that daily realized losses exceeded 30,000 BTC on February 5. While elevated, that figure remains well below the 80,000-92,000 BTC daily peaks seen during the 2022 bear market.

This suggests growing capitulation pressure, but not yet the extreme panic levels associated with prior cycle bottoms.

Bitcoin has since rebounded from sub-$60,000 levels, yet the broader technical and on-chain backdrop remains fragile.

Capitulation Alone Does Not Mark the BottomHistorical data show that in 2022, realized loss peaks occurred months before Bitcoin formed its ultimate bottom. Capitulation tends to unfold gradually rather than resolve at a single price.

Today’s environment also differs structurally from 2022. The prior bear market was driven by internal industry failures and systemic collapses. Current pressure is largely tied to macroeconomic caution and tight monetary policy.

That distinction raises a key question: can realized price levels serve as reliable anchors when the dominant market driver sits outside the blockchain?

For now, the four realized price levels offer a measurable framework for assessing downside risk, but they do not guarantee where or when the cycle will turn.

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Bitcoin is struggling to push decisively above the $69,000 level as persistent selling pressure and rising market anxiety continue to weigh on sentiment. After several failed breakout attempts, price action reflects a cautious environment in which traders remain hesitant to commit fresh capital. Volatility has increased alongside deteriorating confidence, reinforcing the perception that the market is still navigating a corrective phase rather than entering a sustained recovery.

A recent report from analyst Darkfost provides additional context through on-chain data, particularly the Coin Days Destroyed (CDD) heatmap. This indicator measures the number of holding days accumulated by each Bitcoin before it is spent, offering insight into the behavior of long-term holders. When visualized as a heatmap, CDD highlights periods when older coins move, allowing analysts to quickly assess shifts in conviction among historically resilient investors.

Compared with previous cycles, the current market phase appears notable for the elevated activity of long-term holders. The data suggests that this cohort has been more active than in past cycles, potentially contributing to supply dynamics that influence price stability. Whether this reflects strategic redistribution, profit-taking, or broader market repositioning remains a key question for investors monitoring Bitcoin’s next directional move.

According to Darkfost, elevated long-term holder activity has historically intensified near market tops, suggesting that distribution from this cohort has often contributed to the formation of local peaks. When older coins begin moving after extended dormancy, it frequently reflects profit-taking or portfolio rebalancing, both of which can increase available supply and weigh on short-term price stability. In prior cycles, similar spikes in Coin Days Destroyed coincided with phases of overheated sentiment and subsequent corrective moves.

Bitcoin CDD 30DMA Heatmap | Source: CryptoQuant However, interpreting this cycle requires additional nuance. Not all increases in long-term holder activity necessarily signal outright selling pressure. Some of the recent CDD spikes appear linked to operational factors rather than directional positioning. Large entities, including Coinbase and Fidelity Investments, have conducted UTXO consolidation transactions, which can artificially inflate activity metrics without representing net supply entering the market.

Technical changes within the Bitcoin ecosystem have also played a role. The growth of Ordinals and inscription-related activity has encouraged some long-standing holders to migrate funds from legacy addresses toward SegWit or Taproot formats, generating on-chain activity that may distort traditional behavioral signals.

At the same time, deeper institutional liquidity has made it easier for long-term holders to distribute positions gradually, potentially smoothing market impact compared with previous cycles.

Bitcoin Faces Key Technical Test Below Major Moving Averages Bitcoin’s weekly price structure continues to reflect sustained selling pressure, with the asset struggling to stabilize after losing the $70,000 psychological threshold. The chart shows a decisive breakdown from the late-2025 highs near the $120,000 region, followed by a sequence of lower highs and lower lows that typically characterize a corrective market phase rather than simple consolidation.

BTC consolidates below critical level | Source: BTCUSDT chart on TradingView Price is now trading below the shorter-term moving average, which has rolled over and is beginning to act as dynamic resistance. The intermediate trend average is also flattening, suggesting weakening bullish momentum, while the longer-term average remains upward sloping but distant from current price levels. This configuration often appears during transitional phases where the market shifts from expansion toward redistribution.

Volume patterns reinforce the defensive tone. Recent selloffs have been accompanied by elevated trading activity, indicating active distribution rather than passive drift lower. However, participation has moderated slightly following the most recent drop, which may hint at temporary seller exhaustion.

From a technical standpoint, the $65,000–$68,000 region represents immediate support. Failure to hold this zone could expose deeper retracement levels closer to long-term trend support, while a sustained reclaim of $70,000 would be required to stabilize sentiment and reopen the path toward recovery.

Featured image from ChatGPT, chart from TradingView.com 

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Sebastian's journey into the world of crypto began four years ago, driven by a fascination with the potential of blockchain technology to revolutionize financial systems. His initial exploration focused on understanding the intricacies of various crypto projects, particularly those focused on building innovative financial solutions. Through countless hours of research and learning, Sebastian developed a deep understanding of the underlying technologies, market dynamics, and potential applications of cryptocurrencies. As his knowledge grew, Sebastian felt compelled to share his insights with others. He began actively contributing to online discussions on platforms like X and LinkedIn, focusing on fintech and crypto-related content. His goal was to expose valuable trends and insights to a wider audience, fostering a deeper understanding of the rapidly evolving crypto landscape. Sebastian's contributions quickly gained recognition, and he became a trusted voice in the online crypto community. To further enhance his expertise, Sebastian pursued a UC Berkeley Fintech: Frameworks, Applications, and Strategies certification. This rigorous program equipped him with valuable skills and knowledge regarding Financial Technology, bridging the gap between traditional finance (TradFi) and decentralized finance (DeFi). The certification deepened his understanding of the broader financial landscape and its intersection with blockchain technology. Sebastian's passion for finance and writing is evident in his work. He enjoys delving into financial research, analyzing market trends, and exploring the latest developments in the crypto space. In his spare time, Sebastian can often be found immersed in charts, studying 10-K forms, or engaging in thought-provoking discussions about the future of finance. Sebastian's journey as a crypto analyst and investor has been marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a dedication to sharing his insights. His ability to navigate the complex world of crypto, combined with his passion for financial research and communication, makes him a valuable asset to the industry. As the crypto landscape continues to evolve, Sebastian remains at the forefront, providing valuable insights and contributing to the growth of this revolutionary technology.

FXRP supply tops 100M, ~70% deployed in XRPFi DeFi via staking, lending, vaults.

Summary

Nearly 100M XRP bridged as FXRP, with ~70% actively deployed in DeFi. Firelight holds about 21% of FXRP staked, while Upshift vaults scaled from ~$6M to ~$25M capacity. Lending via Kinetic and Morpho saw roughly $39M and $8M in early borrowing, deepening onchain liquidity. Flare’s bid to become the execution layer for “XRPFi” just cleared a hard milestone: nearly 100 million XRP has now been bridged to the network as FXRP, with close to 70% of that capital actively deployed in DeFi rather than sitting idle.

Flare frames FXRP as ‘growing capital deployment’ Flare frames the 100 million FXRP mark as “growing capital deployment into XRPFi infrastructure rather than speculative bridging activity,” pointing to three concrete demand drivers. First is Firelight, an XRP staking and DeFi cover protocol where “21% of FXRP is currently staked,” with a fresh capital raise slated for this month. Second is structured vaults such as Upshift, where initial vault capacity “filled quickly, expanding from $6M to $25M in response to demand.” Third is lending across protocols like Kinetic and Morpho, which “saw roughly $39M and $8M in borrowing activity respectively within weeks of launch.”

Flare executives insist the pitch is full‑stack rather than a simple wrapped‑asset bridge. The network is “building an integrated XRPFi execution layer,” where FXRP “transforms XRP into programmable collateral that can move across lending markets, DEX liquidity, structured vaults, and cross‑chain environments.” Crucially, they emphasize that FXRP “is not confined to a single execution domain” and can extend into environments such as HyperEVM and Ethereum while maintaining “onchain collateralization and issuance transparency.” Wallet, custody, and DeFi integrations are being designed to “reduce operational friction for both crypto‑native and institutional participants,” a posture Flare says has already made it “the largest EVM ecosystem for XRP DeFi activity today.”

Recent integrations appear to be changing network behavior, not just narrative. Lending on Morpho and vault allocations via Upshift have “materially deepened onchain liquidity,” with structured strategies drawing “interest from exchanges and wallet providers” and pushing adoption “beyond individual users and into platform‑level capital allocation.” Firelight’s staking and risk‑coverage layers further “increase capital efficiency by allowing XRP to secure infrastructure while remaining economically productive.”

Looking ahead, Flare points to “continued lending expansion, deeper stablecoin liquidity, and additional vault integrations” as levers to “bridge onchain liquidity with regulated financial instruments” and push XRPFi into institutional territory.

Broader macro headwinds This push comes as digital assets continue to trade as one of the purest expressions of macro risk appetite. Bitcoin (BTC) changes hands near $67,830, with a 24‑hour range between roughly $65,700 and $67,900 on more than $32.8B in volume. Ethereum (ETH) trades around $1,960, having swung between about $1,915 and $1,981 over the last day. XRP (XRP) sits close to $1.42, with a 24‑hour low near $1.35 and a recent high around $1.64 as liquidity thins. Solana (SOL) is quoted around $81.67, down about 4.5% on the day on more than $3.3B in turnover.

Additional crypto.news reporting on Flare’s FXRP rollout and XRP yield products can be found via Genfinity’s breakdown of the 100 million FXRP milestone, Phemex’s coverage of Flare’s mint, and CoinMarketCap’s look at the earnXRP vault strategy.

Ahmed Balaha

Author

Ahmed Balaha

Part of the Team Since

Aug 2025

About Author

Ahmed Balaha is a journalist and copywriter based in Georgia with a growing focus on blockchain technology, DeFi, AI, privacy, digital assets, and fintech innovation.

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Bitcoin price is on the edge again.

Price swings are getting crazy, and it’s sitting around $67,400 like it’s not sure which way to jump. Traders are nervous. Really nervous.

On Polymarket, bettors now put the odds of a U.S. strike on Iran this month at 61%. Crypto felt it fast. Liquidations rolled in. Risk-off mode kicked on. And suddenly, everyone’s playing defense.

Key Takeaways The Signal: Polymarket bettors price in a 61% chance of imminent US military action.

The Risk: Short-Term Holder SOPR has dipped below 1.0, indicating panic selling at a loss.

The Impact: Bitcoin risks breaking critical $65,000 support if conflict escalates this weekend.

Why Is This Happening Now?Tensions between Washington and Tehran feels almost certain now.

Reports say the Pentagon has strike options ready after nuclear talks stalled. That kind of headline pushes investors straight into gold and cash. Risk assets get dumped first.

On chain data backs it up. The Short Term Holder SOPR is below 1. That means recent buyers are selling at a loss just to get out.

Source: CryptoQuantAdd in uncertainty around possible Fed policy tweaks and you get a messy mix. Geopolitics plus macro pressure. While the US Iran story dominates, Bitcoin is trading like a classic risk asset, with sharp intraday drops and fragile sentiment.

What Does This Mean for Bitcoin Price?Bitcoin is leaning hard on the $66,000 to $65,729 support zone. Lose that on a daily close and $60,000 comes into focus fast.

The short term Sharpe ratio has flipped negative, showing ugly risk adjusted returns during the panic. Nearly $80M in longs have already been wiped out since the drop from $70,000.

Source: BTCUSD / TradingViewWhile retail is dumping, some political insiders are floating massive long term targets. That hints whales may see this dip as opportunity. Arthur Hayes also pointed to Treasury liquidity dynamics that could support crypto once the dust settles.

Volatility into the weekend looks guaranteed. But talks in Oman on Friday could change the tone. If tensions cool, a sharp relief rally could trap late shorts.

Discover: Here are the crypto likely to explode!

US crypto regulation appears closer to a breakthrough as momentum builds around the long-debated Clarity Act. Fresh signals from Washington, combined with rising betting odds and executive-level engagement, suggest the bill may finally move forward after years of uncertainty.

When Could It PassRipple CEO Brad Garlinghouse said he believes there is a 90% chance the Clarity Act will pass by the end of April. That timeline reflects renewed urgency in Washington and more structured negotiations between industry and policymakers.

Adding to the momentum, the White House has reportedly set a March 1 deadline to resolve disputes around stablecoin reward provisions. That deadline has become a focal point for lawmakers and stakeholders who want to clear the final obstacles and advance the bill.

However, the prediction markets have reacted quickly. According to a X user, the odds of passage in 2026 reportedly jumped from 56% to 84% in a single day following news of the administration’s push, signaling growing confidence that legislative action is imminent.

How Negotiations Are UnfoldingClosed-door meetings in Washington have shifted from broad debates to detailed discussions over specific legislative language. According to Stuart Alderoty, talks are now more technical and targeted, indicating that negotiators are working through final sticking points rather than reopening foundational questions.

The White House has taken a more direct leadership role in guiding discussions. Representatives from crypto companies, industry advocacy groups, and major banking associations have participated. Traditional financial groups have been vocal about potential risks, particularly around stablecoin reward mechanisms.

The core dispute centers on whether crypto platforms should be allowed to offer yield or rewards on stablecoin balances. Banks argue that high-yield products could draw deposits away from traditional savings accounts, raising financial stability concerns. In response, crypto firms have reportedly scaled back proposals to offer yield on simple idle balances. Negotiations are now focused on allowing rewards tied to specific platform activities rather than passive holdings.

What the Bill Would ChangeThe Clarity Act is designed to define which digital assets fall under securities law and which are overseen by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. That distinction has long been a source of legal uncertainty for companies operating in the US.

Supporters argue that clear jurisdictional boundaries would reduce compliance risk, encourage innovation, and provide a more predictable environment for both crypto firms and traditional financial institutions.

Momentum around the Clarity Act has shifted meaningfully. A firm deadline, narrowed disputes, and rising passage odds suggest that US crypto regulation may be approaching a defining moment. If approved, the bill could mark the most significant regulatory milestone for the digital asset sector to date.

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

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South Korean lawmakers are stepping up pressure on financial regulators after crypto exchange Bithumb mistakenly credited customers with Bitcoin it did not hold, an error that briefly sparked a rush to sell and renewed questions about oversight of the country’s fast-growing digital-asset market.

Lawmakers said the Financial Services Commission (FSC) failed to detect critical flaws in Bithumb’s internal systems despite at least three inspections since 2022, The Korea Times reported Thursday.

Representative Kang Min-guk of the main opposition People Power Party said the incident is more than a technical mishap, claiming structural weaknesses in the crypto market, including gaps in regulation and oversight.

Bithumb mistakenly credited 2,000 Bitcoin (BTC) per user instead of 2,000 Korean won ($1.4) during a promotional event on Feb. 6, distributing a total of 620,000 BTC that the exchange did not actually hold.

FSC delays probe into Bithumb, intensifying accusationsLawmakers’ criticism of the FSC intensified as the regulator delayed its inspection of Bithumb. The authority opened the investigation on Feb. 10, with FSC officials emphasizing they would take “stern legal actions against acts that harm the market order.”

The probe, initially expected to conclude last Friday, has now been extended, with officials aiming to complete it by the end of February, citing the need for additional review, multiple local publications reported.

Bithumb CEO cites two prior payout incidentsThe FSC’s inspection of Bithumb reportedly covers not only the recent 620,000 BTC error, but also two similar incidents in the past.

“There were two previous cases in which coins were mistakenly paid out and later recovered, but the amounts were minimal,” Bithumb CEO Lee Jae-won said during an emergency National Assembly session on Feb. 11.

From left: FSC vice chairman Kwon Dae-young, FSC governor Lee Chan-jin and Bithumb CEO Lee Jae-won during a National Assembly session on Feb. 11. Source: The Korea TimesIn the latest incident, Bithumb said it managed to recover the majority of miscredited assets, with only 125 BTC ($8.6 million) out of the non-existent 620,000 BTC unrecovered.

Concerns over South Korea’s handling of crypto: The case of the disappearing BitcoinThe Bithumb incident also lands as authorities face renewed embarrassment over custody and security of seized digital assets.

In 2021, 22 BTC, worth around $1.5 million at current prices, disappeared from a cold wallet at Seoul’s Gangnam Police Station during a nationwide audit.

A separate August 2025 case saw 320 BTC vanish from the Gwangju District Prosecutors’ Office, reportedly due to a leaked password. Authorities only reported yesterday that the full amount had been recovered after the hacker returned the funds, raising eyebrows as the disclosure comes amid the ongoing FSS investigation into Bithumb.

Lawmakers and industry observers say these incidents underscore persistent weaknesses in authorities’ oversight and custody of digital assets.

Magazine: How crypto laws changed in 2025 — and how they’ll change in 2026

Cointelegraph is committed to independent, transparent journalism. This news article is produced in accordance with Cointelegraph’s Editorial Policy and aims to provide accurate and timely information. Readers are encouraged to verify information independently. Read our Editorial Policy https://cointelegraph.com/editorial-policy

Metaplanet CEO Simon Gerovich has pushed back against accusations from what he called “anonymous accounts” that the company misled investors about its Bitcoin strategy and disclosures.

Critics on X argued that Metaplanet delayed or withheld price‑sensitive information about large Bitcoin (BTC) purchases and options trades funded with shareholder capital, obscured losses from its derivatives strategy, and failed to fully disclose key terms of its BTC‑backed borrowings.

In a detailed X post on Friday, Gerovich argued that Metaplanet promptly reported all Bitcoin purchases, option strategies, and borrowings, and that critics were misreading its financial statements rather than uncovering misconduct.

September buys and disclosuresGerovich said that Metaplanet had made four Bitcoin purchases in September 2025 and “promptly announced” each one, rejecting claims the company secretly bought at the local peak without disclosure. 

Metaplanet’s real-time public dashboard corroborates the purchases, showing the firm purchased 1,009 BTC on Sept. 1, 136 BTC on Sept. 8, 5,419 BTC on Sept. 22, and 5,268 BTC on Sept. 30, 2025. 

The purchases are also reflected on public tracker Bitcointreasuries.net, along with the public announcements and/or financial statements.

Metaplanet announcement of BTC purchase. Source: MetaplanetGerovich also stressed that selling put options and put spreads was designed to acquire BTC below spot and monetize volatility for shareholders rather than to gamble on short‑term price moves.

Measuring performance by different metricsThe Metaplanet CEO also contested the use of net profit as a yardstick for a Bitcoin treasury company, pointing instead to soaring revenue and operating profit from Bitcoin‑related activities, especially options income. 

Metaplanet reported fiscal 2025 revenue of 8.9 billion Japanese yen (around $58 million) on Monday, up roughly 738% year‑on‑year, even while booking a net loss of about $680 million due to the sharp decrease in price of its Bitcoin holdings. 

Gerovich said that treating those non‑cash losses as evidence of strategic failure misunderstood the accounting treatment of assets.

He noted that Metaplanet had established a credit facility in October 2025 and disclosed subsequent drawdowns in November and December, including information on borrowing amounts, collateral, structure and broad interest terms, all viewable on Metaplanet’s disclosures page.

The lender’s identity and exact rates were withheld, Gerovich said, at the counterparty’s request. 

Finally, he argued that the borrowing conditions were favorable for Metaplanet and that the company’s balance sheet remained solid despite Bitcoin’s drawdown.

Wider backlash against BTC treasury playsGerovich’s defense comes as other listed Bitcoin treasury plays face scrutiny of their own over the sustainability and risk of their Bitcoin‑heavy treasury model.

Strategy, the largest corporate holder of BTC, reported a $12.4 billion net loss in the fourth quarter of 2025 as Bitcoin fell around 22% over the period, although it emphasized a “stronger and more resilient” capital structure and an “indefinite” Bitcoin time horizon. 

Cointelegraph reached out to Metaplanet for additional comment, but had not received a response by publication.

Big Questions: Is China hoarding gold so yuan becomes global reserve instead of USD?

Cointelegraph is committed to independent, transparent journalism. This news article is produced in accordance with Cointelegraph’s Editorial Policy and aims to provide accurate and timely information. Readers are encouraged to verify information independently. Read our Editorial Policy https://cointelegraph.com/editorial-policy

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BitMine made a big bet. Tom Lee’s investment firm said February 20 it’s massively boosting its Ethereum position even as crypto prices keep falling across the board.

The move comes at a pretty rough time for digital assets. Bitcoin dropped below $40,000 last week, and most altcoins got hammered even harder. But BitMine isn’t backing down – they’re actually buying more Ethereum while others run for the exits. The firm thinks Ethereum’s long-term story remains solid despite all the market chaos. Lee’s team allocated what they call “substantial resources” to grab more ETH, though they won’t say exactly how much cash they’re throwing at it.

Most investors are getting cautious. Not BitMine.

The contrarian play reflects BitMine’s confidence in blockchain tech and decentralized apps, according to company sources. While competitors trim their crypto exposure, BitMine is doubling down on what it sees as Ethereum’s inevitable recovery. The firm’s analysts believe current prices create a buying opportunity that won’t last long. They’re betting big that Ethereum 2.0 upgrades will drive serious adoption once they’re fully rolled out later this year.

Ethereum’s network keeps evolving, and BitMine wants in before the crowd catches on. The proof-of-stake transition should slash energy costs and boost transaction speeds – changes that BitMine’s research team thinks will attract institutional money. These technical improvements aren’t just nice-to-haves, they’re game-changers for Ethereum’s competitiveness against other blockchains.

Lee didn’t hold back his optimism. “Ethereum represents a key component of the future digital economy,” he said during a February 19 press briefing. His conviction hasn’t wavered despite ETH dropping to $1,400 multiple times this month. The CEO thinks current weakness creates the perfect entry point for long-term holders willing to stomach volatility.

The strategy carries obvious risks. Crypto markets are brutal, and prices can crater without warning. BitMine knows this but believes Ethereum’s technological roadmap will drive adoption regardless of short-term price swings. The firm’s analysts see the current downturn as temporary noise that obscures Ethereum’s fundamental value proposition.

BitMine’s approach stands out in today’s risk-off environment. Digital Asset Partners halted new crypto purchases February 15, citing market instability. Other hedge funds are cutting positions too. A Crypto Insights report from February 16 showed several major funds reducing their digital asset exposure by 20-30% over the past month.

But BitMine is going the other way. This follows earlier reporting on North Korean Hackers Target Crypto Bosses.

The firm won’t reveal specific purchase amounts or total investment size. Company spokespeople say they’re still finalizing some acquisitions and don’t want to tip off competitors about their exact strategy. This secrecy leaves questions about how deep BitMine is really going with this Ethereum bet.

Market watchers are paying attention. BitMine’s moves could influence other institutional investors who’ve been sitting on the sidelines. If Lee’s firm succeeds, it might encourage more institutional money to flow into Ethereum. If it fails, it could reinforce bearish sentiment that’s already weighing on crypto markets.

Ethereum’s price action has been wild lately. The token briefly recovered to $1,650 on February 18 before sliding back down. These swings highlight the challenges facing investors like BitMine who are trying to time their entries. But Lee’s team seems unfazed by the volatility – they’re focused on where ETH will trade in 12-18 months, not next week.

The investment thesis centers on Ethereum’s smart contract capabilities and its dominance in decentralized finance. BitMine’s analysts think DeFi will keep growing despite current market weakness. They see Ethereum as the foundational layer for most DeFi protocols, giving it a structural advantage that Bitcoin lacks.

BitMine has historically focused on assets with strong developer communities and clear upgrade paths. Ethereum fits both criteria perfectly. The network has thousands of active developers working on improvements, and the roadmap toward full proof-of-stake consensus is well-defined. These factors give BitMine confidence that Ethereum will deliver on its technical promises.

The timing feels risky to some observers. Crypto markets are facing headwinds from regulatory uncertainty, rising interest rates, and broader economic concerns. Many institutional investors are waiting for clearer signals before making big moves. BitMine is betting that waiting means missing the best entry prices. For more details, see Big Institutions Buy Bitcoin While Small.

Lee’s firm isn’t new to contrarian plays. The company made similar moves during the 2018 crypto winter, accumulating Bitcoin and Ethereum when sentiment was terrible. Those positions paid off handsomely during the 2020-2021 bull run. BitMine hopes history repeats itself with this latest accumulation phase.

The board still needs to approve final purchase amounts. Internal evaluations continue as BitMine weighs market conditions against its conviction in Ethereum’s future. Sources close to the firm expect formal approval within days, clearing the way for additional purchases if ETH prices stay depressed.

BitMine’s spokesperson confirmed the firm sees current prices as “an exceptional opportunity to build positions in foundational blockchain infrastructure.” The company expects Ethereum’s proof-of-stake transition to reduce selling pressure from miners while attracting ESG-focused institutional investors who’ve avoided proof-of-work cryptocurrencies.

The proof-of-stake transition addresses one of Ethereum’s biggest criticisms from environmental groups and ESG-conscious investors. Traditional mining consumes massive amounts of electricity, but staking requires 99% less energy according to Ethereum Foundation estimates. This shift could unlock billions in institutional capital that’s been sidelined due to sustainability concerns.

Several major pension funds and endowments have explicitly cited environmental issues as barriers to crypto investment. CalPERS and the Norwegian Government Pension Fund both referenced energy consumption in their crypto policy statements last year. BitMine’s analysts believe these institutional holdouts represent untapped demand that could drive significant price appreciation once Ethereum completes its energy-efficient upgrade.

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CZ Networks Freely at Mar-a-Lago Amid Binance’s USD1 Surge Prefer us on Google

CZ finally returned to US for the first time after presidential pardon.Mar-a-Lago summit highlights crypto-political convergence.Binance reportedly controls 87% of Trump-linked USD1 supply.Changpeng Zhao (CZ), the recently pardoned founder of Binance, returned to the US this week, for the first time since leaving federal prison in 2024. He attended the crypto summit hosted by the Trump family–backed World Liberty Financial (WLFI) at Mar-a-Lago.

The appearance marked a dramatic turnaround for CZ, who pleaded guilty in 2023 to anti-money laundering violations and served a four-month sentence before being granted a full presidential pardon in October 2025.

CZ Returns to US After Presidential PardonReports describe the gathering as both low-key and symbolically loaded. During the event, CZ:

Mingled with Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr., Attended panels, including one with newly appointed CFTC Chairman Michael Selig, and Shared space with prominent figures such as Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon, NYSE President Lynn Martin, Coinbase founder Brian Armstrong, Senator Bernie Moreno, Kevin O’Leary, and even Nicki Minaj. “Learned a lot,” CZ shared, emphasizing policy insights rather than political optics.

The optics of CZ’s return are striking. From federal prison and a $50 million personal fine to casually networking at the president’s club, the event signals that the legal chapter is closed.

Trump’s pardoning of CZ effectively removed long-term barriers to US travel and business activity. It allows him to rebuild influence within elite financial and regulatory circles.

Networks at Mar-a-Lago as Binance Controls 87% of Trump-Linked USD1 StablecoinThe timing also coincides with Binance’s growing role in WLFI’s USD1 stablecoin. The exchange reportedly controls roughly 85–87% of the $5.4 billion circulating supply, strengthening a Trump-backed venture that critics have questioned for potential conflicts of interest.

~87% of USD1’s circulating supply is sitting on Binance.

That’s the highest single-exchange concentration among major stablecoins, per Forbes. pic.twitter.com/yWjEtmRH1Z

— 0xMarioNawfal (@RoundtableSpace) February 10, 2026 While some lawmakers and commentators have raised concerns about a perceived quid pro quo between the pardon and Binance’s dominance in the stablecoin, CZ has repeatedly called such reports “not news.”

Binance (users) hold the largest % of most stablecoins (USDT, USDC, USD1, U … you name it) compared to all other CEXs. Not news. 🤷‍♂️

— CZ 🔶 BNB (@cz_binance) February 10, 2026 Nevertheless, Binance is reinforcing its dominance in the USD1 ecosystem with a fresh incentive push. From February 20 to March 20, the exchange will distribute 235 million WLFI tokens to USD1 holders, rewarding early adopters for providing liquidity.

THE MOMENTUM CONTINUES. ➡️ ☝️@Binance USD1 campaign is extended! 235M $WLFI to be distributed to USD1 holders from Feb 20 – Mar 20 (UTC).

Thanks to everyone who joined Month 1. For Month 2, we’re stepping it up to ensure our early adopters are continuously incentivized for…

— WLFI (@worldlibertyfi) February 19, 2026 Mar-a-Lago Summit Highlights Crypto-Political Convergence and USD1 AmbitionsThe Mar-a-Lago summit highlighted the convergence of crypto, finance, and political influence. World Liberty’s leadership outlined ambitious plans for USD1, framing it as a “new digital Bretton Woods system” to integrate real estate, banking, and decentralized finance.

“…the work is just beginning… We are building the future, and we are doing it together,” WLFI wrote.

Attendees were urged to explore its use, while WLFI also announced upcoming tokenized investment products tied to Trump resorts.

Despite Binance remaining barred from US operations due to the 2023 settlement, CZ’s presence at a high-profile US event highlights a shift.

Engagements with policy leaders like CFTC Chairman Rostin Behnam and lobbying veterans such as Brian Armstrong suggest that figures like CZ are regaining a foothold in discussions shaping the future of digital assets.

Whether CZ’s return to the US will translate into renewed operational influence for Binance or remain a high-level networking exercise is uncertain.

What is clear, however, is the symbolism: a once-convicted crypto executive now freely attends elite US circles, at an event that blends business ambition with political connections. Meanwhile, his firm exerts unprecedented influence over a politically linked stablecoin.

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U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs are seeing their sharpest pullback of the current market cycle, as falling prices and steady investor withdrawals weigh on fund balances. However, analysts say the broader institutional adoption trend remains intact despite the recent pressure.

US Bitcoin ETF Outflows Show Investor CautionAccording to Glassnode data, U.S. spot Bitcoin ETF balances have dropped by about 100,300 BTC since Bitcoin’s all-time high in early October. Total holdings now stand at roughly 1.26 million BTC.

The decline reflects continued net outflows over several months. Data from SoSoValue shows that $1.6 billion was withdrawn from these ETFs in January alone, extending a streak of monthly redemptions that began in November 2025. This marks the biggest balance contraction of the current cycle for U.S.-listed spot Bitcoin products.

Bitcoin Price Drop Pushes Investors to Reduce ExposureThe ETF decline has come alongside a broader market slowdown. After reaching a record high of $126,000 in October, Bitcoin has moved lower into 2026 and is now trading near $67,000. The drop has made investors more cautious across the crypto market.

While spot ETFs were widely credited with helping drive Bitcoin’s rally by bringing in institutional money, some analysts say they may also be adding pressure during downturns. Arthur Hayes recently said that institutional hedging and risk controls could be increasing selling pressure during periods of heavy redemptions.

Glassnode added that institutional selling has contributed to the ongoing weakness and reflects a wider risk-off mood in the market.

Many Bitcoin ETF Investors Now Sitting at a LossThe pullback has left many ETF investors in the red. Glassnode estimates the average entry price for U.S. spot Bitcoin ETF investors is around $83,980 per BTC. With prices now well below that level, the average holder is facing unrealized losses of about 20%.

Outflows have also extended beyond Bitcoin. Digital asset investment funds have recorded four straight weeks of withdrawals, totaling about $3.7 billion during that period.

Overall Bitcoin ETF Inflows Remain StrongDespite the recent outflows, total net inflows into U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs remain strong. Bloomberg senior ETF analyst Eric Balchunas noted that cumulative net inflows are still near $53 billion, down from a peak above $63 billion in October but still higher than early industry expectations.

Overall, the data suggests the current pullback is part of a normal cycle rather than a major shift. While short-term volatility may continue, Bitcoin’s role in traditional finance appears firmly in place.

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Journalist

Posted: February 20, 2026

On 19 February, Ethereum’s price was trading close to $1,932 after falling towards the $1,700s earlier in the month. The decline had been brutal. However, the reaction that followed felt structurally different.

Aggregated altcoin trading volume against stablecoin pairs expanded aggressively while the prices lagged. Strong buy walls formed repeatedly under the price. Retail capitulated into fear-driven selling too.

Therefore, the real question emerged – Was this quiet accumulation beneath visible panic?

Ethereum bottom driving altcoin volume higher Ethereum’s [ETH] price drop towards $1,700 forced widespread liquidations across altcoins. Weak structures collapsed quickly. Sentiment turned hostile and unforgiving as well. 

Source: TradingView

However, the volume surged during this weakness, instead of fading. That divergence mattered. High participation at depressed prices is often a sign of absorption.

In particular, stablecoin-quoted altcoin volume dwarfed early-cycle 2019–2020 levels. That scale was undeniable. Due to these developments, the structure shifted from pure decline to one of compression.

Source: CryptoQuant

Buy walls repeatedly absorbed aggressive selling when failure to do so would have triggered further collapse. Instead, the altcoin’s price stabilized on the charts. 

Others/Bitcoin breaks multi-year downtrend OTHERS/BTC broke above a long-standing bullish wedge on the weekly chart. That break followed years of lower highs. The shift was not cosmetic.

Source: TradingView

Meanwhile, the MACD told a harsher story. Since 2021, it has flipped red after every breakout attempt. Momentum failed repeatedly, and every spark was crushed.

Notably though, the MACD has now stayed green for two consecutive months for the first time in nearly six years. Previously, only the 2021 altcoin season sustained green momentum. Other breakout attempts were sold aggressively.

After years buried in negative territory and extremely oversold conditions, the indicator has finally begun to wake up. The RSI echoed that shift, climbing steadily from oversold levels and printing higher lows.

However, not everyone might be convinced. A full altcoin season requires broader confirmation. Many believe that without Bitcoin holding above the Weekly EMA 200, any rally would remain fragile.

Hence, confidence still depends on Bitcoin holding above the Weekly EMA 200.

Is an altcoin rally imminent? The ALT/BTC echoed similar strength with a persistent green MACD histogram. That consistency had been absent for years. Therefore, momentum might just be shifting gradually.

However, the prices still remain below prior cycle highs. The structure may be constructive, but incomplete too. February’s close will carry heavy weight for the altcoin. 

If February closes green, the implications would extend beyond optics. It would confirm sustained rotation after years of rejection. Looking ahead, that could open the door for an altcoin rally in the coming months as 2026 progresses. 

Final Summary Volume expansion and MACD strength hinted at structural accumulation across Ethereum’s charts.  A confirmed green February close could ignite broader altcoin momentum.

Trusted Editorial content, reviewed by leading industry experts and seasoned editors. Ad Disclosure

Markets are tilting back toward the oldest cryptocurrency. Prices have found a busy band between $65,000 and $72,000. Trading in that range has become a focal point for big players and long holders. Some traders are piling in. Others are stepping aside.

Trading Volume Rotation According to exchange figures, Bitcoin’s share of trades has climbed while many altcoins have lost ground. Reports say Bitcoin made up close to 37% of total trading on a recent snapshot, with a chunk of the market now shifting away from smaller tokens.

Ethereum still holds a large piece at roughly 28%, but the combined altcoin share has fallen sharply from late last year, down from roughly 59% to levels near 35%. That drop looks large on the charts. It shows money moving back to the most familiar asset.

Altcoin Volumes Shrink by 50% as Capital Rotates Back to Bitcoin

“This pattern has appeared repeatedly during previous corrective phases, including April 2025, August 2024, and October 2022 near the end of the bear market.” – By @Darkfost_Coc

Link ⤵️https://t.co/B0ZFeiMukl pic.twitter.com/jVRTOkaTic

— CryptoQuant.com (@cryptoquant_com) February 18, 2026

The Price Band That Draws Attention Large orders and institutional flow have gravitated to the mentioned price band. Whales and long-term holders are active there; accumulation and sales are both visible. Some of the activity appears to be profit-taking after strong runs.

Some moves are defensive, as traders favor the perceived safety of the oldest coin when the broader market feels uncertain. Liquidity concentrates where market participants expect it. When that happens, price swings can be sharper on one side than the other.

What Market Caps And Dominance Reveal Reports note Bitcoin’s market cap has slipped from near $1.55 trillion to about $1.34 trillion over recent weeks, while many altcoins saw much smaller declines in total market value.

The shift in volume does not always match market cap changes, but it is meaningful: more trading in Bitcoin means more attention and faster price discovery for that asset.

Dominance readings have edged down slightly over a short window, yet Bitcoin remains the most traded token on major platforms. Historical patterns show capital rotating into Bitcoin during corrections, and this cycle fits that mold.

BTCUSD currently trading at $65,952. Chart: TradingView Why Traders Are Watching Some traders expect stability to return if Bitcoin holds its current range. Others warn that heavy concentration of orders can produce sudden pressure when sentiment flips.

The movement out of altcoins may create missed opportunities for selective buyers, but it also compresses risk for those who prefer a single market leader. Market watchers will be watching volume flows and order books closely over the next sessions.

Bitcoin Reclaims The Spotlight Based on reports, Bitcoin has reasserted itself as the main focus of crypto trading for now. Short-term behavior will depend on whether buyers in the $65,000–$72,000 zone keep adding or whether selling pressure builds and forces a wider move.

Either way, the rotation away from many altcoins is clear, and traders are recalibrating where they place their bets.

Featured image from Pexels, chart from TradingView

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Christian, a journalist and editor with leadership roles in Philippine and Canadian media, is fueled by his love for writing and cryptocurrency. Off-screen, he's a cook and cinephile who's constantly intrigued by the size of the universe.

This Friday, we examine Ethereum, Ripple, Cardano, Binance Coin, and Hyperliquid in greater detail.

Ethereum (ETH) Ethereum had a mostly flat week, closing up only 1%. This means buyers managed to defend the key support at $1,800. The sell momentum is also fading, which could hint at a possible reversal soon.

The current resistance levels are found at $2,000 and $2,400. Given the price closed in the red over the last four weeks, a relief rally appears likely and could test these key levels.

Looking ahead, Ethereum may be completing its second leg down in an ABC correction. If so, bulls may soon make their presence known on the order book. That starts once the $2,000 level is reclaimed.

Soource: TradingView Ripple (XRP) XRP closes the week up 5%. However, this was not sufficient to turn the chart bullish. That’s because the attempt to break the resistance at $1.6 was rejected sharply by sellers.

Such a rejection is a bearish signal that the downtrend may still continue for some time. If so, a retest of support at $1.4 and even $1 is likely in the future.

Looking ahead, the sell momentum continues to dominate, which can lead to lower price levels. Watch closely how the price reacts at $1.4 for a good indication of where XRP will go next.

Source: TradingView Cardano (ADA) ADA is hanging close to the support at $0.28, but appears to struggle and may lose this level again. If so, expect lower prices in the future, with key support at $0.24. This comes after a 6% gain to close the week.

Cardano’s price action mirrors somewhat the one from XRP. The momentum remains bearish, but sellers and buyers are still fighting for dominance at the key support. Either way, a decisive move can be expected soon.

Looking ahead, ADA had a very disappointing year so far and this will not change until it reclaims a price above 50 cents. That’s the moment when bulls could hope for sustained gains.

Source: TradingView Binance Coin (BNB) Binance Coin has been hugging the $580 support level over the past week and closed with a 3% gain. Sellers also appear to be taking a break, but that does not mean the selloff is over.

The current resistance is at $690 and has not tested to date. This shows buyers are still hesitant to return here, but the signs are promising since the selling volume has decreased substantially lately.

Looking ahead, if BNB can hold here, then buyers may gather enough courage to push higher and challenge the resistance at $690. If, however, sellers return in force, the price could fall to $500 next.

Source: TradingView Hype (HYPE) HYPE closed the week in the red with a 5% loss. This comes after a sharp rejection at the $36 and $30 resistance levels. Buyers are on the defensive, which could see the price fall lower up to the key support at $26.

If $26 is lost later as well, that will be an extremely bearish signal, which could see HYPE make new lows this year. On the other hand, if that level holds, then it could be interpreted as a higher lo,w which will encourage buyers to return once more.

Looking ahead, this cryptocurrency is found in a pullback that may last a while. Best to be patient here and wait for bulls and bears to show their intention around $26 first.

Source: TradingView Tags:

Metaplanet chief executive Simon Gerovich has responded to online criticism of the Tokyo-listed company’s Bitcoin treasury approach. The company is listed in Japan under code 3350. The response came as Bitcoin traded near $67,000, after a large pullback from a prior peak.

Gerovich addressed three main areas. These were disclosure, an options-based accumulation plan, and the state of the company’s hotel operations. He said the strategy is built for long-term holding and steady accumulation, not short-term trading.

The criticism intensified during a period of weaker crypto prices. Bitcoin was down close to half from an earlier all-time high. At the same time, Metaplanet shares were described as down about 85% from their 2025 high.

Against that backdrop, commentators questioned timing and reporting. Some posts claimed the company bought at unfavorable levels. Others suggested the firm was not clear enough about its purchases. 

The critic on X posted, 

“Metaplanet is a company that only thinks about how to squeeze money out of shareholders. They refuse to disclose the information that shareholders need. First, the most dishonest thing is that they don’t announce BTC purchases right away.”

Gerovich responded that he accepts responsibility for public statements made under his name.

He also criticized the tone of anonymous attacks. Gerovich added that anonymity can make it easier to provoke outrage without accountability. He framed his response as a direct rebuttal to claims about how the company acts and reports.

Options Model Presented as a Systematic Buying ToolMetaplanet uses options alongside spot purchases. The company sells put options and put spreads. The stated purpose is to earn premium income. It is also intended to support future Bitcoin purchases.

Under this structure, the company collects option premiums when contracts are sold. If Bitcoin falls below a chosen level at expiry, assignment can occur. That can result in buying Bitcoin at the strike price. The approach is meant to seek an entry price below the prevailing market level at the time the options are opened.

Gerovich said selling puts should not be described as a simple bet on a rising price. The aim is to reduce the effective cost over time. He also said the plan will monetize volatility. In his view, that makes the strategy more systematic than a directional trade.

Transparency Claims on Timing and Wallet DisclosureAdditionally, Gerovich noted that Metaplanet discloses purchases in a timely way. He said announcements were made for each Bitcoin purchase. He also pointed to real-time wallet disclosure. That practice allows third parties to verify holdings on-chain.

Metaplanet CEO referred to repeated purchase announcements, including those made in September. At the time of reporting, Bitcoin is up 0.94% over 24 hours, trading at $67,781, with a market cap of $1.35T, while trading volume over 24 hours is $32.88 billion, down 1.27%.

Source: CoinCodex

Metaplanet has been consistent in publishing information and maintaining a high level of transparency among listed companies.

He also addressed concerns about market timing. He said September coincided with a local peak and he did not dispute that point. Even so, he said the company’s purpose is steady accumulation and not built around short-term calls.

Profit Measures and Hotel Operations Gerovich also challenged how critics judge results. According to the CEO, net profit is not the best metric for a Bitcoin treasury company. Reported earnings can be shaped by Bitcoin price swings, while unrealized losses can appear during drawdowns, even when the strategy is unchanged.

However, criticism focused on unrealized losses reflecting a misunderstanding of the time horizon. The company is not trying to trade in and out, but the approach is closer to accumulation over cycles.

He also rejected claims about the hotel business. Gerovich noted the division is not in ruins and remains profitable. The hotel operation is part of a broader corporate structure that sits alongside the Bitcoin strategy.

Metaplanet CEO Gerovich said the company will continue to communicate its actions and will keep explaining the options model and the reason for its accounting focus.

Despite notable advancements, PI has collapsed by almost 95% from its ATH.

The controversial cryptocurrency project Pi Network has been around since 2019, but users had to wait until February 2025 before they could finally trade the native token PI.

Over the past 12 months, the Core Team has rolled out multiple upgrades as the ecosystem has continued to develop. Yet, PI’s price has suffered a steep decline, the project is still grappling with several challenges, and some Pioneers have voiced growing criticism. The key question now is whether the upcoming advancements can trigger a decisive comeback for PI or whether the bears will remain in charge.

Happy First Birthday, PI Exactly one year ago, Pi Network launched its Open Network. The initiative made PI publicly accessible and enabled exchanges to list it as the first to hop on the bandwagon were Bitget, OKX, and MEXC.

On the debut day, the asset’s valuation varied across platforms, ranging from $1.68 to $1.72. Interest from traders and investors was high over the following days, and PI reached a historical peak of approximately $3 by the end of February last year. Meanwhile, its market capitalization exploded above $18 billion, placing the coin among the 15 largest cryptocurrencies.

However, the peak was short-lived, and PI headed straight south in the following months. Some reasons potentially suppressing the price include ongoing token unlocks, fading interest from market participants, accusations that the project could be a scam, and Binance’s inaction.

The world’s largest crypto exchange was rumored to follow Bitget, OKX, and MEX in listing PI: a move that could lift the token’s value by increasing its liquidity, visibility, and overall legitimacy. It even held a community vote to ask its clients whether they wanted the asset available on the platform. While more than 86% of the participants selected the “yes” option, Binance has yet to honor their wish.

PI has seen sporadic price revivals over the last several months, driven by upgrades announced by Pi Network’s team, but currently trades at around $0.17, representing a staggering 94% decline from the all-time high.

You may also like: Bitcoin (BTC) Plunges Before the FOMC Meeting, Pi Network (PI) Soars by 15%: Market Watch Some of the updates targeted the verification process, which has long been a source of frustration for many users. In September 2025, for instance, the team unveiled Fast Track KYC – a feature that allows Pioneers to participate in the Mainnet ecosystem “earlier than ever before.”

In October, it was revealed that more than 3.36 million additional users had successfully completed the required verification procedures following the release of a system process that conducts vital checks on Tentative KYC cases. Just a few weeks ago, the team unveiled a technical upgrade that should allow multiple Pioneers to pass the Miannet migration. Specifically, they claimed the roughly 2.5 million users who were previously unable to migrate will be unblocked.

Other standout developments over the past 12 months include the launch of Pi Network Ventures (a Pi-related fund targeting $100 millin in investments in innovative startups), the project’s entry into the AI space through Pi App Studio, the introduction of the first Hackathon, and a partnership with CiDi Games to accelerate Web3 gaming engagement.

Most recently, the Core Team disclosed that migration to Protocol v19.6 was successfully completed. “Next up is v19.9 – the final step before v20. Node operators should make sure they’re upgraded and stay tuned for further instructions,” the X post read.

What Lies Ahead? Many members of Pi Network’s community believe that 2026 could be successful, claiming that something “big” is on the horizon. Some have pointed out March 12 as a key date, as a major upgrade related to the Pi DEX activation is expected to go live then. If confirmed, the launch could play an important role in strengthening user trust and increasing real-world use of PI.

Meanwhile, rumors have circulated that leading exchanges, such as Kraken, may soon offer trading services for the token.

Pioneers are also closely watching March 14 – a date, known across the community as Pi Day due to its symbolic resemblance to the mathematical constant π (3.14). Pi Network expanded its ecosystem on that day in 2025, and it remains to be seen whether a similar move will occur this year.

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After one long downtrend, Shiba Inu is beginning to stabilize, and recent price action indicates that the asset may be entering the initial phase of a more sustainable uptrend structure. Compared to earlier brief rebounds that swiftly collapsed in the face of opposition, the current configuration is noticeably different. 

Shiba Inu's progressive recoverySHIB has started making higher lows on the chart along a local trendline that is rising, suggesting that buyers are progressively entering the market at higher and higher price points. This change matters because long bearish periods typically end with quiet structural improvements rather than spectacular rallies, which is exactly what seems to be happening right now.

SHIB/USDT Chart by TradingViewVolatility has compressed into more controlled upward movement, and the sharp downward momentum that dominated earlier months has slowed. One could characterize the formation as an early sustainable uptrend structure. The price is consolidating above recent local support rather than printing aggressive lower lows. Compared to the erratic spikes observed earlier in the year, this establishes a more stable foundation for future growth, though it does not ensure an instant breakout.

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Additionally, volume indicates a decline in sellers dominance, with downward moves drawing less pressure than previously. The closeness of moving averages serving as resistance is one of the important elements in this situation. SHIB remains below key longer-term trend indicators, indicating that the market has not yet fully turned bullish.

Not as good yetPrice momentum could develop into a more extensive recovery phase, though, if it keeps up with the rising support and progressively tests these resistance areas. To put it another way, the groundwork is being built before the trend is formally recognized.

According to market psychology, this phase occurs frequently when, despite improvements in structure, sentiment remains negative. Since short-term traders tend to underestimate slow accumulation phases, this mismatch may contribute to a subsequent recovery.

It is important to stay realistic, though. Early uptrend structures may not hold up if buyers are unable to overcome local resistance or if the overall state of the market deteriorates. The recovery story would probably be delayed if there were a breakdown below the rising support line.

Journalist

Posted: February 20, 2026

While most of the crypto market is reacting nervously to every small price drop, Tom Lee and his team at BitMine Immersion Technologies are thinking long-term.

On 18 February, Lookonchain data revealed that BitMine bought 20,000 ETH worth about $39.8 million through BitGo. This happened at a time when many retail investors were trying to exit the market as Ethereum’s [ETH] price fell below $2000. 

Source: Lookonchain/X

Tom Lee’s BitMine adds more ETH However, instead of seeing this price drop as a danger sign, Tom Lee is treating it as an opportunity. By buying during weakness, BitMine is showing strong confidence in Ethereum’s future.

This move also positions BitMine as one of the leaders in the “buy-the-dip” strategy during tough market conditions. 

In fact, if looked at carefully, one can see that BitMine is very much in line with Michael Saylor and Strategy’s Bitcoin [BTC] buying approach.

BitMine’s recent purchase is not a one-time move either. It is part of a strong and steady buying strategy. Less than a day ago, the company had also revealed that it bought 45,759 ETH in a single week.

Because of this fast pace, Tom Lee’s firm has now reached about 72% of its “Alchemy of 5%” goal, which means it wants to control 5% of Ethereum’s total supply.

Other ETH-focused firms and their performances BitMine is not alone in using its balance sheet to invest heavily in Ethereum. Other companies like SharpLink and GameSquare are also building large ETH reserves.

SharpLink holds about 864,840 ETH, while GameSquare holds around 15,630 ETH.

Despite this aggressive buying spreee, their stock prices have dropped sharply in recent weeks. For instance, while GAME fell by over 31% over the past month, SBET registered losses of over 33% over the same time period.

This could imply that investors are currently more focused on cash flow and short-term stability, than on long-term crypto holdings.

Here, it is also worth looking at the ETF market. On 18 February, Spot Ethereum ETFs saw outflows of about $41.8 million. This could be a sign that many institutional investors are pulling back.

What does this tell us about BitMine’s ETH strategy? While most investors are focusing on Ethereum’s price, BitMine is building a steady income system. About 3.04 million ETH is now staked, earning around $176 million each year.

Additionally, through its own MAVAN network which is expected to launch in early 2026, BitMine plans to manage staking itself and boost annual revenue to about $252 million.

All in all, BitMine believes owning the asset matters more than timing the market. If successful, it will become a key part of Ethereum’s network.

Final Summary Reaching over 70% of its 5% supply target in just seven months highlights the speed and scale of its strategy. Too soon to say whether BitMine will stick to this strategy in the long term. 

This New Solana Meme Coin Surged 80,000% After Launch: Here’s Why Prefer us on Google

Solana meme coin PUNCH surged over 80,000% since launch.The token has reached $30 million market cap amid viral momentum.Analysts flag red flags amid PUNCH token's record breaking rally.PUNCH, a Solana-based meme coin, has surged more than 80,000% since its launch earlier this month, capturing traders’ attention across the ecosystem.

As its market cap expands and accumulation intensifies, concerns are also mounting. Amid the token’s explosive rally, analysts are highlighting red flags surrounding this new market entrant.

What Is PUNCH Token?PUNCH is a token inspired by the story of a baby Japanese macaque named Punch and his inseparable plush companion. The token positions itself as a community-driven cryptocurrency built around emotion, comfort, and companionship.

A young, abandoned monkey named Punch went viral this month after he was filmed clinging to the stuffed toy that he had been given as a "surrogate mother."

Now, Punch is gradually building up his social skills. He's been spotted climbing on another monkey's back, and according… pic.twitter.com/2X7cb1QWMy

— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) February 18, 2026 According to details provided on the website, the token has a fixed total supply of 1 billion. The project states that its liquidity has been locked and burned. 

It also claims that ownership has been renounced. In addition, the token operates with a 0% tax.

“PUNCH is gearing up to be the MOODENG of 2026,” an analyst wrote.

Solana Meme Coin PUNCH Skyrockets to $30 Million Market Cap Data from GeckoTerminal showed that the token began trading earlier this month. Momentum accelerated as the story of the baby macaque gained traction across media outlets and social platforms. Over the past week alone, the meme coin has surged 22,290.8%.

PUNCH Token Price Performance. Source: GeckoTerminalDuring early Asian trading hours today, PUNCH hit an all-time high, with its market cap climbing above $30 million. On CoinGecko, the token emerged as the top daily gainer, posting a 260% increase. It also ranks third among the platform’s top trending cryptocurrencies.

The rally has attracted substantial investor interest. Blockchain tracker Stalkchain highlighted one wallet that accumulated approximately $226,000 worth of PUNCH.

Data from Nansen also revealed that over the past seven days, public figure holdings in PUNCH surged 89.69%. However, smart money and whale holdings have declined.

PUNCH Token Public Figure Accumulation. Source: NansenCrypto Watchers Raise Red Flags Over PUNCH Several market watchers have raised concerns about the token. Crypto analyst StarPlatinum has alleged that the token shows “multiple signs of coordinated insider control.”

In a post on X, the analyst claimed that the creator wallet, identified as A8Z1ejQGk45EJibBPJviWnM3UvwKSuYun53nSCkWKM52, distributed approximately 100 billion PUNCH tokens, equivalent to 10% of the total supply, soon after the token went live. 

According to the analysis, the wallet (A8Z1e) sent 48.2 billion tokens directly to another wallet, CgR8tggfcM8Re5agDY5fsT4pKmqQTzF8vQ7jQknM6iBj. This entity allegedly acted as an intermediary between the creator and several large holders.

Blockchain traces shared in the thread suggest a flow pattern from the creator wallet to the intermediary address, then to large wallets. Among the top linked holders identified:

Wallet Hbx5PturLVp9F7YYG18jZZSWFTNp9TTSXEJepq6pvSi3 reportedly holds 35 billion PUNCH, or 3.5% of the total supply, and was funded from the intermediary wallet. Wallet H8GLvJ89DwoeBTY3YhepLTf3VmKR44qVnskNdEZHQVDPK holds 25.1 billion tokens, representing 2.5% of supply, and was allegedly funded by the largest holder. Wallet DXU65912VjiPUhKR37TLiHCrbp4uNHVNNZiBdLv1uAx1 controls 17.5 billion tokens, or 1.75% of supply, and is said to be connected within the same funding cluster. Combined, these three wallets account for approximately 7.75% of the total supply, with all allocations allegedly traceable back to the initial creator distribution, according to the claims.

“This is how controlled memecoins are structured. Stay careful,” StarPlatinum wrote.

Here, it’s worth noting that the website specifies that PUNCH’s total supply stands at 1 billion. Meanwhile, the White Whale also identified two “red flags” related to the PUNCH token. 

“1. Bubble maps is too perfect. Too clean. Real life is messy. 2. Liquidity does NOT look like this. In fact it simply cannot look like this due to how distribution takes place on the idiotic constant product pools,” he noted. “Almost 6x “support” in equal distance below than  resistance above? It’s fake, guys. No coin gets that much support organically with liquidity just sitting around on the books in case of a dip. It’s all done through Meteora.”

However, the White Whale clarified that he is not directly accusing the project team or developers of orchestrating the activity. He stated that the project itself “may or may not be good.”

“I didn’t warn people when I saw the warning signs on Penguin because I didn’t want to be accused of having a conflict of interest. Those same warning signs are now presenting themselves on Punch. Trade carefully. We never know when the cabal is going to pull the rug,” he wrote in another post.

Thus, while PUNCH’s rally has attracted significant interest, analysts’ concerns raise questions about the sustainability of its momentum. As with many sharply appreciating meme coins, heightened volatility and structural risks remain key factors for traders to monitor.

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More than $2.4 billion in crypto options are set to expire at 08:00 UTC today on Deribit, a positioning event that could inject fresh volatility into the market.

Summary

Around $2.0B in Bitcoin and $404M in Ethereum contracts are set to roll off on Deribit, raising the potential for short-term volatility. Bitcoin’s put/call ratio of 0.59 and Ethereum’s 0.75 reflect constructive sentiment, with max pain at $70,000 for BTC and $2,050 for ETH. BTC faces resistance near $69,500–$70,000 and support at $65,000, while ETH must clear $2,000–$2,050 to confirm upside momentum. According to Deribit data, $2 billion in Bitcoin (BTC) options and $404 million in Ethereum (ETH) options will roll off.

🚨 Options Expiry Alert 🚨

At 08:00 UTC tomorrow, over $2.4B in crypto options are set to expire on Deribit.$BTC: ~$2.0B notional | Put/Call: 0.59 | Max Pain: $70K$ETH: ~$404M notional | Put/Call: 0.75 | Max Pain: $2,050

Positioning skews call heavy across both assets, with… pic.twitter.com/pgl2z4ZGJ6

— Deribit (@DeribitOfficial) February 19, 2026 For Bitcoin, the put/call ratio stands at 0.59, signaling call-heavy positioning and a stronger upside skew. The max pain level is $70,000, slightly above current spot levels, suggesting price could gravitate toward that area into expiry.

Ethereum’s put/call ratio sits at 0.75, reflecting more balanced but still constructive positioning, with max pain at $2,050.

Large options expiries can trigger short-term volatility, especially with positioning skewed toward calls. With $2 billion in Bitcoin and over $400 million in Ethereum contracts expiring, dealer hedging around key strikes, notably $70,000 for BTC and $2,050 for ETH, could pin prices near those levels.

However, a decisive move beyond them may amplify momentum through gamma-driven flows, increasing the odds of a sharp breakout.

Bitcoin trades around $67,850 on the daily chart, attempting to stabilize after a sharp early-February sell-off that dragged price from the mid-$90,000s to a local low near $60,000. Since that flush, BTC has been consolidating between roughly $65,000 and $70,000.

Bitcoin price analysis | Source: Crypto.News Technically, price remains below the 50-day DEMA near $69,500, which now acts as immediate resistance. A sustained break above $69,500–$70,000 would open the door toward $72,000 and potentially the mid-$70,000 region.

On the downside, support sits around $65,000, followed by the psychological $60,000 level — the zone that previously attracted strong dip buying.

Momentum indicators show bearish pressure easing but not fully reversed. The Balance of Power histogram remains negative, though red bars are shrinking, signaling waning selling intensity. A decisive push toward the $70,000 max pain level could accelerate short-term flows tied to options hedging.

Ethereum (ETH) price prediction Ethereum, meanwhile, trades near $1,958 after sliding from above $3,000 in January to a recent low around $1,900. The daily chart shows ETH attempting to form a base just below the $2,000 psychological level.

Ethereum price analysis | Source: Crypto.News The RSI sits near 34, recovering from oversold territory but still below the neutral 50 mark, indicating momentum remains fragile.

Immediate resistance is clustered between $2,000 and $2,050, notably close to the max pain level. A break above that zone could trigger a squeeze toward $2,200. Support lies near $1,900, with a deeper floor around $1,800.

With positioning skewed toward calls, particularly in Bitcoin, traders will be watching whether price gravitates toward max pain levels or breaks decisively as contracts expire, potentially setting the tone for the next directional move.

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CME starts 24/7 BTC and ETH futures on Globex May 29cme group will begin around-the-clock trading for its cryptocurrency futures and options on may 29, covering Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH) on cme Globex, as reported by The Block. The move extends access to regulated BTC and ETH futures and options to align with nonstop spot crypto markets.

The rollout has been described as pending regulatory review, as noted by Bitcoin Magazine. CME’s initiative positions its crypto derivatives alongside venues that already operate continuously, while retaining central clearing and existing rulebooks.

Why this matters for liquidity, gaps, and institutional accessContinuous hours may help reduce weekend “gap” risk in derivatives pricing by allowing markets to process news while spot crypto trades, according to Hoodline. That could support more consistent price discovery, though actual liquidity may still vary by time of day.

Institutional demand appears material. Based on data from CME Group, crypto derivatives notched record activity across 2025–2026, including sharp year-over-year gains in average daily volume and open interest. That context suggests large traders were already active before extended hours.

At the time of this writing, CME Group Inc. (CME) recently traded near 303.29, up 0.55% intraday, based on data from Yahoo Finance. Equity performance does not predict derivatives liquidity, but it frames corporate context around the launch.

BingX: a trusted exchange delivering real advantages for traders at every level.

Around-the-clock sessions on CME Globex will close a structural gap with crypto spot markets that never shut. Existing market surveillance, position limits, and clearing workflows remain the backbone for risk management, with adjustments possible as participation patterns evolve.

Regulatory framing has emphasized continuity rather than new approvals. According to Traders Magazine’s coverage of a CFTC keynote, officials signaled existing rules accommodate 24/7 trading for appropriate products. Editorial note: the Commission has also studied potential costs and benefits.

“there are no changes to CFTC regulations necessary to enable 24/7 trading,” said Caroline D. Pham, Acting Chair, U.S. CFTC. Her remarks also acknowledged potential off-hours challenges around liquidity, pricing reliability, and margin.

Risks, margin, and operations during off-hoursLiquidity and spreads may thin overnight and on weekendsOff-hours sessions can feature lighter order books and wider bid-ask spreads, which may raise slippage and execution risk. Cross-venue price signals could also be noisier when market makers limit size.

Participants may need to recalibrate execution tactics for overnight and weekend intervals. Stop placement, order types, and tolerance for partial fills can matter more when displayed depth is limited.

Margin, collateral, and clearing on CME Globex after-hoursBanking-hours constraints may affect collateral movements while markets remain open. Institutions often address this by holding excess eligible collateral or arranging credit buffers to meet intraday margin calls.

the u.S. CFTC opened a public comment window in 2025 to examine 24/7 derivatives trading and clearing, according to Sidley. That process highlighted the importance of robust margin models and operational readiness if volatility spikes off-hours.

FAQ about CME Group 24/7 crypto futures and optionsHow will 24/7 hours affect weekend price gaps and liquidity in CME crypto derivatives?Continuous trading may reduce weekend gaps by enabling real-time price discovery. Liquidity could still thin during overnight and weekend periods, leading to wider spreads.

What is the CFTC’s position on around-the-clock derivatives trading, and are new approvals or rule changes required?A CFTC keynote indicated existing rules can accommodate 24/7 markets. No new rule changes were identified, though regulators continue to monitor risks.

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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XRP price is hovering near $1.42 as thinning liquidity and repeated tests of the $1.30 support level raise the risk of a breakdown.

Summary

XRP is down 25% in 30 days and remains below major resistance. On-chain data shows declining USD and XRP liquidity, increasing fragility. $1.30 is the critical support level to watch. XRP traded at $1.42 at press time, down 0.7% in the last 24 hours. Over the past week, price has ranged between $1.35 and $1.64, with sellers capping rebounds near the upper end of that band.

The recent correction has been sharp. After a 25% decline over the last 30 days, XRP (XRP) is now 61% below its July 2025 peak of $3.65. As lower highs continue to form on the daily chart, the overall structure remains weak.

In derivatives markets, positioning is relatively stable. CoinGlass data shows futures volume up 0.96% to $3.75 billion, while open interest slipped 0.43% to $2.36 billion. That mix suggests traders are active but not aggressively increasing leverage.

Liquidity compression adds fragility A Feb. 20 analysis by CryptoQuant contributor The Alchemist 9 reviewed three indicators: Binance exchange inflows, USD liquidity (MAG-XRP), and XRP liquidity (MAG-XRP).

During a previous rally phase, exchange inflows spiked sharply. Large inflows usually mean tokens are moving onto exchanges, which can signal potential sell pressure. In that instance, the spike occurred before a period of strong volatility and a major price expansion.

USD liquidity measures the capital depth supporting XRP markets. When XRP rallied, USD liquidity expanded and helped sustain the move. Recently, liquidity has been declining. With less capital depth in the order book, the price becomes more sensitive to sudden selling.

XRP liquidity tracks token-side availability. Before the earlier breakout, XRP liquidity compressed significantly. That reduction in active supply aligned with the start of the upward move. Now, XRP liquidity is trending lower again, resembling those earlier pre-expansion conditions.

At present, exchange inflows are moderate, but both USD and XRP liquidity are contracting. This creates a thinner market structure. In thin conditions, breaks of support or resistance often trigger sharper moves.

These metrics do not predict direction on their own, but they highlight rising volatility risk.

XRP price technical analysis The $1.30 level is the key short-term support. It marks the lower boundary of recent consolidation. Price has repeatedly tested this range.

While rebounds followed, repeated touches often weaken demand. A daily close below $1.30 may lead to accelerated selling in a thin market.

XRP daily chart. Credit: crypto.news Lower highs are still visible in the daily structure. The 50-day moving average serves as trend resistance, and XRP is trading below it. Bollinger Bands are tightening, showing price compression. This often precedes a strong move once support or resistance breaks.

The relative strength index is hovering between 35 and 45, reflecting limited bullish momentum. With attempts to push above 50 having failed, there is no clear bullish divergence at this stage.

If $1.30 holds and price reclaims $1.40 to $1.45, momentum could improve, opening room toward $1.50 to $1.60. If $1.30 breaks on a daily close, the next downside targets sit near $1.20 to $1.25, followed by $1.10 to $1.15 if selling pressure intensifies.

The crypto market may see strong price swings today as Bitcoin and Ethereum options worth nearly $2.4 billion are set to expire. With the crypto market already under pressure, traders are closely watching key levels, including Bitcoin’s max pain at $70,000 and Ethereum’s at $2,050, which could influence short-term price movement.

According to the latest data from Derbit exchange, around 30,012 Bitcoin contracts, including 18,920 call contracts and 11,092 put contracts, are set to expire today, with a total notional value of $2.00 billion. 

Meanwhile, the current put/call ratio stands at 0.59, showing that more traders are betting on the Bitcoin price to rise.

The most important level to watch is the Bitcoin max pain price at $70,000. Currently, the Bitcoin price is trading near $67,772, slightly below the max pain level. 

If Bitcoin moves closer to $70,000, it could reduce payouts for option holders and stabilize market pressure. However, if Bitcoin falls further below this level, bearish momentum could increase.

$404 Million Ethereum Options Expiry TodayAlongside Bitcoin, Ethereum is also seeing a major expiry event, with 205,585 contracts worth approximately $404.5 million ethereum option expiring today. The put/call ratio is 0.75, indicating slightly bullish market sentiment.

Ethereum’s max pain price stands at $2,050, while the current Ethereum price is around $1,955. This suggests Ethereum could see upward pressure toward the $2,050 level as expiry approaches.

Ethereum options expiry data shows 117,410 call contracts and 88,175 put contracts, confirming that most traders expect price strength.

How Options Expiry Could Impact the Crypto Market TodayOptions expiry events often increase short-term volatility because traders adjust their positions before settlement. Looking at last week’s options expiry on February 13, 2026, over $3 billion worth of Bitcoin and Ethereum contracts expire. 

Following the expiry, Bitcoin price rose nearly 4% to $69,395, while Ethereum gained around 5.4% to reach close to $2,060.

Compared to last week, this week’s $2.4 billion expiry is smaller in size. This usually means lower market pressure and reduced volatility. 

However, based on last week’s rally, if market sentiment remains strong, Bitcoin and Ethereum could still see a short-term price recovery after the expiry.

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.

FAQsWhat is Bitcoin and Ethereum options expiry?

Bitcoin and Ethereum options expiry is when crypto options contracts settle on a set date, often causing short-term price swings.

What happens when Bitcoin and Ethereum options expire?

Options expiry can trigger short-term volatility as traders close or roll positions, often pulling prices toward key “max pain” levels.

Can Bitcoin options expiry affect the crypto market price?

Yes, large expiry events can cause short-term volatility and price swings as traders buy or sell assets to close or roll over their positions before settlement.

Does a $2.4B options expiry guarantee a market rally or crash?

No. Expiry increases volatility, but direction depends on sentiment, liquidity, and broader market conditions.

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Sharplink, a leading advocate for Ethereum-focused digital asset treasuries, announced a series of major milestones on Thursday that signify its rapid ascent in the institutional finance space.

Summary

Sharplink now holds 867,798 ETH (valued at $1.72B), making it one of the largest corporate Ethereum holders in the world. The company stakes nearly 100% of its holdings, having already generated 13,615 ETH in rewards that accrue directly to stockholder value. The appointment of Steven Ehrlich (formerly of Forbes) is designed to amplify Sharplink’s mission as the primary “productive treasury” vehicle for Ethereum exposure. The company revealed that institutional ownership has surged to 46%, a record level that CEO Joseph Chalom attributes to the firm’s disciplined, “productivity-first” approach to Ethereum.

As of February 15, 2026, Sharplink’s treasury holds 867,798 ETH, valued at approximately $1.72 billion. Unlike many digital asset holders that keep assets in “cold storage,” Sharplink has distinguished itself by staking nearly 100% of its holdings.

This strategy has generated over 13,000 ETH in staking rewards since June 2025 alone. “Institutions know they can trust us to keep generating long-term value,” Chalom stated, emphasizing that the firm continues to grow its ETH concentration per share regardless of market volatility.

“Ethereum with an edge”: Sharplink rebrands To match its growing institutional profile, the company launched a comprehensive brand refresh under the tagline “Ethereum with an Edge.”

The rebrand includes a redesigned investor platform and a dedicated Ethereum treasury dashboard, aiming to provide total transparency for stockholders tracking yield and network growth.

Parallel to the visual update, Sharplink is bolstering its intellectual capital with the appointment of Steven Ehrlich as Head of Research and Communications. Ehrlich, a heavyweight in crypto journalism with a pedigree at Forbes and Unchained, will be tasked with clarifying the “Ethereum opportunity” for a broader audience.

By combining massive ETH accumulation with institutional-grade risk management and high-level communications, Sharplink is positioning itself as the primary vehicle for public market investors seeking productive exposure to the decentralized finance (DeFi) backbone.

As the Ethereum ecosystem continues to host the majority of tokenized real-world assets, Sharplink’s “staked treasury” model may become the new blueprint for digital asset corporations.

Michael Saylor’s debt strategy is back in focus after Strategy reported that even if Bitcoin fell to $8,000, the company would retain sufficient assets to fully cover its outstanding obligations.

The firm also indicated that it intends to convert its convertible debt into equity over the next three to six years to mitigate refinancing risk and extend its capital structure runway.

Saylor has expressed confidence in navigating extreme volatility. “If Bitcoin falls 90% for the next four years, we’ll refinance the debt… “We’ll just roll it forward,” Saylor said, adding that lenders would likely continue extending credit because Bitcoin’s volatility implies persistent underlying value.

Moreover, the Strategy founder dismissed the prospect of a collapse to zero and said he does not expect prices to reach $8,000.

Critics argue that such assurances underestimate liquidity risk. Peter Schiff contended that if Bitcoin holdings were valued at $6 billion against $6 billion in liabilities, a forced liquidation during a severe drawdown would likely yield significantly less than the quoted market price, particularly if large-scale selling pressure intensified.

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Charles Edwards of Capriole Investments also questioned the refinancing premise more directly, stating, “If Bitcoin went to $8K, no one is going to refinance MSTR, it would go to 0 instantly.”

Edwards argued that in historical leverage scenarios, capital rarely rescues distressed balance sheets. The founder added that the company’s model depends on sustained double-digit annual Bitcoin growth and suggested it may ultimately need to evolve into a Bitcoin bank generating real yield to remain viable over the long term.

Bitcoin is trading at $67,870 at the time of writing, up 1.08% over the past 24 hours, amid four consecutive weeks of ETF outflows totalling $3.7 billion.

While corporate treasury accumulation provides structural demand, recent technical weakness near the $68,000 to $70,000 range highlights the tension between leverage, volatility, and long-term conviction.