Market Signal Briefing

XRP’s (XRP) onchain market structure resembles a setup that led to significant losses in 2022 after the price lost a key support level.

Key takeaways:

XRP's onchain structure mirrors the February 2022 setup that led to a 68% price drop. 

XRP bulls must reclaim $2 to avoid a deeper correction toward $1.10.

XRP spot ETFs recorded a net outflow of $53.32 million, their second-ever day of outflows and the largest since launch.

Previous signal preceded 68% XRP price dropData from Glassnode warned that XRP’s current market structure “closely resembles that of February 2022,” an occurrence that ultimately preceded months of weakness. 

“XRP investors active over the 1W–1M window are now accumulating below the cost basis of the 6M–12M cohort,” the market intelligence firm said in a recent post on X.

This creates a scenario where newer buyers are in profit, while mid-term holders sit on losses. This gap creates overhead pressure over time if key support levels are not reclaimed. 

Glassnode added:

“As this structure persists, psychological pressure on top buyers continues to build over time.”  XRP realized price. Source: Glassnode
A similar pattern was seen in February 2022 when XRP was trading at $0.78, which led to a 68% drawdown to $0.30 by June 2022. 

If history repeats itself, XRP could fall to as low as $1.40 if the support between $1.80 and $2 does not hold. 

$2 level becomes a key psychological zoneThe $2 level is a key psychological threshold for XRP in the short to medium term. In an earlier analysis, Glassnode found that each retest of $2 since early 2025 triggered $500 million to $1.2 billion in weekly realized losses, suggesting holders chose to exit their positions and cut their losses.

“This underscores how heavily this level influences spending behavior.” XRP realized loss. Source: GlassnodeWhen the price slides below this important $2 level, pressure builds on holders who acquired XRP at higher levels, while newer buyers accumulate at lower levels.

A 2022 fractal reinforces the importance of this level, suggesting the price could see a deeper correction if it is not reclaimed soon.

For example, the $0.55 level was also a key support level in the past. It supported the price between April 2021 and May 2022, with each subsequent retest weakening the support. The support eventually broke in May 2022, leading to a 48% drop to $0.28.

Similarly, losing the support at $2 could trigger a downward spiral, with the price bottoming just below the 200-week moving average at $1.03, just as in 2022.

XRP/USD weekly chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewAs Cointelegraph reported, XRP’s break below the 50-day SMA at $2 indicates that the bears are back in the game, with the downside risk extending to $1.25.

XRP ETFs record their second day of outflowsOn Tuesday, spot XRP ETFs recorded their second day of outflows since launch, totaling  $53 million, according to data from SoSoValue. This was $13 million higher than the only other outflow of $40 million recorded on Jan. 7.

Spot XRP ETF flows chart. Source: SoSoValue These outflows signal caution among institutional investors or profit-taking amid broader crypto market weakness and risk-off sentiment, adding to the sell-side pressure.

This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision. While we strive to provide accurate and timely information, Cointelegraph does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information in this article. This article may contain forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Cointelegraph will not be liable for any loss or damage arising from your reliance on this information.

3 mins mins

Key Points:

Ondo Finance introduces tokenized U.S. stocks to Solana, impacting 3.2 million users.Market gains 24/7 access to 200 tokenized assets, including tech stocks.Leaders emphasize liquidity and technology advancements on Solana platform. Ondo Finance expands its operations to Solana, offering over 200 tokenized US stocks and ETFs to 3.2 million users, enhancing the Solana ecosystem’s asset range.

The move potentially strengthens Solana’s position in DeFi, offering users more trading options and 24/7 access to tokenized assets, while tapping into major exchanges for liquidity.

Ondo’s Strategic Expansion Adds 200 Tokenized Stocks to Solana Ondo Global Markets’ strategic expansion to Solana’s ecosystem introduces over 200 tokenized U.S. stocks and ETFs. Ian De Bode, Ondo Finance’s President, underscores the liquidity and accessibility benefits, emphasizing its impact on Solana’s user base. “We’re excited to bring hundreds of onchain securities with Wall Street liquidity to Solana’s thriving ecosystem. For the first time, Solana users can rest assured that they can buy tokenized stocks in size at brokerage prices, giving them peace of mind when trading onchain,” he stated. Nick Ducoff from the Solana Foundation supports this initiative, highlighting the enhancement of financial applications on the blockchain.

Immediate market changes include enhanced asset access for Solana users. With the ability to trade blue-chip stocks, sectoral ETFs, and tech stocks, the platform promises robust liquidity options. This expansion is poised to transform onchain trading with comprehensive asset offerings, responding directly to market demands.

Industry leaders like Ian De Bode note enthusiasm for integrating traditional finance with blockchain capabilities. The expansion enables Solana users to access tokenized stocks at brokerage-level prices, a first of its kind for the ecosystem. There is consensus on its potential to elevate onchain trading standards. The potential impact on market dynamics is drawing attention.

Solana’s Financial Services Evolve with Ondo’s Integration Did you know? The Solana blockchain’s unique expansion comes after Ondo Finance’s earlier integration of tokenized Treasuries on the platform, indicating a trend toward broadening financial services on this high-performance network.

Solana (SOL) currently trades at $130.81, with a market cap of $74 billion and a market dominance of 2.43%, according to CoinMarketCap. Despite recent minor fluctuations, its 24-hour trading volume remains robust at $5.46 billion, underscoring its active trading environment.

Solana(SOL), daily chart, screenshot on CoinMarketCap at 20:08 UTC on January 21, 2026. Source: CoinMarketCap The Coincu research team highlights potential regulatory pursuits that may stem from this expansion, focusing on Solana’s increased exposure to traditional asset markets. Liquidity pooling and technological integration advancements are expected to bolster Solana’s role in the crypto economy. Future regulatory charts are being closely watched.

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.

Rate this post

Greenland Gambit Sparks Crypto Chaos: Tariff Threats Send Bitcoin Sliding – Analysts Eye $75K

Anas Hassan

Crypto Journalist

Anas Hassan

Part of the Team Since

Jun 2025

About Author

Anas is a crypto native journalist and SEO writer with over five years of writing experience covering blockchain, crypto, DeFi, and emerging tech.

Has Also Written

Last updated: 

17 minutes ago

Markets convulsed after President Donald Trump threatened steep tariffs on eight European nations unless Denmark cedes Greenland, with rhetoric including hints the U.S. might seize the territory by force, triggering a global risk-off move on January 20.

Gold surged to record highs while Bitcoin plunged into the low-$90K range, with some intraday trades dipping as low as $87K.

Source: TradingViewThe crypto market shed nearly $150 billion in market capitalization as leveraged positions unwound violently, exposing Bitcoin’s continued treatment as a speculative asset rather than the safe haven its proponents claim it to be.

Tariff Shock Drives Historic DivergenceTrump’s Saturday announcement targeted Germany, France, the UK, the Netherlands, Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark with 10% tariffs starting February 1, escalating to 25% by June 1, unless a Greenland deal is reached.

ING economists warned that “additional tariffs of 25% would probably shave 0.2 percentage points off European GDP growth,” compounding recession fears already gripping the continent.

The tariff threat effectively reopened the trade war between the EU and the U.S., despite a temporary truce reached in late July, raising the stakes and bringing a far tougher approach.

European officials brought forward the option of activating the so-called anti-coercion instrument, the EU’s trade “bazooka“, allowing the bloc to impose tariffs and investment limits on offending nations.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced he would request the instrument’s activation, while Manfred Weber from the European Parliament’s largest party indicated the July deal was now “on ice.”

EU capitals is considering hitting U.S. with €93 billion worth of tariffs or restricting American companies from bloc’s market in response to President Donald Trump’s threats, per FT. pic.twitter.com/VuAefTw5yt

— Open Source Intel (@Osint613) January 18, 2026 European countries hold approximately $8 trillion in U.S. bonds and stocks, making Europe by far the largest U.S. lender and exposing the deep interdependence that could turn this standoff into a full-blown crisis.

Germany’s export-reliant economy faces particularly acute pressure, with ING economist Carsten Brzeski warning the new tariffs would be “absolute poison” for the fragile recovery underway.

German exports to the United States fell 9.4% from January to November compared with a year earlier, and the trade surplus dropped to its lowest level since 2021.

Meanwhile, gold’s parabolic rally pushed prices past $4,800 per ounce to all-time highs.

TD Securities’ Daniel Ghali told Bloomberg that “gold’s rally is about trust. For now, trust has bent, but hasn’t broken. If it breaks, momentum will persist for longer.“

Crypto Markets Suffer Violent UnwindBitcoin’s collapse alongside traditional risk assets exposed the crypto’s failure to serve as a geopolitical hedge, despite years of positioning as “digital gold.”

CoinGlass liquidation data revealed $998.33 million in long positions wiped out over 24 hours, with Bitcoin accounting for $440.19 million as cascading margin calls accelerated during thin Asian trading hours.

Galaxy Digital’s Alex Thorn noted that “Bitcoin isn’t quite doing the thing that it’s built to do, at least in real time,” while Bitunix analyst Dean Chen observed that “among crypto-native investors, it is increasingly framed as a geopolitical hedge and a non-sovereign store of value.”

“However, for the broader market, Bitcoin is still largely traded as a high-beta risk asset,” he concluded.

Derivatives markets paint an increasingly bearish picture for the months ahead.

Sean Dawson of Derive.xyz warned that “rising geopolitical tensions between the US and Europe—particularly around Greenland—raise the risk of a regime shift back into a higher-volatility environment, a dynamic not currently reflected in spot prices.”

Options data shows strong put open interest concentrated across the $75K-$85K strikes for the June 26 expiry, with Dawson noting that “from an options perspective, the outlook remains mildly bearish through mid-year. Traders are paying a premium for downside protection.“

Bloomberg Intelligence strategist Mike McGlone delivered an even more dire assessment, warning that Bitcoin’s inability to hold long-term averages in 2025 suggests the price could eventually drop as low as $10,000.

Duke University’s Campbell Harvey also claimed in academic research that Bitcoin “is hardly a safe-haven asset,” noting its correlation with gold has broken down completely.

Institutional Demand Offers Potential FloorDespite the bearish technical picture, not all analysts have turned pessimistic.

MEXC data showed that on January 16 alone, Bitcoin ETFs added 1,474 BTC, accounting for $1.48 billion in weekly inflows, while 36,800 BTC left exchanges.

These are signs of strong institutional demand and tightening supply that could limit downside.

In fact, as Cryptonews noted recently, the chance of Trump turning back on the tariff decision is high, with 86%, and that would greatly benefit Bitcoin after February 1.

Speaking with Cryptonews, Bitfinex analysts also noted that “Bitcoin spot volumes remain normal, funding rates are close to neutral, and there has been no spike in exchange inflows that would signal reactive selling,” suggesting the selloff reflects macro-linked noise rather than a crypto-specific catalyst.

For now, whether Bitcoin’s current consolidation represents capitulation or merely the calm before a deeper storm remains the central question facing crypto markets as February approaches.

Journalist

Posted: January 22, 2026

The crypto market moved higher after US President Donald Trump said the United States would pause the imposition of new tariffs following what he described as a “productive meeting” with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump said the US had formed the framework of a future agreement covering Greenland and the wider Arctic region. He added that tariffs scheduled to take effect on 1 February would no longer go ahead. 

The announcement appeared to ease immediate geopolitical concerns that had weighed on risk assets in recent sessions.

Source: Truth Social

Crypto markets reacted swiftly, with broad-based gains across Bitcoin and major altcoins.

Bitcoin steadies as risk sentiment improves Bitcoin was among the immediate beneficiaries of the shift in tone. The asset recovered from earlier weakness as traders responded to the reduced likelihood of near-term trade escalation between the US and its European allies.

At the time of writing, Bitcoin’s market capitalisation stood at approximately $1.79 trillion, remaining firmly above other digital assets. 

The price move reflected a broader “risk-on” response rather than a Bitcoin-specific catalyst, with macro headlines once again shaping short-term market direction.

Source: Coinglass

While Bitcoin had struggled in recent days amid uncertainty around tariffs and transatlantic relations, Trump’s remarks helped stabilise sentiment and reduce downside pressure.

Altcoins outperform as capital rotates Altcoins posted stronger percentage gains than Bitcoin, suggesting renewed appetite for higher-beta assets. 

Ethereum, the second-largest cryptocurrency, rose alongside the broader market, with its market capitalisation hovering around $361 billion.

Layer-1 tokens such as Solana and XRP also moved higher. At the same time, several mid-cap assets recorded outsized gains as traders rotated back into risk-sensitive segments of the market. 

The improvement was visible across sector-based performance, including smart contract platforms, DeFi-related tokens, and select meme assets.

Market heatmap data showed widespread green across most categories, indicating that the rally was not confined to a single narrative or ecosystem.

Macro headlines remain the dominant driver Trump’s statement followed days of heightened concern around EU–US trade relations. Today, European officials signalled a pause in progress on the Turnberry trade framework amid disputes linked to Greenland and tariff threats.

By confirming that tariffs would not be imposed as planned, the announcement reduced immediate macro uncertainty. This factor has increasingly influenced crypto price action alongside traditional markets.

The response underscores how closely digital assets remain tied to global risk sentiment, with geopolitical and trade developments continuing to act as key short-term catalysts.

Final Thoughts Trump’s decision to pause tariffs helped lift market sentiment, triggering a broad crypto rally led by altcoins. The move highlights crypto’s continued sensitivity to macro and geopolitical developments, particularly around global trade tensions.

The Kingdom of Bhutan announced an agreement with the Sei Development Foundation to deploy and operate a Sei Network validator within the country. The node is scheduled to go live in the first quarter of 2026 and will be managed by Druk Holding and Investments Ltd. (DHI).

The project brings Bhutan in as a direct operator of infrastructure on a layer-1 blockchain designed for high-speed, low-cost transactions. The initiative aims to expand national capacity to run decentralized systems and support digital financial services. Part of the deployment is backed by Sapien Capital, an investment vehicle focused on science and innovation.

The agreement includes the exploration of use cases tied to asset tokenization, payment systems, data valuation, and new economic models built on blockchain technology. By operating its own validator, Bhutan will take part in transaction verification and in securing the Sei network.

The initiative fits within the country’s broader digital transformation strategy, which already includes the use of blockchain in digital identity systems and national-level technology infrastructure projects. The Sei Development Foundation said the deployment will expand its global validator network and enable future collaborations in payments, tokenization, and digital identification.

Source: https://blog.sei.io/announcements/kingdom-of-bhutan-to-become-sei-network-validator/

Disclaimer: Crypto Economy Flash News are based on verified public and official sources. Their purpose is to provide fast, factual updates about relevant events in the crypto and blockchain ecosystem.

This information does not constitute financial advice or investment recommendation. Readers are encouraged to verify all details through official project channels before making any related decisions

PEPE is finally entering a critical phase as recent price action suggests the market is actively pushing out bears ahead of a potential structural shift. Pseudonymous crypto analyst ‘The Composite Trader’ argues that the move is less about immediate upside and more about completing a controlled reversal process and preventing any further downside. 

In an X post this Tuesday, The Composite Trader updated a setup he first outlined on January 5, explaining that PEPE’s sharp bullish expansion at the start of the year was never meant to be sustained. He labeled the move as manipulative and stated that a price reversal toward a yearly open was the intended outcome. 

PEPE Stages Reversal Move To Force Out Bears His accompanying chart supports this narrative by illustrating a brutal downtrend that began in late 2025, with PEPE plummeting nearly 50% before following a descending curved channel. The analyst highlighted a Break of Structure (BOS) at a lower level in the pattern, followed by a short-lived rally into the $0.0065-$0.0075 region. This upward move was explicitly labeled “manipulation” on the chart, pushed higher to hunt for buy-side liquidity, with no real demand to sustain higher prices. 

Related Reading: Why Meme Coins Like PEPE And FARTCOIN Are Ready To Explode

According to the analyst, PEPE’s ongoing reversal process is designed to force out current bearish positions before any confirmed trend change. The chart shows that the meme coin has already corrected by roughly 33.21%, wiping out some of the gains it achieved earlier this year. This move aligns closely with The Composite Trader’s earlier expectation that the yearly open would be challenged, confirming the market’s downward momentum. 

Source: Chart from The Composite Trader on X The analyst also noted that similar price patterns are emerging across other altcoin pairs, reflecting the broader impact of whale-driven movements. He has emphasized the importance of understanding the timing behind these reversals, suggesting that not every price shift signals a sustainable uptrend. 

Furthermore, the Composite Trader has said that accumulation schematics and bullish reversals for PEPE will be confirmed when the time is right. Until then, the market remains bearish with strategic price corrections, requiring patience from investors and traders. 

Analyst Predicts More Decline For PEPE Price Crypto analyst Davie Satoshi has also shared insights on PEPE’s price behavior and its potential next moves. He predicts that PEPE could decline even further if Bitcoin crashes to $85,000 and $75,000. Based on his analysis, PEPE’s price movement is now closely tied to BTC, and the lower Bitcoin goes, the more likely PEPE will follow.

Excluding PEPE, Satoshi forecasts that all meme coins could enter a downtrend if Bitcoin declines. Despite this bearish outlook, he believes PEPE will likely rebound and move back up. The analyst expects the meme coin to reverse sharply and find new support levels. He advises non-PEPE holders to take advantage of the current downtrend by buying the dip.

PEPE trading at $0.0000050 on the 1D chart | Source: PEPEUSDT on Tradingview.com Featured image from Medium, chart from Tradingview.com

Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) is back above $89,000 after a volatile trading day that saw the crypto king tap $88,000 and $90,000 in one session.

CryptocurrencyTickerPriceBitcoin(CRYPTO: BTC)$89,772Ethereum(CRYPTO: ETH)$3,010Solana(CRYPTO: SOL)$130.39XRP(CRYPTO: XRP)$1.96Dogecoin(CRYPTO: DOGE)$0.1269Shiba Inu(CRYPTO: SHIB)$0.057969Notable Statistics:

Coinglass data shows 179,931 traders were liquidated in the past 24 hours for $807.30 million.        In the past 24 hours, top gainers include Canton, MYX Finance and LayerZero. Notable Developments:

Ripple President: Half Of Fortune 500 Will Have Crypto Strategies By Year-End Bitcoin Down 11% After Trump’s First Year—Why Did BTC Perform Better Under Biden? Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong Maintains $1 Million Per Bitcoin By 2030 Prediction Bitcoin Will Catch Up To Gold Eventually, But Michael Saylor’s A Risk, Analysts Say Bitcoin Bonuses: Steak ‘N Shake Announces Latest Perk For Hourly Workers Bitcoin’s Fear And Greed Index Flashes Golden Cross: What Does It Mean? Bitcoin Holders Have The Right Thesis But The Wrong Asset, Peter Schiff Says Trader Notes: Trader Michael van de Poppe said Bitcoin is still holding a key support level after sweeping liquidity below recent lows.

With substantial liquidity resting lower and ample time remaining ahead of the Bank of Japan policy decision, he noted that a move toward $83,000 remains possible before any upside reversal.

CryptoCon observed that Bitcoin's Fear and Greed Index has shifted into "Fear," after spending December 2025 in "Extreme Fear."

The technical analyst cautioned that extreme fear does not automatically mark a buying opportunity, noting that after extended periods of greed, such shifts often signal a broader trend change.

The data shows that the market cycle appears complete, similar to prior cycles in which extreme greed was followed by high-timeframe bearish divergence.

Based on historical patterns, the current drawdown suggests the bear market may be approximately 20%–30% complete.

Analyst Kevin said Bitcoin is beginning to break down from a bear flag formation on the daily timeframe. He added that capital flows remain weak and do not yet support a sustained move higher.

Image: Shutterstock

Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs

© 2026 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Pendle recorded a 45% increase in average monthly active users during the fourth quarter of 2025, according to Token Terminal data based on the protocol’s official report. The quarterly average reached around 42,500 active addresses, up from third-quarter levels, marking the strongest user growth of the year.

The report shows that the rebound was driven by sustained activity rather than isolated spikes. During the quarter, Pendle expanded the use of its yield products, with a clear segmentation across user profiles.

Yield Tokens concentrated demand from retail users, particularly in strategies linked to capital efficiency and airdrops. Principal Tokens gained traction among whales and institutional firms, focused on capital preservation and fixed-term growth.

User growth coincided with the protocol’s cross-chain expansion. Pendle enabled access to its products on BNB Chain, Arbitrum, and Unichain, and confirmed a future integration with Solana. This expansion allowed the protocol to bring in additional liquidity and users beyond a single ecosystem.

Source: https://tokenterminal.com/explorer/projects/pendle/metrics/user-dau

Disclaimer: Crypto Economy Flash News are based on verified public and official sources. Their purpose is to provide fast, factual updates about relevant events in the crypto and blockchain ecosystem.

This information does not constitute financial advice or investment recommendation. Readers are encouraged to verify all details through official project channels before making any related decisions

TLDR: ASTER has corrected 78% from the September 2025 peak, creating improved risk-reward entry opportunities. CZ reportedly accumulated 2.09 million ASTER tokens below $0.91, adding institutional validation signals. Two accumulation zones were identified: $0.70-$0.60 and $0.45-$0.35 for strategic position building entries. Technical targets range from $1.50 to $20, suggesting 2400% potential from current compression levels.
ASTER token trades in a higher timeframe accumulation base after an extended downtrend, with crypto analyst CryptoPatel projecting targets between $1.50 and $20. 

The token has corrected approximately 78% from its September 2025 all-time high, positioning current levels as potential accumulation zones. 

Reports indicate Binance founder CZ acquired exposure below $0.90, adding credibility to bullish narratives.

Technical Structure Points to Potential Breakout ASTER currently exhibits price compression near demand levels, signaling trend exhaustion according to CryptoPatel’s technical assessment. 

The token trades within two identified accumulation zones. Zone 1 spans $0.70 to $0.60, where initial bounces are anticipated. 

Zone 2 ranges from $0.45 to $0.35, representing stronger long-term accumulation territory under macro pressure scenarios.

The technical setup shows a descending trendline building pressure on price action. Volatility compression suggests expansion could follow, creating conditions for significant moves. 

The 78% decline from September peaks has improved risk-reward ratios for position building. Higher timeframe accumulation patterns typically precede major trend reversals in cryptocurrency markets.

CryptoPatel outlined multiple price targets through progressive resistance levels. Initial targets sit at $1.50 and $2, followed by medium-term objectives at $5 and $10. 

Extended projections reach $20, with personal long-term views extending toward $20-$30 ranges. These targets imply substantial percentage gains from current trading levels.

Market Sentiment Strengthens with CZ Exposure Reports Public disclosures circulating on November 2, 2025, revealed CZ’s reported exposure to ASTER below $0.91. The former Binance CEO allegedly holds approximately 2.09 million ASTER tokens. 

Such high-profile accumulation adds institutional validation to retail positioning strategies. However, these reports remain unverified through official channels.

The accumulation phase narrative gains traction as whales enter positions during prolonged downtrends. Early-stage accumulation typically precedes distribution phases where significant price appreciation occurs. 

Market participants monitor these zones for confirmation of trend changes. The current setup resembles historical patterns where patient accumulation yielded outsized returns.

CryptoPatel emphasized the long-term holding perspective required for $5-$10 targets. Shorter timeframes carry elevated volatility risks during base-building phases. 

The analyst noted invalidation risks exist despite the bullish structure. Traders should implement appropriate risk management protocols given the cryptocurrency market uncertainties.

The analysis remains a technical discussion without constituting financial advice. Market participants must conduct independent research before positioning. 

ASTER’s performance depends on broader market conditions and project fundamentals. Accumulation zones offer strategic entry points for risk-tolerant investors with extended time horizons.

Iran’s Central Bank recently completed the use of $507 million in Tether’s USDT stablecoin to bolster the national currency, the rial, and facilitate international trade payments. The move marks a strategic effort by Iran to stabilize its economy amidst ongoing financial challenges and international sanctions.

The institution’s decision came as part of broader economic measures aimed at mitigating the impact of sanctions, which have significantly limited Iran’s access to global financial systems. By leveraging USDT, the Central Bank could conduct transactions outside the traditional banking system, allowing for continued trade with international partners.

According to blockchain analytics firm Elliptic, the Central Bank’s acquisition of USDT signifies a shift towards utilizing digital assets for economic resilience. The utilization of stablecoins like USDT, which are pegged to fiat currencies such as the US dollar, provides a means for conducting foreign trade without the volatility associated with other cryptocurrencies.

As of now, the Central Bank no longer holds any of the previously flagged USDT. This usage underscores the role of digital currencies in circumventing conventional financial restrictions and highlights the increasing reliance on cryptocurrencies for strategic economic initiatives.

Observers note that while the approach offers temporary relief, it also raises questions about long-term financial stability and regulatory implications. The use of cryptocurrencies in official capacities remains a subject of international scrutiny, particularly regarding compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) regulations.

Iran’s engagement with cryptocurrencies is not new. The country has been exploring digital currencies to bypass sanctions and reduce dependency on the US dollar in global trade. This strategy aligns with Iran’s broader goals of achieving greater autonomy in its financial operations.

The Central Bank’s actions are part of a larger trend among countries seeking alternatives to traditional financial systems. As digital currencies become more integrated into global finance, their role in national economic strategies continues to evolve, raising both opportunities and regulatory challenges.

Looking ahead, Iran’s experience with USDT may influence other nations facing similar economic pressures to consider digital currencies as viable tools for economic management. However, the broader implications for international financial stability and regulatory compliance remain areas of active discussion and concern.

As the financial landscape continues to transform, the dynamic between traditional economic frameworks and digital innovations remains a critical area of focus. Iran’s utilization of USDT serves as a case study in the potential and complexities of integrating digital assets into national financial strategies.

Iran’s Central Bank has not provided a public comment on the matter. The ongoing evaluation of digital currency use in sanctioned economies will be crucial in shaping future policies and regulatory measures globally.

The Central Bank of Iran’s strategic use of USDT highlights the increasing relevance of stablecoins in international finance. As reported by Elliptic, the utilization of $507 million in USDT for international trade transactions demonstrates how countries under financial sanctions can bypass traditional banking systems. Elliptic’s analysis suggests that Iran’s reliance on digital currencies is part of a broader effort to maintain economic stability amid restricted access to conventional financial networks.

In recent years, Iran has turned to cryptocurrencies as a means to circumvent economic sanctions. The Central Bank’s decision to use USDT aligns with these efforts, allowing Iran to engage in international trade without relying on the US dollar. This approach provides a temporary solution to the challenges posed by financial restrictions but raises questions about the long-term sustainability of such strategies.

While the Central Bank has not publicly commented on its future plans regarding digital currencies, the move has sparked discussions among financial analysts and policymakers. The use of stablecoins like USDT in sanctioned economies is being closely monitored, as it could set precedents for other countries facing similar economic constraints. The implications for global financial systems and regulatory frameworks remain under scrutiny.

The Central Bank’s actions come at a time when digital currencies are gaining traction worldwide. As nations explore the potential of cryptocurrencies, the balance between innovation and regulation becomes increasingly significant. Iran’s experience with USDT could serve as a reference point for other countries considering alternative financial tools to navigate complex international economic environments.

The use of USDT by Iran’s Central Bank comes amid a broader trend where nations under economic pressure are increasingly looking towards cryptocurrencies to facilitate international trade. According to Elliptic, the digital asset’s role in these transactions highlights its potential as a tool for countries facing financial isolation. This strategic move by Iran is a response to the constraints imposed by sanctions, which have made traditional financial channels less accessible.

In recent developments, Iran has been strengthening its ties with countries willing to engage in trade outside the US-dominated financial system. The Central Bank’s use of USDT is part of this broader strategy, reflecting a growing willingness to adopt digital currencies for international commerce. As noted by Elliptic, these actions underscore the adaptability of stablecoins in addressing economic challenges faced by countries like Iran.

The Iranian government has not disclosed specific details about future transactions involving digital currencies. However, the successful use of USDT indicates a possibility of continued reliance on cryptocurrencies to support the national economy. Analysts from Elliptic suggest that Iran’s approach may influence similar strategies in other nations dealing with economic sanctions.

The global financial community continues to observe Iran’s use of digital currencies with interest. As the Central Bank of Iran navigates these economic waters, its actions could offer insights into the evolving role of stablecoins in international finance. The situation remains dynamic, with potential implications for both Iran’s economy and the broader adoption of digital assets worldwide.

Iran’s Central Bank’s engagement with USDT has drawn attention from financial analysts, including Tom Robinson, co-founder of Elliptic. Robinson has noted that the use of stablecoins by sanctioned countries like Iran presents both opportunities and challenges for the global financial system. He emphasizes the importance of monitoring these developments to understand their impact on international financial stability.

On January 21, Elliptic reported that Iran’s strategic use of USDT might influence other nations facing similar economic constraints. The report highlights that while stablecoins offer a temporary workaround for sanctions, they also pose questions about compliance with international financial regulations. This aspect of the situation is likely to remain a point of focus for policymakers and regulatory agencies worldwide.

Meanwhile, the Iranian Central Bank’s actions have not gone unnoticed by international financial watchdogs. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has previously expressed concerns about the use of cryptocurrencies in circumventing sanctions. While Iran’s specific use of USDT has not been publicly addressed by FATF, the organization’s general stance on digital currencies in sanctioned economies remains cautious.

As the situation develops, Iran’s use of digital currencies like USDT will continue to be a subject of analysis for both domestic and international observers. The Central Bank’s actions could potentially reshape how nations under economic pressure utilize digital assets to maintain economic functionality. The ongoing discourse surrounding Iran’s approach underscores the complex interplay between digital finance and traditional economic frameworks.

Post Views: 1

Key points:

Bitcoin is attempting to find support near the $94,500 level, signaling a positive sentiment.

Buyers will have to defend the support levels in select major altcoins, else the recovery could fizzle out.

Bitcoin (BTC) is attempting to find support near $88,000, but a handful of US and global macroeconomic factors are creating headwinds for the entire crypto market. As a result, the buyers are taking a cautious approach and possibly waiting to see how a reignited trade war between the US and EU will impact markets.

The big question on traders’ minds is how low BTC price could fall. Veteran trader Peter Brandt said in a post on X that BTC could plunge to $58,000 to $62,000, but he added that he is wrong 50% of the time and would not be ashamed if the price did not go there.

Crypto market data daily view. Source: TradingViewFundstrat head of research Tom Lee also cautioned investors to be ready for a “painful decline” across the stock and crypto markets in 2026. However, a minor positive is that Lee expects a strong finish to the year, with BTC possibly making a new all-time high.

Could buyers arrest the decline in BTC and the major altcoins? Let’s analyze the charts of the top 10 cryptocurrencies to find out.

Bitcoin price predictionBuyers tried to start a recovery in BTC on Wednesday, but the bears held their ground, indicating selling on rallies.

BTC/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThe 20-day exponential moving average ($91,786) is sloping down, and the relative strength index (RSI) is in the negative territory, indicating that bears have a slight edge. If the $86,500 support gives way, the BTC/USDT pair could decline to $84,000.

The moving averages are expected to behave as a resistance during any relief rallies, but if the bulls prevail, the Bitcoin price could rally to $94,789 and then to $97,924. A close above $97,924 signals a potential trend change. The pair could then soar to $100,000 and subsequently to $107,500.

Ether price predictionEther (ETH) nosedived below the moving averages on Tuesday and reached the support line of the symmetrical triangle pattern.

ETH/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThe bulls are attempting to defend the support line, but the weak bounce suggests that the bears have kept up the pressure. If the price breaks below the support line, the ETH/USDT pair could decline to $2,623.

Time is running out for the bulls. They will have to swiftly push the Ether price above the moving averages to get back in the game. The upside momentum is likely to pick up after buyers achieve a close above the resistance line.

BNB price predictionBNB’s (BNB) pullback dipped below the 50-day SMA ($885) on Wednesday, indicating that the market has rejected the breakout above $928.

BNB/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThe BNB price could slide to the uptrend line, where the bulls are expected to step in. The rebound off the uptrend line may face selling at the moving averages. If the price turns down from the moving averages, the BNB/USDT pair could sink below the uptrend line. The pair may then test the $790 support.

Buyers will have to thrust the price above the $959 level to seize control. If they manage to do that, the pair could skyrocket to $1,087.

XRP price predictionXRP (XRP) remains pinned below the moving averages, indicating that the bears continue to exert pressure.

XRP/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThe bears will attempt to pull the XRP price to $1.77 and then to the crucial support at $1.61. Buyers are expected to fiercely defend the zone between the $1.61 level and the support line of the descending channel pattern. If the price turns up sharply from the support zone, it suggests that the pair could remain inside the channel for a while longer.

Buyers will have to push the price above the downtrend line to gain the upper hand. The pair could then rally toward $2.70.

Solana price predictionSolana’s (SOL) break below the 50-day SMA ($132) suggests that the price may remain inside the $117 to $147 range for a few more days.

SOL/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThe $117 level is the crucial support to watch out for on the downside, as a break below it could signal the resumption of the downtrend. The SOL/USDT pair could then plummet toward $95.

Contrarily, a break and close above $147 signals that the bulls have overpowered the bears. That suggests a potential trend change, propelling the Solana price toward $172 and then $189.

Dogecoin price predictionDogecoin (DOGE) has reached the $0.12 support, which is expected to attract solid buying by the bulls.

DOGE/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThe relief rally is likely to face selling at the 20-day EMA ($0.13). If the price turns down sharply from the 20-day EMA, the risk of a break below the $0.12 support increases. The DOGE/USDT pair may then retest the Oct. 10 low of $0.10.

Contrary to this assumption, a break above the moving averages suggests that the Dogecoin price could remain inside the $0.12 to $0.16 range for some more time. The advantage will tilt in favor of the bulls on a close above the $0.16 resistance.

Cardano price predictionCardano (ADA) is attempting to take support near the $0.33 level, but the recovery is expected to face selling in the zone between the moving averages and the downtrend line.

ADA/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewIf the Cardano price turns down sharply from the overhead resistance, the possibility of a break below the $0.33 level increases. The ADA/USDT pair may then slump to the support line of the descending channel pattern. Buyers are expected to fiercely defend the support line, which is close to the Oct. 10 low of $0.27.

This negative view will be invalidated in the near term if the price turns up and breaks above the downtrend line. The pair may then ascend to the breakdown level of $0.50.

Bitcoin Cash price predictionBitcoin Cash’s (BCH) pullback is finding support at the $563 level, indicating demand at lower levels.

BCH/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThe recovery is expected to face selling at the 20-day EMA ($602). If the price turns down sharply from the 20-day EMA, it increases the risk of a break below the $563 support. The BCH/USDT pair may then descend to $518.

Alternatively, a break above the moving averages suggests that the bulls are attempting a comeback. The Bitcoin Cash price may climb to the $631 level, which is expected to pose a strong challenge.

Monero price predictionMonero’s (XMR) bounce off the 20-day EMA ($541) on Monday fizzled out at $650, indicating selling on rallies.

XMR/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThe Monero price turned down sharply on Tuesday and closed below the 20-day EMA. That suggests the XMR/USDT pair may have topped out in the near term. The pair could complete a 100% retracement and plunge to $417.

Buyers have an uphill task ahead of them. The relief rally is expected to face selling at the 20-day EMA and then at the $650 level. A close above the $650 level signals that the bulls are back in the game.

Chainlink price predictionChainlink (LINK) slipped below the moving averages on Monday, signaling that the range-bound action may continue for some more time.

LINK/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThe flattish moving averages and the RSI near the 40 level do not give a clear advantage either to the bulls or the bears. A break below the $11.61 to $10.94 support zone will tilt the advantage in favor of the bears. The LINK/USDT pair could then drop toward the Oct. 10 low of $7.90.

Buyers will have to drive the Chainlink price above the $14.98 level to signal strength. The pair may then rally toward $17.66.

This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision. While we strive to provide accurate and timely information, Cointelegraph does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information in this article. This article may contain forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Cointelegraph will not be liable for any loss or damage arising from your reliance on this information.

XRP is taking a decisive step toward institutional relevance as Flare Networks unveils new infrastructure designed to support enterprise-grade financial use cases. For years, XRP has been recognized for its speed and efficiency in cross-border payments, and XRP has often been discussed as a liquidity asset, but with limited programmability and on-chain utility. Flare’s latest move changes that equation, unlocking new layers of functionality that position XRP as more than just a settlement token.

How Flare Expands XRP Smart Contract Capabilities Flare Networks is taking concrete steps to activate XRP for institutional-grade financial infrastructure. In a recent Genfinity interview that was revealed on X, the Flare Networks team breaks down how its infrastructure is enabling traditionally idle digital assets, starting with XRP, to participate in a programmable financial system.

The conversation focuses on execution rather than theory. This includes bringing FXRP live, integrating directly with wallets, custodians, exchanges, and removing technical friction so that participation won’t require users to manage on-chain technical complexity. Flare’s strategy is not about an isolated pilot experiment, but about building durable infrastructure that can scale across different users, assets, and environments.

A core design principle is risk abstraction at the protocol level, through platforms like Firelightfi, where exposure is structured, collateralized, allowing larger participants to engage with clearer parameters, predictable outcomes, and stronger operational safeguards.

This approach shifts participation from speculative usage toward structured financial activity. The discussion makes it clear that XRP is the first implementation, not the final destination. However, the Flare broader objective is to activate multiple digital assets within a unified framework that prioritizes usability, security, and seamless integration into existing financial workflows. As highlighted in the Genfinity interview, this approach reflects the current stage of digital asset infrastructure, transitioning from experimentation toward real-world execution.

What This Means For The Future Of XRP And Tokenized Media Crypto analyst Skipper_xrp has mentioned that SBI Group President Yoshitaka Kitao emphasized that Ripple is no longer just building products; it is creating a full-stack financial ecosystem with XRP and RLUSD integrated into every layer of its infrastructure.

The vision is already moving into execution as Ripple Labs has confirmed its collaboration with major Japanese financial institutions to launch a high-profile innovation program aimed at professionalizing the XRP Ledger ecosystem. 

Meanwhile, BXE Token is preparing to debut on a US-regulated exchange with more than 12 million users and over $900 billion in annual trading volume, alongside compliance coverage across 49 countries. At the same time, decentralized media platforms are preparing for the US market.

XRP trading at $1.90 on the 1D chart | Source: XRPUSDT on Tradingview.com Featured image from Pngtree, chart from Tradingview.com

Ethereum falls below $3K after $3.4K rejection, with rising sell pressure, ETF outflows, and exchange reserves hitting 8-year lows.

Ethereum (ETH) has dropped sharply after failing to hold above the $3,400 resistance level. The move has pushed the price below a key support line, triggering increased selling across both spot and derivatives markets.

As of press time, ETH trades arpimd at $2,960, down nearly 12% over the past week. Trading activity has picked up, but buyers appear to be stepping back.

Rejection at $3,400 Triggers Sell-Off Ethereum was halted near $3,400, a level traders had been watching. Analyst Kamran Asghar said the rejection came “perfectly off the OTE selling area,” referring to a zone often targeted by sellers. After that move, the price broke through ascending support, putting the $2,600 zone back in focus.

$Ethereum Rejected & Ejected. 📉

Perfectly played off the OTE Selling Area at $3,400. We’ve now snapped the ascending support, and the path of least resistance is looking like a trip back to the $2,600 value area. pic.twitter.com/6JQuZIqpmY

— 𝐊𝐚𝐦𝐫𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐬𝐠𝐡𝐚𝐫 (@Karman_1s) January 21, 2026

In the past day, Ethereum lost nearly 5% while volume rose to over $31 billion. Derivatives volume also climbed 40%, reaching $71.75 billion, per CoinGlass data. But open interest fell by about 5% to $39.35 billion, showing many traders were closing positions instead of adding risk.

Meanwhile, heatmap data from order books show heavy buying interest sitting below the current price. Analyst Kriptoholder noted demand in the $2,800–$2,850 range, with larger buy walls around $2,500–$2,600.

These areas could attract buyers if the asset drops further. Pointing to large pending orders from bigger players, Kriptoholder said,

You may also like: Ethereum Staking Surges to All-Time High Amid Institutional Wave Traders Pile Back Into Ethereum Futures as Binance Volume Breaks December Lull Ethereum Sets Record With 393,600 New Wallets in One Day “The order book heatmap transparently reveals the true liquidity depth resting below the price action.”

ETF Outflows and Falling Exchange Reserves US spot ETH ETFs recorded net outflows of $229.95 million on January 20, ending a five-day inflow streak (per SoSoValue’s data). The shift in flow direction came during the same period as the price decline, suggesting possible profit-taking or reduced short-term confidence.

Ethereum (ETH) Spot ETF Net Inflow 1.20. Source: SoSoValue Meanwhile, ETH held on centralized exchanges continues to shrink. According to CryptoQuant analyst Arab Chain, reserves have dropped to 16.2 million ETH, the lowest since 2016. Binance alone saw a fall from 4.168 million to 4.0 million tokens since early January.

In addition, Ethereum staking also hit a new record, with more coins being locked up than ever before. This reduces circulating supply and may support price once selling pressure fades.

Longer-Term Setup Remains in Focus Some traders are watching for a larger setup to play out. As CryptoPotato reported, ETH may be forming an inverse head-and-shoulders pattern, with a possible breakout target near $4,400. That level would need to be cleared for the structure to be confirmed.

Elsewhere, a post from Bitcoinsensus raised the question: “Is a $10K ETH on the table for this cycle?” Based on past cycles and reduced returns, the estimate suggested a possible range of $10K–$15K. However, market conditions remain fluid, and the near-term trend has turned lower.

Tags:

20h05 ▪ 4 min read ▪ by Luc Jose A.

Summarize this article with:

Bitcoin has just lost a key threshold below $90,000, reviving doubts about the market’s strength. Between massive profit-taking by long-term holders and liquidity inflows from whales, selling pressure intensifies. In the face of this shock, buyers struggle to contain the decline. The balance is fragile as speculative appetite confronts increasingly vulnerable technical supports.

In brief Bitcoin has fallen back below the strategic $90,000 threshold, weakening the market’s bullish momentum. Crypto whales have transferred more than $400 million in BTC to exchanges. Long-term holders have sold more than 68,000 BTC in 30 days, marking a massive redistribution. Several key technical levels are now threatened, notably the $84,000 to $86,000 zone. Massive sales by long-term holders : towards a new correction zone for bitcoin ? Breaking the $90,000 threshold was accompanied by an influx of liquidity from major wallets.

According to CryptoQuant, “whales have deposited over $400 million in BTC on exchange platforms”, marking what analyst Amr Taha calls the “second wave of aggressive selling pressure” within a few weeks.

He specifies : “historically, such massive deposits on exchanges signal a desire to sell or at least an increase in available liquidity for distribution”. This phenomenon was already observed on January 15th, with a previous peak of $500 million.

Meanwhile, Glassnode data shows notable behavior from long-term holders. “68,650 BTC have been sold over the past 30 days”, according to the report, confirming a post-rally redistribution dynamic.

This phase is accompanied by technical indicators confirming weakening buyer support. Zones to watch, according to several analysts, are :

The technical support around $87,300, corresponding to the 100-week simple moving average ; The $84,000 to $86,000 range, identified as a potential consolidation zone in the past ; The key level of $80,500, the local low reached on November 22, which would act as the last support before a more marked breakdown. This bundle of technical elements and on-chain data increases the risk of a more extended correction if the market fails to hold above these thresholds.

Technical levels to defend : hope for stabilization for bullish investors While selling pressure currently dominates, some signals reveal a possible slowdown of the move. Bitcoin is now situated near a support zone already tested multiple times over the past months.

Analyst Michael van de Poppe mentions a potential technical floor : “we might see a short-term bounce, but no reversal”. He identifies the $84,000–$86,000 range as a level likely to slow the decline, reinforced by a four-hour RSI “as oversold as at the time of the drop to $80,000”.

Other technical elements suggest a confluence zone favorable to pausing the correction. BTC is currently trading just above the 100-week simple moving average, located around $87,300.

Below, the psychological level of $84,000 stands as a critical threshold, reinforced by the local low of $80,500 reached on November 22. A clear break of this zone would expose the market to new turmoil, while holding above could offer a base for a gradual recovery.

The bitcoin price remains tense, caught between persistent selling pressure and fragile support zones. Holding current levels will be decisive for the next phase of the move.

Maximize your Cointribune experience with our "Read to Earn" program! For every article you read, earn points and access exclusive rewards. Sign up now and start earning benefits.

Join the program

A

A

Lien copié

Luc Jose A.

Diplômé de Sciences Po Toulouse et titulaire d'une certification consultant blockchain délivrée par Alyra, j'ai rejoint l'aventure Cointribune en 2019. Convaincu du potentiel de la blockchain pour transformer de nombreux secteurs de l'économie, j'ai pris l'engagement de sensibiliser et d'informer le grand public sur cet écosystème en constante évolution. Mon objectif est de permettre à chacun de mieux comprendre la blockchain et de saisir les opportunités qu'elle offre. Je m'efforce chaque jour de fournir une analyse objective de l'actualité, de décrypter les tendances du marché, de relayer les dernières innovations technologiques et de mettre en perspective les enjeux économiques et sociétaux de cette révolution en marche.

DISCLAIMER

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

At first glance, this looks like a story that lives on the back pages of a newspaper, Japanese government bonds with maturities that run so long they sound like a joke, 20 years, 30 years, 40 years.

If you own Bitcoin, you still end up in the blast radius.

Because when Japan’s long-dated bonds start to wobble, it is rarely just about Japan. It is about the world’s last big source of cheap money slowly turning into something more expensive, and what happens to every trade that quietly depended on that cheap funding.

The moment the mood changedJapan has spent most of the last few decades as the place where money was close to free. That shaped global markets in a thousand small ways, even if you never bought a Japanese bond in your life.

Now that era is fading.

In December, the Bank of Japan lifted its benchmark rate to 0.75%, the highest level in roughly 30 years, part of a broader shift away from ultra-low policy that defined the country’s post-1990s playbook.

That move matters because Japan is not a small player. It is a funding hub. It is a reference point. It is the place global investors could point to when they wanted to borrow cheaply, hedge later, and hunt for returns somewhere else.

When that cheap anchor starts lifting, markets adjust, sometimes gently, sometimes all at once.

The signal people can’t ignore, long bonds are screamingThe fresh red flag is coming from the far end of Japan’s yield curve, the super-long bonds.

Japan’s 40-year government bond yield pushed above 4% for the first time, hitting around 4.2% as selling pressure built, and a recent 20-year auction showed weaker demand with a bid-to-cover ratio of 3.19, below its 12-month average.

Even if you do not live in bond world, that is the kind of detail traders circle with a thick marker. Auctions are where the market reveals how much real appetite exists for the debt being issued. When demand starts slipping at the long end, investors start asking harder questions about who the marginal buyer is going forward, and how much yield Japan will have to offer to keep funding itself smoothly.

A second datapoint makes the shift feel less like a blip. Japan’s 30 year government bond yield has climbed to about 3.46%, up sharply from about 2.32% a year earlier.

This is what a regime change looks like in slow motion, one auction, one basis point, one nervous headline at a time.

Why crypto ends up involvedCrypto loves to tell stories about being outside the system. The price still lives inside the system.

When rates rise, especially long-term rates, the entire market has to rethink what tomorrow’s cash is worth today. Higher yields raise the bar for every risky bet, stocks, private credit, venture, and yes, Bitcoin.

BlackRock put it bluntly in a recent note on crypto volatility, Bitcoin has historically shown sensitivity to USD real rates, similar to gold and some emerging market currencies, even if its fundamentals do not depend on any single country’s economy.

So when Japan’s moves ripple into global yields, Bitcoin can react before anyone finishes explaining the bond math on TV.

We have already seen a version of that movie lately. Global bonds sold off after hawkish comments from BOJ Governor Kazuo Ueda, and Bitcoin fell 5.5% in the same session, extending its monthly drop to more than 20%.

That is the bridge between “Tokyo bond auction” and “why did my crypto portfolio just bleed.”

The quiet mechanism behind the drama, the yen carry tradeThere is a plumbing story here, and it matters more than the headlines.

For years, one of the simplest trades in global finance was borrowing in yen at very low rates, then putting that money to work in higher-yielding assets elsewhere. It does not always show up as a single obvious position you can point at; it shows up as a backdrop, as a source of steady demand for risk and yield.

When Japan tightens, that backdrop changes.

If the yen strengthens or funding costs rise, that carry trade can unwind. Unwinds tend to be messy because they are driven by risk limits, margin calls, and crowded exits.

The Bank for International Settlements studied a volatility burst and carry trade unwind in August 2024 and described how large FX carry positions were especially sensitive to spikes in volatility and were forced to unwind quickly.

You do not need to believe crypto is “part of the carry trade” to see the connection. You just need to accept that when leverage gets pulled out of the system, the most liquid risk assets often get sold first, and Bitcoin is one of the most liquid risk assets on the planet.

Japan’s bond story is also a political story, and politics moves yields fastThe long end of Japan’s curve is reacting to policy uncertainty too. The 40-year yield jump is tied to investor anxiety over a snap election and fiscal plans, the kind of political catalyst that can turn a slow grind into a sudden lurch.

Markets can tolerate a lot, they hate guessing games about issuance, spending, and the future buyer base for government debt.

If investors begin to suspect Japan will be leaning more heavily on the bond market, and doing so while its central bank is less willing to suppress yields, they demand more compensation. That is what a rising long bond yield often represents, the market asking to be paid more for time and uncertainty.

The crypto angle that lasts longer than today’s price actionThe durable question is simple, does Japan’s shift keep global financial conditions tighter than markets are expecting.

If the answer is yes, crypto’s upside gets capped, rallies become choppier, leverage becomes more fragile, and every risk flare-up feels sharper.

If the answer is no, and Japan’s transition stays orderly, then the bond market stops being the main character, and Bitcoin goes back to trading its usual mix of liquidity, positioning, and narrative.

There are a few forward paths worth mapping, and none of them require pretending anyone can predict a Bitcoin candle.

Three scenarios worth watching next1) Orderly normalizationJapan continues raising rates gradually, the bond market absorbs it, auctions stay decent, yields stay high but stop behaving like a panic meter.

In this world, the pressure on crypto shows up as a steady headwind. Higher risk-free returns compete with speculative appetite. Bitcoin can still run, especially if other forces turn supportive, but the market keeps looking over its shoulder at real yields.

2) Auction stress turns into a global duration tantrumMore weak auctions, more headlines about demand, more volatility at the long end.

Global yields jump as relative value traders adjust and as investors worry about repatriation flows, then equities and crypto take the hit.

The recent example is already on the tape, global bonds slid on hawkish BOJ signals, and Bitcoin dropped 5.5% on the day.

This scenario tends to look like forced selling. Fundamentals become background noise.

3) Policy response calms the marketJapan’s officials push back hard against disorderly moves, issuance choices shift, bond buying operations, and guidance are used to cool volatility, and yields stop surging.

That can loosen global conditions at the margin, simply by removing a source of stress. Bitcoin responds the same way it often does when the market senses less pressure from rates and funding.

The point is not that Japan “helps crypto,” the point is that global liquidity expectations shift.

The simple dashboard, what to watch if you want the earliest tellsIf you want to stay ahead of the story, you do not need twenty indicators. You need a handful.

Japan’s long bond yields, especially the 30-year and 40-year.20-year and 30-year auction strength, including bid-to-cover ratios.USDJPY, because carry dynamics often surface there first.US real yields, because Bitcoin has a history of reacting to them.Volatility spikes, because carry positions can unwind fast when vol rises.Where stablecoins fit, the overlooked side channelThis part gets missed in a lot of crypto coverage.

Crypto has its own internal money system, stablecoins act like the cash register. When monetary policy shocks hit traditional markets, stablecoin liquidity can move too, which changes crypto market conditions even if on-chain narratives stay the same.

A BIS working paper on stablecoins and monetary policy found that US monetary policy shocks drive developments in both crypto and traditional markets, while traditional markets do not react much to crypto shocks in the other direction.

That supports the broader point that crypto is downstream of macro funding conditions more often than it wants to admit.

Why this “Japan story” keeps showing up in Bitcoin’s chartSomewhere in Tokyo, there are insurers and pension managers staring at the same problem everyone is staring at, yield has returned, and it comes with volatility attached.

Somewhere else, there is a crypto trader in New York or London watching Bitcoin chop sideways, wondering why a move in Japanese bonds is pulling on their screen.

This is why.

Japan is changing the price of money after decades of holding it down. That adjustment is reaching into every corner where leverage and risk live, and crypto sits right there, liquid, global, always open, always ready to react.

If Japan’s bond market stays calm, crypto gets a cleaner runway.

If Japan’s long end keeps throwing off stress signals, the market is going to keep learning the same lesson, Bitcoin trades on the future, and the future is priced in yields.

Mentioned in this article

In brief Newrez will begin recognizing Bitcoin and Ethereum for mortgages. That is, if the digital assets are held in a centralized fashion. The company will also apply a haircut to the value of the cryptocurrencies, citing volatility. Younger Americans may find it increasingly difficult to afford a home, but Newrez, a national wholesale mortgage lender, thinks Bitcoin and Ethereum could change that.

The firm—which serviced a $778.3 billion portfolio of 3.7 million loans, as of last year—recently signaled that it would begin assessing both cryptocurrencies for mortgage qualification. Last week, it billed itself as the first major provider of mortgages in the U.S. to do so.

That means the company intends to view Bitcoin and Ethereum as reserves that a homeowner could theoretically dip into to meet their mortgage obligations. Typically, applications ask prospective borrowers to report liquid assets like cash, as well as ones like stocks.

In an interview with Decrypt, Newrez President Baron Silverstein said the move was aimed at Gen Z, noting that “future home buyers have a higher and higher percentage of crypto assets as part of their investments,” relative to generations that came before them.

“We’re looking to help first-time home buyers,” he added.

In recognizing borrowers’ digital assets, Newrez plans to apply a “haircut,” valuing Bitcoin and Ethereum at a discount to their market prices. Silverstein declined to say how steep that haircut would be, but he said it takes the assets’ volatility into consideration.

Newrez’s entry into the digital assets space was recognized on X by Bill Pulte, the director of the U.S. Federal Housing Finance Agency, who directed the regulator in June to begin examining the impact of crypto holdings on mortgage qualifications in the U.S.

“It begins,” he wrote.

Pulte’s directive sparked unease among U.S. lawmakers, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), who warned the move could ultimately “introduce unnecessary risks to consumers and pose serious safety and soundness concerns for the U.S. housing and financial markets.”

“When we were evaluating the program, we pressure-tested a lot of different things,” Silverstein said. “What we launched is much closer to what we consider to be our bread and butter business today.”

Silverstein noted that Newrez isn’t letting borrowers make mortgage payments using digital assets, but he said the lender could evaluate that in the future. The same goes for Bitcoin and Ethereum held in self-custodial wallets, which aren’t eligible under the program.

Newrez said that digital assets need to be held with either a U.S.-regulated crypto exchange, fintech app, brokerage, or a nationally chartered bank to qualify. As a result, digital assets held within wallets like MetaMask, or via keys on a flash drive stashed in a desk, would be treated as worthless.

An FAQ for the program states offering will be available in February for “non-agency products,” which are distinct from those offered by government-sponsored Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Newrez’s program also recognizes stablecoins backed by cash.

“We will continue to evaluate an expansion of our guidelines, an expansion of crypto assets, and potentially an expansion of these custodians,” Silverstein said. “This is a great place for us to start, and then we'll continue to learn from there.”

Daily Debrief NewsletterStart every day with the top news stories right now, plus original features, a podcast, videos and more.

Solana (SOL) price has slipped over 12% in the past seven days to trade at about $127 at press time. This large-cap altcoin, with a fully diluted valuation of about $72 billion, was recently rejected at a crucial supply range around $147, thus increasing the odds of further selloff.

Is Solana Price on the Cusp of 15% Drop?In the weekly timeframe, the SOL/USD pair has broken below a multi-year rising logarithmic support trend. The recent rejection around $147 confirmed a more bearish outlook in the midterm.

Since early 2024, SOL price has been consolidating in a range between $251 and $103. Following the recent macro bearish confirmation, SOL price is on the cusp of a 15% drop towards the lower border of its horizontal consolidation.

What’s the Bigger Picture?Solana price has followed Bitcoin (BTC) in its macro outlook. With the flagship coin trapped in a midterm correction, the SOL/USD pair is well positioned to drop in tandem.

However, Bitcoin price is expected to rebound towards a new all-time high as traders anticipate a gold reversal in the near term. As such, SOL price is well positioned to rebound from its multi-year support level around $100 towards the ATH in the near term.

The bullish outlook for SOL is backed by the network’s robust fundamentals. For instance, the approval of several spot Solana ETFs in the United States has created a clear avenue for institutional investors to get exposure to SOL.
Additionally, the ongoing implementation of the Genius Act has helped Solana’s stablecoin market cap surge to over $13 billion. Meanwhile, the imminent passage of the Clarity Act will be a major bullish trigger for SOL in the subsequent months.

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

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

Sponsored and Advertisements:Sponsored content and affiliate links may appear on our site. Advertisements are marked clearly, and our editorial content remains entirely independent from our ad partners.

BTC/USD Weekly Chart (Bitstamp) – Source: TradingView

The last death cross between these two lines took place in April 2022. Back then, the price dropped from around $40,000 to $16,00, resulting in a 60% loss in just 7 months.

If history repeats, this would mean that the price could collapse to $36,000, as we initially predicted back in a BTC price prediction piece from November 28.

BTC’s November “Sell” Signal Provided an Early Warning We have been sharing this mid-term target for BTC multiple times already, and the price action has been confirming this outlook as the token has failed to recapture the $100,000 level.

This death cross is showing up 10 weeks after a sell signal appeared in this higher time frame (HFT). This signals system identifies decisional candles by analyzing a combination of trend direction, trading volumes, and candle patterns.

HFT signals are much more reliable and less frequent compared to hourly ones. They tend to be good predictors of the direction of an asset’s price trend, and, in this case, this sell candle may have marked the start of BTC’s current bearish cycle.

Strategy Inc. (NASDAQ:MSTR) has bought $3.38 billion of Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) over two weeks, but analyst Dylan LeClair says the bigger move is a balance sheet restructuring that quietly happened alongside the purchase.

The Debt Swap Nobody NoticedStrategy just crossed a major milestone: perpetual preferred stock now outweighs convertible bonds on the balance sheet for the first time.

Convertible debt dropped to 9.18% of Bitcoin holdings from 9.67% at the start of the year. Perpetual preferred shares like STRC climbed from 9.19% to 9.36%.

Here’s why that matters: convertible bonds have expiration dates. When they come due, Strategy has to either pay them back or refinance—and if Bitcoin prices are crashing when that bill comes due, the company faces tough choices.

Preferred shares are different. They never mature. Strategy pays a dividend, but there’s no principal repayment and no clock ticking toward a refinancing deadline. 

That means no forced Bitcoin sales during market crashes.

When MSTR Stock Crashes, Converts Become A ProblemThe issue with convertible bonds shows up when MSTR stock drops sharply.

When the stock was trading at $400, those $8.2 billion in converts mostly acted like equity.

Bond investors figured they’d eventually convert into stock, so they didn’t worry much about getting repaid in cash.

But when MSTR fell to $150 in November alongside Bitcoin’s pullback, those same bonds started looking like real debt again. 

LeClair’s analysis shows that bond investors suddenly viewed an extra $2.5 billion as debt that Strategy would need to repay before preferred shareholders get paid.

That’s a problem because investors who own STRC preferred shares now see more debt sitting ahead of them in line.

When that happens, STRC becomes a riskier investment.

Riskier investments demand higher returns, which means Strategy has to pay more to borrow money through preferred shares.

In extreme cases, investors refuse to buy STRC at all, cutting off Strategy’s access to capital when the company needs it most.

The Fix: Replace Convertable Shares With Preferred SharesStrategy’s plan is straightforward—eliminate convertible debt and fund everything through preferred shares instead.

Over the past two weeks, Strategy issued $119 million of STRC, then another $294 million. Those preferred share sales happened at the same time Strategy was selling common stock to raise cash for the Bitcoin purchases.

That dual issuance accomplished two things: Strategy bought Bitcoin and restructured the balance sheet at the same time.

Once the converts are gone, the preferred shares have nothing senior to them that changes based on MSTR’s stock price. 

Credit spreads stabilize, borrowing costs drop, and Strategy can sell prefs even when Bitcoin is getting hammered.

LeClair also pointed out Strategy built a USD reserve recently. 

That cash buffer removes concerns about dividend coverage and removes another reason credit investors might get nervous about STRC.

What Happens NextStrategy now holds 709,715 BTC worth roughly $62 billion. The company is funding that through a mix of common stock, convertible bonds, and preferred shares.

The next phase is pushing converts down further while ramping up STRC issuance. 

If credit spreads on STRC tighten as LeClair expects, Strategy gets access to cheaper capital and can accelerate Bitcoin buying. The market hasn’t fully priced in this shift yet. 

Image: Shutterstock

Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs

© 2026 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Figure 1. Bitcoin’s intermediate-term Elliott Wave count since June 2025. Bitcoin Is Adhering to a Fibonacci-based Impulse Pattern The false breakout strongly suggests the January 14 high at $97,943 was the top of the orange Wave-c of the gray W-iv. In this case, the W-c was about the same length as the same-degree, orange, W-a that ended at $94617: 13519 vs 14055. Classic.

Typically, the 3rd wave extends to the 138.2-161.8% extension of the 1st wave, measured from the 2nd wave. On November 21, the low at $80,562 was almost the 1.618x extension of the gray W-i low on October 17, measured from the gray W-ii high on October 27 at $79,654. After W-iii, W-iv and W-v will follow. The former tends to target the 76.4-100% extension zone, whereas the latter then targets the 176.4-200.0% extension zone.

The January 14 gray W-iv high was almost at the 76.4% level: $97,943 vs. $99,068. Thus far, so good: Bitcoin’s price action appears to follow an impulse pattern to the downside. Additionally, W-ii was a zigzag, and W-iv was an expanded flat, satisfying the rule of alternation. As such, contingent on Bitcoin holding below the January 14 high at $97,943, we expect it to reach the 176.4-200.0% Fibonacci-extension zone at $76335-70970 for the gray W-v, satisfying items 2) and 3) from the list above.

That should then conclude a larger irregular expanded flat, red W-iv, comprising green W-a, -b, and -c, which in turn form a 3-3-5 pattern (gray a, b, c – a, b, c – i, ii, iii, iv, v) right around the 50% retracement of the entire red W-iii. From there, red W-v can start at least to $164K, satisfying item 1) of the list above.

TL;DR

Bitcoin search interest fell roughly 50% year over year, even as prices climbed above $126,000 and set new records. Social activity followed the same direction, with Bitcoin-related posts on X down 32% compared with the prior year. Despite muted public attention and a $19 billion liquidation event in October, institutional flows and on-chain data continue to signal underlying long-term conviction in Bitcoin.
Bitcoin Search Interest shows a clear divergence from price action in 2025. While Bitcoin reached multiple all-time highs, online curiosity and public discussion continued to fade, pointing to a shift in how market participants engage with the asset.

Bitcoin Search Interest Weakens As Price Breaks Records Bitcoin Search Interest declined steadily throughout 2025, according to Google Trends data, even as Bitcoin traded above $120,000 and briefly touched $126,080. Searches for the term “Bitcoin” dropped close to 50% year over year, marking one of the sharpest pullbacks in relative attention during a strong price cycle.

This trend extended beyond search engines. Data shared by developer Jameson Lopp showed that Bitcoin-related posts on X fell 32% year over year, totaling around 96 million posts in 2025. Short-lived spikes in activity followed political events, regulatory announcements, and discussions around a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, but none translated into lasting engagement. Even Bitcoin Pizza Day and the break above $120,000 generated limited follow-through in online discussion.

Market Shocks And Shifting Participation The gap between price strength and public attention widened after the October correction, when more than $19 billion in leveraged positions were liquidated across crypto markets. Although Bitcoin later stabilized and resumed its upward trend, public interest remained subdued. Analysts noted that repeated market cycles and tighter financial conditions reduced speculative participation from retail traders.

At the same time, on-chain data showed continued accumulation by long-term holders, while spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded steady inflows measured in billions of dollars. This shift suggests participation moved away from social platforms toward institutional and long-horizon investors, who tend to operate with less public signaling.

Core Voices Remain Active Despite Broader Silence While overall discussion declined, prominent Bitcoin advocates stayed consistently active. Michael Saylor published more than 1,200 Bitcoin-related messages, with most reflecting confidence despite weaker sentiment. Adam Back and Alex Gladstein also maintained high engagement, focusing on security, monetary policy, and individual freedom.

The decline in Bitcoin Search Interest does not indicate fading relevance, but rather a maturing market structure.  

January 21, 2026, ST. PETERSBURG, FL – Water Tower Research (www.watertowerresearch.com) has published an Initiation of Coverage Report on XCharge Limited (NASDAQ: XCH) titled, “Pioneer of Battery-Integrated Charging and Energy Storage Solutions”. The report can be accessed here. Founded in 2015 by two former Tesla employees, Simon Hou (CEO) and Rui Ding (Chairman and CTO), XCharge is an integrated EV charging and energy solutions company with operations in Europe, North America, and China. The company's flagship battery-integrated products—Net Zero Series (NZS) (launched in 2022) and GridLink (launched in 2024)—utilize lithium-ion batteries and enable DC fast charging at low-power sites and where aging grid infrastructure cannot support high-power equipment without significant capital expenditures.

Key Takeaways Gap's multiyear turnaround is gaining traction as brand execution and operational efficiency improve.Gap brand momentum is driving fuller-price sales through better assortments, clearer messaging and marketing.GAP enters 2026 with Old Navy stability, core-brand strength and Athleta in a longer-term rebuild. The Gap, Inc.’s (GAP - Free Report) multiyear turnaround strategy is gaining traction. The retailer has made measurable strides in brand execution and operational efficiency, laying the groundwork for a more stable growth profile. As the company moves into 2026, attention turns to the next phase of the recovery and the strategic levers that could define Gap’s longer-term outlook.

The Gap brand itself has become a key driver of this turnaround. Better product assortments, clearer messaging and a stronger brand identity are helping attract more customers and support full-price sales. Creative marketing and well-timed collaborations have helped reposition the company as a modern lifestyle brand rather than one dependent on heavy promotions.

At the same time, not all brands are performing equally. Banana Republic is showing gradual improvement as it sharpens its product focus and adjusts its store footprint, though progress remains measured. Athleta continues to face challenges, with competition and repositioning efforts weighing on results. Management has made it clear that Athleta’s recovery will take time, making 2026 more about rebuilding the brand than delivering quick gains. Overall, continued strength at Gap and Old Navy, combined with steady improvement elsewhere, could shape the company’s direction as it enters the next phase of its transformation.

Looking toward 2026, consistent execution across the brand portfolio will remain critical. Old Navy continues to provide stability through its strong value offering and broad appeal, while Gap’s improving performance supports healthier margins. Together, these brands give the company room to invest in marketing, supply chain improvements and store optimization without putting pressure on profitability.

The focus is shifting toward turning recent brand gains into more consistent profit growth. On its latest earnings call, management guided sales growth toward the upper end of its 1.7%-2% range. While tariffs remain a near-term headwind, initiatives around sourcing, pricing and assortment are expected to reduce their impact over time. With Old Navy and Gap delivering steady performance and Athleta in a longer-term reset, the company is heading into 2026 with a more balanced foundation.

GAP’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesShares of this Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) company have gained 26.4% in the past six months compared with the industry’s growth of 8.8%.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

From a valuation standpoint, GAP trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 11.50X compared with the industry’s average of 16.11X.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for GAP’s current fiscal-year sales implies year-over-year growth of 1.9%, while the same for earnings per share suggests a decline of 2.7%. For the next fiscal year, the consensus estimate indicates a 2.4% rise in sales and 6.7% growth in earnings. The company’s EPS estimate for both fiscal years has remained stable in the past 30 days.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Other Stocks to ConsiderSome other top-ranked stocks are FIGS Inc. (FIGS - Free Report) , American Eagle Outfitters Inc. (AEO - Free Report) and Stitch Fix (SFIX - Free Report) .

FIGS is a direct-to-consumer healthcare apparel and lifestyle brand. It flaunts a Zacks Rank #1 at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for FIGS’ current financial-year earnings and sales suggests growth of 450% and 7.2%, respectively, from the year-ago actuals. FIGS delivered a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 87.5%.

American Eagle is a specialty retailer of casual apparel, accessories and footwear. It sports a Zacks Rank of 1 at present.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for American Eagle's current fiscal-year earnings implies a decline of 20.7%, while the same for sales suggests growth of 2.7% from the year-ago actuals. AEO delivered a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 35.1%.

Stitch Fix engages in the provision of clothing and accessories in the United States, and currently carries a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy). SFIX delivered an average earnings surprise of 37.7% in the last four quarters.

The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Stitch Fix’s current financial-year sales and EPS indicates a growth of 6.4% and 9.1%, respectively, from the year-ago figure.

WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 09: The Federal Trade Commission entrance is seen on July 09, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Leigh Vogel/Getty Images for Ian Madrigal)

Leigh Vogel/Getty Images for Ian Madrigal

To bolster its appeal of a previously dismissed antitrust lawsuit against Meta, the FTC is looking far back to a deeply unrecognizable commercial past. The problem for the FTC is that it’s not just the present that wholly discredits the FTC’s case, and its appeal.

For background, it was in 2012 and 2014 that Facebook purchased Instagram and WhatsApp for $1 billion and $19 billion respectively. In its appeal, the FTC charges “that for over a decade Meta has illegally maintained a monopoly in personal social networking services through anticompetitive conduct – by buying the significant competitive threats it identified in Instagram and WhatsApp.” The charge itself discredits the revival of an already-dismissed lawsuit.

To see why, simply consider the $20 billion expended to make the purchases that presently have the FTC so up in arms. $20 billion to acquire monopoly power? Crucial here is that the markets confirm the flippancy found in the previous question, and much more importantly, would have confirmed it then if anyone had been asking.

It’s not just that Facebook paid a relatively slim $1 billion for Instagram (a screaming sign that it was buying many things in 2012, none of them a monopoly), it’s that Facebook’s shares declined following the acquisition. What was true about Instagram was similarly true for WhatsApp.

It’s a reminder that it wasn’t just investors who were less than enthused by Facebook’s allegedly offending acquisitions. Neither was the FTC taken aback. Why would it have been? Investors saw many things in the purchases of Instagram and WhatsApp, but as the price action of Facebook’s shares once again confirms, “monopoly” status never passed the lips of investors or antitrust officials at the FTC.

MORE FOR YOU

Fast forward to the present, and 2026 specifically, it’s essential to point out that in 2025 Meta spent over $70 billion on data centers alone. Please stop and consider the expenditures with the FTC’s appeal in mind. It’s no insight to point out that a corporation with monopoly power wouldn’t and couldn’t put such a substantial amount of money to work.

The wouldn’t part is informed by the simple truth that “monopolies” don’t need to expend enormous sums to protect a business that, for being a monopoly, experiences no competition. Which explains couldn’t: if Meta had ever been a monopoly, there’s no way its shareholders would have ever allowed $70 billion in new spending meant to expand an already impregnable moat.

All of which speaks to how very much the FTC’s initial 2020 lawsuit, along with the 2026 appeal of its dismissal, were and are a look backwards. In appealing in 2026, it’s as though antitrust officials are blind not just to a constantly evolving social media sector, but also to what happened on November 30, 2022. It almost wastes words to point out that the technology sector was profoundly changed by the rollout of ChatGPT, so much so that the leading lights of technology have spent hundreds of billions since November 30, 2022 in a feverish effort to discover a present and future of technology that won’t remotely look like the past.

Which is just a comment that weak as the FTC’s case was in 2020, its appeal of what the courts dismissed is exponentially weaker in 2026. See ChatGPT and what’s followed it, including gargantuan amounts of spending by Meta and others. It seems they know more than any of us that they’re many things, none of them a “monopoly.”

BENSALEM, Pa., Jan. 21, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Law Offices of Howard G. Smith reminds investors that class action lawsuits have been filed on behalf of shareholders of the following publicly-traded companies. Investors have until the deadlines listed below to file a lead plaintiff motion.

Investors suffering losses on their investments are encouraged to contact the Law Offices of Howard G. Smith to discuss their legal rights in these class actions at (215) 638-4847 or by email to [email protected].

Bitdeer Technologies Group (NASDAQ: BTDR)
Class Period: June 6, 2024 – November 10, 2025
Lead Plaintiff Deadline: February 2, 2026

The complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period the defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) the SEAL04 chip projected to have a chip-level energy efficiency of 5 J/TH would be ready for use in the A4 rigs with an expected mass production to begin in the second quarter 2025; and (2) as a result, Defendants’ positive statements about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.

Gauzy Ltd. (NASDAQ: GAUZ)
Class Period: March 11, 2025 – November 13, 2025
Lead Plaintiff Deadline: February 6, 2026

The complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period the defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) three of the Company’s French subsidiaries lacked the financial means to meet their debts as they became due; (2) as a result, it was substantially likely insolvency proceedings would be commenced; (3) as a result, it was substantially likely a potential default under the Company’s existing senior secured debt facilities would be triggered; and (4) as a result of the foregoing, Defendants’ positive statements about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.

Integer Holdings Corporation (NYSE: ITGR)
Class Period: July 25, 2024 – October 22, 2025
Lead Plaintiff Deadline: February 9, 2026

The complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period the defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Integer materially overstated its competitive position within the growing EP manufacturing market; (2) despite Integer’s claims of strong visibility into customer demand, the Company was experiencing a sustained deterioration in sales relating to two of its EP devices; (3) in turn, Integer mischaracterized its EP devices as a long-term growth driver for the Company’s C&V segment; and (4) as a result, Defendants’ positive statements about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.

F5, Inc. (NASDAQ: FFIV)
Class Period: October 28, 2024 – October 27, 2025
Lead Plaintiff Deadline: February 17, 2026

The complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period the defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) F5 was the subject of a significant security incident, placing its clientele’s security and the Company’s future prospects at significant risk; and (2) as a result, Defendants’ positive statements about the Company’s business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.

To be a member of these class actions, you need not take any action at this time; you may retain counsel of your choice or take no action and remain an absent member of the class action. If you wish to learn more about these class actions, or if you have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Howard G. Smith, Esquire, of Law Offices of Howard G. Smith, 3070 Bristol Pike, Suite 112, Bensalem, Pennsylvania 19020, by telephone at (215) 638-4847 or by email to [email protected], or visit our website at www.howardsmithlaw.com.

This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.

Contacts
Law Offices of Howard G. Smith
Howard G. Smith, Esquire
215-638-4847
888-638-4847
[email protected]
www.howardsmithlaw.com