Market Signal Briefing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: TradingView Tags:

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

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

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

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

The critic on X posted, 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: CoinCodex

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Journalist

Posted: February 20, 2026

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

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

Source: Lookonchain/X

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summary

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

🚨 Options Expiry Alert 🚨

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3 mins mins

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is provided as general market commentary and does not constitute investment advice. We encourage you to do your own research before investing.

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

Summary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FAQsWhat is Bitcoin and Ethereum options expiry?

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

What happens when Bitcoin and Ethereum options expire?

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

Can Bitcoin options expiry affect the crypto market price?

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

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

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

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

Summary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Another week has ended, and Friday has arrived, which means another batch of Bitcoin options contracts is expiring while spot markets remain sideways.

Around 30,600 Bitcoin options contracts will expire on Friday, Feb. 20, with a notional value of roughly $2 billion. This event is a little smaller than last week’s expiry, so there is unlikely to be any impact on spot markets.

Crypto markets are in bear market territory, but have remained flat over the past week as volume and volatility dry up.

Bitcoin Options Expiry This week’s batch of Bitcoin options contracts has a put/call ratio of 0.59, meaning that there are more expiring calls (longs) than puts (shorts). Max pain is around $70,000, according to Coinglass, which is above current spot prices, so many will be out of the money on expiry.

Open interest (OI), or the value or number of Bitcoin options contracts yet to expire, remains highest at $60,000 with $1.2 billion and $1 billion at $50,000 strike prices on Deribit as bearish bets increase. Total BTC options OI across all exchanges has been climbing this month and is at $36.5 billion.

“Positioning skews call heavy across both assets, with BTC showing the stronger upside skew,” said Deribit.

Meanwhile, derivatives analyst Laevitas observed that “downside protection remains in demand,” noting 2,140 BTC worth of puts at $58,000 recently bought.

🚨 Options Expiry Alert 🚨

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

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

— Deribit (@DeribitOfficial) February 19, 2026

You may also like: Bitcoin Network Stagnation: Active Supply Plateaus as Price Volatility Fades Bitcoin Range-Bound Under Pressure as Analysts Eye $55,000 Bitcoin Still Being Bought, Just Much More Cautiously: Report In addition to today’s batch of Bitcoin options, around 212,000 Ethereum contracts are also expiring, with a notional value of $404 million, max pain at $2,050, and a put/call ratio of 0.75. Total ETH options OI across all exchanges is around $6.8 billion.

This brings the total notional value of crypto options expiries to around $2.4 billion.

Spot Market Outlook Total market capitalization has been flat for the past 24 hours and since the beginning of the week, hovering around $2.37 trillion, down 46% from its peak. Bitcoin has slowly eroded since Monday, hitting a weekly low of $65,700 in late trading on Thursday before recovering to $67,290 at the time of writing on Friday morning in Asia.

Resistance is forming at $70,000, with support still just above $60,000, and this seems to be the closest target. There has been no movement in Ether prices, which have started to consolidate around $1,950. The rest of the altcoins remain flat at bear market bottoms.

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Bitcoin nears $68,000, gold jumps as US-Iran tensions returnGeopolitical tensions and a cautious tone in U.S. stocks are keeping risk appetite in check, and some strategists warn of a potential retest of 2024 lows before a more sustained recovery. Feb 20, 2026, 6:10 a.m.

Crypto prices firmed during Asia’s Friday morning session, with bitcoin climbing toward $68,000 after a choppy week that tested nerves across risk markets.

The bounce was broad. XRP, Solana's SOL, DOGE$0.09909 and Cardano's ADA added upto 2% while ether lagged with a small dip, hovering below $2,000 as traders treated the level as a line that needs defending rather than celebrating.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW

The move had the feel of a relief rally more than a clean turn. After weeks of sharp swings, the market has started reacting in waves. A quick push higher draws in dip buyers, then selling appears as soon as price reaches a level where trapped holders can exit with less pain. The difference this week is that each rebound has looked a little less fragile, suggesting forced selling is easing even if conviction buying has not returned in size.

Macro and geopolitics are doing their part to keep traders cautious. Gold steadied near $5,000 an ounce after two sessions of gains as investors priced rising Middle East risk.

US President Donald Trump said Thursday he would allow 10 to 15 days for talks on a nuclear deal with Iran, while American forces reportedly built up in the region. That mix has supported haven demand and made it harder for risk assets to build momentum.

FxPro chief market analyst Alex Kuptsikevich framed the broader backdrop as bearish.. He said that given the market’s prior dynamics and the more cautious tone in US stocks, the odds increase of a retest of local lows, pointing to levels last seen in the second half of 2024.

On ether, he said the token is sitting on a long running support line that traces back to 2020 and lines up with the $2,000 area, but added that a true breakdown would need confirmation through a drop below recent lows around $1,500.

Under the surface, some indicators hint that big holders may be positioning to sell into strength. CryptoQuant says bitcoin inflows from large holders to Binance have reached record levels, a pattern that can precede heavier spot supply.

Research shop K33 has compared current conditions to the later stages of the 2022 bear market that gave way to a long, grinding consolidation.

The result is a market that can bounce, but struggles to turn rebounds into a trend until spot demand grows louder than the sellers waiting at the next round number.

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Bitcoin logs worst first 50-day start to a year on record

24 minutes ago

Bitcoin is on course for its first ever back to back declines in January and February.

What to know:

Bitcoin is down 23% through the first 50 days of 2026, marking its weakest start to a financial year on record.The asset has never previously posted consecutive declines in January and February, with February currently on track to extend January’s losses.

Story HighlightsThe live price of the Ethena token is  $ 0.11139131.A structural breakout and liquidity expansion could drive ENA price toward $1.50 by the end of 2026.Continued synthetic asset adoption and yield ecosystem growth may push ENA price toward $8 by 2030.Ethena (ENA) price is currently trading around $0.1123, positioning itself in a transitional valuation zone after a prolonged compression phase. As one of the more structurally innovative stable-yield protocol ecosystems, Ethena operates at the intersection of synthetic dollar demand, derivatives liquidity, and on-chain capital efficiency. That fundamental backdrop gives ENA a unique cyclical advantage: it tends to expand when capital rotation into yield-bearing crypto instruments accelerates.

Technically, ENA remains in a rebuilding phase, but the broader structure suggests that the market is gradually shifting from distribution to accumulation. With 2026 already underway, the key question is no longer survival, it is repricing. If structural demand strengthens and liquidity conditions improve, ENA’s current valuation may represent the base of a multi-year expansion cycle.

Ethena Price TodayCryptocurrencyEthenaTokenENAPrice$0.1114 -2.74% Market Cap$ 916,193,506.6324h Volume$ 84,789,590.2106Circulating Supply8,225,000,000.00Total Supply15,000,000,000.00All-Time High$ 1.5170 on 11 April 2024All-Time Low$ 0.1028 on 06 February 2026Coinpedia’s Ethena Price Prediction 2026Ethena (ENA) price appears positioned for gradual valuation expansion if ecosystem liquidity deepens. While short-term volatility may persist, the long-term thesis remains tied to synthetic dollar demand and yield optimization growth.

Coinpedia price prediction points that ENA could reach $1.50 by 2026 if resistance clusters are decisively reclaimed, and potentially approach $8 by 2030 provided broader crypto market expansion continues and protocol fundamentals remain competitive.

YearPotential Low ($)Potential Average ($)Potential High ($)20260.401.001.50Ethena (ENA) Price February- March 2026 OutlookEthena (ENA) price mid-February positioning suggests that ENA price is attempting to stabilize above its recent consolidation floor. The rejection seen earlier in the month indicates aggressive downside absorption near demand zones, signaling that sellers are gradually exhausting momentum.

Short-term resistance remains clustered between $0.15 and $0.22, an area where prior breakdown structure formed. 

A sustained weekly close above that band would confirm the trend transition from corrective to constructive. If broader market sentiment remains risk-on, ENA could begin carving higher lows into March, targeting the $0.30–$0.40 range before any significant retracement. Failure to defend the $0.09–$0.10 area, however, would delay bullish momentum and extend the base-building phase. For now, structure favors gradual recovery rather than immediate breakout.

The broader 2026 trajectory for Ethena (ENA) price is likely to unfold in phases rather than a vertical rally. Early-year consolidation may give way to momentum expansion during the second half of the year if liquidity improves and derivatives volumes across the ecosystem increase.

If ENA successfully reclaims and holds above the psychological $0.50 region, structural momentum could accelerate toward the $1.00–$1.20 zone. 

A confirmed breakout beyond $1.20 would shift valuation into price discovery territory, opening a potential pathway toward the projected $1.50 high by late 2026. In a conservative scenario, ENA could oscillate between $0.40 and $0.90 for extended periods before making a decisive breakout. Nevertheless, sustained protocol adoption and capital inflow would be the catalyst required to justify a move toward the upper target range.

Ethena (ENA) Price Prediction 2027-2030Assuming 2026 establishes a strong base above $1.00, the 2027–2030 cycle could become expansionary. Historically, tokens tied to yield infrastructure and liquidity layers tend to outperform during late-cycle capital inflows, particularly when derivatives demand scales.

If ENA sustains structural higher highs across 2027 and 2028, valuation could gradually climb toward $3–$5. By 2030, under favorable macro and crypto liquidity conditions, a projected high near $8 becomes technically plausible, especially if the protocol’s synthetic asset ecosystem captures larger market share.

ENA Price Prediction 2027 – 2030YearPotential Low ($)Potential Average ($Potential High ($)20260.401.001.5020270.801.302.0020281.502.304.0020292.004.206.0020303.906.508.00Ethena (ENA) Price Prediction 2026In 2026, Ethena price could project a low price of $0.40, an average price of $1.00, and a high of $1.50.

Ethena Price Targets 2027As per the Ethena Price Prediction 2027, Ethena may see a potential low price of $0.80 The potential high for Ethena price in 2027 is estimated to reach $2.00.

ENA Crypto Price Prediction 2028In 2028, Ethena  price is forecasted to potentially reach a low price of $1.50, and a high price of $4.00.

Ethena Coin Price Forecast 2029Thereafter, the Ethena  (Ethena) price for the year 2029 could range between $2.00 and $6.00.

Ethena Price Prediction 2030Finally, in 2030, the price of Ethena  is predicted to maintain a steady positive. It may trade between $3.90 and $8.00.

Ethena Price Prediction 2031, 2032, 2033, 2040, 2050The long-term projection assumes Ethena sustains relevance in enterprise blockchain use cases, with growth moderating over time as the asset matures.

YearPotential Low ($)Potential Average ($)Potential High ($)20317.0010.0012.0020329.0012.0015.00203311.0015.0022.00204017.0022.0030.00205020.0040.0060.00Ethena (ENA) Price Prediction: Market Analysis?Year202620272030Changelly$1.10$2.20$7.00CoinCodex$1.70$2.80$7.50WalletInvestor$2.00$3.00$9.00CoinPedia’s Ethena Price PredictionEthena (ENA) price appears positioned for gradual valuation expansion if ecosystem liquidity deepens. While short-term volatility may persist, the long-term thesis remains tied to synthetic dollar demand and yield optimization growth.

Coinpedia price prediction points that ENA could reach $1.50 by 2026 if resistance clusters are decisively reclaimed, and potentially approach $8 by 2030 provided broader crypto market expansion continues and protocol fundamentals remain competitive.

YearPotential Low ($)Potential Average ($)Potential High ($)20260.401.001.50Never Miss a Beat in the Crypto World!Stay ahead with breaking news, expert analysis, and real-time updates on the latest trends in Bitcoin, altcoins, DeFi, NFTs, and more.

FAQsWhat is the Ethena (ENA) price prediction for 2026?

Ethena (ENA) could trade between $0.40 and $1.50 in 2026 if liquidity improves and key resistance levels above $0.50 are reclaimed.

What is the Ethena (ENA) price forecast for 2030?

By 2030, ENA could range between $3.90 and $8.00, supported by ecosystem growth and rising demand for on-chain yield strategies.

How high can ENA price go by 2040?

ENA could trade between $17 and $30 by 2040 if the protocol scales globally and maintains strong synthetic asset demand.

What is ENA price prediction for 2050?

By 2050, ENA may range between $20 and $60, assuming long-term ecosystem relevance and sustained growth in on-chain yield markets.

Is Ethena (ENA) a good long-term investment?

Ethena’s long-term potential depends on synthetic asset adoption and sustained liquidity. Higher ecosystem usage may support gradual price expansion.

Why could Ethena (ENA) price increase in the future?

ENA may rise if synthetic dollar demand expands, derivatives liquidity grows, and capital rotates into yield-focused crypto protocols.

Following the prior difficulty recalibration that occurred 2,016 blocks ago—roughly two weeks back on Feb. 7—the Bitcoin protocol has now delivered a sharp counterpunch. On Thursday, at block height 937440, mining difficulty climbed 14.73%, effectively wiping out the earlier steep reduction and reminding participants that in this arena, gravity is optional and reversals are swift.

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Metaplanet CEO Fires Back at Critics as $1.2 Billion Bitcoin Paper Losses Mount Prefer us on Google

Metaplanet CEO Simon Gerovich fired back at critics, accusing the Japanese Bitcoin-holding firm of misusing shareholder funds and hiding key disclosures.

Why it matters:

Metaplanet holds over $1.2 billion in unrealized Bitcoin losses, making transparency around fund use a direct concern for shareholders. Allegations of undisclosed borrowing against BTC holdings raise governance red flags for public-company crypto investors. The details:

Critics alleged Metaplanet bought BTC at a market top, stayed silent during the drawdown, and borrowed against those holdings without disclosing interest rates or counterparties. Gerovich confirmed Bitcoin wallet addresses are publicly listed, with a live shareholder dashboard tracking holdings in real time. Gerovich called September’s purchase price a “local top” but defended a long-term, non-market-timed strategy. The company reported 6.2 billion yen in operating profit — up 1,694% year-over-year. Gerovich attributed reported accounting losses solely to unrealized mark-to-market BTC fluctuations on unsold holdings. Meanwhile, CoinGecko currently tracks Metaplanet’s unrealized BTC losses at over $1.2 billion. The big picture:

Metaplanet follows the MicroStrategy playbook — using equity and debt to accumulate Bitcoin as a primary treasury asset. Corporate BTC holders now face growing pressure to meet traditional disclosure standards as unrealized losses mount across the sector. The allegations expose a structural tension: Bitcoin’s on-chain transparency does not automatically satisfy securities law disclosure requirements. Disclaimer

In adherence to the Trust Project guidelines, BeInCrypto is committed to unbiased, transparent reporting. This news article aims to provide accurate, timely information. However, readers are advised to verify facts independently and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content. Please note that our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.

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Posted: February 20, 2026

Optimism [OP] is 97% from its all-time high of $4.85, and data shows that more losses could be on the way. The altcoin dropped by more than 23% in the past 24 hours, while the market was down by 2%.

The main driver of the drop was a fundamental change in its network as an Ethereum [ETH] layer 2 (L2) solution. The technical breakdown also played a key role in this price crash during the day.

Why is Optimism down today? Soon after Base announced they would be moving from the OP Stack, it accelerated the declining price action of Optimism. The move looked to consolidate all its network operations on the Base chain to accelerate scaling.

The change meant that Optimism was losing a big chunk of transaction activity with revenue as the biggest stake. Base was the main contributor to the revenue of OP Stack; hence, this meant the impact could be huge.

Additionally, the sell volume spiked by more than 157%, per CoinMarketCap. About $187 million was pushing the price down, and it was the biggest volume in February for OP.

Moreover, Optimism Futures Flows showed that more than $7.5 million in capital left the exchange.

It represented a loss of 19% in only 12 hours while spot traders deposited $14.73 million into the exchange, probably for selling.

Source: CoinGlass

Still, there were spot traders who were buying OP and withdrawing from the exchange, and it accounted for $13.29 million. The net flow for Spot trades was $1.45 million OP.

Moreover, the decline accelerated as $1.28 million in longs were liquidated in just 24 hours, compared to only $80K in shorts. Will the price action of OP continue declining?

Is OP set for more decline? Looking at the price action of OP, the altcoin has been falling freely since the start of the year. The drop came after the price invalidated an inverted heads-and-shoulders pattern that had faked out a bullish breakout.

The decline in the past 24 hours extended this year’s losses to about 60%. The Bull Bear Power (BBP), whose selling had cooled off, was now showing growth in its bars. This indicates a resurgence of seller momentum.

According to the analysis, OP was breaking the market structure each time by making new lows. Notably, its price was not revisiting the order block (OB) levels that initiated these breaks.

This indicator signaled a strong bear trend, suggesting more decline was coming, potentially even below $0.10.

Source: OP/USDT on TradingView

However, a resurgence back above the $0.20 resistance level as support could shift the price direction. But the invalidation of the reversal pattern meant that bullish sentiment was not likely, at least for now.

Final  Thoughts Optimism crashed 22% as Base drifted from OP Stack, and sell volume and capital increased.  OP price was more likely to continue dropping unless it reclaimed the $0.20 resistance zone as support.

Rebeca Moen Feb 20, 2026 05:01

Cosmos (ATOM) trades at $2.28 with neutral RSI at 56.73. Technical analysis suggests potential move to $2.40 resistance, though bearish MACD signals caution for March targets.

Cosmos (ATOM) presents a complex technical picture as of February 20, 2026, with the token trading at $2.28 amid mixed momentum signals. Our comprehensive ATOM price prediction analysis reveals key levels that could determine the next major move for this interoperability-focused cryptocurrency.

ATOM Price Prediction Summary • Short-term target (1 week): $2.34-$2.40 • Medium-term forecast (1 month): $2.19-$2.50 range • Bullish breakout level: $2.40 • Critical support: $2.19

What Crypto Analysts Are Saying About Cosmos While specific analyst predictions for ATOM are limited in recent trading sessions, on-chain metrics from major data platforms suggest a period of consolidation. According to Binance spot market data, ATOM has experienced a modest 3.31% decline in the past 24 hours, indicating some selling pressure despite maintaining above key moving averages.

The lack of prominent KOL commentary on ATOM's immediate price action suggests the token may be in a accumulation phase, with institutional interest remaining subdued compared to more prominent Layer 1 alternatives.

ATOM Technical Analysis Breakdown The current technical setup for Cosmos reveals several conflicting signals that traders should monitor closely:

RSI Analysis: ATOM's 14-period RSI sits at 56.73, placing it firmly in neutral territory. This suggests the token is neither overbought nor oversold, leaving room for movement in either direction based on market catalysts.

MACD Indicators: The MACD histogram reading of 0.0000 indicates bearish momentum, with both the MACD line (0.0279) and signal line (0.0279) converging. This convergence often precedes significant price movements, though the direction remains uncertain.

Bollinger Bands Position: ATOM's position at 0.84 within the Bollinger Bands suggests the token is trading near the upper resistance zone. The upper band at $2.37 provides immediate resistance, while the middle band at $2.07 offers dynamic support.

Moving Average Analysis: The token trades above its 7-day SMA ($2.25), 20-day SMA ($2.07), and 50-day SMA ($2.25), indicating short-term bullish structure. However, the 200-day SMA at $3.12 represents significant long-term resistance that ATOM must eventually reclaim for sustained uptrend.

Cosmos Price Targets: Bull vs Bear Case Bullish Scenario In an optimistic scenario, ATOM price prediction models suggest a move toward $2.40 represents the immediate upside target. A successful break above this level could trigger momentum toward $2.50-$2.60 range within the next month.

Technical confirmation for this Cosmos forecast would require: - RSI breaking above 60 with sustained momentum - MACD histogram turning positive - Daily volume exceeding the current $3.87 million average

The bullish case strengthens if ATOM can maintain above the $2.30 pivot point while building support above the 20-day moving average.

Bearish Scenario Conversely, a breakdown below the critical $2.19 support level could expose ATOM to deeper declines toward $1.95-$2.00. The bearish momentum indicated by the flat MACD histogram supports this downside risk.

Key risk factors include: - Failure to hold above the $2.24 immediate support - RSI declining below 50 into bearish territory - Broader cryptocurrency market weakness affecting altcoin sentiment

Should You Buy ATOM? Entry Strategy Based on current technical levels, potential entry strategies for ATOM include:

Conservative Approach: Wait for a pullback to the $2.24-$2.25 support zone, which aligns with the 7-day SMA. This provides a better risk-reward ratio with stop-loss placement below $2.19.

Aggressive Strategy: Enter on a confirmed break above $2.34 with volume confirmation, targeting the $2.40 resistance level. Stop-loss should be placed below the $2.30 pivot point.

Risk Management: Given ATOM's daily ATR of $0.13, position sizing should account for potential volatility. A 2% portfolio allocation maximum is recommended for this medium-risk setup.

Conclusion Our ATOM price prediction suggests a consolidation phase with potential upside to $2.40 if bullish momentum develops. The neutral RSI provides flexibility for either direction, though the bearish MACD requires careful monitoring. Traders should focus on the $2.19-$2.40 range for the coming weeks, with a Cosmos forecast favoring cautious optimism rather than aggressive positioning.

The interplay between the neutral RSI and bearish MACD creates an environment where technical breakouts could provide significant opportunities, but risk management remains paramount given the mixed signals.

Disclaimer: This ATOM price prediction is based on technical analysis and should not be considered financial advice. Cryptocurrency investments carry significant risk, and past performance does not guarantee future results.

Image source: Shutterstock

atom price analysis atom price prediction

James Ding Feb 20, 2026 05:07

Litecoin trades at $53.16 with bearish momentum but shows potential for $60-65 recovery if key support at $50.61 holds. Technical indicators suggest consolidation before next move.

LTC Price Prediction Summary • Short-term target (1 week): $55-57 • Medium-term forecast (1 month): $60-65 range
• Bullish breakout level: $59.86 • Critical support: $50.61

What Crypto Analysts Are Saying About Litecoin While specific recent analyst predictions are limited, historical forecasts from early January 2026 painted a more optimistic picture. Analysts including Felix Pinkston, Timothy Morano, and Rebeca Moen had projected LTC targets in the $87-95 range, contingent on maintaining $82 support levels. However, with Litecoin currently trading at $53.16, these bullish predictions have not materialized.

According to on-chain data and technical metrics, Litecoin appears to be consolidating at lower levels, suggesting the market may need more time to establish a sustainable upward trajectory.

LTC Technical Analysis Breakdown Litecoin's current technical picture presents a mixed but cautiously optimistic outlook. The RSI at 34.22 sits in neutral territory, avoiding oversold conditions that might signal capitulation. However, the MACD histogram at 0.0000 indicates bearish momentum has stalled rather than reversed.

The Bollinger Band position at 0.31 shows LTC trading closer to the lower band ($50.15) than the upper band ($59.86), suggesting potential for mean reversion toward the middle band at $55.00. This aligns with the 20-day SMA, which could act as initial resistance.

Moving averages tell a concerning story with LTC trading below all major timeframes. The 7-day SMA at $54.19 provides immediate resistance, while the 200-day SMA at $91.79 remains far overhead, highlighting the significant distance from long-term trend support.

Key support levels emerge at $51.89 (immediate) and $50.61 (strong support), while resistance sits at $53.97 and $54.77. The daily ATR of $2.33 suggests moderate volatility, providing reasonable trading ranges for position management.

Litecoin Price Targets: Bull vs Bear Case Bullish Scenario If LTC can reclaim the $54.77 resistance level with volume confirmation, the path opens toward the upper Bollinger Band at $59.86. A break above this level could trigger momentum toward the 50-day SMA at $66.45, representing a 25% upside potential.

The bullish case requires RSI to break above 40 and MACD to show positive divergence. Such technical confirmation could support a Litecoin forecast targeting the $60-65 range within 4-6 weeks.

Bearish Scenario Failure to hold the $50.61 strong support could trigger accelerated selling toward psychological support at $50.00. A break below this level might expose LTC to further downside toward $45-47, representing an additional 15% decline from current levels.

The bearish scenario becomes more likely if RSI drops below 30 into oversold territory without accompanying buying interest, or if broader crypto market sentiment deteriorates significantly.

Should You Buy LTC? Entry Strategy For traders considering LTC positions, the current price near $53.16 offers a reasonable risk-reward setup. Conservative entries could target the $51.50-52.00 range, providing better proximity to the strong support at $50.61.

Stop-loss levels should be placed below $50.00 to limit downside exposure, while profit targets can be set at $57.00 (first resistance) and $60.00 (medium-term target). This setup provides approximately 2:1 reward-to-risk ratios.

Dollar-cost averaging approaches may prove effective given the current consolidation phase, allowing investors to build positions gradually while volatility remains contained within the $51-55 range.

Conclusion This LTC price prediction suggests cautious optimism for Litecoin's near-term prospects. While current technical indicators show bearish momentum has stalled, the path to recovery requires reclaiming key resistance levels above $55.00. The medium-term Litecoin forecast points toward $60-65 targets if support holds firm, though investors should prepare for continued volatility.

With 70% confidence, LTC appears positioned for gradual recovery rather than explosive moves, making it suitable for patient investors willing to weather short-term fluctuations. However, failure to hold $50.61 support could delay bullish scenarios significantly.

Disclaimer: Cryptocurrency price predictions are highly speculative and subject to extreme volatility. This analysis is for informational purposes only and should not constitute investment advice. Always conduct your own research and consider your risk tolerance before trading.

Image source: Shutterstock

ltc price analysis ltc price prediction

XRP price extended losses and traded below $1.40. The price is now consolidating losses but faces hurdles near $1.4320 and $1.450.

XRP price started another decline and traded below the $1.420 zone. The price is now trading below $1.420 and the 100-hourly Simple Moving Average. There is a key bearish trend line forming with resistance at $1.4620 on the hourly chart of the XRP/USD pair (data source from Kraken). The pair could continue to move down if it stays below $1.4650. XRP Price Extends Losses XRP price failed to stay above $1.450 and extended its decline, like Bitcoin and Ethereum. The price declined below $1.420 and $1.4150 to enter a short-term bearish zone.

The price even extended losses below $1.40. A low was formed at $1.3816, and the price is now consolidating losses. There was a minor upward move above the 23.6% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the $1.5120 swing high to the $1.3816 low.

The price is now trading below $1.420 and the 100-hourly Simple Moving Average. If there is a fresh recovery move, the price might face resistance near the $1.4320 level. The first major resistance is near the $1.450 level or the 50% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the $1.5120 swing high to the $1.3816 low.

The main resistance could be $1.4620. There is also a key bearish trend line forming with resistance at $1.4620 on the hourly chart of the XRP/USD pair. A close above $1.4620 could send the price to $1.480.

Source: XRPUSD on TradingView.com The next hurdle sits at $1.50. A clear move above the $1.50 resistance might send the price toward the $1.5320 resistance. Any more gains might send the price toward the $1.550 resistance. The next major hurdle for the bulls might be near $1.5650.

Downside Continuation? If XRP fails to clear the $1.4620 resistance zone, it could start a fresh decline. Initial support on the downside is near the $1.3980 level. The next major support is near the $1.3850 level.

If there is a downside break and a close below the $1.3850 level, the price might continue to decline toward $1.3620. The next major support sits near the $1.350 zone, below which the price could continue lower toward $1.320.

Technical Indicators

Hourly MACD – The MACD for XRP/USD is now gaining pace in the bearish zone.

Hourly RSI (Relative Strength Index) – The RSI for XRP/USD is now below the 50 level.

Major Support Levels – $1.3850 and $1.3620.

Major Resistance Levels – $1.4500 and $1.4620.

3 mins mins

Customer first 2026 roadmap: build what customers need, measurablyCustomer-first in 2026 means operationalized empathy and measurable outcomes, not slogans. Organizations build what customers need by proving value with data, governing AI responsibly, and aligning leaders to outcomes customers actually feel.

A practical roadmap starts with a unified data foundation spanning CRM, CDP, support, and product telemetry. Define outcome metrics tied to customer value, problem solved, time to value, renewal uplift, and run controlled experiments so roadmaps earn their place with evidence.

Embed governance from day one: model cards, human escalation paths, audit logs, and privacy-by-design. Make inclusive design non-negotiable, ensuring accessibility, language clarity, and fairness are engineered into every journey.

Why customer-first strategy matters in 2026: trust and outcomesTrust is the differentiator customers notice: clear explanations, predictable updates, and fair resolutions. Vanity metrics give way to outcomes that customers recognize, fast, accurate help, fewer surprises, and visible progress on issues that matter.

In regulated contexts, clarity reduces risk. Plain-language disclosures, source-of-truth knowledge, red-team tests, and model whitelists help ensure safe, consistent experiences across channels and products.

At the time of this writing, the NYSE Composite Index (^NYA) closed at 23,479.72, up 0.35%. Based on data from NYSE, this neutral backdrop underscores that disciplined investments remain prudent.

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Near term, AI augments every touchpoint: triaging intents, retrieving verified answers, and proposing next-best actions. Human oversight governs sensitive moments, vulnerability, billing disputes, cancellations, so judgment and empathy prevail where they matter most.

Industry reporting captures the baseline principle before scaling automation. “Technology must enhance, not replace, the customer experience,” said Contact Center Pipeline (blog.contactcenterpipeline.com).

Practical controls include confidence thresholds that trigger handoffs, agent-facing suggestions rather than auto-actions, and customer-visible notes when AI assists. Routine tasks speed up, while complex issues escalate early with full context and auditability.

FAQ about customer-first strategyWhat does a customer-first strategy look like in 2026?It is an operating system, not a tagline. Teams connect CRM/CDP and product signals, measure outcomes customers feel, and prioritize backlogs using experiment results that prove value.

It embeds transparency, inclusion, and reliability into every interaction. AI is governed, explainable, and reversible, with human judgment steering sensitive and high-impact decisions.

How can we use AI to build what customers need without losing the human touch?Use AI for retrieval, summarization, and detection, while humans handle nuance. Set escalation thresholds, disclose AI use, and train agents in digital empathy and exception handling.

Ensure models learn from verified knowledge and consented data. Maintain audit trails, bias checks, and post-incident reviews to continuously improve.

Operational roadmap: outcome metrics and proactive, predictive CXForrester-aligned outcome metrics, CRM/CDP signals, and value scoresAccording to SuccessCOACHING, traditional health scores are giving way to AI-derived “value scores” that forecast ROI trajectories and expansion likelihood.

The same source notes renewal risk can surface weeks earlier by combining usage, sentiment, and outcome stall signals.

Human-in-the-loop AI per CCA and Cresta guidanceDefine human escalation for vulnerable intents and low-confidence answers.

Instrument agent-copilot experiences with approvals, rationale capture, and feedback loops.

Continuously monitor for drift, bias, and hallucinations with transparent remediation logs.

Publish standards for accessibility, language clarity, and exception handling.

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is provided as general market commentary and does not constitute investment advice. We encourage you to do your own research before investing.

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Darius Baruo Feb 20, 2026 05:31

Aptos (APT) trades at $0.86 with RSI at 25.58 signaling oversold territory. Technical analysis suggests potential bounce to $0.91-$0.95 range if support holds at $0.84.

Aptos (APT) is currently experiencing significant selling pressure, trading at $0.86 with a 2.60% decline over the past 24 hours. However, technical indicators are flashing oversold signals that could present an opportunity for contrarian traders looking for a potential bounce.

APT Price Prediction Summary • Short-term target (1 week): $0.91-$0.95 • Medium-term forecast (1 month): $0.84-$1.03 range
• Bullish breakout level: $0.91 • Critical support: $0.84

What Crypto Analysts Are Saying About Aptos While specific analyst predictions are limited, on-chain metrics suggest Aptos is approaching technically significant levels. According to current market data, APT has declined approximately 2.81% from previous sessions, bringing it near critical support zones that could determine the next directional move.

The lack of recent institutional commentary may indicate that many analysts are waiting for clearer technical confirmation before issuing updated Aptos forecasts.

APT Technical Analysis Breakdown The technical picture for Aptos reveals a cryptocurrency in oversold territory with potential for a relief rally. The RSI reading of 25.58 indicates severe oversold conditions, traditionally viewed as a contrarian buy signal when combined with other supportive factors.

Key moving averages paint a bearish longer-term picture, with APT trading well below its SMA 7 ($0.91), SMA 20 ($1.03), and dramatically below the SMA 200 ($2.92). The EMA 12 at $0.95 and EMA 26 at $1.12 show the short-term downtrend remains intact.

The MACD histogram at 0.0000 suggests bearish momentum is potentially exhausting, while the Stochastic indicators (%K: 7.74, %D: 6.19) confirm the oversold condition across multiple timeframes.

Bollinger Bands analysis shows APT with a %B position of 0.1904, meaning the token is trading near the lower band at $0.76, with the middle band (SMA 20) at $1.03 serving as major resistance.

Current trading levels show immediate support at $0.84 with stronger support at $0.81. Immediate resistance sits at $0.89, with stronger resistance at the psychological $0.91 level.

Aptos Price Targets: Bull vs Bear Case Bullish Scenario If APT can hold above the critical $0.84 support level, the oversold RSI condition could trigger a technical bounce toward the $0.91-$0.95 resistance zone. This represents approximately 6-10% upside potential from current levels.

A sustained break above $0.91 would target the SMA 7 level and potentially challenge the $0.95-$1.03 range, where the EMA 12 and SMA 20 would likely provide significant resistance.

Technical confirmation for this bullish APT price prediction would require RSI moving above 30 and MACD histogram turning positive.

Bearish Scenario Failure to hold the $0.84 support could accelerate selling toward the stronger support at $0.81. A break below this level would likely target the Bollinger Band lower boundary around $0.76.

The broader bear case for this Aptos forecast includes the significant gap between current price and major moving averages, suggesting the longer-term trend remains decidedly bearish until proven otherwise.

Should You Buy APT? Entry Strategy Given the oversold conditions, traders might consider a scaled entry approach. Initial positions could be considered near current levels around $0.86, with additional accumulation on any dip toward the $0.84 support level.

Risk management is crucial in this volatile environment. A stop-loss below $0.81 would limit downside exposure while allowing room for normal price fluctuations. The daily ATR of $0.06 suggests typical volatility that should be factored into position sizing.

For those seeking confirmation, waiting for RSI to climb above 30 and price to reclaim $0.89 would provide more conservative entry signals, albeit with reduced upside potential.

Conclusion This APT price prediction suggests a potential technical bounce is possible given the severely oversold conditions, though the broader trend remains bearish. The most likely scenario sees APT testing the $0.91-$0.95 resistance zone if current support levels hold.

Traders should approach with appropriate risk management, as cryptocurrency markets remain highly volatile and technical patterns can fail. The oversold condition provides opportunity but requires careful execution and realistic expectations about the scope of any potential recovery.

Disclaimer: This analysis is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Cryptocurrency investments carry significant risk, and past performance does not guarantee future results.

Image source: Shutterstock

apt price analysis apt price prediction

4 mins mins

Reading 7 on the Crypto Fear & Greed Index: meaning nowThe crypto Fear & market/”>greed index fell back to 7 today, down from 9 yesterday, indicating “extreme fear,” based on data from Alternative.me. This places sentiment near the bottom of the 0–100 scale.

The indicator consolidates inputs such as volatility, momentum, and social-media activity to summarize market mood. A single-digit print typically aligns with risk reduction, thinner liquidity, and heightened sensitivity to headlines.

Such levels have historically coincided with stress in Bitcoin and broader crypto, but the signal does not, by itself, imply a turning point. Extreme readings can persist when macro uncertainties remain unresolved.

Why it matters now: macro, Federal Reserve, Bitcoin driversBond-market signals are central to today’s backdrop and help frame the policy narrative alongside the federal reserve’s stance. As reported by CCN: “Dollar-debasement fears appear overstated in bond markets, suggesting Bitcoin’s drop may reflect macro tightening rather than a systemic collapse,” said CCN.

Comparisons also matter for context. As reported by AOL, the bitcoin fear & Greed Index dropped to 5 on February 6, 2026, and reached 6 during the Terra/Luna collapse in June 2022, situating today’s 7 in a historically stressed zone.

At the time of this writing, Bitcoin (BTC) is around $67,259. Momentum is mixed (RSI 35.72, Neutral) with very high measured volatility near 11.75%. Spot sits well below the 50- and 200-day moving averages in this dataset (about 82,958 and 99,868), consistent with a risk-off tone.

Recent prints suggest fear is broad rather than token-specific; according to Yellow.com, the aggregate index has held in single digits. That backdrop implies sentiment may remain headline-driven until macro clarity improves.

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

A 7 reading typically coincides with defensive positioning and reduced risk tolerance across major venues. Near-term trading conditions can be choppy, with outsized reactions to macro or policy headlines.

Watch whether the Crypto Fear & Greed Index lifts out of single digits and whether realized volatility eases. Stabilization in sentiment alongside lower volatility would suggest improving risk capacity, though confirmation often lags.

Track divergences between the Bitcoin-specific gauge and the broader crypto index. A rebound in one without the other can indicate rotation rather than a broad-based recovery of risk appetite.

Policy-sensitive headlines from the Federal Reserve can shift the narrative quickly. Sentiment can also whipsaw on data surprises, especially when readings are already extreme.

Using extreme fear responsibly: strategy and risk checksPractical steps for positioning amid single-digit sentimentSingle-digit readings warrant tighter risk controls and scenario analysis rather than directional conviction. Consider smaller position sizing, predefined exit rules, and hedging approaches that cap downside while preserving flexibility amid volatile liquidity.

Stress-test exposures against further volatility and liquidity gaps. Review counterparty, custody, and funding arrangements in case market conditions deteriorate and spreads widen.

Methodology limits: Bitcoin vs. aggregate Crypto indexThe aggregate index blends signals across crypto, while the Bitcoin-specific gauge tracks BTC-centric flows; the two can diverge day to day. Inputs such as volatility, momentum, and social signals can lag or amplify crowd behavior.

As a sentiment proxy, it is not a standalone buy/sell trigger. Readings are best interpreted with macro context, market structure, and instrument-level liquidity in view.

FAQ about Crypto Fear & Greed IndexWhy did the index drop to 7 today and what macro factors are driving it?Extreme fear reflects tighter liquidity and risk-off flows amid policy uncertainty. Bond-market context currently points to macro tightening rather than systemic-debasement drivers.

How does this level compare to past extremes like the Terra/Luna collapse in 2022?It is consistent with prior stress. During Terra/Luna 2022, Bitcoin’s sentiment gauge reached mid‑single digits, and similar prints reappeared this month on the BTC‑specific index.

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is provided as general market commentary and does not constitute investment advice. We encourage you to do your own research before investing.

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$2.5 Billion Crypto Options Expiry Looms — But It’s the Massive $40,000 Bitcoin Bet That Has Traders on Edge Prefer us on Google

$2.5 billion Bitcoin, Ethereum options expire today.Calls dominate, but $40,000 BTC put stands out.Massive downside hedge signals lingering crash fears.Nearly $2.5 billion in Bitcoin and Ethereum options expire today, setting up a potentially volatile end to the month as traders juggle upside bets with deep downside insurance.

On the surface, positioning appears constructive. But beneath the call-heavy skew lies a striking anomaly: one of the largest open interest clusters in Bitcoin sits far below spot — at the $40,000 strike.

Calls Dominate, But Max Pain Sits HigherBitcoin is currently trading around $67,271, with max pain positioned at $70,000. Open interest shows 19,412 call contracts and 11,044 put contracts. This gives a put-to-call ratio of 0.57 and reflects an overall upside bias. The total notional volume tied to the expiry is roughly $2.05 billion.

Bitcoin Expiring Options. Source: Deribit  Ethereum mirrors that constructive tilt, though in a more balanced fashion. ETH trades near $1,948, with max pain at $2,025.

Calls (124,109 contracts) outnumber puts (90,017), resulting in a put-to-call ratio of 0.73 and a notional value of approximately $417 million.

Ethereum Expiring Options. Source: Deribit   “…positioning skews call heavy across both assets, with BTC showing the stronger upside skew. Max pain levels sit below dominant call open interest in BTC, while ETH positioning is more balanced but still constructive,” analysts at Deribit noted.

Max pain refers to the price at which the greatest number of options expire worthless, minimizing payouts to buyers.

With both BTC and ETH trading below their respective max pain levels, price gravitation toward those strikes into expiry could reduce losses for option sellers.

The $40,000 Put: A Tail-Risk SignalDespite the headline bullish skew, a massive concentration of puts at the $40,000 strike has caught market attention.

The $40,000 Bitcoin put is now the second-largest strike by open interest, representing roughly $490 million in notional value. This comes after Bitcoin’s sharp retracement from prior highs, which reshaped hedging demand across the board.

“While aggregate positioning into expiry skews call heavy, one strike stands out: The $40K BTC put remains among the largest open interest strikes ahead of February expiry. Deep OTM downside protection demand remains visible on the board, even as headline put/call ratios lean constructive,” Deribit analysts indicated, highlighting the unusual size of the position.

In short, traders may be positioned for upside, but they are unwilling to rule out another volatility shock.

Hedging, Premium, and Structural ImplicationsThe dynamic suggests a broader change in Bitcoin’s derivatives market. Options are increasingly used for directional bets, yield strategies, and volatility management.

Analyst Jeff Liang argued that extracting premium from the options market could reduce structural selling pressure.

“If we can stably extract the premium from the options market and empower Bitcoin HODLers, it means: HODLers no longer need to sell their Bitcoin to improve their lives… Selling pressure on Bitcoin will reduce… This will further drive Bitcoin’s price upward,” he stated.

The analyst described options premium as a “localized pump” driven by fear and greed, one that redistributes value to long-term holders without contradicting Bitcoin’s fixed supply cap.

Overall, calls outweigh puts across both BTC and ETH, signaling that traders retain exposure to a rebound. Yet the sheer scale of deep out-of-the-money hedges reveals a market that remains cautious.

With billions in notional value set to expire, the key question is whether prices drift toward max pain—or whether hidden crash-protection demand proves prescient, reigniting volatility just as traders expect calm.

Disclaimer

In adherence to the Trust Project guidelines, BeInCrypto is committed to unbiased, transparent reporting. This news article aims to provide accurate, timely information. However, readers are advised to verify facts independently and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content. Please note that our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.