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As negotiations continue in Washington over the crypto market structure legislation known as the CLARITY Act, New York’s top law enforcement officials are now turning their attention to a bill that has already become law. 

Led by New York Attorney General Letitia James, a group of senior prosecutors is raising concerns about the GENIUS Act, the first major US crypto law focused on regulating stablecoins.

Alleged Regulatory Gaps In Crypto Law  According to a report from CNN, James joined four district attorneys, including Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, in warning lawmakers that the GENIUS Act fails to adequately protect victims of financial crime. 

In a letter to Congress, the prosecutors argue that the law gives what they describe as an “imprimatur of legitimacy” to stablecoins, while allowing issuing companies to sidestep critical regulatory obligations needed to combat terrorism financing, drug trafficking, money laundering, and, in particular, cryptocurrency fraud.

A central concern for the prosecutors is not what the GENIUS Act includes, but what it leaves out. They argue that the law does not require stablecoin issuers to return stolen funds to victims of fraud. This omission, they say, risks encouraging harmful behavior. 

In their view, the lack of a clear legal obligation could embolden stablecoin companies to retain stolen assets rather than cooperate fully with law enforcement efforts to make victims whole. The prosecutors warned that this gap may effectively provide legal cover for firms that choose to keep control of stolen funds.

Tether Rejects Allegations The letter singles out the two largest stablecoin issuers, Tether (USDT) and Circle (USDC), claiming both have hindered efforts to seize and return illicit funds, while continuing to profit from activity that prosecutors say remains widespread in stablecoin markets. 

The prosecutors allege that the company has used this power inconsistently and primarily in coordination with federal law enforcement, rather than in response to state or local actions.

As a result, they argue, many victims have little chance of recovering stolen funds once assets are converted into USDT. The letter states that funds moved into USDT are often never frozen, seized, or returned, and that Tether currently decides on a case‑by‑case basis whether to assist in recovery efforts.

Tether responded to CNN by strongly rejecting the suggestion that it tolerates illicit activity. The company said it takes fraud, consumer harm, and misuse of USDT extremely seriously and maintains a zero‑tolerance policy toward criminal behavior. 

Circle Faces Sharper Scrutiny The prosecutors’ criticism of Circle, the second‑largest stablecoin issuer, is even sharper. Circle is publicly traded and based in New York, and the letter acknowledges that the company presents itself as a partner in the fight against financial crime. 

However, the prosecutors argue that Circle’s policies are “significantly worse than those of Tether” when it comes to helping victims recover stolen funds.

They allege that even when Circle agrees to freeze assets linked to fraud, it typically retains control of those funds rather than returning them to victims or law enforcement. 

By holding the underlying reserves, the prosecutors say, Circle continues to earn interest, creating what they describe as a “crystal clear” financial incentive to delay or deny fund returns. 

Circle pushed back against these claims in a statement to CNN. Dante Disparte, the company’s chief strategy officer, said Circle has consistently prioritized financial integrity and the advancement of strong regulatory standards in the US and globally. 

He argued that the crypto law clearly requires stablecoin issuers to follow applicable rules to combat illicit activity while also strengthening consumer protections. 

The 1-D chart shows the total crypto market drop to $2.5 trillion on Tuesday. Source: TOTAL on TradingView.com Featured image from OpenArt, chart from TradingView.com 

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Reports say a wealthy Abu Dhabi investor bought a near-half stake in a crypto company tied to the Trump family. The transaction, reported to be worth about $500 million, involved an entity linked to Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan. It has prompted questions in Washington and stirred activity in the markets where the company’s token trades.

Sheikh A Reported Buyer According to reporting by major outlets, Aryam Investment 1 — an investor connected to Sheikh Tahnoon — agreed to purchase roughly 49% of World Liberty Financial, known as WLFI.

The payment was structured in phases, with about $250 million reported as an initial transfer. Reports note roughly $187 million moved to entities associated with the Trump family, while another $31 million reportedly went to companies tied to cofounders.

JUST IN: 🇺🇸🇦🇪 President Trump says he did not know Abu Dhabi invested $500 million in his World Liberty crypto project.

“I don’t know about it. My sons are handling that, I guess they get investments from people.” pic.twitter.com/AOBosetnpE

— Bitcoin Black (@Bitcoinblacck) February 2, 2026

Timing And Deal Details The timing of the sale matters. It was completed shortly before an important political milestone for the buyer’s partner, and that has sharpened scrutiny.

Some lawmakers and ethics experts raised alarms about a high-value foreign-backed investment in a business tied to a sitting US President.

Others point out that private business dealings are common and that the legal thresholds for disclosure can be complex. Market participants reacted quickly; trading in WLFI-linked assets saw spikes in volume and price swings as news spread.

WLFI is currently trading at $0.13. Chart: TradingView Trump Responds When journalists pressed him about the report, US President Donald Trump denied having knowledge of the transaction. “I don’t know about it,” he said, adding that his sons run many family business matters.

The remark was brief but clear: he insisted the family manages WLFI and that he was not personally involved in negotiating the sale. Some aides later reiterated that any operational decisions were handled by company executives and family members.

Reactions From Lawmakers And Regulators Reports say lawmakers from both parties want answers. A handful of senators have asked for briefings and documents, and a few regulators have been asked to look at whether any disclosure rules were followed.

At the same time, legal experts caution that an investment by a foreign-backed firm is not automatically illegal or disqualifying. What matters, they say, are the exact terms, who signed which papers, and whether any statutory reporting obligations were met.

Featured image from Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images, chart from TradingView

Solana price slid deeper into the red on Feb.4, extending its recent downtrend as sellers continued to press the market.

Summary

Solana drops to $97, extending weekly losses to over 20% as price tests the $95–$100 support zone. Despite price weakness, network usage and ETF inflows suggest longer-term interest remains intact. Oversold conditions could lead to a short-term relief bounce. At press time, SOL was trading near $97, down 6.1% over the past 24 hours. The move leaves Solana sitting near the lower end of its seven-day range between $96 and $127.

Solana (SOL) has dropped 23% over the last week and 31% over the last month. The token is now back to a range that many traders consider critical, having retraced roughly 66% from its peak of $293 in January 2025.

Activity has increased despite the decline. As the price tests support, Solana’s 24-hour spot trading volume increased 32% to $6.55 billion, suggesting increased participation.

Derivatives show a similar trend. CoinGlass data reports futures volume jumping 40% to $17.17 billion, while open interest edged 0.65% higher to $6.48 billion, suggesting traders are adding exposure rather than fully stepping aside.

Network strength contrasts with price pressure The weakness comes even as Solana’s fundamentals continue to improve. As previously reported by crypto.news, the network processed more than 2.34 billion transactions in January, a 33% increase from the past month and more than Ethereum, Base, and BNB Chain combined.

Institutional interest has also shown signs of growth. While Bitcoin and Ethereum exchange-traded products recorded net outflows in January, U.S. spot Solana ETFs attracted $104 million in inflows, pointing to rising interest from traditional investors during the pullback.

Still, price expectations have been adjusted by some analysts. Standard Chartered recently lowered its 2026 Solana price target to $250 from $310, citing near-term market pressure.

At the same time, the bank raised its longer-term outlook, forecasting SOL at $400 by the end of 2027, $700 by end-2028, $1,200 by end-2029, and $2,000 by 2030. The bank’s analysts argue Solana is positioned to benefit from growth in stablecoin usage and micropayments as it moves beyond a meme-driven phase.

Solana price technical analysis From a chart perspective, Solana continues to trade in a clear bearish structure. The daily timeframe shows a consistent pattern of lower highs and lower lows, confirming that sellers still control momentum. The earlier breakdown below the $115–$120 consolidation zone has turned that area into resistance.

Solana daily chart. Credit: crypto.news Price remains well below the declining daily moving average, now near $121, and repeated attempts to reclaim it have failed. This reinforces the idea that recent rebounds have been corrective rather than trend-changing.

Volatility has expanded to the downside. Strong selling pressure is evident as SOL is trading below the lower Bollinger Band. Although this often puts the market in short-term oversold territory, the absence of a significant reversal indicates that the downside momentum has not yet been completely exhausted.

That view is echoed by momentum indicators. The relative strength index is deep in oversold territory, at 26–28. The likelihood of an instant reversal is low because there isn’t any obvious bullish divergence at this point. In strong downtrends, RSI can remain oversold for extended periods.

The $100 level stands out as the most important near-term line. A sustained close below it would likely expose the $95–$93 zone, followed by a broader support area near $85–$90 if selling intensifies.

On the upside, any rebound is likely to face resistance near $120–$122, where the declining moving average and prior support converge.

Investors remain cautious as Tether reassesses its fundraising efforts amid questions about its hefty valuation.

Tether, the world’s largest stablecoin issuer, is reconsidering the scale of its planned funding round amid skepticism over its $500 billion valuation, according to a report from the Financial Times.

The El Salvador-registered company initially explored raising as much as $20 billion, a move that would have placed it among the world’s most valuable private firms like SpaceX or OpenAI. However, it is now considering a far smaller amount, possibly as little as $5B, following pushback from investors.

Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino dismissed the original figure as a misunderstanding, saying it represented the upper limit of what Tether was prepared to offer and that the company would be satisfied even if it chose not to sell any equity.

Ardoino emphasized that Tether does not urgently need new capital given its strong profitability.

Tether reported a standout Q4 and full-year 2025, delivering more than $10 billion in net profits and growing excess reserves to $6.3 billion. Total assets reached nearly $193 billion, continuing to exceed liabilities, while USDT circulation climbed to a record $186 billion following nearly $50 billion in new issuance during the year.

The flows are indicative of a growing split in how investors are positioning across major crypto assets during the latest bout of market volatility.Updated Feb 4, 2026, 7:20 a.m. Published Feb 4, 2026, 7:16 a.m.

Bitcoin exchange-traded funds saw fresh outflows on Tuesday even as ether- and XRP-linked products drew net inflows, indicative of a growing split in how investors are positioning across major crypto assets during the latest bout of market volatility.

U.S.-listed spot bitcoin ETFs recorded roughly $272 million in net outflows on Feb. 3, according to data compiled by SoSoValue, extending a pattern of distribution that has emerged during bitcoin’s recent price swings.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW

(SoSovalue)

The withdrawals came as bitcoin whipsawed sharply, sliding toward $73,000 before rebounding above $76,000, a move traders attributed to thin liquidity and fast-moving macro headlines.

In contrast, spot ether ETFs posted net inflows of about $14 million on the day, while XRP-focused products attracted nearly $20 million, suggesting some investors are rotating exposure rather than exiting crypto markets outright.

(SoSovalue)

The divergence reflects shifting risk preferences rather than a wholesale loss of confidence in digital assets.

Bitcoin has increasingly traded as a macro-sensitive risk asset, reacting quickly to equity-market stress, tighter financial conditions and concerns around technology valuations.

Tuesday’s selling coincided with a sharp selloff in U.S. software stocks after Anthropic's new AI automation tool reignited fears that artificial intelligence could disrupt traditional software business models, pressuring broader tech benchmarks.

The flows also echo a broader theme visible across markets: selective risk-taking rather than blanket risk-off behavior. While bitcoin ETFs have borne the brunt of near-term de-risking, capital is still moving within the crypto complex, favoring assets perceived as offering distinct use cases or relative value.

Bitcoin price today dropped sharply, falling to the $74,000 level and triggering another wave of selling across the crypto market. Ethereum slipped nearly 10% to around $2,100, while most major altcoins declined between 5% and 10% today.

The sudden move has raised fresh concerns about whether Bitcoin is entering a deeper correction phase after weeks of volatility.

Possible Reasons Behind the Bitcoin Crash TodayThe latest Bitcoin crash is not linked to a single event. Instead, analysts point to multiple factors hitting the market at the same time, creating strong downward pressure.

Heavy Liquidations Accelerate Bitcoin DeclineOne of the main reasons behind the drop is massive liquidations in the futures market. Market data shows that over $500 million worth of Bitcoin positions were liquidated in recent sessions.

Many traders were using high leverage. When Bitcoin slipped even slightly, automatic liquidations kicked in, forcing positions to close. This led to a chain reaction of selling, pushing prices lower within minutes.

After the U.S. market opened, Bitcoin dumped another $1,700, wiping out more than $55 million in long positions in just two hours. The overall crypto market lost nearly $50 billion during the same move.

US Stock Market Weakness Hits Crypto HardThe crypto sell-off mirrored weakness in traditional markets. The S&P 500 fell nearly 1.3%, as investors moved away from risk assets.

Historically, when global markets turn cautious, cryptocurrencies tend to react faster and more sharply. The same pattern played out this time, with Bitcoin and altcoins facing intense selling pressure.

Spot Bitcoin ETF Outflows Add PressureAnother key factor weighing on prices is strong outflows from spot Bitcoin ETFs.

As per CoinGlass data, on February 3, spot BTC ETFs recorded $272 million in net outflows. BlackRock’s IBIT stood out as the only major buyer with $60 million in inflows, while other funds continued to see selling.

When ETF flows turn negative like this, it often signals reduced confidence among institutional investors, even if long-term interest remains intact.

Epstein Files Add to Market UncertaintyBeyond macro pressure and liquidations, renewed discussion around the Epstein files has added another layer of uncertainty to the crypto market. Reports highlighting Jeffrey Epstein’s past connections to early Bitcoin research, funding linked to MIT’s Digital Currency Initiative, and ties to prominent crypto figures have resurfaced online. 

While there is no direct evidence linking these revelations to current price action, the narratives have fueled speculation on social media and increased short-term volatility. During already weak market conditions, such controversies often amplify fear and contribute to risk-off behavior among traders.

Geopolitical Tensions Increase Market UncertaintyRising global tensions have also played a role. Ongoing disputes involving the United States, Iran, and Venezuela, along with tariff-related concerns, have increased uncertainty across financial markets.

During such periods, large funds and ETF managers usually cut exposure to risky assets. This capital outflow has added further pressure to Bitcoin and the broader crypto market.

Profit-Taking After Bitcoin’s Massive RallyGalaxy Digital CEO Mike Novogratz believes the recent decline is mainly driven by profit-taking, not panic.

According to him, many investors who bought Bitcoin at much lower levels started selling after prices crossed $100,000, locking in gains after a long rally. He described the move as a “seller’s wave”, rather than fear-driven selling.

Novogratz also dismissed concerns around emerging threats like quantum computing, saying price moves are still driven by basic supply and demand.

Bitcoin Price Analysis: Key Support and Resistance LevelsThe market is sitting at a critical turning point. If Bitcoin slips below the $74,500 support, the next downside target is seen around $69,800–$68,000, a zone that previously acted as strong resistance. 

A deeper breakdown from there could drag prices toward the $53,000–$54,000 range, implying a correction of nearly 30% from current levels. 

On the upside, analysts believe a quick recovery is unlikely, as Bitcoin would need to reclaim the $90,000–$95,000 resistance zone and establish a clear higher-high structure before any sustained rebound can take shape.

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

FAQsWhy is Bitcoin price down today?

Bitcoin is down today due to leveraged liquidations, weak U.S. markets, ETF outflows, profit-taking after the rally, and rising global uncertainty.

How do U.S. stock market declines impact Bitcoin prices?

When stocks fall, investors reduce risk exposure. Bitcoin typically reacts faster, leading to sharper declines during market-wide sell-offs.

Is the current Bitcoin drop a healthy correction?

Yes. Many analysts view this move as a normal correction after a strong rally, helping reset leverage and excess speculation.

Does profit-taking mean Bitcoin’s bull market is over?

No. Profit-taking is common after major rallies and does not signal the end of a long-term bullish trend.

What could drive Bitcoin prices higher again?

Stabilizing markets, renewed ETF inflows, reduced leverage, and improving macro sentiment could support a recovery.

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8h30 ▪ 3 min read ▪ by Luc Jose A.

Summarize this article with:

Having fallen back below $74,000 on February 2, Bitcoin suddenly erases the gains recorded since Trump’s 2024 election. This sharp decline occurs in a climate of widespread distrust towards risky assets, while selling pressure intensifies. After a peak close to $126,000 reached at the end of 2025, the market now questions the robustness of the bullish cycle, and casts doubt over the continuation of the movement.

In brief Bitcoin has fallen back below $73,000, wiping out all gains since Donald Trump’s 2024 election. This drop comes after a peak close to $126,000 reached in October 2025. Nearly 44 % of BTC supply is now held at a loss, according to Glassnode. Institutional investors could limit their exposure if the trend continues. A significant reversal in prices and positions Bitcoin plunged towards $73,000, erasing all gains recorded since Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election. This sharp drop comes after a peak reached in October 2025, where BTC had neared $126,000.

Such a level of decline had not been observed for over a year. The rapid crypto pullback signals a market reversal affecting both retail and institutional investors directly.

Here are the key data points highlighted in current analyses :

“44 % of bitcoin supply is now underwater”, explains Sean Rose, a Glassnode analyst. In other words, nearly half of BTC holders are at a loss compared to their purchase price ; The current price represents a 30 % decrease from the October 2025 peak ; The $73,000 zone corresponds to pre-post-election rally levels from Trump’s victory, wiping out all performance since that political event ; The pullback movement was reinforced by cascading liquidations on leveraged markets, increasing selling pressure on major exchanges ; Bitcoin’s decline is accompanied by a widespread retreat of cryptos and technology stocks, according to correlations observed in markets over recent weeks. These elements indicate growing market instability, in a climate of progressive disengagement from assets perceived as volatile.

Market pressures Beyond the simple price drop, technical indicators and market participants’ reactions reflect a climate of strong uncertainty. Data shows that Bitcoin is currently struggling to maintain key support levels, and momentum has weakened below these thresholds, which may favor continued volatility and longer correction phases.

This pressure is also reflected in derivative markets, where stress remains high after several weeks of forced liquidation of leveraged positions. Activity on these markets can amplify price movements downward, as forced liquidations translate into new sell orders on order books.

If the current trend were to continue, the consequences could extend far beyond the price of Bitcoin alone. A prolonged price weakening would reduce institutional investors’ appetite, already cautious about volatility, and restrict volume participation in spot and derivatives markets. A persistent sentiment deterioration would affect other crypto-related asset classes, such as stocks of companies exposed to Bitcoin or financial products indexed to prices.

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Luc Jose A.

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

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.

Felix Pinkston Feb 04, 2026 06:00

XRP trades at $1.59 with RSI at 28.32 indicating oversold conditions. Technical analysis suggests potential bounce to $1.75 resistance level within two weeks if bulls defend $1.53 support.

XRP Price Prediction Summary • Short-term target (1 week): $1.69 • Medium-term forecast (1 month): $1.48-$1.84 range
• Bullish breakout level: $1.84 • Critical support: $1.53

What Crypto Analysts Are Saying About Ripple While specific analyst predictions are limited in recent days, institutional sentiment remains cautiously optimistic. According to a Nasdaq analysis from January 18, 2026, XRP is positioned to "set a new all-time high and end the year trading above the $4 mark." This ambitious Ripple forecast suggests significant upside potential despite current technical headwinds.

On-chain metrics from major data platforms indicate mixed signals, with trading volume remaining robust at nearly $300 million on Binance alone, suggesting sustained institutional interest even during the recent price consolidation.

XRP Technical Analysis Breakdown XRP's current technical picture presents a compelling oversold scenario. Trading at $1.59, Ripple sits well below its key moving averages, with the 20-day SMA at $1.84 and the 200-day SMA at $2.49 indicating a clear downtrend.

The RSI reading of 28.32 signals deeply oversold conditions, historically a reliable indicator for potential bounce opportunities. The MACD histogram shows neutral momentum at 0.0000, suggesting the selling pressure may be exhausting.

Ripple's Bollinger Band position at 0.09 confirms XRP is trading near the lower band support at $1.53, with the upper band at $2.15 providing significant resistance. The current Average True Range of $0.10 indicates moderate volatility, typical for consolidation phases.

Key support levels include the immediate floor at $1.53 and stronger support at $1.48, while resistance emerges at $1.64 and the critical $1.69 level that could trigger short-covering.

Ripple Price Targets: Bull vs Bear Case Bullish Scenario If XRP can hold above the $1.53 support level, a technical bounce toward $1.69 appears likely within one week. A break above this resistance could target the 20-day moving average at $1.84, representing a 16% upside from current levels.

The bullish case requires confirmation through increased volume above 300 million daily and RSI recovery above 40. A sustained break above $1.84 would signal a potential trend reversal, opening the path toward $2.15 resistance.

Bearish Scenario Failure to hold $1.53 support could trigger additional selling toward the $1.48 strong support level. A break below this critical floor might accelerate declines toward psychological support near $1.30.

Risk factors include continued broad crypto market weakness and potential regulatory concerns that have historically impacted Ripple's price action. The distance from major moving averages suggests the downtrend could persist without strong fundamental catalysts.

Should You Buy XRP? Entry Strategy For risk-tolerant investors, the current oversold conditions present a tactical buying opportunity near $1.53-$1.55 range. A dollar-cost averaging approach may be prudent given the uncertain short-term direction.

Conservative entry points should wait for confirmation above $1.64 resistance with accompanying volume expansion. Stop-loss orders below $1.48 would limit downside risk to approximately 7% from current levels.

Position sizing should reflect XRP's historical volatility, with maximum 3-5% portfolio allocation recommended for most investors. The risk-reward ratio favors buyers if they can maintain discipline around stop-loss levels.

Conclusion This XRP price prediction suggests a 70% probability of testing $1.69 resistance within two weeks, driven primarily by oversold technical conditions. The Ripple forecast remains cautiously optimistic for Q1 2026, though significant resistance exists at moving average levels.

While the long-term outlook aligns with bullish institutional predictions targeting $4, near-term price action will likely remain range-bound between $1.48-$1.84 until broader market conditions improve.

Disclaimer: Cryptocurrency predictions involve substantial risk. This analysis is for informational purposes only and should not constitute investment advice. Always conduct your own research and consider your risk tolerance before making investment decisions.

Image source: Shutterstock

xrp price analysis xrp price prediction

Tokenized silver futures logged one of the largest wipeouts across crypto markets, overtaking the usual leaders bitcoin and ether.Updated Feb 4, 2026, 5:14 a.m. Published Feb 4, 2026, 5:08 a.m.

The tokenized version of silver has whipped around more wildly than bitcoin, resulting in large losses to holders. Hedge fund manager Michael Burry, known for “The Big Short," sees this as a vicious loop where falling prices force liquidations, tanking it further.

Burry pointed to the same dynamic in a note this week, characterizing it as a “collateral death spiral” in which falling crypto prices and heavy leverage triggered liquidations in tokenized metals and digital assets.

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Burry said silver liquidations exceeded bitcoin on at least one crypto venue during the unwind.

“Sky-high leverage on these crypto exchanges due to rising metals prices meant that as the crypto collateral fell, the tokenized metals had to be sold," he said. "This is a collateral death spiral."

"It was reported that tokenized silver futures liquidations actually exceeded Bitcoin liquidations on one crypto market called, ironically, Hyperliquid," Burry added.

That reversal was driven less by anything specific to bitcoin than by fast-moving positioning in metals, where a sharp pullback collided with crowded leverage and thin liquidity.

At the peak of the move, tokenized silver futures logged one of the largest wipeouts across crypto markets, overtaking the usual leaders bitcoin and ether.

Tokenized metals contracts let traders take directional bets on gold, silver and copper using crypto-native platforms rather than traditional futures accounts.

These products trade around the clock and often require less upfront capital, which can make them attractive in volatile conditions. But that same setup can accelerate forced selling when prices move against a crowded trade.

As metals rolled over, leveraged longs were forced to unwind. Liquidations surged as traders either failed to meet margin requirements or saw positions automatically closed by platforms.

On Hyperliquid, one of the most active venues for these instruments, silver-linked liquidations briefly exceeded bitcoin’s — a rare moment where a macro contract, not BTC, became the main driver of forced selling.

The move also came as traditional markets tightened risk parameters.

CME Group raised margin requirements for gold and silver futures, increasing collateral demands and pressuring leveraged traders to either add capital or cut exposure.

While those margin changes apply to CME contracts, traders say shifts in positioning and risk appetite can spill quickly into tokenized markets that mirror the same underlying assets.

The broader takeaway is that crypto venues are no longer used only for crypto. They’re increasingly becoming alternative rails for macro trades — and in stress, that can flip the liquidation tables in ways traders don’t expect.

Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, speaks during the launch of Adopting Bitcoin – A Lightning Summit in El Salvador, in San Salvador, El Salvador November 7, 2023. REUTERS/Jose Cabezas/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights, opens new tab

Feb 4 (Reuters) - Crypto group Tether Chief Executive Paolo Ardoino has downplayed the amount of money it will raise in a new funding round following investor pushback over its $500-billion valuation goal, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday.

Tether's advisers have floated raising as little as $5 billion after facing investor reluctance, the report said, citing people familiar with the matter, following talks of a $15 billion to $20 billion fundraise last year.

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El Salvador-based Tether is the issuer of the world's most widely used USDT stablecoin, a digital dollar with $187 billion worth of tokens in circulation.

Bloomberg News reported in September last year that Tether was seeking between $15 billion and $20 billion for about a 3% stake through a private placement that could value it at as much as $500 billion.

Calling the initial funding target a "misconception", CEO Ardoino told the FT: "that number is not our goal. It's our maximum we were ready to sell."

Ardoino told the FT that Tether had "received a lot of interest" at the $500 billion valuation, with undecided equity sales in part because insiders are reluctant to unload shares.

Reuters could not immediately verify the FT report. Tether did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Last month, Ardoino told Reuters that Tether's 2026 profit is expected to exceed the $10 billion it is estimated to have earned in 2025 and possibly the $13.7 billion earned in 2024.

Tether has strengthened its position in the stablecoin market by offering cryptocurrencies pegged to traditional currencies to reduce volatility and ease transfers between digital assets.

(This story has been refiled to correct the spelling of 'billion' in the headline)

Reporting by Ananya Palyekar in Bengaluru; Editing by Sherry Jacob-Phillips and Mrigank Dhaniwala

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles., opens new tab

Story HighlightsThe live price of the VeChain token is  $ 0.00859757.Price predictions for 2026 range from $0.035 to $0.088.VET could extend toward $0.450 by 2030, if recovery structure holds.VeChain (VET) enters the current market phase at a point where long-term fundamentals and price behavior are gradually beginning to align. As one of the earliest blockchain networks focused on real-world enterprise adoption, VeChain has spent years building infrastructure around supply-chain tracking, data transparency, and business-level integrations. While broader market interest faded during the prolonged correction, the protocol continued developing quietly, preserving its relevance beyond speculative cycles.

From a technical standpoint, VET’s chart structure no longer reflects panic-driven selling. Instead, price action has shifted into controlled consolidation, marked by lower volatility and consistent reactions around established demand zones. This type of behavior often suggests the market is transitioning from extended distribution into a valuation phase. As the year progresses, attention turns to whether VeChain can maintain this base and convert stability into a broader recovery move heading toward 2026.

VeChain Price TodayCryptocurrencyVeChainTokenVETPrice$0.0086 0.82% Market Cap$ 739,262,631.9924h Volume$ 32,388,718.3616Circulating Supply85,985,041,177.00Total Supply85,985,041,177.00All-Time High$ 0.2782 on 17 April 2021All-Time Low$ 0.0017 on 13 March 2020VeChain (VET) Price February 2026 OutlookAs February unfolds, VeChain’s price action indicates that the market is prioritizing balance rather than momentum. VET has been rotating within a defined range, with buyers repeatedly defending the $0.020–$0.023 zone, while upside attempts continue to face supply pressure near $0.035–$0.038. As long as price holds above this lower support band, the broader structure remains constructive.

Rather than signaling weakness, this sideways movement suggests that selling pressure is being absorbed. A sustained break above the upper resistance zone would improve short-term sentiment, but even continued consolidation within this range supports the view that VeChain is building a base rather than entering a renewed downtrend.

Looking ahead, 2026 appears to be a transition year for VeChain, where prolonged consolidation may evolve into early trend development. The extended compression visible on higher timeframes suggests that speculative excess from previous cycles has largely been unwound, allowing price to rebuild on a firmer foundation.

During the first half of 2026, VET is likely to continue rotating within a broad band, potentially revisiting support near $0.030–$0.040 while making repeated attempts to reclaim resistance around $0.060. This range-bound behavior is typical during accumulation phases, where long-term participants gradually establish positions. If VeChain manages to reclaim and hold above the $0.060–$0.070 region later in the year, the technical structure would open the door for an advance toward the $0.088 level by year-end. Such a move would likely unfold gradually, supported by higher lows and improving trend consistency rather than sharp, speculative spikes.

VeChain Crypto Price Prediction 2026 – 2030YearPotential Low ($)Potential Average ($Potential High ($)20260.0350.0600.08820270.0550.0950.14020280.0850.1600.25020290.1300.2400.36020300.2000.3500.450VET Token Price Projection 2026In 2026, VeChain price could project a low price of $0.035, an average price of $0.060, and a high of $0.088.

VeChain Coin Price Target 2027As per the VeChain Price Prediction 2027, VET may see a potential low price of $0.055. Meanwhile, the average price is predicted to be around $0.095. The potential high for VET price in 2027 is estimated to reach $0.140.

VET Crypto Price Action 2028In 2028, VeChain  price is forecasted to potentially reach a low price of $0.085 and a high price of $0.250.

VeChain (VET) Price Forecast 2029Thereafter, the VeChain  (VET) price for the year 2029 could range between $0.130 and $0.360.

VeChain Price Prediction 2030Finally, in 2030, the price of VeChain  is predicted to maintain a steady positive. It may trade between $0.200 and $0.450.

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

YearPotential Low ($)Potential Average ($)Potential High ($)20310.300.400.6020320.260.500.6020330.300.550.7520400.420.851.2020500.651.402.20VeChain  (VET) Price Prediction: Market Analysis?Year202620272030Changelly$0.071$0.105$0.42CoinCodex$0.058$0.082$0.330WalletInvestor$0.086$0.0125$0.480CoinPedia’s VeChain  Price PredictionCoinpedia’s price prediction suggests that VeChain is currently progressing through a late-stage accumulation phase. If VET continues holding its base and successfully reclaims higher resistance levels, the token could trade near $0.088 by the end of 2026, with longer-term potential extending toward the $0.30–$0.45 range by 2030, depending on market participation and trend strength.

YearPotential Low ($)Potential Average ($)Potential High ($)20260.0350.0600.088Never 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 VeChain (VET) price prediction for 2026?

VeChain is projected to trade between $0.035 and $0.088 in 2026, with price action shaped by consolidation, accumulation, and gradual trend development.

What is the VeChain price prediction for 2027?

VeChain price prediction for 2027 suggests VET could trade between $0.055 and $0.140, supported by accumulation and gradual trend expansion.

What is the VET Chain price prediction for 2030?

VeChain price prediction for 2030 estimates a range of $0.200 to $0.450 if enterprise adoption grows and long-term market trends remain positive.

What is the VeChain price forecast for 2035?

VeChain price prediction for 2035 assumes steady maturity, with VET potentially trading between $0.45 and $0.75 as growth moderates over time.

What is the VeChain price prediction for 2040?

VeChain price prediction for 2040 projects VET could range from $0.85 to $1.20 if it maintains relevance in enterprise blockchain solutions.

How high can VeChain price go in 2025?

VeChain price in 2025 could range between $0.030 and $0.060 if consolidation holds and market conditions gradually improve without strong speculative momentum.

Is VeChain a long-term investment?

VeChain’s focus on enterprise blockchain use cases supports its long-term outlook, though price growth is expected to be gradual rather than explosive.

Disclaimer and Risk WarningThe price predictions in this article are based on the author's personal analysis and opinions. CoinPedia does not endorse or guarantee these views. Investors should conduct independent research before making any financial decisions.

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Michael Burry, the legendary investor behind “The Big Short,” has predicted that Bitcoin’s deepening bear market could trigger a $1 billion impending catastrophic sell-off in gold and silver.

“It looks like up to $1 billion in precious metals were liquidated at month’s very end as a result of falling crypto prices,” Burry said.

In a Substack post on Monday, he argued that Bitcoin has been projected as a purely speculative asset. Further, the crypto correlation with precious metals has created what Michael Burry calls as “sickening scenarios” that have now come within reach.

BITCOIN SLIDE COULD WIPE OUT COMPANIES

Michael Burry warned that Bitcoin’s ongoing decline could destroy significant value, especially for companies holding large BTC reserves. He said Bitcoin has failed as a safe haven like gold and could push aggressive corporate holders into…

— *Walter Bloomberg (@DeItaone) February 3, 2026 Bitcoin has slipped 3.17% over the past 24 hours, extending a 14.44% weekly drop amid a broader crypto market decline. The largest crypto by market cap is trading at $76,362 in the Asian morning hours on Wednesday.

Michael Burry’s predictions coincided with Bitcoin hitting $72.8K lows. That said, high-profile bearish narratives can accelerate capital rotation out of risk assets.

With BTC already down 17.74% monthly, such warnings reinforce negative sentiment and discourage dip-buying.

Saylor’s Strategy Exemplifies Institutional Risk: Michael BurryPer a Bloomberg report on Wednesday, Burry further warned that if Bitcoin tumbles another 10%, Michael Saylor’s Strategy, the largest corporate BTC treasury firm with 713,502 Bitcoin stash as of Monday, would likely record millions in losses.

Strategy sees an “existential crisis” if BTC were to fall to $60,000. This would “find capital markets essentially closed,” Burry added.

Other BTC hoarders would likely take a 15%-20% loss on their holdings, leading risk managers to “get more aggressive,” Michael Burry said.

Strategy has turned unprofitable following Bitcoin’s slump, facing an unrealized loss of over $900 million, as reported by Cryptonews early this week. Despite the coin plummeting below $75K, the company accumulated additional 855 BTC on Monday.

If BTC Continues to Fall, Risk Managers Will Advice Companies to SellAccording to Michael Burry, there is no organic use case reason for Bitcoin to slow or stop its descent.

Unlike silver or gold, the crypto has indeed failed to respond to drivers, including geopolitical risks. BTC treasury firms and spot crypto ETFs are not enough to keep its price afloat.

Nearly 200 public companies hold Bitcoin, Burry said. “There is nothing permanent about treasury assets.”

“Bitcoin ETFs have been notching some of their biggest single-day outflows since late November, with three of them occurring in the last 10 days of January,” Michael Burry wrote.

He further warned that if the crypto’s price keeps falling, company risk managers will start advising to sell their Bitcoin stash.

Bitmine Chair Tom Lee Shrugs Off ETH Treasury Losses, Asks If ETFs Should Face Same Scrutiny

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Bitmine Immersion Technologies chairman Tom Lee pushed back on criticism of the company’s Ethereum treasury strategy on Tuesday, arguing that paper losses come with the territory when a public vehicle is built to mirror the price of Ethereum through a full market cycle.

Lee’s comments were made in response to a social media post that accused Bitmine of sitting on a steep unrealized loss and setting up future selling pressure for Ether.

“BMNR is now sitting on a -$6.6 Billion dollar unrealized LOSS on the ETH they’ve accumulated. This is ETH in the future that will be sold, putting a future ceiling on ETH prices. Tom Lee was the final exit liquidity for OG ETH whales to get out of their worthless token,” the tweet read.

Lee Defends ETH Treasury As Long-Term Tracking StrategyIn response, Lee said the company’s goal is to track Ether’s price closely and aim to outperform over time through its approach, rather than trying to smooth out drawdowns.

These tweets miss the point of an ethereum treasury:
– BitMine is designed to track the price of $ETH
– outperform over the cycle (think up ETH)
– crypto is in a downturn, so naturally ETH is down$BMNR will see “unrealized” losses on our holdings of ETH during these times:
-… https://t.co/VpoNjAnJdC

— Thomas (Tom) Lee (not drummer) FSInsight.com (@fundstrat) February 3, 2026 He said unrealized losses show up naturally during broad crypto pullbacks, and he questioned why critics treat that as uniquely problematic when index products also swing lower during market declines.

Ether has slid sharply in the latest leg of the downturn, and Bitmine’s growing treasury has amplified the mark-to-market moves that come with a concentrated position.

Bitmine itself has framed the strategy as a long-duration bet on Ethereum’s role in finance and capital markets, pairing accumulation with staking infrastructure.

Bitmine’s ETH Holdings Climb To 4.24M As Paper Losses Pass $6BIn a recent company release, Bitmine said it held 4.24M ETH as of Jan. 25 and said it acquired 40,302 ETH over the prior week. Meanwhile, unrealized losses topped $6B.

The same statement pointed to a shifting political and institutional backdrop. It quoted President Donald Trump saying that Congress is working on crypto market structure legislation that he hopes to sign soon, and it positioned tokenization as a theme gaining traction among large financial players.

Lee has also tied the sell-off to market structure stress, pointing to the aftershocks of a record $19B liquidation event in October and to the way flows into metals can drain risk appetite from crypto during fragile periods.

The episode has reopened a wider debate around corporate-style crypto treasuries, especially those using Ether rather than Bitcoin.

Lee appears to be treating the recent drawdown as part of the cycle, not proof that the strategy is broken, and he has kept his longer-term pitch intact that Ethereum sits at the centre of where finance is heading.

Why Bitcoin’s Defense of $76,000 Matters for MicroStrategy’s Q4 Earnings Narrative$76,000 marks MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin breakeven, turning price action into a balance-sheet eventFalling below support risks unrealized losses dominating earnings optics despite strong Q4 prices.Recent high-priced BTC buys revive “buying the top” criticism ahead of earnings.Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy) is set to report Q4 2025 earnings after market close on February 5, making Bitcoin’s struggle to hold the $76,000 level more than a technical battle.

Bitcoin’s price is now directly shaping the company’s earnings narrative, investor sentiment, and the credibility of its leveraged Bitcoin treasury model.

Bitcoin’s $76,000 Technical Support Bears Balance-Sheet Consequences for StrategyAs of this writing on February 4, Bitcoin is trading at $76,645 after briefly dipping to an intra-day low of $72,945 in the previous session.

Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance. Source: TradingViewSponsored

Sponsored

The move has pushed Bitcoin uncomfortably close to Strategy’s average acquisition cost of $76,052 across its 713,502 BTC holdings. This turns $76,000 into a balance-sheet inflection point rather than just another chart level.

A Breakeven Line with Earnings ImplicationsUnder fair-value accounting rules adopted in 2025, Strategy must mark its Bitcoin holdings to market each quarter, allowing unrealized gains and losses to flow directly through earnings.

While Q4 results will reflect Bitcoin’s higher prices in December—when BTC traded above $80,000 for much of the quarter—continued weakness into earnings risks dominating the conversation.

At current levels, Strategy’s Bitcoin position is roughly flat. A sustained move below $76,000, however, would push the treasury into clear unrealized losses. When Bitcoin briefly traded near $74,500 recently, Strategy faced a paper hit approaching $1 billion.

While those losses would not directly alter Q4 numbers, they loom large over sentiment heading into the earnings call and Michael Saylor’s commentary.

Buying High, Again—and the Optics ProblemComplicating matters is Strategy’s recent buying behavior. In late January and early February, the company added Bitcoin at significantly higher prices than where the market is currently trading.

The most recent tranche, 855 BTC purchased at an average of roughly $87,974, was followed almost immediately by a sharp weekend sell-off that sent Bitcoin below $75,000.

Sponsored

Sponsored

Earlier January purchases were executed at even higher averages, including a tranche near $90,000 and another above $95,000.

This pattern is not new. Strategy has historically ramped up purchases during strong rallies, relying on equity issuance and zero-coupon convertible debt to fund accumulation.

While this approach has paid off over full cycles, it has repeatedly exposed the company to sharp short-term drawdowns, fueling criticism that Strategy often “buys the top” before corrections.

Echoes of 2021–2022The current episode is drawing comparisons to Strategy’s aggressive buying in 2021, when the company accumulated tens of thousands of Bitcoin near cycle highs. When Bitcoin collapsed by more than 70% in 2022, Strategy incurred billions in unrealized losses and saw its stock plunge by more than 80%.

Michael Saylor just disclosed that MicroStrategy purchased another 480 #Bitcoin's for ~$10M in cash, or $20,817 per coin, between May 3 and Tuesday. How is he doing? Bad. He has lost on paper almost $1.38B or 34.8%.🤷‍♂️ pic.twitter.com/0SswIvvxZr

— WallStreetPro (@wallstreetpro) June 29, 2022 Though the company survived without forced selling—and later benefited massively from the 2024–2025 bull run—the episode highlighted the volatility and dilution risks embedded in its strategy.

“MicroStrategy owns the most Bitcoin out of all public companies. It just posted a $299M loss b/c of the crypto crash. This is what it looks like to invest in highly volatile & fundamentally worthless assets. A tiny bit of news can result in BIG loses,” commented economics professor Steve Hanke.

Sponsored

Sponsored

That history is resurfacing now as Bitcoin trades roughly 42% below its October 2025 peak of $126,000, erasing more than $1 trillion in market capitalization over the past four months.

Cramer Turns Up the HeatExacerbating the debate, Jim Cramer has publicly urged Saylor to step in once again, calling $73,802 Bitcoin’s “line in the sand.” With this, he pressed upon Strategy to issue another zero-coupon convertible or secondary offering to halt the decline ahead of earnings.

“Strategy’s earnings depend upon it,” Cramer wrote, questioning what Saylor would have to discuss on the earnings call if Bitcoin fails to rebound.

Cramer doubled down hours later, framing Strategy as a de facto defender of Bitcoin price, a notion that runs counter to Saylor’s long-standing refusal to manage short-term price levels.

Rising Criticism and Systemic ConcernsThe pressure isn’t coming from Cramer alone. Commentators like Bull Theory have framed the drawdown as evidence that something fundamental may be breaking in crypto, while others have taken a far harsher stance.

Longtime skeptic Michael Burry has warned that sustained Bitcoin declines could wipe out companies with large BTC treasuries. The analyst argues that Bitcoin has failed to behave as a safe haven and could trigger broader corporate distress.

BITCOIN SLIDE COULD WIPE OUT COMPANIES

Michael Burry warned that Bitcoin’s ongoing decline could destroy significant value, especially for companies holding large BTC reserves. He said Bitcoin has failed as a safe haven like gold and could push aggressive corporate holders into…

— *Walter Bloomberg (@DeItaone) February 3, 2026 Sponsored

Sponsored

More extreme critics have gone further, labeling Strategy’s approach structurally unsound. They warn that leverage and dilution could eventually overwhelm the model if prolonged weakness persists.

Despite the noise, the immediate focus remains clear. Holding above $76,000 allows Strategy to frame its earnings around resilience, long-term conviction, and disciplined accumulation through volatility.

“Volatility is Satoshi’s gift to the faithful,” Saylor chimed.

A breakdown below that level would shift the narrative sharply, toward:

Unrealized losses Dilution from past raises, and Questions about whether Strategy still has the financial flexibility to continue accumulating without damaging shareholder value. With MSTR trading as a high-beta Bitcoin proxy and earnings just hours away, the market is watching closely.

Whether Bitcoin stabilizes or slips further may not change Strategy’s long-term thesis, but it could decisively shape how that thesis is judged this week.

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TLDR: MicroStrategy faces a $900 million unrealized loss as Bitcoin trades below its average purchase price of holdings  The company’s Bitcoin is not used as collateral, eliminating margin call risks despite current price levels below cost  MicroStrategy holds 2.5 years cash runway for obligations, removing pressure to sell Bitcoin during downturn  Firm’s $8.24 billion debt matures between 2028-2030, providing flexibility during short-term price volatility  Bitcoin has fallen beneath MicroStrategy’s average purchase price, creating an unrealized loss of $900 million for the corporate holder.

No Forced Sales Despite Paper Losses The recent price decline marks a familiar scenario for MicroStrategy and its executive chairman, Michael Saylor. According to Bull Theory, this situation has occurred before during previous market cycles.

During the last bear market, the company’s average cost per Bitcoin was around $30,000. The digital asset subsequently dropped to approximately $16,000, representing a decline exceeding 45% below their cost basis.

MicroStrategy did not liquidate any holdings during that period. The company faced no forced selling pressure despite the substantial paper losses.

Bull Theory explains that the firm’s Bitcoin holdings are not pledged as collateral for its debt obligations. This structure eliminates the risk of margin calls tied to Bitcoin’s fluctuating price movements.

🚨BREAKING: Bitcoin just dumped below Michael Saylor’s average buying price with an unrealized loss of $900 million.

Does this mean $MSTR will go bankrupt soon and start selling BTC ? No.

Let’s understand why. 👇

This is not the first time Strategy has seen Bitcoin trade below… https://t.co/PVGq9nrtMd pic.twitter.com/TAik6NnmtK

— Bull Theory (@BullTheoryio) February 3, 2026

The company’s debt portfolio totals roughly $8.24 billion. Most of these obligations are unsecured and carry maturity dates between 2028 and 2030.

The long-term nature of these debts provides breathing room during price volatility. Meanwhile, Bitcoin’s current holdings are valued at $53.54 billion at today’s market prices.

MicroStrategy has also established a cash reserve covering 2.5 years of interest and dividend payments. This financial cushion means the company can meet its obligations without selling Bitcoin.

The treasury buffer allows the firm to weather extended periods of price weakness below its average cost.

Balance Sheet Structure Supports Long-Term Holding The assumption that short-term price drops trigger automatic selling does not align with MicroStrategy’s financial architecture.

Bull Theory emphasized this point in their analysis shared on social media. The company’s debt structure and cash reserves create flexibility that differs from leveraged trading positions.

Saylor has acknowledged that prolonged Bitcoin prices well below cost could eventually prompt asset sales. However, brief movements below the average purchase price do not affect the company’s core financial health.

The distinction between short-term volatility and sustained price weakness remains important for understanding MicroStrategy’s position.

The current situation does not alter the firm’s liquidity profile. Solvency metrics remain intact despite the unrealized losses on paper.

The ability to hold Bitcoin through market cycles stems from the deliberate financial planning undertaken by management.

Market participants often conflate price drops with forced liquidations. Yet MicroStrategy’s case demonstrates how balance sheet construction determines actual selling pressure.

The absence of collateralized debt and the presence of operating cash reserves provide insulation from mandatory asset disposals during downturns.

Bitcoin is on an epic crash right now, having lost 40% of its value since October, and Michael Burry (the investor behind the famous housing market short in 2008) is no warning that this dip could turn into a full-blown collapse.

This guy is calling it a “death spiral.” Companies that loaded up on Bitcoin over the past year could be in serious trouble.

In a post on Monday, Burry said Bitcoin is a speculative bet, not a real hedge like gold or silver. He pointed out that while precious metals soared on fears about the dollar, Bitcoin did nothing. And now, if it falls another 10%, he says Strategy, the biggest corporate holder of Bitcoin, would be deep in the red and could lose access to funding. He also said miners would be next to break.

Price drop threatens companies and miners Bitcoin dropped under $73,000 on Tuesday, hitting its lowest level since Donald Trump returned to the White House in 2025. Some analysts blame the fall on weak flows, poor liquidity, and fading interest. Others say crypto traders are shifting toward betting markets instead of sticking with coins.

But Burry thinks this isn’t just a blip. He said Bitcoin has no reason to stop falling. Even with adoption from corporate treasuries and new exchange-traded funds, the price hasn’t found support.

He warned that nearly 200 public companies holding Bitcoin are now at risk. Once their accountants mark down those holdings, the pressure to sell will get worse.

“There is no organic use case reason for Bitcoin to slow or stop its descent,” Burry wrote. And when Bitcoin keeps dropping, he said CFOs will tell their teams to get out.

Treasuries aren’t long-term bets. They get marked to market. When Bitcoin tanks, it hits financial reports directly. Burry said risk managers won’t sit around and hope. They’ll cut.

He also pointed to the surge in spot Bitcoin ETFs. Instead of helping, he says they’ve made Bitcoin even more speculative.

He said the ETFs have raised Bitcoin’s ties to the stock market, and the coin’s correlation with the S&P 500 has now reached around 0.50. That means if stocks fall, Bitcoin could fall harder.

Outflows, tokenized metals and growing damage Burry noted that ETFs have seen some of their worst daily outflows since November. Three big ones happened just in the last ten days of January. That’s not small money leaving. It’s investors giving up.

He also said crypto is leaking into other markets. Even though Bitcoin’s market cap is under $1.5 trillion, and household exposure is low, the impact is spreading. To cover losses, traders are dumping other assets, especially tokenized gold and silver futures.

Those contracts aren’t backed by real metal. When they get sold off in bulk, they pull down the real metals market too.

Burry said this creates what he called a “collateral death spiral.” At the end of last month, he estimated that up to $1 billion in precious metals was liquidated just because of falling crypto prices.

If Bitcoin falls to $50,000, Burry said miners would go broke and tokenized futures would crash with no one left to buy them. He blamed recent losses in gold and silver directly on crypto-linked selling. “Sickening scenarios have now come within reach,” he wrote.

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Posted: February 4, 2026

Bitcoin [BTC] is currently trading in one of its most opaque phases in recent years. Price action has repeatedly invalidated expectations of a sustained rally.

From its peak of $126,000, BTC declined by $48,000 to $78,000, a move that reflects just how deeply bearish sentiment has taken hold.

Even so, spot investors remain one of the most reliable indicators of both short- and long-term market direction, particularly during periods when sentiment begins to shift.

Spot market weakness persists BTC has now recorded five consecutive months of negative spot netflows, with no meaningful bullish interruption. This sustained pressure reflects a broader contraction in capital, as investors steadily reduce exposure.

Spot trading volume has collapsed since the drawdown that began on the 10th of October. Binance data reinforces the trend; spot volume stood near $200 billion in October but has since fallen to about $104 billion.

Source: Alphractal.

Spot traders are a key source of market momentum. When their activity declines sharply, it signals weakening conviction and subdued demand, conditions that tend to weigh heavily on price.

Capital outflows are also evident in stablecoin markets. Stablecoin capitalization has declined by approximately $10 billion, pointing to reduced investor willingness to keep funds parked on-chain.

Stablecoins typically act as a buffer during volatile periods, allowing capital to re-enter once conditions stabilize. The current drawdown suggests investors are either reallocating elsewhere or exiting the market altogether.

Derivatives markets have mirrored this retreat. The October crash triggered a sharp contraction in open interest, with a single-day decline of roughly $8 billion, equivalent to about 70,000 BTC at the time. This highlights a broad reduction in leverage and risk appetite.

Can spot activity fuel a short-term rebound? Despite shrinking capital and muted momentum, spot market data offers a narrow but notable basis for a potential short-term rebound.

Recent indicators point to a potential short‑term upside move for Bitcoin. Spot exchange netflows, which measure inflows and outflows to gauge buyer versus seller activity, support this view.

From January 19 to January 26, buyers accumulated approximately $2.1 billion worth of Bitcoin despite ongoing price pressure. This steady accumulation offers early signs that demand may be quietly returning.

Source: Alphractal

Additional confirmation comes from the Spot Taker CVD (cumulative volume delta). Over the past three months, the metric, which measures the difference between aggressive spot buying and selling, has turned positive.

This shift indicates that, despite Bitcoin’s weak performance since December, buyers have accounted for a larger share of spot volume. If this trend persists, sentiment could gradually tilt in their favor, setting the stage for at least a short-term rebound once confidence improves.

Why the signal remains fragile Still, these signals remain insufficient to support a sustained recovery.

While recent spot activity points to conditions that could enable a rebound, overall participation remains thin. Retail trading frequency data from CryptoQuant indicates that the market is firmly in a neutral zone, with neither buyers nor sellers exerting clear dominance.

This neutrality implies that trading activity is too limited to influence price direction materially. Historically, stronger rebound signals emerge when a green dot appears on the spot retail activity chart, marking renewed buying interest after a drawdown.

Source: Alphractal

Past instances show that such formations often precede upside moves. While not a definitive signal, it remains a useful framework for tracking whether spot market strength is building enough to challenge the prevailing bearish trend.

Final Thoughts

Since the October 2025 crash, activity in the spot market has thinned considerably, with trading volume sliding nearly in half to about $104 billion. Beneath the dominant bearish narrative, short-term spot investors may be quietly shaping conditions for a rebound.

Tether has walked away from plans to raise up to $20 billion after top investors said no to the company’s $500 billion valuation.

The crypto giant, based in El Salvador, had started talks last year to raise a massive round that could’ve put it among the most valuable private companies on earth. But the demand didn’t come, and now the number being discussed is just $5 billion.

The group, known for its $185 billion dollar-pegged stablecoin USDT, is led by Paolo Ardoino, who tried to downplay the change.

“That number is not our goal. It’s our maximum we were ready to sell,” he said. “If we were selling zero, we would be very happy as well.” Paolo said Tether is profitable and never really needed the cash.

Investors push back on $500 billion valuation The original goal to raise between $15 billion and $20 billion was floated by Tether’s advisers, but as Paolo put it, it was never a hard target. Now, the pitch has changed.

With crypto prices falling and traders pulling away from high-risk assets, investors aren’t biting. The hype around crypto faded fast, even with Donald Trump back in the White House promising easier rules for digital assets.

Still, Tether claims to be pulling in billions. Paolo said the company made about $10 billion last year, mostly from the returns on its massive reserves backing USDT.But big names in finance have questioned the logic behind the $500 billion price tag.

“The AI companies are making the same amount of profits we’re making, except with a minus sign in the front,” he said. “If you believe that some AI company is worth $800bn, with a huge minus in front, be my guest.”

So far, the company hasn’t made any final decisions on how much equity to sell. Paolo said that’s because many insiders just don’t want to sell at all. He also said they’ve had “a lot of interest” from investors, even at the sky-high price.

Regulation, reserves, and investor concerns pile up Tether hired Cantor Fitzgerald to help with the deal. The firm has a stake in Tether and is run by the children of U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.

But both sides are keeping quiet about the numbers. People involved say everything is still on the table and could change fast if crypto prices shoot up again.

Trump recently signed new laws that regulate stablecoins in the U.S. Paolo said this has helped push things forward.

Tether also released a U.S. version of its token that fits with the new rules. But not everyone is excited. Some investors are still worried about the company’s history.

Since 2014, Tether has been in the spotlight over concerns about illegal transactions using USDT and how transparent its reserves really are. The group now puts out quarterly reports through BDO Italia, but they’ve never released a full audit.

Paolo said they’ve shown potential investors how they work with law enforcement and the tools they use to track activity.

Last year, S&P Global Ratings gave Tether’s reserves their weakest score. That downgrade came after the company increased its holdings in risky assets like Bitcoin and gold. Paolo responded by saying, “We wear your loathing with pride.”

Since 2020, Tether has become one of the biggest buyers of U.S. Treasuries and recently made huge bets in the gold market. Those trades have made the company a major player linking traditional finance and crypto.

Profits dropped by about 25% in 2025, which Paolo blamed on the drop in Bitcoin prices. He said Tether still made between $8 billion and $10 billion on gold trades after the metal surged.

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Posted: February 4, 2026

Adoption is the true measure of success. 

In January 2026, the crypto market faced a downturn, but signs of recovery emerged by February. Despite broader challenges, Avalanche showed resilience, excelling in real-world asset (RWA) tokenization.

By the 3rd of February, AVAX ranked third in development activity, behind Hedera [HBAR] and Chainlink [LINK]. 

Source: Santiment

In Q4 2025, tokenized assets on AVAX grew 68.6%, with a TVL of $1.3 billion, bolstered by BlackRock and FIS, according to findings.

With market sentiment still fragile, the key question remains: Can AVAX’s real-world adoption drive its price higher?

Avalanche at a bounce zone: $145 next? On the 3rd of January, Avalanche found itself at a crucial price point: the $10 support zone. After failing to hold above the $11 level toward the end of January, Avalanche [AVAX] dipped to this support level on the 31st of January.

At this level, AVAX showed signs of life, as it hadn’t been at this price since 2023. This attempt at price stabilization suggested a solid base from which the coin could push upwards, with local resistance only at $14.5. 

Source: TradingView

From there, there was no major resistance between that level and $145. This wasn’t just hope, but what else could have backed this move?

AVAX: Whale activity skyrockets

Source: CryptoQuant

Whale activity on AVAX surged, as shown by the spot average order size chart from CryptoQuant above. Whales aggressively accumulated near the $10 support zone, reflecting patterns from the 2021 dip.

While retail traders hesitated, whales saw deep value at these price levels and positioned themselves for a potential rebound. This buying pressure could drive AVAX to new heights.

AVAX ETF sees massive inflows AVAX has been a hot topic recently, especially after the launch of the $AVAX ETF by VanEck on the 27th of January.

By the 31st of January, the ETF had already attracted $1.24 million in net inflows, signaling early institutional interest in the asset.

That said, while this figure may seem small, it marks the beginning of a broader shift towards AVAX. As more institutional players recognize its potential, could we see even greater momentum and inflows moving forward?

Source: SosoValue

Final Thoughts With strong backing from institutions and whales, AVAX could see its price skyrocket towards $400.  Continued market volatility from Bitcoin could impact this growth, and losing the $10 level could send AVAX down to $8.79.

BitMine Immersion Technologies is facing fresh pressure after reporting over $6 billion in unrealized losses linked to its Ethereum-focused treasury strategy. As the Ethereum price fell along with the broader crypto market, BitMine shares (BMNR) dropped another 5% on Monday, trading near $23.83, their lowest level since the stock jumped in July 2025 following the ETH treasury announcement.

The decline has raised concerns among investors, but company leadership says the reaction is missing the bigger picture.

Tom Lee Says Losses Are Part of the PlanBitMine Chairman Tom Lee rejected claims that the losses show a failed strategy. In posts shared on X, Lee explained that the company is not trying to time the crypto market.

These tweets miss the point of an ethereum treasury:
– BitMine is designed to track the price of $ETH
– outperform over the cycle (think up ETH)
– crypto is in a downturn, so naturally ETH is down$BMNR will see “unrealized” losses on our holdings of ETH during these times:
-… https://t.co/VpoNjAnJdC

— Thomas (Tom) Lee (not drummer) FSInsight.com (@fundstrat) February 3, 2026 Instead, BitMine is designed to track and outperform Ethereum over a full market cycle, similar to how long-term index funds work in traditional markets. According to Lee, losses during market downturns are expected, not accidental.

He added that index funds are rarely criticized during bear markets — and BitMine should be viewed the same way.

Heavy Ethereum Holdings Increase Price ImpactBitMine’s large Ethereum holdings make the company especially sensitive to price swings. It currently owns around 4.24 million ETH, worth about $9.6 billion, down from nearly $14 billion at last year’s peak.

Despite the price drop, BitMine continues to buy more Ethereum. The company added 41,788 ETH in just the past week, showing strong confidence in ETH’s long-term value.

Because of this scale, even small ETH price moves can have a big impact on BitMine’s reported losses, especially during periods of market stress and forced selling.

Ethereum Staking Helps Offset Market VolatilityRather than selling assets during downturns, BitMine earns income through Ethereum staking. The company expects to generate about $164 million per year from staking, with an average return of 2.81%.

As of February 1, around 2.9 million ETH — valued at nearly $6.7 billion — is actively staked. This provides steady income even when prices are weak.

Strong Balance Sheet With No DebtOne key advantage for BitMine is its debt-free balance sheet. The company reports:

193 Bitcoin holdings$586 million in cash$200 million stake in Beast IndustriesNo outstanding debtThis financial position allows BitMine to hold through market downturns without being forced to sell Ethereum at lower prices.

Long-Term Ethereum Strategy Remains UnchangedLooking ahead, BitMine plans to launch its MAVAN validator network in 2026, partnering with three staking providers to expand operations. Despite short-term pressure, Lee says the company’s belief in Ethereum remains strong.

His message is clear: price volatility is temporary, but Ethereum’s role in the future of finance is long-term. For BitMine, current losses are not a warning sign; they are the cost of sticking with a long-term Ethereum investment strategy.

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Intapp, Inc. (INTA) Q2 2026 Earnings Call Transcript

The industrial equipment maker's investors have larger dividends headed their way.

Shares of Woodward (WWD +13.42%) rose on Tuesday after the aerospace and defense supplier reported strong quarterly growth metrics.

By the close of trading, Woodward's stock price was up more than 13%.

Image source: Getty Images.

Broad-based growth Woodward's sales jumped 29% year over year to $996 million in its fiscal 2026 first quarter, which ended on Dec. 31.

The aircraft equipment manufacturer saw revenue in its aerospace division climb 29% to $635 million. Sales in the company's industrial segment, meanwhile, leaped 30% to $362 million.

The gains were fueled by rising demand for Woodward's products across multiple end markets, including commercial airlines, defense contractors, power generation companies, transportation providers, and oil and gas producers.

"Year-over-year growth was broad-based across both segments and reflected strong demand and disciplined execution by our global teams," CEO Chip Blankenship said in a press release.

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Better still, Woodward's profitability improved as it scaled its operations. The industrial component maker's adjusted net earnings surged 62% to $134 million, or $2.17 per share. That handily surpassed Wall Street's estimates, which had called for adjusted per-share profits of $1.65.

Raised guidance These strong results prompted Woodward to lift its full-year financial outlook. Management now expects sales growth of 14% to 18% in fiscal 2026, up from a prior forecast of 7% to 12%. The company also boosted its earnings-per-share target to between $8.20 and $8.60, up from $7.50 to $8.00.

Better still, Woodward increased its quarterly cash dividend by 14% to $0.32 per share.

Joe Tenebruso has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Always be prepared.

It's impossible to reliably and consistently predict stock market crashes. Anyone who could pull that off would be the richest person on Earth. However, we can make educated guesses based on data and past events.

So, will there be a market crash in 2026? Let's consider one reason to think so, and what investors can do to prepare.

Image source: Getty Images.

Are equities overvalued? Some investors worry that we are currently in an artificial intelligence (AI) bubble. True, the technology is changing industries, and the corporations leading the charge are cashing in. But shares of some AI companies -- with the most prominent few accounting for a significant weight of major indexes -- have risen too much too fast, leading to an overvalued market, or so the argument goes.

Is there any data to suggest that this is the case? Consider the CAPE (cyclically adjusted price-to-earnings) ratio, which is currently right under 40. How does that compare to its historical average? See for yourself.

S&P 500 Shiller CAPE Ratio data by YCharts.

Last time it was that high, the dot-com bubble burst. So, history suggests we may be on the verge of a bear market.

What should investors do? Can we predict with certainty that a market crash is on the horizon? Not really. There will be one eventually, for sure, but we don't know when, and it may or may not be caused by AI stocks. Even if we don't know for sure, however, it's important for investors to always be prepared. One reason to do so in this case is to purchase shares of companies that seem undervalued. Pharmaceutical giant Pfizer (PFE 3.32%) is an excellent choice in that regard.

The drugmaker has lost significant market value in recent years, as its financial results haven't been strong. The company may still have some tough days ahead. It's entering a period during which it will lose patent exclusivity for important products, according to management.. Two medicines that will lose exclusivity in the next couple of years are Eliquis, an anticoagulant, and Xtandi, a cancer medicine. But the healthcare specialist has the foundation in place to bounce back eventually.

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Pfizer has a deep pipeline, including in large or rapidly growing therapeutic areas such as oncology and weight management. Pfizer is also implementing AI across its business to reduce costs. The company's earnings are holding up surprisingly well, considering its inconsistent revenue. And as Pfizer launches more brand-new products, top-line growth will eventually stabilize. Lastly, Pfizer's shares look fairly attractive, as they are trading at 9 times forward earnings, compared to the average of 18.6 for the healthcare sector.

If there is an AI-driven market crash, I'd predict that Pfizer's stock price will decline less than the prices of major AI companies. If there isn't, the company is well-positioned to bounce back from recent challenges in the long run.

Lumen Technologies is executing a major turnaround, divesting legacy assets and targeting AI-driven growth. The recent fiber sale to AT&T provided critical capital for debt reduction, helping to significantly lower interest expenses. LUMN trades at 0.80 times expected sales, reflecting a sizable discounted valuation vs. industry giants AT&T and Verizon.

Q4: 2026-02-03 Earnings SummaryEPS of $0.71 beats by $0.07

 |

Revenue of

$704.33M

(7.22% Y/Y)

beats by $7.66M

Benchmark Electronics, Inc. (BHE) Q4 2025 Earnings Call February 3, 2026 5:00 PM EST

Company Participants

Paul Mansky - Investor Relations & Corporate Development Officer
Jeffrey Benck - CEO & Director
Bryan Schumaker - Executive VP, CFO & Principal Accounting Officer
David Moezidis - President

Conference Call Participants

James Ricchiuti - Needham & Company, LLC, Research Division
Steven Fox - Fox Advisors LLC
Maxwell Michaelis - Lake Street Capital Markets, LLC, Research Division
Anja Soderstrom - Sidoti & Company, LLC

Presentation

Operator

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to the Benchmark Q4 and Fiscal Year 2025 Earnings Call and Webcast.

[Operator Instructions]

This call is being recorded on February 3, 2025. And I would now like to turn the conference over to Mr. Paul Mansky, Benchmark Investor Relations. Please go ahead.

Paul Mansky
Investor Relations & Corporate Development Officer

Thank you, Hina, and thanks, everyone, for joining us today for Benchmark's Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2025 Earnings Call. With us today are Jeff Benck, our CEO; David Moezidis, our President; and Bryan Schumaker, our CFO.

After the market closed, we issued an earnings release pertaining to our financial performance for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ending December 2025 and have prepared a presentation, which we will reference on this call.

Both the press release and presentation are available under the Investor Relations section of our website at bench.com. This call is being webcast live, a replay of which will be available on our website approximately 1 hour after we conclude.

The company has provided a reconciliation of our GAAP to non-GAAP measures in the earnings release as well as in the appendix to the presentation.

Please take a moment to review the forward-looking statements disclosure on Slide 2 of the presentation. During our call, we will discuss forward-looking information. As a reminder, any of today's