Market Signal Briefing

Fri, 9/01/2026 - 11:25

XRP saw a substantial surge in payments volume on the market, with the possibility of hitting levels even higher.

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Over the past 24 hours, XRP has seen an increase in on-chain activity, with important ledger metrics essentially doubling in a very short period of time. The volume of payments made between accounts momentarily surpassed one billion dollars, and the quantity of individual transactions also increased. It is rare for such a sudden spike in network usage to go unnoticed, particularly when price action has been having trouble regaining distinct bullish momentum.

XRP's activity is hereThis type of activity indicates from a fundamentals standpoint that the XRP Ledger is once again seeing significant use rather than just speculative holding. Increased settlement demand, treasury movements or institutional testing are all common causes of higher payment volumes.

Network surges enhance the underlying narrative surrounding XRP's usefulness, which has frequently been questioned during protracted downtrends even though they do not always result in price appreciation.

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XRP/USDT Chart by TradinViewNonetheless, price action is still uneven. XRP experienced a sharp relief rally after rising from the lower edge of a declining channel. The asset was forced back above short-term moving averages by the move, but it stalled close to the 50 EMA, which has served as dynamic resistance during the recent decline. Although the RSI has recovered an oversold state, it has not yet moved into a zone that would indicate long-term bullish control.

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This implies that rather than being the beginning of a new trend, the current bounce might still be corrective. Two near-term scenarios are produced by a combination of increasing network activity and cautious pricing behavior. In the positive scenario, sustained high ledger usage might give XRP the momentum it needs to stabilize above important averages and try a slow trend reversal.

Plan for recoveryA first step would be to hold above the 26 EMA, which would show that buyers are prepared to defend higher levels. In the more cautious scenario, the price is unable to recover higher resistance levels, and the network surge is short-lived. In the event that broader market conditions deteriorate, XRP would be exposed to another retrace toward recent lows.

As of right now, the increase in on-chain metrics is encouraging, but not a stand-alone catalyst. Before a more robust bullish outlook is warranted, XRP's price still requires confirmation through consistent volume, higher lows and a clear break above medium-term resistance.

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The Bitcoin price could be in for more pain as a crypto analyst has just released a gloomy short-term outlook, warning that another crash may be on the way. The analyst believes that Bitcoin’s overall market structure remains bearish. As a result, he expects the price to fall to about $76,000, representing a 20% decline from current levels. 

Bitcoin Price At Risk Of 20% Crash Crypto market analyst Roman has issued a warning that Bitcoin could be heading for another sharp decline, with his primary target set near $76,000. In his post on X, he emphasized that the current market structure shows no evidence of a sustainable price bottom and that downside risk remains dominant. 

Roman explained that his bearish outlook is based on the daily timeframe, where Bitcoin has struggled to regain strong bullish momentum after a significant correction. He also noted that the price is still trading within a broader bearish trend, suggesting the market may simply be taking a pause before the next move lower. 

Source: Chart from Roman on X The accompanying chart shows BTC trading above $90,000 while still well below the previous resistance area near $96,000. Each attempt to push higher has been rejected, suggesting sellers remain firmly in control of the market.  

Notably, Roman’s chart has revealed that the expected move lower could start with a drop back to the mid $80,000s, followed by a deeper slide between $78,500 and $75,000. The hand-drawn projection on the chart also illustrates a sharp fall after a brief relief rally, suggesting that BTC’s decline could speed up once support breaks. 

Volume behavior also plays a key role in Roman’s bearish outlook. The chart shows noticeably weak trading volume during Bitcoin’s recent rebound, which the analyst previously said is typical of holiday-driven pumps. 

Additional Signals That Support Analyst’s Bearish Forecast Roman’s $76,000 Bitcoin crash forecast is a follow-up to previous posts in which he explained several reasons why the leading cryptocurrency is in a bear market and could correct again soon. He referenced historical indicator behavior to justify his latest prediction. 

The analyst explained that Bitcoin’s Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) and Relative Strength Index (RSI) were extremely oversold after its price dropped roughly 40% from its all-time high. As a result, the current consolidation has given these indicators a chance to reset. 

Roman sees the lack of strong buying pressure during this reset as a warning sign. He stressed that a true bullish reversal would need rising volume and clear higher highs, which are not showing on the daily chart. The analyst also noted that Bitcoin’s longer-term trend remains bearish, with the market continuing to form lower highs within a declining range. He has concluded that until clear reversal signals appear, traders should treat any upside moves as corrective, not the start of a fresh bull run.

BTC trading at $90,345 on the 1D chart | Source: BTCUSDT on Tradingview.com Featured image from Getty Images, chart from Tradingview.com

Fri, 9/01/2026 - 11:37

Ripple CTO Emeritus David Schwartz, one of the original architects of the XRPL, is set to take the stage at the upcoming XRP event.

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Ripple CTO Emeritus David Schwartz has been named as a headline speaker at the upcoming conference XRP Australia 2026.

The CTO Emeritus of Ripple and co-creator of the XRP Ledger has been named as the third headline speaker at XRP Australia 2026, alongside Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse and Ripple President Monica Long.

Schwartz is expected to close out the event with a live AMA focused on the future of blockchain and XRP.

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@wave_of_innov is overjoyed to reveal that @JoelKatz, CTO Emeritus of @Ripple and Co-creator of the XRP Ledger, is stepping up as our third headline speaker at XRP Australia 2026!

David will close out the event with a live AMA focused on the future of blockchain and XRP. Submit… pic.twitter.com/7Fl3v9ScZe

— Wave Of Innovation (@wave_of_innov) January 8, 2026 The XRP Australia event this year is scheduled to be held on Feb. 27 at Crown Towers Sydney and is expected to delve into XRP Ledger advancements, decentralized finance evolution, AMM mechanics, regulatory hurdles and crypto's rapid growth across APAC.

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse is named as a headline speaker at the event, and he is expected to share exclusive insights into the future of cross-border payments and blockchain innovation in APAC.

Ripple President Monica Long is named as the second headline speaker at XRP Australia 2026. Long is expected to share visionary insights on driving the Internet of Value forward at the event.

February has a lineup of events for the XRP community. XRP Community Day, hosted on X Spaces, is scheduled to take place on Feb. 11, 2026.

Evernorth announces push for institutional XRP adoptionXRP digital asset treasury company Evernorth and XRPfi infrastructure provider Doppler Finance have entered into a strategic relationship to explore potential collaboration in support of the XRP Ledger, including the design and pilot of institutional liquidity and treasury use cases on XRPL.

Through the partnership, Evernorth and Doppler are exploring initiatives designed to support institutional adoption of the XRPL ecosystem, with a focus on structured liquidity deployment, potential treasury management strategies and the development of a resilient, long-term ecosystem foundation.

In separate news, Flare launched the first XRP spot market on Hyperliquid this week, starting with an FXRP-USDC trading pair. FXRP allows XRP to be traded on Hyperliquid's on-chain order book and can later be bridged back to the XRP Ledger.

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Truebit’s TRU token crashes over 99% after a 26 million dollar Ether exploit, extending a string of major DeFi security breaches despite falling aggregate losses.

Summary

Truebit reports a smart‑contract exploit that drained about 8,535 ETH, or roughly 26 million dollars, triggering a 99% crash in TRU’s price.​ December also saw Flow’s 3.9 million dollar counterfeit token incident and a Trust Wallet Chrome extension hack costing users around 7 million dollars.​ PeckShield data show total crypto hack losses fell to about 76 million dollars in December from 194 million in November, even as high‑profile breaches multiplied. Truebit acknowledged “an incident of security involving one or more malicious actors” tied to a smart contract address that suggests losses of about 26 million dollars in Ether. In a post on X, the team said it was in contact with law enforcement and was “taking all available measures” following the breach, but has not yet given a detailed technical post‑mortem.​

Today, we became aware of a security incident involving one or more malicious actors. The affected smart contract is 0x764C64b2A09b09Acb100B80d8c505Aa6a0302EF2 and we strongly advise the public not to interact with this contract until further notice. We are in contact with law…

— Truebit (@Truebitprotocol) January 8, 2026 On‑chain analysts monitoring the protocol reported that the attacker siphoned off around 8,535 ETH, valued at roughly 26.6 million dollars at the time. While the contract address flagged by Truebit shows only small amounts of stolen ETH, blockchain sleuths such as Lookonchain and others have pointed to a broader pattern of movements indicating that “the total amount of cryptocurrency stolen in the attack exceeded 26 million dollars.”​

Market reaction was brutal and immediate. According to data from Nansen, the price of Truebit’s TRU token plunged more than 99%, sliding from roughly 0.16 dollars to an all‑time low near 0.0000000029 dollars as reports of the exploit spread. At the time of publication, it remained unclear what exactly triggered the multi‑million‑dollar exploit or whether end‑user funds held on the protocol were directly at risk, and Cointelegraph noted that Truebit had not responded to a request for comment.​

Flow’s counterfeit token incident The Truebit breach follows a December in which multiple high‑profile exploits shook confidence in blockchain infrastructure. On 27 December 2025, the Flow Foundation disclosed that an attacker exploited a vulnerability in the Flow network to “counterfeit tokens, extracting approximately 3.9 million USD.”​

In its technical post‑mortem, Flow stressed that “no existing user balances were accessed or compromised” and that the attack duplicated assets rather than touching legitimate holdings. Validators coordinated a network halt within about six hours of the first malicious transaction, and most counterfeit assets were either frozen on‑chain or recovered and destroyed in coordination with exchanges.​

Trust Wallet’s malicious Chrome update Trust Wallet also faced a major security failure in late December when its Chrome browser extension was compromised. The company later confirmed that version 2.68 of the extension contained malicious code that enabled an attacker to access sensitive wallet data and drain user funds, ultimately leading to estimated losses of around 7 million dollars.​

Trust Wallet urged users to update immediately to version 2.69 and launched a reimbursement process, warning of secondary scams via fake compensation forms and impersonated support accounts. CEO Eowyn Chen said the malicious build “was most likely published externally through the Chrome Web Store API key, bypassing our standard release checks,” underscoring the supply‑chain dimension of the compromise.​

Industry‑wide losses and security trend Despite the succession of large breaches, industry‑wide losses from hacks and exploits actually fell into year‑end. Blockchain analytics firm PeckShield reported that total losses across the crypto sector dropped to about 76 million dollars in December, down sharply from roughly 194 million in November.​

Bitcoin and Ethereum witnessed a major options expiry event on Deribit as contracts worth around $2.2 billion expired today.

The timing is important, as investors are also watching two key U.S. events today, the Supreme Court’s ruling on Trump’s tariffs and the latest unemployment data, raising the risk of massive volatility in the crypto market. 

Bitcoin To Face $1.84 Billion In Options Expiry TodayAccording to the expiry data released today, Bitcoin options worth nearly $1.84 billion expired on Deribit. The max pain level was set at $90,000, and Bitcoin is trading very close to this level, around $90,236.

Options data shows strong positioning on both sides. A large number of put options sit below $85,000, showing that traders were prepared for a possible price drop. 

At the same time, call options are heavily placed between $90,000 and $100,000, indicating continued hopes for higher prices.

Because of this balance between downside protection and upside bets, Bitcoin remained stuck near the $90,000 level.

$396 Million In Ethereum Options ExpiryMeanwhile, Ethereum saw around 126,000 options contracts expire, with a total value of $384 million. Ethereum’s max pain level was placed near $3,100, and ETH prices are currently trading below $3,092.

Notably, Ethereum call options were heavily positioned above $3,000, suggesting traders remain confident in Ethereum’s ability to stay elevated. If prices remain above the max pain level, dealers may become more sensitive to upside moves after expiry.

Bitcoin Open Interest Hit Lowest Levels Since 2022Apart from the large option expiry, CryptoQuant data show that Bitcoin’s 30-day open interest (OI) change shows a sharp decline across derivatives markets, pushing open interest to its lowest level since 2022. 

Binance recorded the largest drop, with open interest falling by around 1.53 million BTC. Bybit followed with a decline of roughly 784,000 BTC, while Gate.io and OKX saw drops of about 505,000 BTC and 395,000 BTC, respectively. 

Similar declines were also observed on Deribit, Bitfinex, and HTX, confirming a market-wide deleveraging trend.

Historically, very low open interest signals a market reset. When excess leverage is cleared, prices often stabilize, and this phase can lead to consolidation or even a bullish rebound if buying interest returns.

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Optimism plans to use 50% of Superchain revenue for OP token buybacks Governance will decide whether the bought-back OP is burned, staked, or reused. Optimism has proposed a major change to how its ecosystem uses its revenue. The plan is to buy back the OP tokens every month by using 50% of its Superchain revenue. If the Community approves this plan, Optimism is planned to start in February 2026. This makes a major shift in OP’s Role from being just a governance token to a token that is directly tied to the usage and revenue of the Ecosystem. 

How Optimism Plans to Turn Superchain Fees Into OP Token Demand The Buyback will happen from the revenue earned by the Superchain from the Sequencer fees. Over the past years, these chains have generated over 5,800 ETH in revenue. So under the proposal, 50% of the revenue will be used to buy OP tokens. Purchases will be made monthly through the OTC Provider. The bought OP tokens will be sent back to the treasury.  This will be paused if monthly revenue drops below $200,000. These treasury tokens would not be burned or sold immediately. The Governance would later decide whether to burn or use them for staking and ecosystem incentives. 

The reason for this new plan is to make the OP’s value reflect its real economic activity instead of revenue sitting unused in the treasury. Optimism and Superchain agave become dominant players in layer-2. 61.4% of the L2 fee market share and 13% of all on-chain transactions are where the most L2 economic activity is happening. 

The Foundation will have the limited discretion to manage remaining ETH. They can use it to generate yield and support ecosystem development. This reduces slow governance overhead while keeping spending within set rules. The Staking partnerships have already generated yield and aim to strengthen OP mainnet’s institutional appeal. 

There has been some debate going on for the community members because the proposal combines OP buybacks and expanded treasury discretion in one vote. The Critics argue that these should be voted on separately to avoid bias from the price expectations. The community discussion is going on, a governance call is scheduled for Jan 12, and a formal vote happens on Jan 22. Once it is approved, the buyback will begin in February and the program will run for 12 months. 

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With Bitcoin’s (BTC) volatility in early January, currently changing hands at $90,470 at press time after both rising as high as $94,500 and falling as low as $84,580 within the last 30 days, it can be difficult to gauge how the cryptocurrency will fare through the remainder of the month.

BTC 30-day price chart. Source: Finbold The situation is made even more uncertain by the presence of both bullish and bearish factors in the early 2026 market. On the one hand, the start of January featured notable institutional selling, and spot BTC exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have seen more days of outflows than inflows since the New Year.

Specifically, Bitcoin ETFs saw $1.16 billion inflows in the first days of 2026 but then faced $1.12 billion outflows, reflecting fragile institutional sentiment. Indeed, January 6, 7, and 8 have all been net selling days with more than 400 Bitcoins exiting the system, per the data Finbold retrieved from Coinglass.

On the other hand, there is no shortage of potential bullish catalysts, as global political instability could render BTC a particularly enticing investment – especially with gold made somewhat unattractive due to its exceptionally high price, and as the domestic political climate in the U.S. is especially positive.

In the hopes of piercing the uncertainty, Finbold consulted the advanced artificial intelligence (AI) of ChatGPT about where the world’s premier cryptocurrency could find itself on January 31.

ChatGPT sets January Bitcoin price target Despite the many potential catalysts, the AI model offered a highly conservative and slightly bullish price target for Bitcoin on January 31. Specifically, ChatGPT estimated that the cryptocurrency is likely to rise and trade at $92,000 at the end of the month.

According to the AI, such a forecast reflects the latest pullback, but also the general momentum – which it described as ‘consolidative, not impulsive’ – behind digital assets. Indeed, it claimed that ‘boring, sticky price action wins January.’

ChatGPT sets Bitcoin price target for January 31. Source: Finbold & ChatGPT When inquired about the rest of 2026, ChatGPT proved decidedly bullish. The advanced large language model (LLM) announced that it considers continued institutional backing a likely trend, while opining the year will feature a climate of moderately lower interest rates in which BTC moves from being a risk asset and toward becoming ‘digital hard money.’

ChatGPT also explained that, in 2026, the post-halving cycle remains important, but that it shall not be as ‘explosive’ as in 2017 or 2021.

ChatGPT sets Bitcoin price target for 2026. Source: Finbold & ChatGPT Ultimately, the model opted for a $150,000 price target for the entire year, indicating it estimates the late 2025 all-time high would be exceeded.

Featured image via Shutterstock

Video-sharing platform Rumble is partnering with stablecoin issuer Tether to launch a new crypto wallet aimed at enabling direct payments to creators in Bitcoin (BTC) and other digital assets.

According to a company announcement, the wallet, called Rumble Wallet, is integrated directly into the Rumble platform and allows users to tip creators using Bitcoin, Tether’s USDT stablecoin and Tether Gold, which is backed by physical gold.

The wallet is non-custodial, meaning users retain control of their private keys rather than relying on a centralized intermediary.

Rumble says the wallet is built using Tether’s Wallet Development Kit, marking the first commercial deployment of the toolkit. The integration is designed to allow platforms to support crypto payments while keeping asset custody with individual users rather than the platform itself.

The wallet also supports fiat on- and off-ramps through a partnership with crypto payments provider MoonPay, enabling users to convert traditional payment methods into supported digital assets.

Rumble positions the wallet as part of its broader effort to provide alternative monetization tools for creators as it competes with larger platforms such as YouTube.

Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino says the partnership combines digital payments with creator monetization at scale while Rumble CEO Chris Pavlovski frames the launch as a step toward reducing reliance on traditional financial intermediaries.

Generated Image: Midjourney

South Korea is taking a decisive step toward mainstream crypto adoption, with the government signaling support for the launch of spot digital asset exchange-traded funds, including a Bitcoin ETF, as early as 2026. The initiative is part of the country’s newly unveiled 2026 Economic Growth Strategy, which places digital assets at the center of long-term financial innovation.

Bitcoin ETF Plans Take ShapeAccording to the policy roadmap, South Korean regulators will begin formal work this year on promoting spot crypto ETFs. While exact timelines are still being refined, officials have made it clear that Bitcoin will be the primary focus of the first ETF products. The move follows the success of spot Bitcoin ETFs in markets such as the U.S. and Hong Kong, where investor demand has surged since approval.

South Korea Signals Bitcoin ETF Launch by 2026 in Major Crypto Policy Shift
As per a local report, the government also confirmed that this year will mark the start of a “second wave” of digital asset legislation. These new bills aim to close regulatory gaps, particularly around emerging sectors like stablecoins and blockchain-based financial products.

Stablecoin Rules and Investor Protection in FocusA major pillar of the upcoming regulatory framework is stablecoin oversight. Authorities are working on licensing requirements for issuers, including minimum capital standards and guaranteed redemption rights for holders. While progress has been made on disclosure and reserve rules, regulators are still debating which institutions should be allowed to issue stablecoins.

At the same time, South Korea is addressing cross-border stablecoin transfers, ensuring they comply with global financial and anti-money laundering standards. These efforts reflect growing concern over investor protection as stablecoin usage continues to expand.

A Broader Digital Finance StrategyThe Bitcoin ETF push is part of a wider digital asset strategy already gaining momentum. Last year, South Korea lifted restrictions that blocked crypto firms from accessing venture capital, enabling blockchain startups to qualify for official venture certification. Institutional activity has followed, with Binance completing its acquisition of local exchange Gopax, marking its formal return to the Korean market.

Looking ahead, the government is also exploring blockchain applications in public finance. Plans include introducing deposit tokens backed by commercial bank deposits and potentially allocating up to 25% of treasury operations to blockchain-based instruments by 2030.

To support these initiatives, lawmakers aim to establish a clear legal framework for blockchain payments and settlements by the end of this year, laying the groundwork for a regulated, ETF-driven crypto market in South Korea.

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

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

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Truebit suffered a smart contract exploit, resulting in the loss of 8,535 ETH worth $26.4 million. After the incident, the TRU token collapsed, falling nearly 100% Truebit protocol, an Ethereum-based DeFi, announced a security incident relating to one of its smart contracts on January 8 through its official X handle. They also mentioned that they have been working with law authorities to address the issue, and suggested users not to connect to that specific smart contract till the issue is resolved.  

Today, we became aware of a security incident involving one or more malicious actors. The affected smart contract is 0x764C64b2A09b09Acb100B80d8c505Aa6a0302EF2 and we strongly advise the public not to interact with this contract until further notice. We are in contact with law…

— Truebit (@Truebitprotocol) January 8, 2026 Before Truebit’s verification, the on-chain analytics platform Lookonchain stated that this protocol had been exploited with 8,535 ETH, worth around $26.44 million. 

Then, on the same day, CertiK Alert on its X handle flagged an unusually large on-chain transaction involving the Truebit protocol.  It has been noted that the wallet linked to Truebit has shifted 8,535 ETH into one address, which involves a pattern that did not match the normal protocol activity and marked it as suspicious.  

The thread post explains that the attacker abused a logic flaw in a purchase or minting contract, where the pricing calculation broke for certain inputs and effectively returned an incorrect value, showing a very low cost. The attacker figured this out and used the bug again and again, was able to mint or redeem assets improperly, and drain ETH from the protocol’s reserves.

Truebit (TRU) Token Price Collapses After the news of Truebit’s smart contract exploit incident, the TRU token has immediate effect on its price, which has fallen sharply by 99.99% in the last 24 hours, and it dropped from $0.16 to $0.00000001845, as this instant price decline depicts the trader’s reaction to Truebit’s loss and the uncertainty surrounding it.

So far, Truebit has not released any official updates or recovery plans; instead, they stated that any incident-related information would be shared through its official channels.

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An XRP advocate on X with the user name "WrathofKahneman" has clarified the details of the alleged partnership between Ripple and Amazon. In a post referencing a report, he noted that there is no integration of Amazon Web Services (AWS) into the XRP Ledger (XRPL).

No AWS integration on XRPL, advocate clarifiesFor perspective, the report, which WrathofKahneman termed "ambiguous," made it appear like Amazon is being integrated directly into the XRPL blockchain itself.

According to WrathofKahneman, that is inaccurate. He clarified that Ripple is actually experimenting with Amazon tools, specifically the Amazon Bedrock AI. The aim is to utilize it internally to analyze XRPL data, such as their system logs.

The experiment could improve Ripple’s internal analysis and reduce log time from days to between two and three minutes. It might also help Ripple to monitor and research the network while the AI tool supports processing XRPL logs more efficiently.

However, Ripple is not going to install anything on the XRP Ledger, nor is it changing the current XRPL protocol. The implication of this is that AWS tools are only being used off-chain by Ripple for analysis.

🔬Be careful, this is an ambiguous headline. Ripple is exploring Amazon products that will help them analyze the #XRPL, however Ripple is not installing it in/on the XRPL, nor could they. That would require a validator vote. It's news about a cool tool Ripple is using for their… https://t.co/hYQWIPxXTi

— WrathofKahneman (@WKahneman) January 9, 2026 The XRP advocate highlighted decentralization as one critical reason to know that the report of partnership rumors via integration was inaccurate. WrathofKahneman explained that XRP Ledger is decentralized, and any real protocol change would require that validators cast a vote in support of it.

Additionally, there has to be a network-wide consensus, as Ripple alone does not have the authority to push upgrades onto XRPL. Since none of these processes have taken place, nor are there talks by Ripple about it, the rumors are incorrect.

WrathofKahneman's message to the XRP community is that they should be cautious about people trying to overinterpret the news. This is because the community is not implementing any protocol upgrades, and there is no validator-approved change.

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Ripple's real partnershipsThe rumors likely gained traction in some quarters, as Ripple has been known to enter into strategic partnerships for the growth of the ecosystem.

In December 2025, Ripple inked a deal with fintech firm RedotPay as a way to integrate blockchain solutions with traditional banking and finance infrastructure.

A similar move was made in the Kingdom of Bahrain, earlier in October 2025, as Ripple sought to expand and accelerate blockchain and digital asset adoption in the region. The firm’s partner on that deal was Bahrain Fintech Bay, a leading incubator.

The company stated that this move served to innovate and find the most productive way to hold ether with institutional-grade infrastructure, using Consensys' Linea to accomplish this task. Sharplink announced plans to deploy these funds back in October.

Pi Coin’s trading volume has started to recover from thin levels as PI trades near the $0.20–$0.21 zone, testing key support around $0.1952 on the daily chart.

Summary

Pi Coin is trading around $0.21, sitting just above major support at $0.1952, the October and December low that anchors its current double‑bottom structure.​ 24‑hour trading volume has risen from depressed levels, with recent data showing a roughly 30% uptick to about $16 million as traders fade prior weakness.​ Technicals show a bullish divergence with rising PPO and RSI, but a clean break below $0.1952 would invalidate the rebound setup and open room toward lower supports. Pi Coin’s trading volumes increased significantly as the token reached a key support level, according to market data, with the cryptocurrency showing signs of recovery after declining in 2025.

The token recorded gains over the past week as the broader cryptocurrency market showed signs of potential recovery in 2026, according to price data.

Pi Coin (PI) experienced significant declines in 2025 following the launch of its public mainnet in February. Market observers noted the token may be approaching a price bottom, though the exact timing remains uncertain.

Data from CoinCodex indicated Pi Coin’s trading volumes have increased substantially since the start of the year.

Pi Coin trading at increased levels Technical analysis of the daily chart shows investors have accumulated PI at a key support level on multiple occasions, suggesting the level represents a significant price floor for the token, according to market analysts.

The Relative Strength Index briefly moved above the mid-line, indicating positive momentum, according to technical indicators.

If the token rebounds from the current level, analysts identified a nearby horizontal resistance level that coincides with the 200-day exponential moving average as a potential target. The price action follows a breakout from a descending price channel, according to chart patterns.

Market analysts noted that early-stage cryptocurrency projects historically have provided higher returns for investors who enter positions during initial development phases.

Pi Coin’s price movements come as the cryptocurrency market attempts to recover from losses sustained in previous periods. Trading data showed increased investor interest at current price levels.

Key NotesTRU collapsed nearly 100% after a smart contract exploit drained $26.4 million from the Truebit Protocol.The token crashed from around $0.16 to near zero within minutes.Truebit is working with law enforcement, with no recovery plan announced. Ethereum-based infrastructure project Truebit’s native token TRU collapsed nearly 100% after a smart contract exploit drained over $26.4 million from the protocol. The attack started with a suspicious on-chain transaction and quickly resulted in a full liquidity drain.

Notably, the attacker exploited a math error in Truebit’s minting contract, which incorrectly priced TRU close to zero. The bug allowed the attacker to mint massive amounts of TRU tokens at almost zero cost.

The attacker then sold them back into the pool. Each cycle pulled more ETH ETH $3 091 24h volatility: 0.8% Market cap: $373.01 B Vol. 24h: $15.70 B out of the protocol. On-chain data shows the attacker also paid a small builder bribe to ensure a fast transaction and prevent intervention.

Security researcher Weilin Li independently confirmed that the exploit was based on a five-year-old smart contract flaw. No private keys were compromised and the system failed purely due to faulty math.

Another 26M hack. @Truebitprtocol

I haven't decompiled the vulnerable code yet, but the root cause appears to be a mispriced minting function of its purchase contract that allows anyone to purchase TRU token at a very low price.

The first attacker (26M profit):… pic.twitter.com/qmoDB54I0w

— Weilin (William) Li (@hklst4r) January 8, 2026

$26.4M Drained in ETH As per the on-chain data, the hacker divided 8,535 ETH in stolen funds across two wallets. One received around 4,267 ETH, while another collected around 4,001 ETH.

Once liquidity was removed, TRU’s market structure collapsed instantly. Before the exploit, TRU was trading near $0.16. However, it crashed more than 99% to around $0.00 after the case.

At the time of writing, TRU is trading around $0.034. The altcoin currently has nearly all market capitalization erased, according to CoinMarketCap data.

Truebit Team Responds Truebit acknowledged the incident on X and stated that it is working with law enforcement to handle the situation. At the time of writing, no recovery plan or reimbursement details have been confirmed.

Today, we became aware of a security incident involving one or more malicious actors. The affected smart contract is 0x764C64b2A09b09Acb100B80d8c505Aa6a0302EF2 and we strongly advise the public not to interact with this contract until further notice. We are in contact with law…

— Truebit (@Truebitprotocol) January 8, 2026

The incident marks the first major crypto hack of 2026, following a year that saw several DeFi exploits. In 2025, protocols like Balancer suffered major losses due to smart contract vulnerabilities.

Disclaimer: Coinspeaker is committed to providing unbiased and transparent reporting. This article aims to deliver accurate and timely information but should not be taken as financial or investment advice. Since market conditions can change rapidly, we encourage you to verify information on your own and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content.

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A crypto journalist with over 5 years of experience in the industry, Parth has worked with major media outlets in the crypto and finance world, gathering experience and expertise in the space after surviving bear and bull markets over the years. Parth is also an author of 4 self-published books.

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The Wyoming Stable Token Commission announced that the Frontier Stable Token, known as FRNT, is now available for public purchase through Kraken, a Wyoming domiciled crypto exchange. The launch marks the first time a public entity in the United States has issued a fiat backed and fully reserved stable token, placing Wyoming at the center of a fast growing global market estimated at around $300 billion.

A Public Stable Token With Real World Impact Stable tokens are digital assets designed to hold a steady value, usually tied to the US dollar. FRNT follows this model and is fully backed by reserves, meaning each token represents real dollars held in custody. What makes FRNT different is who issued it. Instead of a private company, a state backed commission stands behind the token.

The interest earned on FRNT’s reserves flows directly into Wyoming’s school program. This turns the stable token into a public good while opening a new revenue stream for the state.  While the business benefits from fast digital transactions, the interest on the reserves quietly supports public education. This blend of utility and civic impact is rare in crypto markets.

Today, the Commission made the Frontier Stable Token available for public purchase through Wyoming-domiciled cryptocurrency exchange @krakenfx.

Kraken customers can now access “FRNT” at the link below.https://t.co/bRfiOAS9gI

— Wyoming Stable Token Commission (@wyostable) January 7, 2026

The timing also reflects a broader trend. Governments around the world are exploring tokenized money as stablecoins gain traction in payments, remittances, and onchain finance. According to industry reports, stablecoin supply has surged over the past two years as users seek faster and cheaper ways to move dollars globally.

Built for Crypto Native and Multichain Use FRNT launches on the Solana blockchain, known for its speed and low transaction costs. Solana regularly processes thousands of transactions per second, making it suitable for everyday payments and onchain activity. For users who operate across ecosystems, FRNT also supports cross chain access.

FRNT facilitates dollar-denominated transactions on a peer-to-peer basis.

This enables settlement in seconds, incurring fees of < $0.01, available anywhere w/ an internet connection, instant auditability, and reduced counterparty risk – intended for retail use and institutions.

— Wyoming Stable Token Commission (@wyostable) January 7, 2026

Through Stargate Finance, holders can bridge FRNT to major networks including Ethereum, Arbitrum, Avalanche, Base, Optimism, and Polygon. This flexibility matters to investors and developers who want to use the token in different applications, from trading to decentralized finance.

Disclaimer The information provided by Altcoin Buzz is not financial advice. It is intended solely for educational, entertainment, and informational purposes. Any opinions or strategies shared are those of the writer/reviewers, and their risk tolerance may differ from yours. We are not liable for any losses you may incur from investments related to the information given. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are high-risk assets; therefore, conduct thorough due diligence. Copyright Altcoin Buzz Pte Ltd.

Bitcoin is wrestling with the $90k support zone inside a larger bull flag and ascending triangle, with stochastic RSI oversold and a breakout or breakdown looming.

Summary

Bitcoin has repeatedly defended the $90k horizontal support, with intraday wicks below the level failing to close, keeping the short‑term bull flag intact.​ Daily and weekly charts show a confluence of a bull flag and green ascending triangle, with a breakout path targeting higher resistance after a likely pause at a round number.​ Stochastic RSI is bottomed out on lower timeframes, hinting at potential upside, but a clean break below ~$90k could send BTC toward a deeper trendline retest. Bitcoin (BTC) held above the $90,000 support level on Thursday despite downward pressure, according to technical analysis published by CryptoDaily on January 9, 2026.

The cryptocurrency maintained its horizontal support level throughout Thursday’s trading session, with price wicks indicating attempted breaks below the level that ultimately failed to hold, according to the analysis. Following the support test, the price moved upward to horizontal resistance before experiencing a rejection.

As of Friday morning, Bitcoin’s price had returned to test the contested support level. Technical analysts noted that if the support fails to hold, the next potential target could be a major trendline combined with another horizontal support level.

Daily timeframe analysis showed the price had dipped to the bottom of a bull flag pattern, falling below the horizontal support level on Friday morning. The movement raised questions about whether the price would continue downward to the major trendline, potentially invalidating the bull flag formation.

Technical indicators showed short-term Stochastic RSI readings had reached bottom levels across multiple timeframes, suggesting potential upward price momentum could develop, according to the analysis.

Weekly chart analysis indicated the price had bounced and returned to the support level. The analysis identified a green ascending triangle pattern as a key formation to monitor. Technical analysts noted that a breakout from this pattern could provide a path to an important horizontal resistance level.

The analysis suggested that if a breakout occurs during the weekend or into next week, the price could encounter a pause at a round-number level before testing key resistance levels that would determine whether the upward movement represents sustained momentum or a temporary rally within a broader downtrend.

Bitcoin traded at approximately $90,000 as of Friday morning, according to market data.

U.S. spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds saw another day of net outflows on Thursday, extending their negative streak to three days.

According to data from SoSoValue, U.S. bitcoin funds recorded $398.95 million in net outflows on Thursday. BlackRock's IBIT saw $193.34 million leave the fund, and Fidelity logged outflows of $120.5 million. Funds from Ark & 21Shares and Grayscale also posted net outflows. 

Over the past three days, roughly $1.12 billion has exited the bitcoin ETFs, nearly wiping out the net inflows generated during the first two trading days of 2026.

Spot Ethereum ETFs mirrored their bitcoin counterparts, reporting $159.17 million in net outflows on Thursday. BlackRock's ETHA reported $107.6 million in outflows, while Grayscale's ETHE also saw $31.7 million in negative flows.

"The recent ETF outflows continue to reflect portfolio rebalancing, profit-taking after an initial rally, and short-term caution amid market consolidation rather than a fundamental shift in institutional demand," said Nick Ruck, director of LVRG Research. "The crypto market remains in a resilient consolidation phase with Bitcoin hovering just above $90K while being supported by underlying institutional accumulation."

According to The Block's bitcoin price page, the world's largest cryptocurrency gained 0.26% in the past 24 hours, trading at $90,660 at the time of writing. It briefly fell below $90,000 earlier on Thursday. Ethereum slipped 0.54% to $3,104.

Meanwhile, spot XRP ETFs returned to positive flows on Thursday, posting $8.72 million in net inflows after recording $40 million in outflows on Wednesday — their first daily net outflow since launch. Spot Solana ETFs also reported $13.64 million in inflows, extending their positive streak to eight days.

"Traders should closely monitor ETF flow trends, key resistance levels near $95K for Bitcoin, and macroeconomic signals like Federal Reserve policy shifts for potential breakout or further volatility," Ruck noted.

Disclaimer: The Block is an independent media outlet that delivers news, research, and data. As of November 2023, Foresight Ventures is a majority investor of The Block. Foresight Ventures invests in other companies in the crypto space. Crypto exchange Bitget is an anchor LP for Foresight Ventures. The Block continues to operate independently to deliver objective, impactful, and timely information about the crypto industry. Here are our current financial disclosures.

© 2026 The Block. All Rights Reserved. This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

Key NotesWith this filing, Grayscale becomes the second major asset manager after VanEck to pursue a spot BNB ETF.Following the filing, BNB price posted modest gains and is attempting to break key resistance below $900.Technical analysts point to bullish chart patterns and a multi-year uptrend for BNB, with near-term targets around $1,000–$3,000. Crypto asset manager Grayscale has filed for a spot BNB ETF in a push to bring an exchange-traded fund for the fifth-largest crypto. Following the development, BNB BNB $890.0 24h volatility: 0.8% Market cap: $122.26 B Vol. 24h: $1.23 B price is showing some healthy uptick, gaining 1.79%, with analysts predicting a rally past $1,000 soon. The filing comes at a time when altcoin ETFs for XRP and Solana show strength as more crypto ETFs remain the theme for 2026.

Grayscale Files for Spot BNB ETF in Delaware Court Crypto asset manager Grayscale took initial steps toward launching a Binance Coin (BNB) exchange-traded fund by registering a statutory trust in the state of Delaware. The filing, dated Jan. 8, 2026, is a preliminary move that precedes a formal application to the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

With this move, Grayscale becomes the second major asset manager to pursue a BNB-focused ETF, following a similar effort by VanEck. 

Grayscale BNB ETF Filing | Source: Delaware Gov. Website

Asset manager Grayscale has been actively pursuing crypto ETFs with products for Solana ETF (GSOL), Chainlink ETF (GLNK), and XRP ETF (GXRP) already in the market. In November 2025, the asset manager also filed to convert its ZCash Trust to an ETF. 

Analysts Predict BNB Price Upside Past $1000 Soon Following this development around a BNB ETF, the Binance Coin price has shown modest gains. However, it still faces rejection and is trading under $900 resistance as of press time. 

Based on the BNB technical setup, some market analysts believe that the altcoin is ready for a rally to $1,000. Speaking on the development, popular market analyst Crypto Rand noted Binance Coin (BNB) is showing renewed bullish momentum after forming a technical double-bottom pattern above the $850 level.

According to the analyst, BNB is now pressing against key horizontal resistance, with price action suggesting a potential breakout. If the resistance is cleared, BNB price could make its next move to $1,000, noted the analyst. 

Eyes on $BNB after printing a double bottom over the $850 is now pushing for the breakout on horizontal resistance and heating up engines to smash the $1,000 range again ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/UnIPNPSb3G

— Rand (@cryptorand) January 6, 2026

On the other hand, crypto analyst Crypto Patel has set an aggressive long-term target for BNB. He noted that the altcoin is showing major strength after breaking out from its previous all-time high and has turned it into a key support level. 

BNB continues to trade above a multi-year ascending trendline, reinforcing the broader bullish structure. However, he said that any dip under $800 could push it into the long-term accumulation zone of $500–$800 range. 

$BNB Price Forecast 2026 | Is $10,000 BNB Coming? | Analysis By CryptoPatel#BNB Bounced From $500 Support, Broke Its Previous ATH, And Cleared Major Resistance At $700., This Zone Is Now Strong Support. Currently Consolidating Near $800.

Key Insights:
Multi-Year Ascending… pic.twitter.com/roYNKtYvVJ

— Crypto Patel (@CryptoPatel) January 3, 2026

On the upside, the analyst outlined a $3,000 target during the next bull phase, while projecting a much higher macro-cycle target between $10,000 and $20,000 if bullish momentum persists. 

Disclaimer: Coinspeaker is committed to providing unbiased and transparent reporting. This article aims to deliver accurate and timely information but should not be taken as financial or investment advice. Since market conditions can change rapidly, we encourage you to verify information on your own and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content.

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Bhushan is a FinTech enthusiast and holds a good flair in understanding financial markets. His interest in economics and finance draw his attention towards the new emerging Blockchain Technology and Cryptocurrency markets. He is continuously in a learning process and keeps himself motivated by sharing his acquired knowledge. In free time he reads thriller fictions novels and sometimes explore his culinary skills.

Bhushan Akolkar on X

South Korea’s Supreme Court handed down its first explicit ruling that Bitcoin held in centralized exchanges can be seized by investigators, marking a notable shift in how exchange‑custodied crypto is treated under criminal law. 

In a decision on Dec. 11, 2025, and disclosed via the court’s official bulletin, the court upheld the seizure of 55.6 Bitcoin (BTC) held in a Korean exchange account by a suspect under a money laundering investigation.

Bitcoin is now an “object of seizure” under the Criminal Procedure Act because it is electronic information with independent manageability, tradability and economic value. 

The ruling builds on earlier Supreme Court precedents that recognized Bitcoin as confiscable criminal proceeds and as a “property interest” capable of being the object of fraud, but goes further by squarely addressing assets stored in exchange custodial wallets, setting a precedent for future investigations and legislation involving digital assets.

Supreme Court Ruling. Source: Court of KoreaThe decision means Korean users who keep BTC on platforms like Upbit and Bithumb now face clearer legal exposure. Coins linked to alleged crimes can be frozen and seized directly at the venue, and exchanges will come under stronger pressure to comply swiftly with warrants and maintain robust Know Your Customer (KYC) and tracing systems. 

Ruling aligns with global crypto‑seizure practiceThis trajectory is broadly in line with practices in the United States and European Union, where authorities already use seizure and forfeiture tools to take control of Bitcoin and other crypto held with centralized intermediaries in criminal cases. 

The Supreme Court’s move also comes as financial regulators consider going a step further on the administrative side. 

The South Korean Financial Services Commission is reviewing a proposal to allow pre‑emptive freezes of crypto accounts suspected of market manipulation, similar to existing measures in the stock market, which would let authorities block withdrawals and transfers before a court order if they detect tactics such as wash trading or pre‑programmed pump‑and‑dumps.

​At the same time, the government is preparing “Phase‑2” digital asset legislation under its 2026 Economic Growth Strategy, including an authorization regime and reserve rules for stablecoin issuers, a framework for cross‑border stablecoin transfers and a plan to introduce spot digital asset exchange-traded funds to improve market access. 

Tokenised stocks have seen their trading volume exceed $1 billion, predominantly in December, according to a report by Bitget. This increase demonstrates a growing interest in accessing traditional equities through blockchain technology beyond usual market hours. Investors are increasingly engaging with these assets in real-time, reacting to global economic and geopolitical developments, without waiting for standard U.S. market openings.

A notable trend is the geographic, rather than temporal, arbitrage. Tokenised stocks provide a pathway for non-U.S. investors to gain exposure to American equities without maintaining local brokerage accounts or incurring foreign exchange fees. Companies like Backed Finance have experienced significant growth in the market capitalization of their tokenised equity products, which appeals to investors in regions where direct access to U.S. markets is complex or restricted. This framework offers an alternative for the billions of investors outside the traditional U.S. brokerage system.

Despite the rapid increase in activity, regulatory bodies have clarified that tokenisation does not alter the legal classification of securities. The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) maintains that tokenised shares are subject to MiFID II regulations, which govern transferable securities, rather than MiCA, which pertains to non-security crypto-assets. Similarly, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) considers tokenised equities as securities that must comply with registration requirements or be issued under specific exemptions. In 2025, the SEC allowed the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation a three-year no-action window to experiment with on-chain tokenisation for stocks, bonds, and Treasuries, integrating the technology into existing financial infrastructures.

Tokenisation is no longer a marginal activity; it is gaining interest from major financial institutions, which foresee a substantial market potential. Deutsche Bank Research projects that the market for tokenised real-world assets might reach between $1.5 trillion and $2 trillion by 2030, potentially expanding to $4 trillion by 2035. As these tokenised markets develop, traditional brokers face the possibility of significant changes to their core business models, operations, and roles.

The industry is witnessing a shift as trading behavior and liquidity formation move away from traditional, time-bound financial infrastructures to continuous access portals for traditional assets. The primary focus is transitioning from whether tokenised stocks will face regulation to whether global access to equities will continue to be restricted by traditional brokerage hours and geographic boundaries, even as markets evolve to operate continuously.

An exchange-traded fund (ETF) is typically a financial instrument that tracks an index, commodity, or other assets, reflecting their performance. In the context of tokenised stocks, the term ‘spot’ often refers to the current market price at which an asset is traded. Companies usually file for ETFs to offer investors seamless investment products that mirror the performance of an underlying asset without requiring direct ownership. Regulatory approval for these products generally involves scrutiny over several aspects, including custody arrangements, market integrity, information disclosures, and investor protection.

Regulators worldwide prioritize the safe integration of tokenisation within existing financial systems. They emphasize the importance of upholding security and transparency through custody measures, market integrity, and surveillance-sharing agreements. Investor protection and clear disclosures are also key elements of this regulatory oversight.

Institutional interest in crypto products has been driven by growing client demand for diverse investment options and pathways to enter the crypto space. Large banks and asset managers are exploring these products as a means to offer fee-generating services and new avenues for investment, responding to a broader shift in market dynamics.

Bitcoin, often recognized as the largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, has paved the way for other digital assets. Solana, a blockchain network known for facilitating smart contracts, is leveraged for various applications, including tokenised stocks. These platforms enable continuous trading, allowing investors to engage with digital assets around the clock.

However, engaging in tokenised markets presents potential risks. These can include market volatility, liquidity challenges, and operational uncertainties. Regulatory ambiguity and potential tracking errors also pose concerns. Investors must navigate these risks, alongside considerations like transaction fees, which vary depending on the platform and product.

The competitive landscape for tokenised financial products is marked by multiple issuers filing similar offerings. The approval timelines can be uncertain, with issuers often revising their proposals. The process involves thorough review periods, and regulators may request public comments before making decisions on approvals or denials. Stakeholders closely monitor these developments for impacts on market access and operational dynamics.

As the market for tokenised stocks grows, stakeholders await further regulatory guidance and market data. The evolving landscape necessitates adaptation from traditional financial entities, as global access to equities becomes increasingly unrestricted. Decisions and updates from regulatory bodies will play a critical role in shaping the future trajectory of tokenised trading environments.

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The South Korean government is accelerating its push into digital assets, with plans to promote exchange-traded funds (ETFs) linked to cryptocurrencies, including a potential spot Bitcoin ETF by 2026. This initiative is part of the country’s newly unveiled 2026 Economic Growth Strategy, which outlines a broader roadmap for digital asset regulation, stablecoins, and blockchain-based financial infrastructure.

According to the plan, regulators will begin drafting a second wave of digital asset legislation within this year. A major focus of the proposed bills is stablecoin regulation, including the introduction of a formal licensing system for issuers. This framework is expected to set capital requirements, define redemption rights for holders, and establish safeguards aimed at investor protection. While progress has been made around disclosure and reserve standards, authorities have yet to reach a consensus on which institutions will be permitted to issue stablecoins.

The government has also confirmed its intention to move forward with spot digital asset ETFs, following precedents set by markets such as the United States and Hong Kong, where spot Bitcoin ETFs are already trading. These developments are seen as laying the groundwork for South Korea’s first spot Bitcoin ETF, potentially launching in 2026 once regulatory structures are finalized.

In parallel, regulators are addressing cross-border stablecoin transfers, ensuring compliance with international standards as adoption continues to grow. These efforts come amid ongoing discussions led by the Financial Services Commission (FSC), which has emphasized the need for stronger investor protection as stablecoin usage expands.

Beyond ETFs and stablecoins, South Korea is pursuing a wider digital asset agenda. Last year, the country lifted a long-standing ban that prevented crypto-related firms from accessing venture capital, allowing blockchain startups to qualify for venture certification. Institutional interest has increased as well, highlighted by Binance’s acquisition of local exchange Gopax, marking its return to the Korean market.

The government is also exploring blockchain applications in public finance, including a “deposit token” backed by commercial bank deposits. By 2030, up to 25% of the national treasury could be distributed through such instruments. To support this vision, authorities plan to revise key financial laws by the end of this year, creating a legal framework for blockchain-based payment and settlement systems, along with compatible digital wallets for government use.

<Copyright ⓒ TokenPost, unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited>

VanEck’s base case assumes a 15% annual growth rate driven by Bitcoin settling a meaningful share of international and domestic trade and serving as a hedge against monetary debasement, with alternative scenarios ranging from $130,000 to $52.4 million. At the same time, Wood said crypto is still strategically important for Donald Trump ahead of midterm elections and suggested the administration may eventually begin actively purchasing Bitcoin for a national reserve, moving beyond its current reliance on seized assets.

VanEck Predicts $2.9 Million BitcoinBitcoin could reach $2.9 million by 2050 if it turns into a widely used settlement currency for global trade and becomes part of central bank reserve portfolios. This is according to analysts at asset manager VanEck. 

The forecast assumes a 15% compounded annual growth rate and is based on Bitcoin settling between 5% and 10% of global international trade, as well as 5% of domestic trade, by mid-century. The projection was shared by VanEck’s head of digital assets research, Matthew Sigel, and senior investment analyst Patrick Bush.

Bitcoin prediction from VanEck analysts

The analysts argue that Bitcoin’s long-term value is less dependent on short-term price movements and more tied to its role as a hedge against structural weaknesses in the global financial system. They described Bitcoin not as a tactical investment, but as a long-duration hedge against adverse monetary regime outcomes, driven by ongoing global liquidity expansion and monetary debasement. While short-term price action may  be influenced by liquidity cycles and leverage, they believe long-term value accrual will come from Bitcoin’s alignment with the growing strain on sovereign debt systems.

Under VanEck’s base-case scenario, central banks could eventually allocate up to 2.5% of their total assets to Bitcoin. At a price of $2.9 million, Bitcoin will represent about 1.66% of total global financial assets. The firm also shared alternative outcomes, including a bear case that assumes a 2% CAGR, which would place Bitcoin closer to $130,000 by 2050, and a bull case that assumes a 20% CAGR, resulting in a price as high as $52.4 million.

BTC price action over the past 5 years (Source: CoinCodex)

Bitcoin is already being used in global trade in certain regions, particularly in sanctioned countries like Venezuela, Iran, and Russia, though adoption is still minimal among G7 economies. VanEck’s model suggests that if Bitcoin were to capture a 5% to 10% share of international trade settlement, it will be used at a level comparable to major fiat currencies today.

Data from SWIFT shows that the U.S. dollar accounted for 47.8% of international trade as of September 2025, followed by the euro at 22.8% and the British pound at 7.4%. The Japanese yen and Chinese yuan followed with shares of 3.7% and 3.2%, respectively. Under VanEck’s assumptions, Bitcoin’s trade usage would place it alongside the British pound in terms of global settlement relevance.

Trump May Start Buying BitcoinMeanwhile, Cathie Wood said crypto is still a politically important issue for Donald Trump as he approaches midterm elections, which could affect the development of a US Bitcoin reserve. Speaking on a recent episode of the Bitcoin Brainstorm podcast, Wood suggested the federal government may soon move beyond simply holding seized digital assets and begin actively purchasing Bitcoin for a national strategic reserve that was established by executive order early in Trump’s second term.

Wood said that, so far, the reserve has only consisted of Bitcoins that were seized through government forfeitures, and Trump pledged not to sell. She said there has been hesitation around outright purchases, but explained that the original goal behind the reserve was to eventually accumulate as many as one million Bitcoins. Based on that original intent, Wood said she expects the federal government to begin buying Bitcoin rather than relying solely on confiscated assets.

According to Wood, Trump’s support for crypto is driven by both political and personal considerations. She pointed to his family’s growing exposure to the crypto industry and argued that the crypto community played a meaningful role in his electoral victory. Wood added that Trump is motivated to avoid becoming a lame-duck president and sees crypto policy as a way to deliver tangible progress during the remainder of his term.

The crypto industry has become a major political force in recent election cycles. In addition to political action committees like Stand With Crypto, which donated heavily to candidates across the political spectrum, several well known industry figures publicly endorsed Trump and contributed directly to his campaign, including Wood herself. 

Crypto executives have also taken on a more visible role in Washington, with industry leaders offering policy input and the White House hosting events focused on digital assets. Major firms like Coinbase, Tether, and Ripple also contributed funding toward a new White House ballroom.

While the bitcoin reserve currently functions primarily as a holding mechanism similar to how gold is treated as a strategic asset, the executive order from Trump directs the Treasury and Commerce Departments to explore budget-neutral ways to add more Bitcoin. No such purchases have been made to date. Beyond reserve policy, Wood said the administration is likely to push for a de minimis tax exemption that would eliminate capital gains taxes on small crypto transactions.

The crypto market remained on edge on Friday as traders waited for the upcoming US non-farm payrolls (NFP) data. These numbers will provide more information about the state of the economy and what to expect from the Federal Reserve. This article provides a forecast for some popular tokens like Maple Finance (SYRUP), Tezos (XTZ), and Pepe Coin.

Maple price technical analysis Copy link to section

Mape Finance is a top player in the decentralized finance industry, which provides a platform for users to generate returns. It does that by offering an on-chain asset management platform that has accumulated over $4.29 billion in assets.

The daily timeframe chart shows that the SYRUP price has done well in the past few days as its TVL has jumped. It moved from a low of $0.2385 in December to the current $0.03970, its highest level since November 17.

The token remains inside the descending channel whose upper side links the highest and lowest levels since June last year. This channel is part of the bullish flag pattern, which is made up of a vertical line and a descending channel.

The Supertrend indicator has turned green, while the Relative Strength Index (RSI) and the MACD indicators have all pointed upwards.

Therefore, the most likely Maple price prediction is highly bullish, with the next key target being the real psychological level at $0.50, which is about 26% above the current level. A move to that level will be confirmed if it moves above the upper side of the descending channel.

SYRUP price chart | Source: TradingViewTezos price prediction  Copy link to section

Tezos has been one of the biggest flops in the crypto industry. It is a layer-1 network whose goal is to give developers a working platform to build applications. Its goal is to be a good rival to Ethereum.

Tezos price has been in a strong downward trend in the past few months as developers have largely ignored its platform. Data shows that it has a total value locked (TVL) of just $35 million, down from $207 million in 2022. Its stablecoin supply has dropped to just $54 million.

Tezos price dropped and bottomed at $0.424, its lowest level on December 18. It has now bounced back after forming a triple-bottom pattern whose neckline is at $1.215, its highest point in 2025.

The Relative Strength Index has moved close to the overbought level of 70, while the Average Directional Index has jumped to 34, a sign that the uptrend is gaining momentum.

Therefore, the most likely Tezos price prediction is a bit bullish, with the next potential target being at the psychological level at $1, which is about 75% above the current level. A drop below the key support level at $0.479 will invalidate the bullish outlook.

Tezos price chart | Source: TradingViewPepe Coin price technical analysis  Copy link to section

Pepe Coin price started the year well, rising from a low of $0.000003573 in December to a high of $0.000007265. This surge coincided with the strong gains made by meme coins, including the popular names like Shiba Inu and Bonk.

The token has now pulled back and dropped for five consecutive days. This retreat happened as investors booked profits and as sentiment in the crypto industry waned.

On the positive side, the coin remains above the 50-day Exponential Moving Average, while the Supertrend indicator has remained in the green.

Therefore, the most likely scenario is where the coin rebounds in the coming days, potentially to the key resistance level at $0.000010. 

Pepe Coin price chart | Source: TradingViewThe bearish outlook will become invalid if it drops below the key support level at $0.0000050, its highest swing on December 9.

In a decisive phase for its ecosystem, the pi network has rolled out a major Protocol v23 upgrade just weeks before a key governance milestone.

Summary

Protocol v23 rolls out ahead of January 22 mainnet decisionBuilt on Stellar Core to boost speed and resilienceKYC authority shifts directly on-chainMainnet community set for key vote on January 22DEX tests liquidity-based token rankingsFrom mining app to emerging Web3 economy Protocol v23 rolls out ahead of January 22 mainnet decision Pi Network has officially launched its new Protocol v23 system upgrade, with the software now live across the ecosystem. The rollout comes only weeks before an important mainnet-related vote expected on January 22, 2026, adding weight to the timing of this technical release.

The update was first highlighted by Pi community members on X, who confirmed that Protocol v23 is already being deployed to mainnet infrastructure. Moreover, they reported that the upgrade is designed to boost speed, security and decentralization for more than 15.8 million mainnet users, known in the ecosystem as Pioneers.

According to community reactions, this latest rollout is viewed as a key step toward a more open and robust network. That said, its real impact will become clearer as the mainnet vote approaches and more users start to test the improved infrastructure in daily activity.

Built on Stellar Core to boost speed and resilience Protocol v23 is built on Stellar Core v23.0.1, aligning Pi Network with a mature and battle-tested consensus engine. This technical base is expected to increase how quickly the network processes transactions and how effectively it manages heavy traffic during peak periods.

With this upgrade, Pi’s infrastructure can better support growing user numbers and a rising volume of apps interacting on-chain at the same time. Moreover, this performance headroom is critical as the project moves closer to full open mainnet access, where demand and transaction loads could spike significantly.

Developers say Protocol v23 does more than speed up the ledger. It also reinforces the underlying architecture so the network is more ready for real-world use cases such as payments, consumer apps and digital services. For everyday Pioneers, that should translate into smoother transfers, fewer delays and a more reliable overall experience.

KYC authority shifts directly on-chain One of the most significant changes in Protocol v23 is how identity verification is handled. Pi Network has now embedded KYC authority directly on-chain, moving a critical compliance function from centralized systems into the blockchain layer itself.

Instead of relying primarily on off-chain services, user verification becomes part of the decentralized protocol. However, this does not remove the need for rigorous checks; it changes who controls and executes them. By anchoring KYC logic on-chain, the project aims to better align its governance with its technical design.

The change is intended to reduce risks linked to single points of control, while increasing transparency around how identity data is validated. Many community members had previously voiced concerns about how the team managed verification processes. In response, this design shift seeks to deliver more decentralization, more user control and stronger security for identity-related flows.

Mainnet community set for key vote on January 22 Alongside the upgrade, a mainnet-related vote is expected to take place on January 22, giving Pioneers a direct say in how the network evolves. Community members say the upcoming ballot will allow users to help shape the future of the protocol as it approaches open mainnet.

With over 15.8 million mainnet accounts, this vote could become one of the largest community-based governance events in the history of crypto networks. Moreover, it will test whether the distributed user base can coordinate on long-term decisions as Pi transitions from a closed environment to a wider open-access model.

The Pi Core Team has urged users to remain vigilant and to follow information only from official channels during this period. They stressed that @PiCoreTeam is the sole official Pi Network account on X, warning that impersonation risks typically increase around major announcements and governance events.

The team expects the outcome of the mainnet vote to guide how Pi proceeds into its next phase of open network development. That said, final implementation details will likely roll out gradually, depending on community feedback and technical readiness.

DEX tests liquidity-based token rankings In parallel with the protocol upgrade, Pi Network is also experimenting with a new feature on its decentralized exchange. Instead of ranking tokens by market capitalization, the DEX is testing liquidity-based rankings that prioritize real trading depth and activity over headline valuations.

This means tokens within the ecosystem would be ordered based on the actual liquidity available in their markets, rather than purely on price or speculative interest. Supporters argue that such a model can reduce manipulation, highlight assets with genuine demand and reward real usage instead of short-term hype.

Moreover, the liquidity-focused approach aligns closely with the project’s long-stated vision to build real utility rather than a speculative trading arena. The idea is to promote healthier market structures as on-chain applications and services expand around Pi-denominated transactions.

From mining app to emerging Web3 economy Protocol v23 is more than a routine technical refresh; it acts as a signal that the network is preparing for a broader transition. With over 17 million KYC-verified users and more than 215 live apps already active, the ecosystem is slowly evolving from a mobile mining phase into a functional economic environment.

The combination of upgraded infrastructure, on-chain identity mechanisms and experiments with new DEX mechanics suggests that the project is positioning itself as a full Web3 ecosystem. Furthermore, the mainnet vote slated for January 22, 2026 could mark a turning point in how strategy and governance decisions are made.

Within this context, many Pioneers view the Protocol v23 upgrade as a decisive milestone for the pi network, as it moves from a long-running beta-style phase toward a more mature blockchain economy. For millions of users around the world, the message is increasingly clear: Pi is attempting to shift from concept to concrete, real-world network.

In summary, Protocol v23, the upcoming mainnet vote and the DEX’s liquidity-focused experiments together indicate that Pi Network is entering a critical build-out stage, where technical readiness, decentralization and community governance will determine its long-term position in the broader crypto landscape.

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Pricing flaw in outdated Truebit smart contract drains $26M, sending TRU token nearly to zero.

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Published: January 9, 2026 │ 8:45 AM GMT

Created by Kornelija Poderskytė from DailyCoin

Truebit Protocol’s TRU token collapsed to near zero after the computation verification protocol confirmed a security incident involving an Ethereum smart contract.

Roughly 8,535 ETH, worth about $26 million at current prices, was drained in the attack. As blockchain security firms scrambled to sound the alarm, the native TRU token plummeted nearly 100%.

Truebit Reports Security IncidentTruebit’s team confirmed the “security incident involving malicious actors,” but details on remediation remain sparse. 

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The protocol has warned users not to interact with the affected contract until further notice. Truebit is working with law enforcement and taking all available measures to contain the situation, promising updates through official channels as they become available.

Today, we became aware of a security incident involving one or more malicious actors. The affected smart contract is 0x764C64b2A09b09Acb100B80d8c505Aa6a0302EF2 and we strongly advise the public not to interact with this contract until further notice. We are in contact with law…

— Truebit (@Truebitprotocol) January 8, 2026 Truebit is an early Ethereum protocol designed to make complex off-chain computations verifiable on-chain using the TRU token. Its design helped shape later scaling solutions, but never achieved broad adoption itself.

Experts Point to Pricing FailureBlockchain security experts say the $26 million Truebit exploit was caused by a critical flaw in the pricing logic of an outdated “Purchase” smart contract, deployed nearly five years ago without verified source code.

The vulnerability allowed attackers to manipulate the minting function with extremely large inputs, driving the calculated TRU token price close to zero.

This enabled them to mint massive quantities for free or pennies and repeatedly sell them back through the bonding curve, ultimately draining the protocol’s ETH reserves. The attack resulted in the theft of 8,535 ETH.

The stolen ETH was quickly moved to at least two addresses. Some of the funds were later sent through Tornado Cash, a privacy mixer commonly used to obscure transaction trails. It remains unclear whether any user-held assets beyond the protocol’s reserves were affected.

Market Reaction Wipes out TRU liquidityThe market reaction was immediate and severe. TRU plummeted more than 99%, falling from roughly $0.16 to a fraction of a cent within hours, wiping out liquidity and leaving many holders stranded.

Source: CoinGeckoAfter more than half a day, the TRU token has bounced back slightly, rising to around $0.03 at the time of writing.

Why it MattersThe exploit highlights a persistent risk in crypto: even long-standing protocols can harbor hidden vulnerabilities. Truebit’s age worked against it: outdated code, lack of verified source, and minimal maintenance left it exposed.

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People Also Ask:What is a smart contract exploit?

A smart contract exploit occurs when a vulnerability in a blockchain program is discovered and abused, allowing an attacker to drain funds or manipulate the system.

Why do older smart contracts carry more risk?

Legacy contracts may have outdated code, lack verified source transparency, and receive minimal maintenance, making them more vulnerable to attacks.

How do attackers hide stolen crypto?

Stolen funds are often sent through mixers or privacy services, like Tornado Cash, to obscure transaction trails and make tracing difficult.

How can protocols prevent exploits?

Regular code audits, verified open-source contracts, active maintenance, and robust economic design are key to reducing vulnerabilities.

What is a bonding curve in crypto?

A bonding curve is a mathematical formula used to determine token pricing based on supply. Flaws in the curve can be exploited to manipulate token prices.

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