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2026-01-04 23:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 17:18 3mo ago
Michael Saylor's Bitcoin Signal Sparks Fresh Focus on Strategy's $61B BTC Holdings cryptonews
BTC
Strategy Executive Chairman Michael Saylor drew renewed attention from the crypto community on January 4 after an X post highlighted the company’s massive Bitcoin exposure. The post showed that Strategy’s Bitcoin portfolio is now valued at approximately $61.31 billion, reinforcing its position as the largest corporate holder of BTC and reigniting speculation around potential future purchases.

Saylor shared a cryptic message, “Orange or Green?”, alongside a chart tracking Strategy’s Bitcoin investments. This phrase has historically been used by Saylor ahead of officially disclosed Bitcoin purchases, although no new transaction was confirmed in this instance. The post nevertheless fueled market discussion, especially as Bitcoin continues to trade near key psychological levels.

According to regulatory disclosures, Strategy currently holds 672,497 BTC, acquired at an average price of $74,997 per Bitcoin. The company’s total acquisition cost stands at roughly $50.44 billion. With Bitcoin trading around $91,359 at press time, Strategy’s holdings are worth more than $61 billion, representing an unrealized gain of about 21.56%, or nearly $10.87 billion. These figures further underline the long-term conviction behind Saylor’s Bitcoin strategy.

Saylor also shared data from StrategyTracker.com, which visualizes the firm’s Bitcoin accumulation history. The chart reveals 91 separate Bitcoin purchase events over time, illustrating a consistent and methodical accumulation approach. This aligns with recent reports that Strategy acquired an additional 1,229 BTC for approximately $108.8 million between December 22 and 28, at an average purchase price of $88,568 per coin.

Meanwhile, broader market indicators suggest a potential shift in institutional Bitcoin demand. Analyst Ted noted on X that the Coinbase Bitcoin premium is beginning to recover. This metric, which measures the price difference between Bitcoin on Coinbase and other global exchanges, often rises when U.S.-based institutional buying increases. Ted added that Bitcoin’s recent performance resembled its weak fourth quarter in 2022, a period that was followed by a notable recovery, hinting at a possible repeat of history.

<Copyright ⓒ TokenPost, unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited>
2026-01-04 23:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 17:23 3mo ago
BitMine Share Expansion Sparks Investor Backlash Despite Ethereum Bet cryptonews
ETH
BitMine’s proposal to massively expand its authorized share count has triggered growing resistance among shareholders, even as the company reinforces its commitment to Ethereum as a core treasury asset. While chairman Tom Lee has positioned the move as a long-term flexibility measure rather than an immediate dilution event, many investors remain unconvinced, arguing that the structure, timing, and incentives behind the plan raise significant governance and valuation concerns.

At the center of the debate is BitMine’s request to increase its authorized shares from 500 million to 50 billion. Lee has suggested the expansion could support future stock splits if Ethereum prices rise substantially. However, critics point out that BitMine already has approximately 426 million shares outstanding, leaving limited headroom under the current authorization. Investors question why such an aggressive increase is necessary now for a hypothetical scenario that could be years away, especially when shareholders could simply approve a split at a later date if conditions justify it. The urgency, they argue, appears more closely tied to BitMine’s ongoing need to issue equity to accumulate more ETH.

Concerns have also emerged around scale and oversight. Many shareholders view the 50 billion share authorization as excessive relative to BitMine’s stated goal of allocating 5% of its balance sheet to Ethereum. The size of the request effectively removes the need for future shareholder approvals, weakening governance safeguards and granting management broad discretion over future dilution.

Executive incentives are another flashpoint. Under Proposal 4, Tom Lee’s performance compensation would be linked to total Ethereum holdings rather than ETH per share. While investors generally support performance-based pay, critics argue that this structure rewards balance sheet growth even if shareholder value per share declines due to dilution. They contend that ETH-per-share metrics would better align management incentives with investor outcomes.

Dilution fears have intensified as BitMine’s stock now trades closer to net asset value (NAV). Issuing shares at or below NAV could permanently reduce the Ethereum backing of each share, making equity ownership less attractive compared to holding ETH directly. Despite the backlash, many dissenting investors remain bullish on Ethereum and supportive of BitMine’s broader vision. What they are demanding instead are clearer guardrails, stronger governance protections, and assurances that shareholder value will not be sacrificed in pursuit of scale.

<Copyright ⓒ TokenPost, unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited>
2026-01-04 23:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 17:25 3mo ago
Bitcoin Price Surge Signals Renewed Confidence as Whales Accumulate and ETFs Drive Demand cryptonews
BTC
Bitcoin entered the new year with strong upward momentum, climbing above the $90,000 mark as optimism returned to the crypto market. The latest Bitcoin price surge has been fueled by robust spot Bitcoin ETF inflows and growing institutional demand, helping the asset remain resilient despite rising geopolitical tensions after the reported US strike on Venezuela. Market participants appear to be prioritizing liquidity conditions and long-term adoption trends over short-term macro uncertainty.

On-chain data highlights a notable shift in Bitcoin whale behavior. Large holders controlling between 10,000 and 100,000 BTC had previously sold around 50,000 BTC between December 29 and January 3, signaling caution while Bitcoin traded below key resistance. However, sentiment changed sharply over the past 24 hours. These same whale wallets accumulated approximately 10,000 BTC, worth nearly $912 million, after Bitcoin broke above $90,000. This renewed accumulation suggests confidence among major investors and may help absorb near-term selling pressure, supporting price stability as 2026 begins.

Whales often act as liquidity anchors during periods of volatility, and their return to buying typically aligns with expectations of higher prices. Continued accumulation could strengthen Bitcoin support levels and reduce downside risk if broader market conditions remain stable.

At the same time, Bitcoin miner activity presents a counterbalance to bullish momentum. Miner net position data shows increased selling over the last day, with outflows rising from 55 BTC to 604 BTC. While this level of selling is relatively small compared to total supply, it reflects miners taking advantage of higher prices to fund operations. Historically, miner selling during rallies tends to slow price advances rather than reverse broader trends, especially when demand from ETFs and institutions remains strong.

From a technical perspective, Bitcoin has broken out of a six-week descending wedge and was trading near $91,300 at the time of writing. A confirmed hold above the $92,000 level could open the door to a move toward $95,000. Key resistance remains at the 50-day EMA near $91,500 and the 365-day EMA around $97,400. Reclaiming these levels would strengthen the bullish outlook and improve the chances of a push back toward six-figure prices.

Short-term risks remain tied to global market reactions. Any risk-off response to geopolitical developments could pressure Bitcoin back toward $90,000, but for now, momentum favors cautious optimism driven by strong institutional demand and improving on-chain signals.

<Copyright ⓒ TokenPost, unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited>
2026-01-04 23:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 17:28 3mo ago
WLFI Price Rallies as Geopolitical Shock Boosts Profitability but Selling Pressure Looms cryptonews
WLFI
World Liberty Financial (WLFI) has continued its upward momentum, extending a rally that began in mid-December 2025 and posting fresh gains over the past week. The recent price surge was driven by heightened geopolitical tensions after US President Donald Trump launched an aggressive action against Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. This unexpected development injected significant volatility into the crypto market and acted as a catalyst for WLFI, pushing the token to recent highs.

On-chain data highlights a sharp improvement in WLFI holder profitability following the news. Within just 24 hours, the percentage of profitable wallets jumped from approximately 25% to nearly 40%, reflecting the rapid price appreciation. At the same time, the share of WLFI’s total circulating supply held in profit climbed to a four-month high, indicating that gains were widespread across different wallet sizes. This recovery has been particularly beneficial for early investors who accumulated WLFI during its launch phase and endured the initial steep correction. Many of those long-term holders have now seen their positions return to profit.

While rising profitability typically improves market sentiment, it also increases the likelihood of selling as investors look to secure gains. This risk is already visible in exchange data. WLFI’s exchange net position change recently turned positive for the first time in nearly three months, signaling net inflows of tokens to exchanges. Historically, such inflows suggest distribution rather than accumulation, as holders move assets to exchanges in preparation for selling. After a prolonged drawdown, WLFI investors appear eager to exit at the first meaningful recovery, which could limit further upside.

From a technical perspective, WLFI is trading around $0.172 after rebounding from lows near $0.143 earlier in the week, marking an 11% gain in 24 hours. The price is currently testing the upper boundary of an ascending broadening wedge, a pattern that reflects increasing volatility rather than a clear bullish trend. If selling pressure persists, WLFI could pull back toward the lower trend line, with $0.154 emerging as a key support level. For a sustainable breakout, the token must hold $0.172 as support and attract renewed demand. If successful, WLFI could challenge resistance near $0.182 and extend its rally further.

<Copyright ⓒ TokenPost, unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited>
2026-01-04 23:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 17:47 3mo ago
Bitcoin Core sees development uptick, reversing multi-year decline: Casa CSO cryptonews
BTC
Email activity, number of unique developers, and number of lines of code changes all increased in 2025 compared to declines in prior years.
2026-01-04 23:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 17:49 3mo ago
Coinidol.com: Litecoin Stalls After Rising Above $82 cryptonews
LTC
// Price

Reading time: 2 min

Published: Jan 04, 2026 at 22:49

Litecoin (LTC) has resumed its upward trend after falling to a low of $72.

LTC price long-term prediction: bullish

The cryptocurrency rose above the moving average lines but was halted by the 50-day SMA. Since January 1, the price has remained trapped between the moving average lines. If buyers break through the 50-day SMA barrier or resistance at $82, the LTC price is expected to rise above the $88 level. The positive momentum is projected to continue, potentially reaching a high of $103.

However, if the bullish scenario does not materialise, the LTC price will remain between the moving average lines. The altcoin will retrace and remain range-bound above the 21-day SMA support. Today, Litecoin reached a high of $81.41.

Litecoin price indicators analysis

The price of LTC has moved above the 21-day SMA but remains below the 50-day SMA barrier. For the past 48 hours, the cryptocurrency has been caught between the two moving average lines. The moving average lines continue to slope downwards.

On the 4-hour chart, the price bars are positioned above the horizontal moving average lines. LTC prices will rise as long as the price bars remain above the moving average lines.

Technical Indicators

Resistance Levels: $100, $120, $140

Support Levels: $60, $40, $20

What is the next move for Litecoin?

The Litecoin price has resumed its upward trend, breaking above the moving average lines. Bullish momentum peaked at $82.85 before being rejected. The altcoin is now declining and may be forced to trade within a range above the moving average lines on the 4-hour chart. Currently, the fall has stalled while remaining above the moving average lines.

Disclaimer. This analysis and forecast are the personal opinions of the author. The data provided is collected by the author and is not sponsored by any company or token developer. This is not a recommendation to buy or sell cryptocurrency and should not be viewed as an endorsement by Coinidol.com. Readers should do their research before investing in funds.
2026-01-04 23:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 18:00 3mo ago
‘January effect' hits as Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs see $645mln inflows cryptonews
BTC ETH
Journalist

Posted: January 5, 2026

The “January Effect” has officially arrived for digital assets.

After a bruising end to 2025, marked by over $6 billion in combined outflows across November and December, institutional appetite for Bitcoin and Ether returned with a new spark on the first trading day of 2026.

Data from Farside Investors revealed that US-based Spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs together captured a staggering $645.8 million in net inflows on the 2nd of January.

Bitcoin ETF and Ethereum ETF analysis
As of the 2nd of January, in Bitcoin, it was BlackRock’s IBIT that saw the maximum inflows, whereas in Ethereum’s case, it was Grayscale’s ETHE that saw maximum inflows. 

If looked carefully, U.S.-listed Bitcoin ETFs posted their largest net inflow in 35 trading days since the 11th of November, when the eleven U.S.-based ETFs collectively saw $524 million in a single day.

Meanwhile, Spot Ethereum [ETH] ETFs saw their largest single-day inflow in 15 trading days, the largest day since the 9th of December, when $177.7 million was recorded.

In the Bitcoin [BTC] camp, BlackRock’s IBIT remained the undisputed heavyweight champion, absorbing $287.4 million of the total $471.3 million inflow.

Whereas Ethereum’s story took a more nuanced turn.

While BlackRock’s ETHA remains a favorite,  the 2nd of January belonged to Grayscale’s ETHE, which led the pack for Ether inflows with $53.7 million.

Price actions of the assets
Over the last 30 days, Bitcoin and Ether prices have remained stagnant, down 1.56% and 1.39%, respectively.

This caution is a direct hangover from October 2025, which saw the largest single-day liquidation event on record.

During that period, a massive unwind of leveraged derivatives positions sent shockwaves through the market, wiping out nearly $20 billion in value.

However, the tide appears to be turning.

At press time, Bitcoin was trading at $91,337.49, up 1.87% in the last 24 hours.

On the other hand, Ethereum reclaimed the $3,140.08 level, posting a 1.51% gain as per CoinMarketCap.

2026: A new bull cycle or a false start?
But now the million-dollar question for investors is whether this day-one surge actually signals a 2026 bull run.

If institutions keep accumulating at this pace, many expect new All-Time Highs (ATHs) for both BTC and ETH to be just around the corner.

However, nothing is certain yet.

While all this is happening, Ripple’s XRP was demonstrating a unique resilience characterized by intensified institutional adoption.

Final Thoughts

The October crash created deep caution, but January’s rebound hints at recovery, showing that the worst structural damage may be behind the market.
Despite flat prices, institutional demand is accelerating, hinting at a disconnect that could soon resolve with upward momentum.

Ishika Kumari is a Crypto Analyst and Content Strategist at AMBCrypto, specializing in the analysis of cryptocurrency regulations, market trends, and the socio-political impact of blockchain technology.
Her expertise is grounded in her academic background as a graduate of Political Science from the renowned University of Delhi. This discipline has equipped her with a sophisticated framework for analyzing complex governance models, international regulatory landscapes, and the economic principles that underpin decentralized systems.
At AMBCrypto, Ishika applies this unique analytical lens to her work. She excels at breaking down intricate subjects—from the technicalities of new protocols to the nuances of global crypto legislation—into clear, accessible, and insightful content. Her primary mission is to bridge the gap between the complexity of the digital asset industry and the everyday reader, ensuring that AMBCrypto's audience is not just informed, but truly understands the forces shaping the future of finance.
2026-01-04 23:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 18:16 3mo ago
Ethereum's New Holder Count Jumped 110% Since December's Fusaka Upgrade cryptonews
ETH
Ethereum price is approaching a critical technical moment as it trades near the upper boundary of a descending wedge. ETH’s slow but steady climb has placed it inches from a breakout.

This momentum is widely attributed to the Fusaka upgrade, which went live on December 3 and aims to improve scalability while lowering Layer 2 costs, a long-standing Ethereum challenge.

Sponsored

Sponsored

These changes arrive as market participants position for 2026, creating favorable conditions for network growth and price stabilization.

Ethereum Holders Show StrengthEthereum network activity has expanded quickly over the past three weeks. Data shows a sharp rise in new addresses, defined as wallets interacting with ETH for the first time. This metric has increased by roughly 110% during the period, highlighting accelerating user adoption.

Ethereum now adds approximately 292,000 new addresses per day. This surge reflects a combination of seasonal factors and structural upgrades.

Christmas 2025, New Year positioning, and optimism surrounding the Fusaka upgrade appear to be driving renewed engagement across the ecosystem.

Want more token insights like this? Sign up for Editor Harsh Notariya’s Daily Crypto Newsletter here.

Ethereum New Addresses. Source: GlassnodeRising address creation often precedes increased transaction demand. While not every new address represents a long-term investor, sustained growth at this scale suggests expanding participation. Broader user inflows typically improve liquidity depth and reinforce price resilience during volatile market phases.

Sponsored

Sponsored

Forced to Hold, But Beneficial to ETH NonethelessMacro indicators present a mixed but informative picture. HODL Waves show growth among mid-term holders, defined as wallets holding ETH for three to six months. These investors largely entered positions between July and October 2025.

Early July buyers currently sit in profit, while those who entered after mid-July remain underwater. This distribution creates forced holding behavior, as many holders wait for price recovery. Such positioning can provide temporary support by reducing selling pressure during pullbacks.

Ethereum HODL Waves. Source: GlassnodeHowever, rising prices may trigger distribution from these cohorts. As ETH approaches break-even levels for mid-term holders, selling risk increases. This dynamic could limit upside unless fresh capital offsets profit-taking from trapped supply.

ETH Price Is Nearing A BreakoutEthereum price continues to trade within a descending wedge that formed in early November. ETH currently changes hands near $3,141, placing it close to a potential breakout. The structure suggests momentum is compressing, often preceding directional expansion.

The wedge projects a theoretical upside of roughly 29.5%, targeting $4,061. While ambitious, such a move would require stronger buying pressure than currently observed. A more realistic scenario involves ETH breaking out and pushing past $3,287, opening a short-term path toward $3,447.

ETH Price Analysis. Source: TradingViewDownside risks remain if macro conditions deteriorate or the breakout fails. A rejection could send Ethereum back below $3,000. In that case, ETH may retest the $2,902 support level, invalidating the bullish thesis and reinforcing range-bound conditions.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 14:00 3mo ago
USA Rare Earth: Rare Opportunity stocknewsapi
USAR
HomeStock IdeasLong IdeasBasic Materials

SummaryUSA Rare Earth is positioned to help solve the fragile rare earth supply chain, providing a domestic solution.The company is rapidly expanding magnet production capacity, aiming for 4,800 tpa by 2028, supported by strong demand projections through 2033.Analysts forecast USAR revenues to grow from $41 million in 2026 to $391 million by 2028, with a $1 billion target by 2030.USAR maintains a robust $523 million cash position, low burn rate, and sufficient capital for operational ramp-up, though execution and policy support remain key risks.Looking for a portfolio of ideas like this one? Members of Out Fox The Street get exclusive access to our subscriber-only portfolios. Learn More » wildpixel/iStock via Getty Images

As expected, the domestic rare earth players faced some complications due to the U.S. government cozying up with the Chinese government. Regardless, USA Rare Earth, Inc. (USAR) remains on schedule to solve the dangerously

Analyst’s Disclosure:I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, but may initiate a beneficial Long position through a purchase of the stock, or the purchase of call options or similar derivatives in USAR over the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

The information contained herein is for informational purposes only. Nothing in this article should be taken as a solicitation to purchase or sell securities. Before buying or selling any stock, you should do your own research and reach your own conclusion or consult a financial advisor. Investing includes risks, including loss of principal.

Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 14:03 3mo ago
3 Stocks That Could Be Easy Wealth Builders stocknewsapi
HRL KO PG
If you want to build wealth the slow and steady way, take a look at this trio of consumer staples Dividend Kings today.

If you are looking to build wealth, one easy way to do that is by focusing on reliable dividend stocks. One of the best sectors in which to find such stocks is the consumer staples sector. Coca-Cola (KO 1.13%), Hormel Foods (HRL 1.31%), and Procter & Gamble (PG 1.11%) are three strong consumer staples dividend opportunities today. Here's what you need to know to get started.

Why consumer staples stocks?
If you like to keep things simple, then you will love consumer staples stocks. To start, these companies sell products that you likely use every day. You won't have to dig into a company's annual report to figure out what it does. A walk through your local grocery store will keep you informed about what a company is doing.

Image source: Getty Images.

Second, the products that consumer staples makers sell are generally low-cost necessities that are frequently purchased. That doesn't change because of a recession or bear market, since products like toilet paper and deodorant aren't items you are likely to go without to save a little money.

That said, some consumer staples companies have proven more successful over time than others. A quick and easy way to screen for the best companies is to examine the list of Dividend Kings, which are companies that have increased their dividends for at least 50 years. Building a dividend record like that requires a strong business model that is executed well in good times and bad.

Coca-Cola, Hormel, and Procter & Gamble are all on the Dividend King list, and each have at least six decades' worth of annual increases.

What are you getting?
Coca-Cola is the world's largest non-alcoholic beverage company. It has a dividend yield of 2.9%, which is middle of the road for the stock, historically speaking. The stock's price-to-sales ratio is roughly in line with its five-year average, as well. However, the price-to-earnings and price-to-book value ratios are both below their five-year averages. All in, the stock looks fairly priced to a little cheap.

Today's Change

(

-1.13

%) $

-0.79

Current Price

$

69.12

A reasonable price for a great business is probably a good option for most investors. That said, the real allure right now is that Coca-Cola is performing well despite cost-conscious consumers and concerns about the healthfulness of packaged food products. Through the first nine months of 2025, the company's organic sales rose 5% and volume rose 1%. That's a testament to the brand strength Coca-Cola enjoys.

Procter & Gamble's dividend yield is also 2.9%. That's toward the higher end of the recent yield range. The company makes consumer products, like the aforementioned toilet paper and deodorant, that few people will willingly live without. The P/S, P/E, and P/B ratios are all below their five-year averages, suggesting the stock is attractively priced. It isn't a deep value, but for value-conscious investors, it could be a good, conservative selection.

Today's Change

(

-1.11

%) $

-1.59

Current Price

$

141.72

Like Coca-Cola, P&G is navigating the current retail environment in relative stride. In fiscal 2025, the company's organic sales rose 2%. It matched that number in the first quarter of fiscal 2026. It would be hard to describe these results as "killing it," but this is the type of company that doesn't have blowout quarters very often. Slow and steady is the normal pace, and that's what investors are getting today, despite the broader industry headwinds. If you like to keep life simple, P&G would be a great complement to food-focused Coca-Cola.

For investors willing to venture into a turnaround story, Hormel's 4.9% yield could be attractive. That yield is near the highest levels in the company's history. The stock's P/S and P/B ratios are below their five-year averages, but the company's recent struggles have left the P/E above its five-year average. Unlike the two consumer staples stocks above, Hormel is performing relatively weakly, and that has investors worried about the future. Historically speaking, it looks attractively valued.

Today's Change

(

-1.31

%) $

-0.31

Current Price

$

23.39

The big story here, however, is a bit more obscure. The philanthropic Hormel Foundation effectively controls the food maker because it owns nearly 47% of the outstanding shares. The Hormel Foundation uses the dividends it collects from Hormel, the company, to support its philanthropic efforts.

As such, it has a vested interest in a reliable and consistent dividend supported by a slow-growing business. This relationship gives Hormel the leeway to make long-term decisions even when Wall Street would prefer short-term actions that may not be great long-term choices. This is what's going on today.

Hormel's board of directors has reinstated a former and well-respected CEO, Jeffrey Ettinger. That CEO is overseeing a business overhaul while simultaneously training his successor. This lends weight to the overhaul while also giving the successor time to earn the respect of the company's employees and investors. This is a multi-year process, but given the company's long and successful history, it seems likely that the turnaround approach being taken has a high likelihood of success. More aggressive investors could find this an attractive wealth-building stock.

Three high-yield options
Even for risk-averse investors considering the modest 1.1% yield on offer from the S&P 500 index, Coca-Cola and Procter & Gamble will both appear very enticing. If you are willing to take on a little more risk for a lot more yield, Hormel's in-process turnaround effort may be a good fit. Whichever Dividend King you pick, all of them could help you easily build wealth in a fairly reliable segment of the market.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 14:15 3mo ago
Oil prices likely to move higher on Venezuelan turmoil, ample supply to cap gains stocknewsapi
BNO DBO GUSH IEO OIH OIL PXJ UCO USO XOP
Trump said on Saturday the oil embargo on Venezuelan exports remained in full effect.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 14:23 3mo ago
Don't Buy UnitedHealth Group Stock Before Jan. 27 stocknewsapi
UNH
There's a lot of grey area surrounding UnitedHealth's business right now.

UnitedHealth Group (UNH +1.91%) has long been one of the premier health insurance companies in the United States, but it and its stock are not unfamiliar with controversy or volatility. It's been a rough year so far for UnitedHealth's stock. Through Dec. 30, the stock is down roughly 34%.

Much of UnitedHealth's business is stable, but the company is undergoing a transition period. There's a lot to like about the stock -- including how cheap it has become after its recent plunge (a 17 price-to-earnings ratio) -- but I recommend waiting until after its Jan. 27 report before making a decision on whether to buy shares.

Image source: Getty Images.

Why Jan. 27 is important for UnitedHealth Group
UnitedHealth is scheduled to release its full-year 2025 results and, arguably more important, its 2026 financial guidance on Jan. 27 before the markets open.

In May 2025, UnitedHealth suspended its profit forecast for the year after having its first quarterly earnings miss in over a decade. The company blamed the miss on rising costs, as people had more doctor visits and surgeries, which meant UnitedHealth had to pay out more in insurance claims than expected. And since the company had no idea how much its costs would increase, it withdrew its profit forecast.

For investors, this was a red flag, leading to its stock price plunge this year. However, on Jan. 27, UnitedHealth has a chance to change the narrative and clear some of the fog and confusion surrounding its profitability and long-term growth prospects.

Today's Change

(

1.91

%) $

6.29

Current Price

$

336.40

What should investors look for before buying the stock?
When UnitedHealth releases its 2026 guidance, investors should look for projections for earnings per share (EPS), medical care ratio (MCR), and operating margin.

UnitedHealth's 2025 adjusted EPS is projected to come in at at least $16.25, so any 2026 projection that's only a bit above that would mean proceed with caution.

UNH EPS Diluted (Quarterly) data by YCharts. EPS = earnings per share.

MCR is the percentage of money UnitedHealth earns from premiums that it spends on medical claims; the lower the better for the company. Ideally, this number is near the mid-80% range.

Operating margin indicates how much money is left after paying doctors and covering other costs. The higher the better, but 4% is a good benchmark to look for. Though this would likely require UnitedHealth to consider price increases, which would surely bring  more scrutiny from politicians and its customers.

So while I would not buy UnitedHealth shares ahead of its Jan. 27 report, if things look good in that release of info, its current valuation could look like a steal for long-term investors.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 14:26 3mo ago
CRMT Investor News: If You Have Suffered Losses in America's Car-Mart, Inc. (NASDAQ: CRMT), You Are Encouraged to Contact The Rosen Law Firm About Your Rights stocknewsapi
CRMT
NEW YORK, Jan. 04, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, continues to investigate potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of America’s Car-Mart, Inc. (NASDAQ: CRMT) resulting from allegations that America’s Car-Mart may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public.

SO WHAT: If you purchased America’s Car-Mart securities you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. The Rosen Law Firm is preparing a class action seeking recovery of investor losses.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the prospective class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=46025 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action.

WHAT IS THIS ABOUT: On September 4, 2025, during market hours, Benzinga published an article entitled “America’s Car-Mart Stock Plunges After Sales Volume Dip, Delinquency Uptick.” The article stated that America’s Car-Mart, Inc. stock was trading “lower after the company reported first-quarter results. The company reported a first-quarter loss of 69 cents per share, compared with a net loss of 15 cents per share in the year-ago period.”

On this news, America’s Car-Mart’s stock fell 18.2% on September 4, 2025.

WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved, at that time, the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs’ Bar. Many of the firm’s attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

-------------------------------

Contact Information:

        Laurence Rosen, Esq.
        Phillip Kim, Esq.
        The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
        275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
        New York, NY 10016
        Tel: (212) 686-1060
        Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
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2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 14:45 3mo ago
Chevron Stock Up 6%. Why Venezuelan Oil May Not Make $CVX A Buy stocknewsapi
CVX
PARAGUANA, VENEZUELA - APRIL 4: A controlled flame burns behind a storage tank in the oil refinery complex of Amuay-Cardon April 4, 2003 in Paraguana, located about 350 miles West of Caracas, Venezuela. Amuay-Cardon, one of the world's largest oil refineries, will export approximately 87,000 barrels of gasoline per day in April, after gasoline exports resumed at the end of a two-month strike by oil workers. (Photo by Kimberly White/Getty Images)

Getty Images

Chevron stock has risen a paltry 6% in the last year, according to Google Finance – a far cry from the S&P 500’s 16.4% rise.

The oil major is also the only big U.S. oil company in Venezuela – which the U.S. invaded on Jan. 3 -- and with a presence there for nearly a century is “the country’s largest foreign investor,” according to the Wall Street Journal.

The U.S. incursion into Venezuela – which included capturing the leader of Venezuela Nicolas Maduro and his wife, noted the New York Times – is highly controversial.

After all, Congress – which the U.S. constitution requires to be consulted before the country enters a war, reported the New York Times – did not know about the invasion – which Secretary of State Marco Rubio described as a law enforcement action – until late Saturday morning, after it began, reported The Washington Post.

Indeed the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s top Democrat said Rubio misled Congress. How so? “Rubio said that there were not any intentions to invade Venezuela,” Rep. Gregory W. Meeks of New York told the Post. “He absolutely lied to Congress,” Meeks added.

Now that President Donald Trump has declared the U.S. will run Venezuela, the economic implications of taking over this oil-rich country – whose estimated 300 billion barrels surpass Saudi Arabia and account for about 17% of global oil reserves, according to OPEC data featured by MSN – are on the minds of investors.

How so? “We’re going to have our very large United States oil companies, the biggest anywhere in the world, go in, spend billions of dollars, fix the badly broken infrastructure, the oil infrastructure, and start making money for the country,” Trump said in a Mar-a-Lago news conference featured by the Journal,

More specifically, this raises a question for investors:

Does The U.S.’s Venezuela Incursion Make Chevron Stock A Buying Opportunity?If you are seeking dividends – the company has a 4.5% dividend yield with annual increases -- Chevron could be a good bet. However, U.S. control of Venezuela does not mean the price of $CVX is likely to rise rapidly. Here are three reasons for reaching that conclusion:

Geopolitical Risk. Exposure to Venezuela and the Middle East can lead to asset seizures or operational shutdowns. In the wake of the invasion, Venezuela remains highly risky. Oil Price Dependency. If oil drops below $60/barrel, free cash flow for stock buybacks and dividends could dry up. Moreover, if Venezuelan oil production increases substantially, the increase in supply could push down the price of oil further diminishing the company’s cash flow prospects. Growth Concerns. Chevron – which suffered a roughly 1% to 2% revenue decline in 2025 – is struggling to grow revenue organically without expensive acquisitions (like Hess). Moreover, the time and capital required to upgrade Venezuela’s oil production capacity could delay a possible return on investment.Chevron retracted an initial statement that it would work with the U.S. government during the transition. The new statement is: “Chevron remains focused on the safety and wellbeing of our employees, as well as the integrity of our assets," noted a Jan. 3 statement reported by Newsweek. "We continue to operate in full compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.”

Political Instability in Venezuela Could PersistIt is unclear what it means for the U.S. to run Venezuela. For now, Maduro’s vice president Delcy Rodríguez is holding power in Venezuela, noted the Times. However, her tenure will last as long as she “does what we want,” said Trump.

Yet her initial response to the U.S. action does not sound encouraging because Rodríguez’s address to Venezuela accused the U.S. of invading “her country under false pretenses,” added the Times.

The U.S. reportedly does not intend to send perform a formal occupation as the Coalition Provisional Authority did in Iraq. “We’re going to tell them: ‘Hey, this is what you have to do in order for there not to be another strike,’” a former Senate staffer who keeps in touch with Rubio told the Post. “That’s what [Trump] sees as running the country.”

It is highly uncertain whether the U.S. will be able to fix what ails Venezuela before exiting. Until then Chevron and other oil industry executives – who are aware Venezuela has appropriated oil assets in the 1970s and the 2000s – will be “forced to gauge the stability on the ground in a country where the industry has fallen into disarray after more than two decades of mismanagement and corruption,” noted the Journal.

That investment – between $65 billion and $100 billion, energy consulting firm Rystad analyst Schreiner Parker told the Financial Times – sounds daunting. As Caracas-based economist Orlando Ochoa told the Journal unlocking the capital to extract Venezuela’s oil may not happen until the country:

Brings back tens of thousands of oil professionals who left the country during Maduro’s rule,Drafts an economic stabilization plan to attract the financing Venezuela needs to “rebuild infrastructure and rusted oil-field installations,”Modifies Local laws to allow private energy firms to operate “without state overreach,”Restructures $160 billion in government debt, andConvinces foreign companies to return by settling pending arbitration cases.It is unlikely major oil companies would have a financial incentive to make those investments when more oil could be produced in the U.S. with relatively little additional investment.

MORE FOR YOU

Price Of Oil Could DropWith global oil supplies expected to rise and oil prices remaining below $60 a barrel, there is little appetite for additional oil that would prompt most American producers to invest in fixing Venezuela’s oil infrastructure.

How so? “One thing that works against it is the price of oil,” former head of Chevron’s operations in Latin America and Africa Ali Moshiri told the Journal.“In the environment we’re in, if you’re going to invest, do you put it in the Permian [Basin in the U.S.] or do you put it in Venezuela? That’s going to be a tough choice,” he added.

To be fair, oil prices are likely to rise a bit when commodities futures markets reopen Sunday night.

That’s because the U.S. invasion is unlikely to interrupt the Venezuelan oil market which exports a mere 500,000 barrels of oil a day – less than 1% of the global supply, chief analyst and head of research at A/S Global Risk Management Arne Lohmann Rasmussen told CNBC.

He estimates the price of oil could rise $1 to $2 per barrel before tapering off. “Despite this being a huge geopolitical event that you would normally expect to be positive or push up oil prices,” Rasmussen said, “the bottom line is there’s still too much oil in the market, and that’s why oil prices will not go ballistic.”

Chevron’s Weak Growth ProspectsAlthough highly profitable, Chevron’s Venezuelan oil sales in 2025 of roughly 150,000 barrels per day – were about 2% of corporate revenue – $2 to $4 billion dollars out of $190 billion, according to Trefis.

Unfortunately that revenue evaporated when Chevron’s U.S. license to export that oil expired on May 27, 2025. according to Zacks, and was restored in July. noted Reuters. Even if that license is renewed, a doubling of Chevron’s output would not add significantly to the company’s growth.

Chevron’s revenue has been consistently declining – dropping at a 6.2% average annual rate over the past three years. Yet as long as the price of oil remains above $55, Chevron can continue to defend its dividend and sustain buybacks.

Chevron revenue is expected to shift into slightly positive territory in 2026. The average analyst’s 2026 revenue estimate for the oil major is $189 billion – a 1% increase from $186.9 billion in 2025, according to Yahoo Finance.

What Analysts Are SayingChevron has modest potential for price appreciation. Indeed, price target of $177.61 implies 14% upside, according to TipRanks.

Morgan Stanley’s Devin McDermott highlights the $53 billion Hess acquisition – yielding Chevron 30% of an 11 billion barrel Guyanese oil field, according to Reuters -- as "an important strategic step... diversifying and enhancing the company’s growth outlook," projecting 3.5% accretion to 2026 free cash flow per share, noted Seeking Alpha.

Chevron stock may rise in 2026 – but not as a result of Venezuelan oil.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 14:48 3mo ago
The Ultimate Dividend ETF Face-Off: SCHD's High Yield vs. NOBL's Dividend Growth stocknewsapi
NOBL SCHD
Expense ratios, sector tilts, and dividend strategies set these two popular ETFs apart for investors seeking the right portfolio fit.

Want regular and bankable dividends without having to analyze and invest in stocks? Consider ProShares S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats ETF (NOBL +0.38%) and Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD +1.09%). Both these exchange-traded funds target dividend-focused U.S. stocks, offering investors an easy way to gain exposure to dividend stocks. However, the methodologies and holdings of these two ETFs create noticeable differences.

These two ETFs differ the most in terms of cost, yield, and sector approach, with SCHD offering lower fees and a higher dividend payout. NOBL tilts more toward industrials but offers exposure to top dividend growth stocks. Investors comparing these ETFs may want to weigh recent returns, risk profiles, and sector exposures, as well as headline metrics such as cost and yield before deciding which one to buy.

Snapshot (cost & size)MetricNOBLSCHDIssuerProSharesSchwabExpense ratio0.35%0.06%1-yr total return (as of Dec. 31, 2025)6.8%4.3%Dividend yield2.2%3.8%AUM$11.3 billion$72.5 billionBeta measures price volatility relative to the S&P 500; beta is calculated from five-year weekly returns. The 1-yr return represents total return over the trailing 12 months.

SCHD is more affordable with a 0.06% expense ratio compared to NOBL’s 0.35%, and it currently pays out a notably higher dividend yield, which may appeal to income-oriented investors.

Performance & risk comparisonMetricNOBLSCHDMax drawdown (5 y)(17.91%)(16.82%)Growth of $1,000 over 5 years$1,308$1,298What's inside the ETF portfoliosThe Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF tracks a basket of 102 large U.S. dividend stocks, with a sector mix that skews toward energy (19.3%), consumer staples (18.5%), and healthcare (16.1%). Its top holdings include Bristol Myers Squibb (BMY +0.25%). Merck & Co (MRK +1.13%), and ConocoPhillips (COP +3.16%). The fund has a 14.2-year track record, providing some historical perspective on its approach and payout consistency.

The ProShares S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats ETF, on the other hand, focuses on S&P 500 companies with at least 25 consecutive years of dividend growth, resulting in a lineup of 70 stocks. It leans most heavily on industrials (22.4%), consumer defensive (22%), and financial services (12.4%). The largest three positions include Albemarle (ALB +1.76%), Cardinal Health (CAH +0.25%), and C.H. Robinson Worldwide (CHRW +1.80%).

Both funds avoid leverage and other structural quirks, but the differences in sector weightings and selection rules may drive diverging performance over time.

For more guidance on ETF investing, check out the full guide at this link.

What this means for investorsIf you compare the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF and the ProShares S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats ETF in terms of yields, SCHD pays a considerably higher yield of 3.8%, easily beating the S&P 500 index's yield of 1.2%. That's also because SCHD tracks the Dow Jones U.S. Dividend 100 Index, which focuses on high-yield stocks. The good thing is that SCHD also places a strong emphasis on dividend track record and the financial strength of the underlying companies. SCHD is, therefore, a highly sought-after and reliable ETF to own to earn regular dividend income.

NOBL, however, stands out for dividend growth as it invests exclusively in Dividend Aristocrats®. The term Dividend Aristocrats® is a registered trademark of Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC, a subsidiary of the S&P 500 Global (SPGI 1.95%), reflecting S&P 500 stocks that have increased their dividends for at least 25 consecutive years. Yield is not important here. A company's ability to not just pay a regular dividend but raise it over time alongside cash flows is what matters, and that, by default, makes NOBL an incredibly safe dividend ETF to own to earn some extra income.

SCHD Total Return Level data by YCharts

Both ETFs give you exposure to fundamentally strong dividend stocks and are excellent additions to your portfolios if you're an income investor. One factor, however, that could make a considerable difference to returns over time is costs. On a $100 investment, you'll be paying 35 cents annually in costs to the fund manager of NOBL but only six cents on SCHD. Its low fees (expense ratio) and high yield are the primary reasons why SCHD has outperformed NOBL in the long term. 

GlossaryETF: Exchange-traded fund; a basket of securities traded on an exchange like a stock.
Expense ratio: Annual fee, expressed as a percentage of assets, that covers a fund’s operating costs.
Dividend yield: Annual dividends paid by a fund or stock, divided by its current price, shown as a percentage.
Dividend Aristocrats: S&P 500 companies that have increased dividends for at least 25 consecutive years.
Beta: A measure of an investment’s volatility compared to the overall market, typically the S&P 500.
AUM: Assets under management; the total market value of assets a fund manages.
Max drawdown: The largest observed percentage drop from a fund’s peak value to its lowest point over a period.
Sector weighting: The proportion of a fund’s assets allocated to specific industry sectors.
Consumer defensive: Companies producing essential goods like food, beverages, and household products, less sensitive to economic cycles.
Leverage: The use of borrowed money to increase potential investment returns, often increasing risk.
Total return: The investment’s price change plus all dividends and distributions, assuming those payouts are reinvested.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 14:57 3mo ago
STUBHUB DEADLINE: ROSEN, RECOGNIZED INVESTOR COUNSEL, Encourages StubHub Holdings, Inc. Investors to Secure Counsel Before Important Deadline in Securities Class Action – STUB stocknewsapi
STUB
NEW YORK, Jan. 04, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of common stock of StubHub Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: STUB) pursuant and/or traceable to the Registration Statement issued in connection with StubHub’s September 2025 initial public offering (the “IPO”), of the important January 23, 2026 lead plaintiff deadline.

SO WHAT: If you purchased StubHub common stock you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the StubHub class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=48412 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for more information. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than January 23, 2026. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.

WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved, at that time, the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs’ Bar. Many of the firm’s attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit,  the Registration Statement was materially false and misleading and omitted to state that: (1) StubHub was experiencing changes in the timing of payments to vendors; (2) those changes had a significant adverse impact on free cash flow, including trailing twelve months (“TTM”) free cash flow; (3) as a result, StubHub’s free cash flow reports were materially misleading, and that; (4) as a result of the foregoing, defendants’ positive statements about StubHub’s business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

To join the StubHub class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=48412 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for more information.

No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor’s ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

-------------------------------

Contact Information:

        Laurence Rosen, Esq.
        Phillip Kim, Esq.
        The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
        275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
        New York, NY 10016
        Tel: (212) 686-1060
        Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
        Fax: (212) 202-3827
        [email protected]
        www.rosenlegal.com
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 15:00 3mo ago
Will the Nasdaq 100 ETF Triple Your Money in the Next 10 Years? stocknewsapi
QQQ
The Invesco QQQ Trust (QQQ) has been a stellar performer for more than two decades. Can the next decade produce a repeat?

Tripling your money over the course of a decade sounds ambitious, but it's actually not as tough as it sounds. It requires an average annual return of 11.6%. Given that the S&P 500 has averaged around a 10% total return per year over the past century, it doesn't seem that far-fetched.

Over the past 10 years, the Invesco QQQ Trust (QQQ 0.19%), which tracks the Nasdaq-100 index, has delivered an average annual return of just over 20%. Despite steep drawdowns in both 2020 during the COVID pandemic and again in 2022, QQQ has been one of the best-performing large-cap growth exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in existence and remains in high demand today.

But that's now in the past. Can the Nasdaq-100 triple investors' money again over the next decade? Let's take a look at some of the factors that will determine the answer to that question.

Image source: Getty Images.

The AI revolution
There's a lot that goes into this, so let's break it down one by one. It's safe to say that artificial intelligence (AI) is the biggest technological advance since the internet. As it develops, it's likely to infiltrate almost every aspect of our lives from retail to medicine to education and beyond. And we're still in the early innings.

There's little question that the long-term growth potential of AI and quantum computing is immense. But the stock market isn't the economy. A lot of that potential is already being priced into stocks, which potentially makes future stock returns more limited.

At the center of that is AI spending. Most of the megacap tech companies have committed tens, if not hundreds, of billions of dollars to infrastructure development. While initial returns have been positive, we still don't know what the ultimate return on investment will be for those expenditures. If it turns out to be less than expected, prices for tech stocks (and QQQ by extension) could fall.

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The "Magnificent Seven"
Nvidia, Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet, Meta Platforms, and Tesla account for approximately 44% of the Invesco QQQ Trust's portfolio. That means the performance of the ETF will be heavily dependent on the performance of just a handful of tech giants.

As it relates to the AI trade, that's probably a good thing (at least for now). The "Magnificent Seven" stocks have been among the biggest winners of the AI boom so far and are likely to continue being leaders in this space.

There will likely come a time, however, when the list of winners broadens out. That doesn't mean the megacap names won't still be winners, but we may see the biggest future returns coming from elsewhere. Given QQQ's heavy reliance on the biggest companies, future returns could certainly still be solid, but maybe not on par with what we've seen over the past 10 years.

Valuation
There's little question that stocks are pricey right now. The S&P 500 currently trades at about 22 times forward earnings, which is near the highest levels we've ever seen for the index. The magnificent stocks trade at 29 times forward earnings, also a near-record high.

Generally, when you start with a higher valuation, future returns tend to be more modest. Keep in mind though that stock prices are driven by earnings growth. Stock prices can be expensive and rallies can continue for a while so long as companies are growing their earnings to back it up.

Given the potential of the AI revolution, it's not unreasonable to think that the Nasdaq-100 components can maintain above-average valuations for some time. With 10 years to ride out some of the highs and lows, any contraction in price-to-earnings multiples could feel less painful considering the long time horizon.

Can the Nasdaq-100 ETF triple over the next decade?
An 11% to 12% average annual return for the Nasdaq-100 and QQQ isn't a big hurdle to clear. Those returns are pretty common to what we've seen historically. The main questions are: Can these big tech and growth companies continue to generate strong earnings growth for the next several years, and will current high valuations be detrimental to future returns?

I think the answer to the first question is yes and the answer to the second is probably not. Of course, an unforeseen recession at any point over the next decade could render the entire argument moot. But as far as having the appropriate catalysts to make it happen, I think there's no question that the Nasdaq-100 could triple in the next 10 years.

David Dierking has positions in Apple. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta Platforms, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Tesla. The Motley Fool recommends the following options: long January 2026 $395 calls on Microsoft and short January 2026 $405 calls on Microsoft. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 15:04 3mo ago
2,400 Stocks or 315 Value Picks: Is SCHB or VTV a Better Fit for Your Portfolio? stocknewsapi
SCHB VTV
SCHB covers the full U.S. stock market with a tech tilt, while VTV focuses on large-cap value stocks led by financials and healthcare. VTV yields more than SCHB's payout.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 15:35 3mo ago
The First Energy Stock I Plan to Buy in 2026 stocknewsapi
EPD
Enterprise Products Partners can return even more cash to investors in 2026.

The energy sector had a lackluster year in 2025. The average energy stock in the S&P 500 was up less than 5%. That significantly underperformed the nearly 19% rise in that broader market index.

While energy stocks delivered underwhelming returns last year, several have catalysts that could fuel higher returns in 2026, including Enterprise Products Partners (EPD +0.17%). Here's why I plan to make the midstream giant the first energy stock I buy in the new year.

Image source: Getty Images.

The end of an era
In 2022, Enterprise Products Partners embarked on a considerable capital investment cycle to build out the necessary infrastructure to support its customers' growing production volumes in the Permian and Haynesville basins. These investments included building large-scale pipeline and marine terminal facilities, such as the Bahia NGL Pipeline and Neches River Terminal (NRT). The company also made acquisitions to expand its capabilities, including the purchase of Pinon Midstream for $950 million in 2024.

Last year represented the peak of capital spending. Enterprise Products Partners was on pace to invest $4.5 billion in 2025, up from $1.6 billion when it started this phase in 2022. That allowed the company to place $6 billion of growth capital projects into commercial service in the second half of the year, including two new gas processing plants, the first phase of service at NRT, Bahia, and a 14th NGL fractionator at its Mont Belvieu complex.

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As a result, the company anticipates its capital spending will decrease considerably in 2026. It currently expects it to be in the range of $2.2 billion to $2.5 billion. That investment rate will enable it to finish NRT (first half of 2026), build two more gas processing plants (Mentone West 2 in the first half and Athena in the fourth quarter), and complete an expansion of the Enterprise Hydrocarbons Terminal (year-end).

The company currently has only one project in its backlog with an in-service date beyond the end of 2026. It recently unveiled plans to expand Bahia's capacity from 600,000 barrels per day to 1 million barrels per day, while also building a 92-mile extension to ExxonMobil's Cowboy gas processing plant, which it expects to complete by the end of 2027. Exxon is acquiring a 40% interest in the pipeline as part of this expansion. It will repay Enterprise for 40% of the pipeline's construction costs to date while funding that percentage of its future expansion expenses.

Starting the next chapter
The wave of expansion project completions in the second half of 2025 will give Enterprise Products Partners a lot of momentum as it enters 2026. They should supply the company with significant incremental cash flow in the coming year. Meanwhile, NRT phase 2 and the Mentone West 2 gas processing plant will provide additional sources of incremental cash flow as they come online in the first half of the year.

In addition to the increased cash flows from its growth projects, Enterprise Products Partners' capital spending reduction will free up $2 billion of additional cash that it can allocate toward other initiatives. As a result, the company will produce a considerable amount of surplus cash in the coming year.

That should provide the master limited partnership (which sends investors a Schedule K-1 Federal tax form each year) with ample fuel to continue increasing its high-yielding distribution (currently yielding 6.8%). Enterprise Products Partners has raised its payment for 27 consecutive years, including by 3.8% over the past year. It could grow the payout at an even faster rate in 2026 and beyond.

Additionally, Enterprise Products Partners appears poised to increase its unit repurchase rate. The company recently increased its buyback capacity from $2 billion to $5 billion, with $3.6 billion remaining under the new authorization. It repurchased $80 million of its units in the third quarter of 2025 and $170 million during the first half of the year. It now has the financial flexibility and buyback capacity to meaningfully increase its repurchase rate in 2026.

The MLP also has the financial flexibility to strengthen its industry-leading balance sheet, make acquisitions, and approve additional expansion projects. Enterprise Products Partners ended the third quarter with a low 3.3 times leverage ratio and strong A-/A3 bond ratings. It could use some of its excess financial capacity to repay debt, lowering its leverage level and annual interest expense. That would put the company in an even stronger position to capitalize on future acquisition opportunities. The company most recently acquired a gas gathering affiliate of Occidental Petroleum for $580 million in a deal that included a natural gas processing agreement supporting the construction of the Athena gas processing plant. Future acquisitions and organic expansion project approvals would further enhance and extend the visibility of its earnings growth.

Reaching an inflection point in 2026
Enterprise Products Partners should produce significantly more free cash flow in the coming year. It can use those funds to boost its distribution, repurchase more units, and allocate capital in other ways that will grow value for investors. This catalyst is why Enterprise Products Partners is the first energy stock I plan to buy in the new year.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 15:48 3mo ago
Should You Invest $500 in Oklo Right Now? stocknewsapi
OKLO
Oklo had a mighty run in 2025. Should you invest $500 for 2026?

Picture this. It's mid-October 2025, and you're a shareholder in the nuclear start-up Oklo (OKLO +8.42%). You bought shares in January 2025, and your initial $10,000 stake has climbed roughly 480% to reach about $58,000.

Not bad for a nuclear start-up. Until it started selling off. Fast-forward to Dec. 31, 2025, and that same position would be worth about $23,850.

That's still a strong return for a company with no meaningful revenue, but investing is about the future. If Oklo were to repeat 2025's 238% jump, $500 invested today would be worth about $1,690 in a year. We don't know what the stock will do this year, but if you're interested in Oklo, let's take a look at what you'll be buying.

Artist's rendering of an Oklo Aurora powerhouse. Image source: Oklo.

The hurdle that Oklo must surmount in 2026
Oklo is a pioneer in advanced nuclear technology. Conventional wisdom touts it as an AI-age nuclear play, an energy start-up whose microreactor can meet the surging power needs of data centers and AI.

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Furthermore, the company has gotten support from the U.S. government. Not only has it benefited from pro-nuclear policies, including executive orders from President Donald Trump, but it's currently building its first Aurora powerhouse at the Idaho National Laboratory -- a facility overseen by the Department of Energy (DOE).

This powerhouse is expected to "demonstrate criticality" by July 4, 2026.

While demonstrating this powerhouse's technology would be a major achievement, it wouldn't substitute for the milestone that would make this company real and formidable: obtaining approval from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to build and operate reactors commercially.

Until it has that license, Oklo's ability to generate revenue will be severely limited. Indeed, investors may need to wait a couple of years before the revenue spigot is turned on, while cash burn continues.

OKLO Revenue Estimates for Current Quarter data by YCharts

As such, Oklo remains a speculative play on the future of energy. Investors with a long time horizon may want to invest $500. Less aggressive investors might want to consider a nuclear energy exchange-traded fund (ETF) that invests in several companies instead.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 16:00 3mo ago
Crinetics Pharmaceuticals to Provide PALSONIFY Business Update and Announce Topline Results from Fourth Cohort of Phase 2 Trial of Atumelnant in Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia stocknewsapi
CRNX
SAN DIEGO, Jan. 04, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Crinetics Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: CRNX), today announced that the company will host a conference call and webcast on Monday, January 5, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. ET to provide an update on PALSONIFY™ (paltusotine) commercialization and disclose topline results from the fourth cohort of the Phase 2 trial of atumelnant in congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 16:00 3mo ago
Where Will Uber Stock Be in 5 Years? stocknewsapi
UBER
Shares in the mobility and delivery enterprise are up just 57% since late December 2020.

Without a doubt, Uber (UBER +1.41%) is one of the most disruptive and innovative businesses, having spearheaded the ride-hailing trend. However, investors haven't been pleased. This growth stock has risen by only 57% in the past five years (as of Dec. 30). That's a disappointing outcome, especially when you consider that the S&P 500 index would've doubled your starting capital over the same time period.

Where will Uber be in five years? Investors can learn a lot by understanding both the bull and bear arguments.

Image source: Getty Images.

Focus on the impressive financial performance and growth outlook
Many consumer-facing businesses are reporting slower revenue growth due to the tough macroenvironment. Households are being more critical about how they spend their money. And they're constantly looking to receive better value. Despite this backdrop, Uber continues to thrive. Its financial results are notable.

Revenue and gross bookings were up 20% and 21%, respectively, on a year-over-year basis during the third quarter of 2025 (ended Sept. 30). Uber handled 3.5 billion trips in Q3, increasing 22% from the same period in 2024. There are now 189 million monthly active users.

What's more, profitability is encouraging. Uber generated $1.1 billion in operating income last quarter, translating to an operating margin of 8%. The business also produces huge amounts of free cash flow.

Early in 2024, Uber's management team revealed a three-year outlook, highlighted by a "high 30% to 40% earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) compound annual growth rate (CAGR)," according to CFO Prashanth Mahendra-Rajah. It's not a stretch to believe that this forecast is attainable.

Uber's core services still have lots of potential. And adjacent delivery spending within the grocery and retail categories presents a significant opportunity and could also drive more activity on the Uber app. Growing Uber One subscriptions is another lever that can bring on more power users.

Autonomous vehicles introduce uncertainty
To its credit, Uber is in a strong position right now. It has a massive user base, top-notch technical infrastructure, and a powerful network effect. It's difficult to find faults with the business.

However, one cause for concern is the ongoing autonomous vehicle (AV) revolution. The key long-term risk is that the leaders in the market, such as Tesla with its robotaxi service and Alphabet's Waymo, continue to expand to new markets across the country and the world. In doing so, the best outcome for society would be that they become safer than human drivers and that they're able to lower the costs so much that consumers will almost have no choice but to take these AV rides. Adoption would rapidly climb, and Uber would become obsolete as people flock to the Tesla and Waymo apps.

Up to this point, many AV enterprises have chosen to partner with Uber. If businesses are investing large amounts of capital in AV tech, they probably want a way to scale up fast to earn a return on this capital outlay. Here's where Uber has an advantage. AV companies can immediately plug into a mainstream platform. It will be very interesting to see how things play out in the years ahead.

Today's Change

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1.41

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82.86

Investors should consider buying Uber shares
Taking into account the bull and bear arguments, I lean on the optimistic side of the aisle. Uber's brand name, technological know-how, ability to leverage data, and network effect are all powerful traits that should help it successfully navigate the evolution of the AV market. And it's hard to deny just how impressive the company's financial results have been.

As of this writing, the stock trades 18% off its peak from early October. Investors can buy shares at a forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 19.5. Don't overthink this situation. Uber is positioned to be a solid investment over the next five years, possibly outperforming the market.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 16:00 3mo ago
An On-Time Jobs Report. Plus, Albertsons, Constellation, Jefferies, and More Stocks to Watch this Week. stocknewsapi
ACI JEF
We will also see earnings reports from Cal-Mine Foods, RPM International, and TD Synnex.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 16:00 3mo ago
VDC vs. RSPS: Broad Diversification or Balanced Bets for Consumer Staples Investors? stocknewsapi
RSPS VDC
VDC charges a much lower expense ratio and holds over 100 stocks, while RSPS is pricier and more concentrated. VDC has delivered slightly better one-year returns, with a narrower historical drawdown.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 16:00 3mo ago
Year in Review for NVDA: DeepSeek, China Sales, GOOGL & AMD Competition stocknewsapi
AMD GOOG GOOGL NVDA
Wedbush's Matthew Bryson is impressed with how Nvidia (NVDA) shares closed 2025 amid a slew of AI headwinds. When it comes to possible catalysts, he tells investors to watch for any headlines surrounding China sales.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 16:02 3mo ago
Exclusive: L3Harris nears space propulsion asset stake sale to AE Industrial, sources say stocknewsapi
LHX
The deal could provide AE Industrial with opportunities in space exploration and the Pentagon's emerging Golden Dome initiative.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 16:15 3mo ago
This China Tech Stock Just Became a Fund's Top Holding With a $33 Million Buy stocknewsapi
YMM
A concentrated new position is rarely about chasing momentum, and the underlying fundamentals here might explain why this name is showing up at the top of the portfolio.

Hong Kong-based Bright Valley Capital established a new position in Full Truck Alliance Co. Ltd. (YMM +4.85%), adding 2.57 million shares valued at approximately $33.36 million, according to a November 13 SEC filing.

What HappenedAccording to a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filing dated November 13, Bright Valley Capital disclosed a new position in Full Truck Alliance Co. Ltd. (YMM +4.85%) totaling 2.57 million shares. The stake was valued at $33.36 million as of September 30 and was not present in the previous quarterly filing.

What Else to KnowThe new position now comprises 19.75% of the fund’s reportable U.S. equity AUM.

Top holdings after the filing: 

NYSE: YMM: $33.36 million (26.37% of AUM)NASDAQ: HTHT: $31.01 million (24.52% of AUM)NASDAQ: LX: $19.07 million (15.08% of AUM)NASDAQ: JOYY: $14.95 million (11.82% of AUM)NASDAQ: DOYU: $8.33 million (6.58% of AUM)As of Friday, shares of YMM were priced at $11.25, up about 4% over the past year and underperforming the S&P 500's roughly 17% gain in the same period.

Company OverviewMetricValuePrice (as of Friday)$11.25Market Capitalization$11.77 billionRevenue (TTM)$1.71 billionNet Income (TTM)$588.99 millionCompany SnapshotFull Truck Alliance offers a digital freight platform providing freight listing, matching, brokerage, online transactions, and value-added services such as credit solutions, insurance, and electronic toll collection.The company serves shippers and truckers across China, targeting enterprises and individual logistics providers seeking efficient freight connections.It employs over 7,000 people and operates at scale within China's technology-driven logistics sector.Full Truck Alliance Co. Ltd. operates at scale within China's logistics sector, leveraging technology to connect shippers with truckers and streamline freight transactions.

Foolish TakeAllocating nearly one-fifth of a portfolio to a single position suggests Bright Valley believes the market is still mispricing the durability of the underlying business. Full Truck Alliance sits at the center of China’s logistics economy, where scale and network effects compound quietly rather than explosively. In the third quarter, the company grew revenue 10.8% year over year to $471.7 million while fulfilled orders jumped more than 22%, a reminder that usage growth continues to outpace headline sales growth.

What makes the story more interesting is where that growth is coming from. Transaction services revenue surged 39% year over year, and value added services rose nearly 17%, pushing the platform further away from simple freight listings and deeper into monetized infrastructure. At the same time, the balance sheet remains a strength, with $4.4 billion in cash and investments and consistent operating cash flow generation.

Within the broader portfolio, this position sits alongside other China internet and platform names, reinforcing that this is a thematic bet on digital marketplaces rather than a one-off trade. The stock has lagged the broader market, but for patient investors, scale, profitability, and cash can bode well.

GlossaryPosition: An investment or holding of a particular security or asset within a portfolio.
Assets Under Management (AUM): The total market value of investments that a fund or manager oversees on behalf of clients.
13F Report: A quarterly filing by institutional investment managers disclosing their U.S. equity holdings to the SEC.
Reportable Assets: Investments that must be disclosed in regulatory filings, typically U.S. publicly traded securities.
Quarter-end: The last day of a fiscal quarter, often used as a reference point for financial reporting.
Stake: The amount or percentage of ownership an investor holds in a company.
Outperforming: Achieving a higher return compared to a specific benchmark or index over a given period.
Digital Freight Platform: An online system that connects shippers and carriers to arrange and manage freight transportation.
Brokerage: The service of arranging transactions between buyers and sellers, often for a commission.
Value-added Services: Additional offerings beyond core services, such as credit, insurance, or toll solutions, to enhance customer value.
TTM: The 12-month period ending with the most recent quarterly report.

Jonathan Ponciano 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.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 16:26 3mo ago
AGL Investors Have Opportunity to Lead agilon health, inc. Securities Fraud Lawsuit with the Schall Law Firm stocknewsapi
AGL
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, reminds investors of a class action lawsuit against agilon health, inc. (“Agilon” or “the Company”) (NYSE: AGL) for violations of §§10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Investors who purchased the Company’s securities between February 26, 2025 and August 4, 2025, inclusive (the “Class Period”), are encouraged to contact the firm before March 2, 2026.

If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.

We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2460, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com, or by email at [email protected].

The class, in this case, has not yet been certified, and until certification occurs, you are not represented by an attorney. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member.

According to the Complaint, the Company made false and misleading statements to the market. Agilon released guidance for 2026 that it knew or should have known was beyond its reach. The Company overstated the impact of its “strategic actions” to reduce risk. Based on these facts, the Company’s public statements were false and materially misleading throughout the class period. When the market learned the truth about Agilon, investors suffered damages.

Join the case to recover your losses.

The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation.

This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 16:31 3mo ago
Why This $10 Million Antero Midstream Position Isn't Likely Just a Plain-Vanilla Yield Play stocknewsapi
AM
A new Antero Midstream position stands out not just for its size, but for how stock and options are seemingly being used together to shape a very specific risk-reward profile.

New York City-based Ripple Effect Asset Management disclosed a new position in Antero Midstream Corporation (AM +0.81%), acquiring 510,000 shares valued at approximately $9.91 million, according to its November 14 SEC filing. The firm also reported holding put options underlying 600,000 shares and call options underlying another 225,000 shares.

What HappenedAccording to a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission dated November 14, Ripple Effect Asset Management LP initiated a new stake in Antero Midstream Corporation (AM +0.81%), purchasing 510,000 shares. The estimated value of the new holding was $9.91 million at the close of the third quarter, based on the quarterly average price. The position accounts for 1.94% of the firm’s 13F reportable assets.

What Else to KnowTop holdings after the filing include: 

NYSE: VST: $27.90 million (16.1% of AUM)NYSE: EQT: $25.31 million (14.6% of AUM)NASDAQ: TLN: $17.42 million (10.0% of AUM)NYSE: KGS: $15.53 million (8.9% of AUM)NYSE: XIFR: $15.26 million (8.8% of AUM)As of Friday, shares of Antero Midstream were priced at $17.94, up 16% over the past year, which was relatively in line with the S&P 500's nearly 17% gain in the same period.

Company OverviewMetricValueRevenue (TTM)$1.25 billionNet Income (TTM)$472.42 millionDividend Yield5%Price (as of Friday)$17.94Company SnapshotAntero Midstream owns and operates midstream energy infrastructure, including gathering pipelines, compressor stations, and water handling facilities; revenue is primarily generated from gathering, processing, and water services.Its primary customers are upstream natural gas and liquids producers in the Appalachian Basin, with a strong focus on supporting Antero Resources' production in West Virginia and Ohio.Antero Midstream Corporation is a leading midstream energy company that leverages its integrated infrastructure network to provide essential gathering, processing, and water services to natural gas producers, supporting efficient resource extraction in the Appalachian Basin. Its fee-based, contract-driven business model delivers predictable earnings and positions the company as a reliable partner within the energy value chain.

Foolish TakeThe structure here certainly sticks out. Pairing common shares with both put and call exposure signals an investor trying to engineer outcomes rather than simply collect yield and wait. That’s notable in a midstream name that already trades as a cash-flow vehicle, not a momentum story.

Antero Midstream’s third-quarter results back up that framework. Adjusted EBITDA rose 10% year over year to $281 million, while free cash flow after dividends nearly doubled to $78 million. Leverage declined to 2.7x, capital spending fell, and the company repurchased $41 million of stock during the quarter. This is a business throwing off excess cash while tightening its balance sheet, a setup that tends to cap downside even when energy sentiment turns.

The options overlay sharpens that view. The puts suggest downside protection or a hedge against commodity or rate-driven volatility. The calls add convexity if the market re-rates midstream cash flows, especially as share repurchases and debt reduction continue. That combination implies conviction in the operating base, but caution on timing.

Glossary13F AUM: The total value of U.S. equity holdings reported by an institutional investment manager in SEC Form 13F filings.
New position: An investment in a security that a fund or investor did not previously own.
Stake: The amount of ownership or investment held in a company by an individual or institution.
Quarterly average price: The average price of a security over a specific quarter, used for valuation in reports.
Top holdings: The largest investments in a fund’s portfolio by value.
Midstream energy infrastructure: Assets and facilities that transport, store, and process oil, natural gas, or related products between production and end users.
Gathering pipelines: Pipelines that collect oil or gas from production sites and transport it to processing facilities.
Compressor stations: Facilities along pipelines that maintain pressure and move natural gas efficiently through the system.
Fee-based, contract-driven business model: A revenue model where earnings come from long-term contracts with fixed fees for services provided.
Appalachian Basin: A large geographic region in the eastern U.S. known for significant natural gas and oil production.
Upstream producers: Companies involved in the exploration and extraction of oil and natural gas.
TTM: The 12-month period ending with the most recent quarterly report.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 16:37 3mo ago
Could Buying Fluor Today Set You Up for Life? stocknewsapi
FLR
Fluor (FLR +5.22%) is working diligently to make its business a more reliable source of cash flow. It has made significant progress as well. That's good news, but is it enough to justify buying the stock in the hope of setting yourself up for life? What if you add in Fluor's large ownership stake in an exciting nuclear power start-up?

There's a lot to like about Fluor, but you still might want to tread with caution. Here's why.

What does Fluor do?
Fluor is an engineering and construction company. Essentially, businesses and governments hire Fluor to build things for them. These are massive structures, such as power plants, office buildings, and roads. And Fluor is good at what it does.

Image source: Getty Images.

However, Fluor has been changing its core business approach. Historically, it bid on many contracts with set prices. If construction costs ended up lower than the contracted price, Fluor retained the extra cash. If construction costs ended up higher than the contracted price, Fluor had to pay for the cost overruns. That exposed the company to significant financial risk and led to a fairly volatile income statement.

The company decided that it needed to shift its focus so it could show Wall Street more consistent financial results. To that end, 82% of the company's $28.2 billion backlog is now made up of reimbursable contracts. That's great news, and investors should be pleased. However, there's still one small problem.

Large construction projects tend to be a bit cyclical. When times are flush, things get built. During recessions, large construction projects are often canceled or put on hold. Therefore, even though Fluor's business is likely to be more consistent in the future than it has been in the past, the inherent nature of the business remains volatile. Even now, it is likely to put you at risk of dealing with significant price swings.

Today's Change

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Current Price

$

41.70

What about the NuScale Power investment?
What has a lot of investors excited about Fluor today is its investment in NuScale Power (SMR +14.36%), a company that is attempting to build a business around small, modular nuclear reactors. This investment wasn't altruistic; Fluor is likely hoping to win contracts around the construction of power plants that use NuScale's reactors. In fact, the two companies are doing early stage work to help get such a power plant approved in Romania.

That's great, but there's a wrinkle here. That power plant would be NuScale Power's first sale. And the final investment decision on the power plant won't arrive until late 2026 or early 2027, a delay from earlier expectations. Right now, NuScale Power is just a money-losing business with high hopes. The share price, as you might expect, has been highly volatile.

Fluor is looking to sell its stake in NuScale to raise cash for other purposes, such as strengthening its balance sheet and investing in growth. In October of 2025, it raised $605 million via a sale of part of its stake. This clearly has the potential to be a big payout, with Fluor and NuScale agreeing to a deal around the rest of Fluor's stake that should see it get sold by the middle of 2026.

Today's Change

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16.20

What's the rest of the Fluor's NuScale Power stake worth? It's hard to tell given the volatility of NuScale Power's stock. The October sale came near a price peak. The shares have declined 70% since that high-water mark. There is value in the NuScale stake, but how much value is hard to tell and entirely dependent on the whims of Wall Street.

Again, that suggests volatility. Additionally, it is a one-time event, so even though it presents an interesting investment angle, it won't likely help set an investor up for life.

Fluor is most appropriate for risk-tolerant investors
None of this is to suggest that Fluor is a bad company. It is, in fact, a very well-respected construction business. What it isn't, however, is a consistent business. The very nature of the construction industry doesn't allow for consistency. Therefore, it is challenging to recommend that most investors should consider it as a long-term investment.

Only investors who have a high tolerance for risk should consider it, and the NuScale Power stake, while interesting, doesn't materially change the story.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 16:43 3mo ago
A 5.6% Yield and a $3 Million Buy Point to a Different Kind of Emerging Markets Bet stocknewsapi
VWOB
This ETF tracks U.S. dollar-denominated government bonds from emerging markets, aiming for cost efficiency and broad diversification.

Chicago-based GP Brinson Investments disclosed a buy of 50,100 shares of the Vanguard Emerging Markets Government Bond ETF (VWOB +0.03%) in a Friday SEC filing, with an estimated transaction value of $3.38 million based on quarterly average pricing.

What HappenedAccording to its SEC filing released Friday, GP Brinson Investments LLC increased its stake in the Vanguard Emerging Markets Government Bond ETF (VWOB +0.03%) by 50,100 shares. The estimated value of this share purchase was $3.38 million, calculated using the average closing price for the quarter. The quarter-end value of the VWOB position increased by $3.42 million, reflecting both the additional shares and price changes.

What Else to KnowThis buy brought VWOB to 3.97% of GP Brinson’s reportable 13F AUM as of December 31.

Top holdings after the filing:

NYSEMKT: VTI: $92.48 million (39.8% of AUM)NYSEMKT: VEA: $48.59 million (20.9% of AUM)NYSEMKT: AGG: $28.03 million (12.1% of AUM)NYSEMKT: VWO: $19.33 million (8.3% of AUM)NASDAQ: AAPL: $11.42 million (4.9% of AUM)As of December 31, VWOB shares were priced at $67.45, up about 7% over the past year and underperforming the S&P 500, which is instead up close to 17% in the same period.

ETF OverviewMetricValueAUM$5.84 billionYield6%Price (as of market close Friday)$67.451-year total return13%ETF SnapshotInvestment strategy: Seeks to track the performance of an index composed of U.S. dollar-denominated government bonds from emerging market countries, employing a sampling approach to replicate index characteristics.Portfolio composition: Primarily invests at least 80% of assets in bonds included in the target index across diverse emerging markets.Fund structure: Operates as a non-diversified ETF designed for cost-efficient access to emerging markets government debt.The Vanguard Emerging Markets Government Bond ETF offers institutional investors exposure to a broad basket of U.S. dollar-denominated government bonds from emerging market issuers. The fund’s indexing strategy emphasizes low costs and efficient market representation, supporting competitive yield and total return potential. Its disciplined portfolio construction and focus on sovereign credit provide diversification and income opportunities within the emerging markets fixed income space.

What This Transaction Means for InvestorsAdding exposure to U.S. dollar–denominated emerging market sovereign debt is a deliberate way to reach for yield without layering on direct currency risk, especially as global rate paths remain uneven. The Vanguard Emerging Markets Government Bond ETF currently offers a 30 day SEC yield north of 5.6%, paired with a low 0.15% expense ratio, making it a relatively efficient income tool in a yield-starved fixed income landscape.

This holding also fits cleanly alongside the rest of the portfolio. With broad equity exposure already anchored in U.S. and developed international markets, VWOB adds diversification by tapping sovereign credit rather than corporate balance sheets. It is notable that this position sits behind core ETFs like VTI, VEA, and AGG, a sign that this is a satellite allocation rather than a directional bet.

Meanwhile, the risk tradeoff is real. Emerging market government bonds can behave more like equities during stress, and credit events remain part of the package. But for investors who understand that this is not a volatility hedge, the income profile and diversification benefits can still make sense. The takeaway is not to chase yield blindly, but to recognize when selective risk can improve portfolio balance rather than distort it.

GlossaryETF (Exchange-Traded Fund): An investment fund traded on stock exchanges, holding assets like stocks or bonds.
AUM (Assets Under Management): The total market value of assets a fund or investment manager oversees on behalf of clients.
Dividend yield: The annual dividend income expressed as a percentage of the investment’s current price.
13F filing: A quarterly report required by the SEC showing institutional investment holdings above a certain threshold.
Sampling approach: A method where a fund invests in a representative subset of securities to mimic an index’s performance.
Non-diversified ETF: An ETF that may invest a larger portion of assets in fewer securities or sectors, increasing concentration risk.
Emerging markets: Economies in the process of rapid growth and industrialization, often with higher risk and return potential.
Sovereign credit: Bonds or debt issued by national governments, reflecting their ability to repay obligations.
Quarter-end position: The value or number of shares held in an investment at the end of a fiscal quarter.
Annualized: A figure (such as return or yield) converted to a yearly rate for comparison purposes.
Indexing strategy: An investment approach aiming to replicate the performance of a specific market index.
Total return: The investment's price change plus all dividends and distributions, assuming those payouts are reinvested.

Jonathan Ponciano has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Apple, Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF, Vanguard International Equity Index Funds - Vanguard Ftse Emerging Markets ETF, and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 16:51 3mo ago
Oil News: Will Venezuela Crisis Push Crude to $61-$64 or Fade on Supply Glut? stocknewsapi
BNO DBO GUSH IEO OIH OIL PXJ UCO USO XOP
Venezuela crisis could spike crude oil short-term, but ample supply and intact production keep outlook bearish. Key levels: $61.40-$63.62 zone.
2026-01-04 22:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 16:55 3mo ago
Venezuela Oil Revival Needs Orderly Transition, Significant Investment stocknewsapi
BNO DBO GUSH IEO OIH OIL PXJ UCO USO XOP
The U.S. ouster of Nicolás Maduro could open a new chapter for Venezuela's oil sector, Jefferies analysts said.
2026-01-04 21:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 14:32 3mo ago
Uniswap Activates Deflationary Fee Mechanism as UNI Tests Support Amid Bitcoin Weakness cryptonews
BTC UNI
Darius Baruo
Jan 04, 2026 20:32

Uniswap's UNI token trades at $5.86 following the activation of a fee switch that burns trading fees, while broader crypto weakness pressures DeFi tokens despite positive fundamentals.

Quick Take
• UNI trading at $5.86 (down 0.5% in 24h)
• Fee switch activation introduces deflationary tokenomics
• Testing support near $5.81 amid Bitcoin correlation
• Institutional ETF filing provides medium-term optimism

Market Events Driving Uniswap Price Movement
The most significant development for UNI price over the past week has been Uniswap's activation of the fee switch mechanism on January 1st, implementing the UNIfication proposal that permanently burns a portion of trading fees. This creates a deflationary pressure on UNI's circulating supply, fundamentally altering the token's economic model from purely inflationary to potentially deflationary during high network activity periods.

However, this positive fundamental development has been overshadowed by Bitcoin's substantial decline to $87,700, representing approximately 30% from its recent peak. The broader cryptocurrency market correction has created headwinds for UNI price despite the improved tokenomics, with investors expressing concerns over overvaluation across tech stocks and digital assets.

Bitwise Asset Management's filing for a Uniswap ETF with the SEC on December 31st signals growing institutional interest in DeFi protocols, though the immediate price impact has been minimal as market participants focus on near-term volatility concerns. The ETF filing represents a potential catalyst for future institutional adoption, particularly as regulatory clarity around DeFi tokens continues to evolve.

UNI Technical Analysis: Consolidation Pattern Near Support
Price Action Context
UNI price currently trades below most key moving averages, with the token sitting at $5.86 compared to the 50-day SMA of $5.94 and significantly below the 200-day SMA of $7.81. The Uniswap technical analysis reveals a consolidation pattern, with the price hovering near the middle of its Bollinger Bands at a %B position of 0.5593, indicating neither oversold nor overbought conditions.

Trading volume of $21.1 million on Binance spot reflects moderate institutional interest, though below the elevated levels typically seen during breakout moves. The correlation with Bitcoin remains strong, with UNI following the broader market's bearish sentiment despite protocol-specific positive developments.

Key Technical Indicators
The RSI reading of 50.34 places UNI in neutral territory, suggesting balanced buying and selling pressure. The MACD histogram shows a modest bullish divergence at 0.0234, indicating potential momentum building despite the recent price weakness. Stochastic indicators (%K at 27.36, %D at 40.07) suggest oversold conditions may be developing, potentially setting up a short-term bounce.

Critical Price Levels for Uniswap Traders
Immediate Levels (24-48 hours)
• Resistance: $6.02 (24-hour high and psychological level)
• Support: $5.81 (24-hour low and recent consolidation floor)

Breakout/Breakdown Scenarios
A break below the $5.81 support level could accelerate selling toward the strong support zone at $4.85, aligning with the 52-week low area. Conversely, reclaiming the $6.02 resistance and holding above the 50-day SMA at $5.94 would signal potential recovery toward the immediate resistance at $6.57.

UNI Correlation Analysis
Bitcoin's weakness continues to weigh on UNI price, with the token showing a correlation coefficient that suggests synchronized movements during risk-off periods. Traditional markets have shown mixed signals, with concerns over tech stock valuations creating spillover effects into cryptocurrency markets.

Compared to other DeFi tokens, UNI has shown relative resilience due to the fee switch activation, though broader sector rotation away from speculative assets has limited upside potential in the near term.

Trading Outlook: Uniswap Near-Term Prospects
Bullish Case
The deflationary mechanism from fee burning provides fundamental support for UNI price over the medium term, particularly during periods of high DEX activity. A Bitcoin stabilization above $90,000 combined with the ETF filing approval could trigger institutional accumulation. Technical targets include $6.57 resistance and potentially $7.00 psychological level.

Bearish Case
Continued Bitcoin weakness below $85,000 could pressure UNI toward the $4.85 support zone. Broader DeFi sector rotation and potential regulatory uncertainty around DEX protocols present downside risks. The 200-day SMA breakdown remains a concern for longer-term technical outlook.

Risk Management
Conservative traders should consider stop-losses below $5.75 to limit downside exposure, while position sizing should account for the elevated ATR of $0.40 indicating higher volatility. The neutral RSI provides flexibility for both long and short positioning based on broader market direction.

Image source: Shutterstock

uni price analysis
uni price prediction
2026-01-04 21:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 14:38 3mo ago
Bitcoin Cash Retreats From Weekly Highs as Market Consolidates Following 7.6% Thursday Rally cryptonews
BCH
Caroline Bishop
Jan 04, 2026 20:38

BCH trading at $642.20, down 1.6% from yesterday's peak of $654.62 as traders take profits after this week's significant surge amid broader crypto market rally.

Quick Take
• BCH trading at $642.20 (down 1.6% in 24h)
• Consolidating after Thursday's 7.6% surge to $654.62 weekly high
• Testing middle Bollinger Band support around $596 level
• Following Bitcoin's modest decline while maintaining bullish structure

Market Events Driving Bitcoin Cash Price Movement
Bitcoin Cash is experiencing natural profit-taking following Thursday's impressive 7.6% rally that pushed BCH price from $609.44 to $654.62. The surge coincided with a broader cryptocurrency market rally that saw Bitcoin appreciate approximately 5% during the same session, indicating strong sector-wide momentum.

The recent strength builds on optimistic market sentiment following Bitwise Asset Management's forecast that Bitcoin will break from its traditional four-year cycle and reach new all-time highs in 2026. While this prediction primarily targets Bitcoin, it has provided spillover benefits for major altcoins including Bitcoin Cash, as institutional confidence in the crypto sector continues to strengthen.

Supporting the bullish backdrop, U.S. equity markets closed 2025 with the S&P 500 gaining nearly 18% for the year despite tariff-related volatility. This strong traditional market performance has contributed to increased risk appetite among investors, creating favorable conditions for cryptocurrency investments.

BCH Technical Analysis: Healthy Consolidation Phase
Price Action Context
BCH price currently sits well above all major moving averages, with the 7-day SMA at $613.46 providing immediate support. The asset is trading 17% above its 200-day moving average of $547.95, indicating a strong bullish trend structure. Today's 1.6% decline represents normal consolidation after testing the upper Bollinger Band resistance near $651.44.

Bitcoin Cash technical analysis shows the asset maintaining its uptrend despite the modest pullback, with the daily RSI at 61.99 remaining in healthy territory and avoiding overbought conditions. The MACD histogram at 3.5883 continues to signal bullish momentum, though some moderation from Thursday's explosive move appears warranted.

Key Technical Indicators
The Bollinger Band position at 0.9165 indicates BCH price was approaching overextended territory near the upper band, making today's pullback technically constructive. The Stochastic oscillator shows %K at 78.27 and %D at 77.00, suggesting some cooling off from overbought levels while maintaining overall bullish bias.

Volume on Binance spot market reached $68.2 million in the past 24 hours, indicating sustained institutional and retail interest despite the modest decline.

Critical Price Levels for Bitcoin Cash Traders
Immediate Levels (24-48 hours)
• Resistance: $664.10 (Thursday's session high and 24-hour range top)
• Support: $596.17 (20-day moving average and middle Bollinger Band)

Breakout/Breakdown Scenarios
A break below the $596 support level could trigger deeper consolidation toward the $566.48 level (50-day MA), though this would likely represent a healthy pullback within the broader uptrend. Conversely, reclaiming $664.10 resistance opens the door to testing the 52-week high of $654.50 and potentially new cycle highs.

BCH Correlation Analysis
Bitcoin Cash continues to follow Bitcoin's general direction, though it demonstrated relative strength during Thursday's rally with a 7.6% gain versus Bitcoin's 5% advance. Today's 1.6% decline for BCH price mirrors Bitcoin's modest weakness, maintaining the positive correlation established this week.

The cryptocurrency sector remains somewhat correlated with traditional risk assets, benefiting from the S&P 500's strong year-end performance and continued institutional risk appetite. Gold's movements have shown minimal impact on Bitcoin Cash price action in recent sessions.

Trading Outlook: Bitcoin Cash Near-Term Prospects
Bullish Case
A successful hold above the $596-$613 support zone would set up BCH for another leg higher toward $680-$700 resistance. Continued Bitcoin strength and any positive crypto-specific news could accelerate this timeline.

Bearish Case
Failure to hold the 20-day moving average at $596 could trigger profit-taking toward the $566-$548 zone, though this would likely represent a buying opportunity rather than a trend reversal given the strong technical foundation.

Risk Management
Conservative traders should consider stops below $590 to protect against deeper consolidation, while aggressive buyers might use any dip toward $610-$615 as an accumulation opportunity. The daily ATR of $31.62 suggests position sizing should account for normal volatility ranges.

Image source: Shutterstock

bch price analysis
bch price prediction
2026-01-04 21:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 15:00 3mo ago
World Liberty Financial Token Benefits From Trump's Venezuela Conflict cryptonews
WLFI
World Liberty Financial’s price has extended its rally that began in mid-December 2025, posting renewed gains over the past week. 

The Trump family–associated token reacted sharply after former President Donald Trump launched an attack on Venezuela and captured Nicolás Maduro. The geopolitical development injected volatility, pushing WLFI to recent highs.

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WLFI Holders Register Strong ProfitsOn-chain data shows a rapid improvement in holder profitability. WLFI profits jumped from roughly 25% to 40% within 24 hours following news of the US action.

As prices accelerated, the share of total supply in profit climbed to a four-month high, signaling a broad-based recovery across wallet cohorts.

This development benefits early participants who accumulated WLFI during its initial launch phase. Many of these investors endured the first major crash and are now seeing their positions return to profit.

Rising profitability often improves sentiment, though it can also incentivize selling as holders seek to lock in gains.

Want more token insights like this? Sign up for Editor Harsh Notariya’s Daily Crypto Newsletter here.

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WLFI Supply In Profit. Source: SantimentDespite improving profits, macro behavior suggests limited patience among WLFI holders. Exchange net position change data shows a green bar, the first recorded in nearly three months. This shift indicates net inflows of WLFI to exchanges, a common signal of distribution rather than accumulation.

Selling pressure tends to emerge quickly when profits expand after prolonged drawdowns. WLFI holders appear willing to exit at the first sign of recovery.

This behavior could cap further upside, as increased exchange balances raise available supply and absorb demand from new buyers.

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WLFI Exchange Net Position Change. Source: GlassnodeWLFI Price Awaits Breakout From PatternWLFI trades near $0.172 at the time of writing after rebounding from $0.143 earlier this week. The token gained about 11% over the past 24 hours, reaching the upper boundary of an ascending broadening wedge. This structure reflects expanding volatility rather than directional certainty.

Although price sits near resistance, a breakout appears unlikely in the near term. Investors who returned to profit may continue selling, pressuring the price lower.

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Under this scenario, WLFI could drift back toward the lower trend line, with $0.154 acting as the next key support.

WLFI Price Analysis. Source: TradingViewFor a sustainable breakout to occur, WLFI would need to reclaim $0.172 as a firm support level. This would require reduced selling and renewed demand.

If bullish momentum persists and distribution remains limited, WLFI could push past resistance and advance toward $0.182, invalidating the bearish-neutral outlook.
2026-01-04 21:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 15:30 3mo ago
Ethereum developer activity hits record as smart contract deployments surge in late 2025 cryptonews
ETH
The activities of developers on Ethereum, which are measured by the number of smart contract wallets, increased exponentially in the last quarter of 2025, reaching new records just as the Ethereum ecosystem proved itself the best layer for stablecoins, hosting up to 54% of the global stablecoin supply on ETH.

Token Terminal’s data has revealed Ethereum had about 8.7 million smart contracts deployed in the last quarter of 2025, making it the highest quarter witnessed ever, surpassing its previous record from 2021 when it reported 6 million deployments.

ETH developers set a new record in 2025
According to Leon Waidmann, Head of Research at Onchain Foundation, 2025 was a year of divergence for Ethereum as builders were more focused on shipping products that scale rather than speculating.

“That divergence matters heading into 2026!” Waidman claimed, before he declared that Ethereum is making the strongest case as the core execution and settlement layer.

However, one user pointed out that “quantity ≠ quality” then asked, “how many of those 8.7M contracts are actually being used vs deployed and abandoned? Active contract interactions matter more than deployment count.”

That sentiment was echoed in other comments as more people teased the possibility of those deployments getting abandoned in the future.

The Ethereum token price has yet to fully reflect this bullishness; however, the spike in deployed smart contracts confirms that the ecosystem has not lost its appeal and is attracting builders with great ideas to ship.

Stablecoin supply on ETH is at its largest yet
The Ethereum ecosystem is not only attracting developers in scores, its stablecoin stats are just as impressive. According to reports, the ETH network currently hosts about 54% of the total stablecoins in circulation.

This confirms its role as the settlement layer for institutions, and its stronghold on DeFi is just as strong.

Behind Ethereum is Tron, another payment rail with 26% of total stablecoin supply, dominating non-EVM chains with its raw USDT volume. Ironically, Tron accounts for more transaction volume, as it is preferred by individual users and retailers for its low fees.

Solana came in third place with just 5% attributed to it, and BSC was fourth with a mere 4.7%.

From the statistics, it is clear that ETH has maintained its reputation as an anchor for trust and value storage. However, Tron can also hold its own when it comes to payments.

Meanwhile, Solana continues to grow rapidly, accounting for more on-chain transaction volume than every other exchange bar Binance in 2025.

Want your project in front of crypto’s top minds? Feature it in our next industry report, where data meets impact.
2026-01-04 21:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 15:38 3mo ago
Bitcoin Battle for $91,000 and the Sovereign Reserve Era cryptonews
BTC
// News

Reading time: 1 min

Published: Jan 04, 2026 at 20:38

Bitcoin (BTC) has staged a dramatic recovery, reclaiming the $91,000 level on January 4, 2026.

This resurgence coincides with the 17th anniversary of the Genesis Block (January 3), serving as a powerful reminder of the network's resilience. The total crypto market capitalization has once again surpassed the $3 trillion milestone, signaling that the "Santa Stall" of late 2025 may finally be over.

Bitcoin rally

The current rally is underpinned by a massive structural shift in U.S. policy. Under the leadership of SEC Chairman Paul Atkins, who was sworn in last April, the regulatory landscape has pivoted from "enforcement" to "integration."

The momentum behind the BITCOIN Act of 2025 remains a primary driver, as the U.S. Treasury prepares for its first full year of implementing a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. Institutional demand is further evidenced by U.S. Spot Bitcoin ETFs, which now manage over $200 billion in assets, increasingly finding their way into 401(k)s and sovereign wealth mandates.

As the market enters 2026, Bitcoin is no longer viewed merely as digital gold but as a critical component of national balance sheets and global debt-to-GDP calculations.

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2026-01-04 21:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 15:44 3mo ago
Venezuela's Alleged $67 Billion Bitcoin Reserve Exposed After Maduro Capture cryptonews
BTC
TLDR: 

Venezuela allegedly holds 660,000 BTC valued at $67 billion accumulated through multiple channels
Regime converted $2 billion in gold into 400,000 Bitcoin at $5,000 average price since 2018
Alex Saab, system architect, was a DEA informant allowing U.S. to monitor operations in real-time
Private keys to alleged $67 billion Bitcoin reserve remain unlocated following Maduro’s capture

Venezuela may control one of the world’s largest Bitcoin reserves, according to recent intelligence reports. The alleged stash could contain between 600,000 and 660,000 BTC, valued at approximately $56 billion to $67 billion at current prices. 

Intelligence sources suggest the regime accumulated this cryptocurrency hoard over several years through gold sales, sanctioned oil settlements, and mining seizures. 

The revelation comes as Nicolás Maduro faces capture, triggering a race to locate the private keys controlling these digital assets.

Building the Shadow Reserve Through Multiple Channels
Intelligence reports from HUMINT and Whale Hunting sources describe what analysts call a “shadow reserve” of Bitcoin and Tether. 

The accumulation strategy allegedly began in 2018 when Venezuela started liquidating gold from the Orinoco Mining Arc. Reports indicate the regime converted roughly $2 billion in gold into Bitcoin at an average price of $5,000 per coin. 

This operation alone would have yielded approximately 400,000 BTC, now worth $36 billion at today’s prices of around $90,000.

The regime then expanded its cryptocurrency operations beyond gold conversions. After the state-backed “Petro” experiment collapsed, Caracas shifted to using Tether for crude oil sales. 

This move allowed the government to circumvent sanctions while maintaining access to international markets. According to the reports, authorities “washed” USDT proceeds back into Bitcoin to avoid the risk of Tether address freezes. This strategy provided both liquidity and security for the accumulating reserve.

Bitcoin News detailed the estimated breakdown of accumulation sources across multiple years. Gold swaps between 2018 and 2020 contributed approximately $45 billion to $50 billion to the reserve. 

THE $60 BILLION SHADOW RESERVE: Does Venezuela Have a Secret Bitcoin Hoard? 🇻🇪

For years, the Venezuelan regime allegedly siphoned billions in oil revenue, gold reserves, and state assets into a "shadow reserve" of Bitcoin and Tether.

New intelligence reports from HUMINT and…

— Bitcoin News (@BitcoinNewsCom) January 4, 2026

Oil settlements from 2023 to 2025 added another $10 billion to $15 billion. Mining seizures from 2023 to 2024 provided an additional $500 million. 

These multiple revenue streams created what intelligence analysts describe as a sophisticated cryptocurrency accumulation engine operating under extreme sanctions pressure.

The DEA Connection and Current Stakes
Court documents revealed an unexpected dimension to Venezuela’s Bitcoin operations. Alex Saab, identified as the architect of the accumulation system, had served as a DEA informant since 2016.

Reports indicate that “Washington was watching the architecture being built in real-time” through this connection. The situation raises questions about what information U.S. authorities possessed during the accumulation period and why the operations continued unimpeded.

With Maduro now captured, the focus shifts to securing the Bitcoin holdings. Sources emphasize that “the Bitcoin is not yet secured” and the private keys controlling these wallets remain unaccounted for. 

The coming days represent what analysts describe as “a high-stakes race to locate the private keys” controlling potentially $67 billion in cryptocurrency. Multiple parties could potentially access these funds, including remaining regime loyalists or international authorities.

The outcome could significantly affect the proposed U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. Questions remain whether “the U.S. gain access to the hoard and add it to the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, or do Maduro’s cronies run away with it.

” If American authorities secure the alleged Venezuelan holdings, it would represent a massive addition to any national cryptocurrency reserve. The coming period will determine whether these billions in Bitcoin become state assets or disappear into private hands.
2026-01-04 21:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 15:58 3mo ago
Venezuela's $60 Billion Bitcoin “Shadow Reserve” Could Reshape Global BTC Markets cryptonews
BTC
Venezuela’s long-rumored Bitcoin hoard has come into sharp focus following the January 2026 US-led operation that captured President Nicolás Maduro.

Intelligence reports indicate the country may have amassed a “shadow reserve” of 600,000–660,000 BTC, valued at between $60 billion and $67 billion, making it one of the largest holders of Bitcoin globally.

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How does the arrest of President Maduro affect Bitcoin?With an alleged BTC stockpile above 600,000 Bitcoin tokens, Venezuela may easily rival institutional giants like BlackRock and MicroStrategy. The revelation could fundamentally alter supply dynamics and market sentiment for Bitcoin in 2026.

According to sources cited by Whale Hunting, the accumulation began in 2018 through a combination of gold swaps, oil settlements in Tether (USDT), and domestic mining seizures.

Between 2018 and 2020, Venezuela reportedly exported tens of tons of gold from the Orinoco Mining Arc. Reportedly, it converted around $2 billion of gold proceeds into Bitcoin at an average price of $5,000 per BTC.

This tranche alone, now valued at roughly $36 billion, laid the foundation of the country’s clandestine crypto reserve.

Venezuela: The $60B+ Bitcoin "Shadow Reserve"

Markets focus on the $17T+ in Oil that Venezuela owns.

But what they don't know is that Venezuela one of the largest active $BTC holders in the world.

Similar in scale to both $MSTR and Blackrock.

Here's how this impacts markets… pic.twitter.com/lf7CMUgtUB

— Serenity (@aleabitoreddit) January 4, 2026
Following the collapse of the state-backed Petro crypto, the Maduro regime increasingly required PDVSA, the state oil company, to settle crude oil exports in USDT from 2023 to 2025. These stablecoins were subsequently “washed” into Bitcoin to mitigate the risk of account freezes and reduce exposure to the US dollar.

Additional holdings stemmed from domestic mining seizures, bringing the total Bitcoin accumulation to an estimated 600,000+ coins, roughly 3% of the circulating supply.

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The scale of Venezuela’s alleged reserve dwarfs previous government liquidations. In 2024, the German state of Saxony sold 50,000 BTC (approximately $3 billion at the time), triggering a 15–20% market correction.

By contrast, Venezuela’s 600,000 BTC, if seized or frozen, could trigger unprecedented supply shocks, reducing available liquidity and supporting higher prices.

The US now faces critical decisions regarding the reserve. Sources suggest three primary scenarios:

The assets could be frozen in litigation
They could be added to a US Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, or
Liquidated through auctions (less likely).
Analysts believe that freezing the assets or incorporating them into a strategic reserve is the most probable option.

Ongoing story : Venezuelas Bitcoin and Tether stockpile will be added to US Strategic Bitcoin Reserve

Venezuela's alleged Bitcoin accumulation stems from efforts to evade U.S. sanctions since the late 2010s, primarily under Nicolás Maduro's regime. The state built a "shadow…

— MartyParty (@martypartymusic) January 4, 2026
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Why Venezuela’s Bitcoin Hoard Matters for Global MarketsSuch a move would potentially lock up supply for 5–10 years and create a bullish narrative for Bitcoin, as well as for institutional holders like MicroStrategy ($MSTR).

Venezuela’s Bitcoin hoard also highlights the country’s remarkable grassroots crypto adoption. Hyperinflation, US sanctions, and a collapsing bolívar have driven widespread use of Bitcoin and stablecoins.

End-game fiat stuff happening in Venezuela

Bitcoin and stablecoin use surging

The local currency is losing ~75% of its value every 6 months

Independent economists trying to publish inflation data are targeted and arrested pic.twitter.com/SMhokZnrYy

— Alex Gladstein 🌋 ⚡ (@gladstein) September 2, 2025
By late 2025, up to 10% of grocery payments and nearly 40% of peer-to-peer transactions were conducted in crypto. Meanwhile, remittances via stablecoins accounted for nearly 10% of inflows. Venezuela ranked approximately 17th globally in crypto adoption per Chainalysis. In Latin America,

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The capture of Maduro introduces further uncertainty. A transitional government, influenced by US interests, could:

Relax mining restrictions,
Encourage pro-crypto policy, and
Prioritize the recovery of the alleged BTC holdings.
Yet until private keys are surrendered or legal claims resolved, 600,000 BTC remain effectively “locked.” This creates short-term volatility but potentially a long-term supply shock that favors Bitcoin price appreciation.

In a market where every large holder counts, Venezuela’s shadow reserve emerges as a critical yet overlooked factor in global Bitcoin dynamics.

 If the US succeeds in securing and freezing the assets, 2026 could witness an unprecedented realignment of supply, liquidity, and market sentiment.

This turnout could transform a rogue state’s clandestine accumulation into one of the largest strategic Bitcoin reserves in history.
2026-01-04 21:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 16:00 3mo ago
$18 Million Ethereum Loss Sends Whale Running To Gold cryptonews
ETH
A large crypto wallet that recently took a sharp loss on Ethereum has restructured its holdings, moving away from volatile tokens and increasing exposure to stablecoins and tokenized gold, according to on-chain tracking data.

The address drew attention after an aggressive Ethereum purchase late last year went wrong. Between November 3 and November 7, 2025, the wallet spent about $110 million to acquire 31,005 ETH at an average price of $3,581.

As prices slid, the position was unwound. Nearly the entire holding was sold for roughly $92.19 million, locking in a loss close to $18 million within two weeks. At current prices near $3,020, that same Ethereum stack would now be valued at around $93.6 million.

Shift Away From Ether After Costly Exit
Based on reports from blockchain monitoring platforms, the sell-off marked a clear change in behavior. The wallet, once heavily tied to Ethereum, no longer holds a large directional bet on the asset. Instead, balances have been spread across cash-like tokens and commodities. The move reflects caution rather than an attempt to quickly recover losses.

An unknown whale, who lost $18.8M on $ETH in just 2 weeks, has abandoned $ETH and rotated into #gold.

The whale has spent $14.58M to buy 3,299 $XAUT at $4,421 over the past 7 hours.https://t.co/hit6agWmHd pic.twitter.com/X7k94zV0iQ

— Lookonchain (@lookonchain) January 2, 2026

Gold Buying Shows Preference For Lower Volatility
According to on-chain records, the address began building a position in Tether’s tokenized gold product, XAUT. Starting on Friday, the wallet spent $14.58 million in USDT to buy 3,299 XAUT across several transactions.

The average purchase price came in near $4,421 per token. This was not the first gold buy. A smaller XAUT acquisition was made on December 13, roughly three weeks earlier. As of the latest data, the wallet holds 3,386 XAUT tokens worth about $14.92 million.

ETHUSD now trading at $3,136. Chart: TradingView
The broader portfolio now totals close to $91 million. About $58 million sits in USDT, another $18 million is held in USDC, while the remainder is split between XAUT and a reduced Ethereum balance. The composition points to capital protection rather than high-risk positioning.

Metals Outperform Crypto In 2025
Returns from last year help explain the change. Reports have disclosed that Bitcoin fell by 6% in 2025, while Ethereum dropped 11%. Over the same period, gold surged over 60%, and silver rose an even steeper 147%.

Major stock indexes such as the S&P 500, Dow Jones, and Nasdaq 100 also posted stronger performance than much of the crypto market. With those results in view, some investors appear more comfortable holding assets linked to metals or cash.

Meanwhile, analysts at asset manager VanEck have pointed to 2026 as a possible recovery year for the crypto market. Their view contrasts with the current behavior of large wallets moving into stablecoins and gold-linked tokens.

The divide shows how uncertain sentiment remains after a year when metals and traditional assets delivered stronger gains than major cryptocurrencies.

Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView
2026-01-04 21:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 16:00 3mo ago
Exploring Convex Finance's 28% rally – Confusion, conviction, or both? cryptonews
CVX
Convex Finance's price has broken the long-term downtrend with a decisive rally, drawing investors' attention.
2026-01-04 21:37 3mo ago
2026-01-04 16:05 3mo ago
Bitcoin Breaks Above $91,000 as Weekend Rally Triggers $130M in Short Liquidations cryptonews
BTC
TLDR:

Bitcoin rose 1.62% in 24 hours as prices held firm during low-liquidity Sunday trading sessions
BTC recorded a 4.09% weekly gain, reflecting steady demand despite traditional markets remaining closed
Trading volume reached $30.79 billion, signaling active participation even during weekend conditions
 Price stability above $91,000 reinforced short-term bullish structure following recent volatility

Bitcoin is trading at $91,383.48 on Sunday, extending its weekend rebound. The asset gained 1.62% over the past 24 hours as buyers remained active. 

Trading volume stood at $30.79 billion during the session. On a seven-day basis, BTC is up 4.09%, signaling steady momentum despite thin weekend liquidity.

Weekend Liquidity Drives Bitcoin Above $91,000
Bitcoin breaks above $91,000 as crypto markets remained the only liquid venue open during the weekend session. 

Price action showed strong upward candles with limited retracement, reflecting aggressive short covering rather than gradual accumulation.

$130 million in short positions were liquidated within twelve hours. This forced buying accelerated price movement upward, especially under reduced weekend liquidity conditions. The broader crypto market followed Bitcoin’s advance, adding nearly $83 billion in total capitalization. 

Traders noted that risk assets did not experience defensive selling, despite heightened geopolitical developments during the same period.

Bull Theory described the move as notable given the absence of traditional market confirmation. Bitcoin strength during closed equity markets suggested the geopolitical event was initially treated as supportive rather than disruptive.

🚨BREAKING: Bitcoin has broken above $91,000 and it’s now up $2,500 from the Venezuela attack lows.

$83 billion has been added to the crypto market and $130 million in shorts were liquidated in the last 12 hours.

This move happened while Traditional markets were closed.… pic.twitter.com/ncirgflQkS

— Bull Theory (@BullTheoryio) January 4, 2026

US control over oil reserves valued near $17 trillion could support growth expectations and influence capital allocation.

Despite the strong breakout, market participants remained cautious. Weekend rallies have historically faded once equities reopen, placing emphasis on Bitcoin holding above $91,000 during regular trading hours.

Structural Demand and On-Chain Metrics Support Stability
Bitcoin breaks above $91,000 as institutional market structure continues evolving beneath surface volatility. K33 Research reported Bitcoin realized volatility near 2.24 percent during 2025, the lowest reading since 2012.

ETFs absorbed roughly 160,000 BTC across products. This steady accumulation occurred during periods of price stagnation, reinforcing the presence of longer-term allocators.

Fundamentals strengthened even as Bitcoin lagged other assets, such divergence historically preceded renewed price performance.

On-chain behavior supported this view. Long-term holders redistributed more than 1.6 million BTC from dormant wallets toward ETFs, funds, and corporate treasuries. This shift reduced abrupt sell pressure during drawdowns.

DeFi-related metrics also remained stable during the rally. DefiLlama data showed Bitcoin-linked total value locked near $7.09 billion, rising 1.45 percent within twenty four hours.

Network activity stayed consistent during low-liquidity hours. Active addresses approached 618,923, while net inflows exceeded $254,000, helping Bitcoin sustain levels above $91,000 without sharp reversals.
2026-01-04 20:36 3mo ago
2026-01-04 13:30 3mo ago
Coinidol.com: Avalanche Rises and Bounces above $13.00 cryptonews
AVAX
// Price

Reading time: 2 min

Published: Jan 04, 2026 at 18:30
Updated: Jan 04, 2026 at 19:37

The price of Avalanche (AVAX) has moved back above the moving average lines after falling to a low of $11.26.

AVAX price long-term analysis: bullish

AVAX is rising from the bottom of its chart. Buyers have pushed the price above the moving average lines, reaching a high of $13.96. On the upside, the cryptocurrency is expected to continue rising towards previous highs but will face initial resistance near $15.00.

Since November 15, buyers have not managed to keep the price above the $15 mark. If buyers overcome the resistance at $15, AVAX could surge further to highs of $18 or $20. If buyers fail to break through the $15 resistance, the altcoin will remain above the moving average lines and be forced to trade within a range.

Technical Indicators:

Key Resistance Levels – $60 and $70

Key Support Levels – $30 and $20

AVAX price indicators analysis

AVAX has regained bullish momentum by breaking above the moving average lines. The moving average lines continue to slope downwards towards the bottom of the chart.

On the 4-hour chart, the price bars are above the upward-sloping moving average lines. The crypto is likely to appreciate as long as the price bars remain above the moving average lines.

What is the next move for AVAX?

AVAX's price is trading in a positive trend zone after breaking above the moving average lines. On the 4-hour chart, the price has stalled below the $14.50 high. The cryptocurrency price is bouncing below the $14 high but remains above the moving average lines. On the upside, if the barrier is broken, AVAX will reach a higher level of $15.

Disclaimer. This analysis and forecast are the personal opinions of the author. The data provided is collected by the author and is not sponsored by any company or token developer. This is not a recommendation to buy or sell cryptocurrency and should not be viewed as an endorsement by Coinidol.com. Readers should do their research before investing in funds.

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2026-01-04 20:36 3mo ago
2026-01-04 13:33 3mo ago
Ethereum Tests Upper Bollinger Band at $3,133 as MACD Signals Bullish Momentum Shift cryptonews
ETH
Caroline Bishop
Jan 04, 2026 19:33

ETH price trades near $3,133.31 resistance with bullish MACD divergence emerging as technical indicators suggest potential breakout from consolidation phase.

Quick Take
• ETH trading at $3,133.31 (up 0.7% in 24h)
• Price testing upper Bollinger Band resistance at $3,134 level
• MACD histogram shows strongest bullish momentum in recent sessions
• Bitcoin correlation remains positive amid broader crypto market stability

Market Events Driving Ethereum Price Movement
Trading on technical factors in the absence of major catalysts characterizes today's ETH price action. No significant news events have emerged in the past 48 hours to drive fundamental price discovery, leaving technical analysis as the primary framework for understanding current market dynamics.

The modest 0.67% daily gain reflects steady accumulation rather than momentum-driven buying, with Ethereum technical analysis pointing to a consolidation phase near key resistance levels. This type of methodical price action often precedes more significant directional moves as the market builds consensus around fair value.

ETH Technical Analysis: Testing Upper Band Resistance
Price Action Context
ETH price currently trades at $3,133.31, positioned dangerously close to the upper Bollinger Band at $3,134.31. This proximity suggests Ethereum is testing the limits of its current trading range, with the 20-day moving average at $2,975.55 providing a significant gap below current levels.

The asset maintains its position above all shorter-term moving averages, with the 7-day SMA at $3,039.04 and 50-day SMA at $3,007.87 both providing support. However, the 200-day moving average remains elevated at $3,602.21, indicating medium-term resistance overhead.

Volume on Binance spot market reached $547.5 million over 24 hours, representing moderate institutional interest without excessive speculation.

Key Technical Indicators
The MACD histogram reading of 29.0067 represents the strongest bullish momentum signal in recent sessions, suggesting underlying buying pressure despite the relatively modest price appreciation. This divergence between moderate price gains and strong momentum indicators often precedes accelerated moves.

RSI at 59.30 remains in neutral territory, providing room for additional upside without entering overbought conditions. The Stochastic oscillator shows %K at 87.83 and %D at 89.89, indicating momentum approaching overbought levels but not yet requiring immediate caution.

Critical Price Levels for Ethereum Traders
Immediate Levels (24-48 hours)
• Resistance: $3,167.22 (24-hour high and immediate technical barrier)
• Support: $3,107.49 (24-hour low and recent consolidation floor)

Breakout/Breakdown Scenarios
A break above $3,167.22 could target the stronger resistance zone at $3,447.44, representing the next significant technical barrier. This level aligns with previous consolidation highs and would require sustained volume to breach convincingly.

Conversely, failure to hold above $3,107.49 could initiate a test of the $2,775.19 support level, where the 20-day moving average influence becomes more pronounced. A breakdown below this level would shift the technical structure bearish.

ETH Correlation Analysis
Ethereum continues following Bitcoin's lead in today's session, with both assets posting modest gains amid stable traditional market conditions. The correlation remains positive as institutional flows treat major cryptocurrencies as a unified asset class.

Traditional markets show mixed signals with no clear directional influence on crypto assets. The absence of significant S&P 500 or gold volatility allows crypto-specific technical factors to dominate price discovery.

Trading Outlook: Ethereum Near-Term Prospects
Bullish Case
A sustained break above $3,167.22 with accompanying volume expansion could trigger momentum buying toward $3,447.44. The bullish MACD histogram supports this scenario if broader market conditions remain stable.

Target progression would follow $3,167.22 → $3,300 → $3,447.44 resistance levels, with each requiring volume confirmation.

Bearish Case
Rejection at current upper Bollinger Band levels risks a retracement toward $3,000 psychological support. The gap between current ETH price and the 200-day moving average suggests vulnerability to broader market weakness.

Downside targets include $2,975.55 (20-day MA) followed by $2,775.19 if selling pressure intensifies.

Risk Management
Given the 14-day ATR of $113.70, stop-losses should account for normal volatility. Long positions might consider stops below $3,050, while short-term traders could use tighter $3,100 levels. Position sizing should reflect the proximity to resistance and potential for increased volatility around breakout attempts.

Image source: Shutterstock

eth price analysis
eth price prediction
2026-01-04 20:36 3mo ago
2026-01-04 13:38 3mo ago
BNB Breaks Above Key Moving Averages as Bulls Target $950 Resistance Zone cryptonews
BNB
Rebeca Moen
Jan 04, 2026 19:38

Binance Coin trades at $891.30, up 1.6% as technical momentum builds following analyst predictions for potential 13-31% upside targeting $950-$1,100 range in coming weeks.

Quick Take
• BNB trading at $891.30 (up 1.6% in 24h)
• Technical breakout above multiple moving averages signals potential rally continuation
• Price testing upper Bollinger Band at $889 with strong momentum indicators
• Following broader crypto market strength amid Bitcoin's positive performance

Market Events Driving Binance Coin Price Movement
Trading on technical factors in the absence of major catalysts, BNB price action reflects the recent analyst predictions published on December 31st targeting a recovery toward the $950-$1,100 range. The forecast suggests potential upside of 13-31% within 4-6 weeks, contingent on breaking above the $928 resistance level.

No significant fundamental news events have emerged in the past 48 hours to drive immediate price movements. However, the technical setup appears increasingly favorable as BNB holds above its 200-day moving average at $889.05 and continues building momentum above shorter-term averages. The lack of negative headlines has allowed technical factors to take precedence, with traders positioning for the anticipated breakout scenario outlined in recent Binance Coin technical analysis.

The broader cryptocurrency market's positive tone, led by Bitcoin's strength, has provided a supportive backdrop for BNB's current advance. Traditional markets have shown mixed signals, but crypto assets continue to trade independently of broader risk sentiment.

BNB Technical Analysis: Bullish Momentum Building
Price Action Context
BNB price has established a clear bullish structure above its key moving averages, with the current level of $891.30 sitting above both the 20-day SMA ($856.50) and 200-day SMA ($889.05). The positioning above the 200-day average is particularly significant, as it confirms the longer-term uptrend remains intact.

Trading volume of $101.3 million on Binance spot reflects healthy institutional participation without excessive speculative froth. The sustained volume above $100 million suggests genuine accumulation rather than retail-driven momentum, providing a more stable foundation for the current advance.

The correlation with Bitcoin remains positive, though BNB has shown slightly stronger relative performance in recent sessions, indicating sector-specific strength within the exchange token category.

Key Technical Indicators
The MACD histogram reading of 6.7256 signals bullish momentum acceleration, with the indicator crossing into positive territory after a period of consolidation. This momentum shift often precedes sustained price advances in Binance Coin technical analysis.

The RSI at 57.91 remains in neutral territory, providing ample room for additional upside before reaching overbought conditions. The Stochastic indicators (%K at 85.84, %D at 84.60) show strong momentum but warrant monitoring for potential short-term pullbacks.

BNB's position at 1.0334 on the Bollinger Band %B indicator places it just above the upper band at $889.12, suggesting the asset is testing resistance but hasn't yet entered extremely overbought territory.

Critical Price Levels for Binance Coin Traders
Immediate Levels (24-48 hours)
• Resistance: $902.85 (24-hour high and immediate technical barrier)
• Support: $875.50 (24-hour low and recent consolidation base)

Breakout/Breakdown Scenarios
A break below $875.50 would likely trigger a retest of the 20-day moving average at $856.50, with further downside targeting the $818.39 support zone. However, the current momentum structure suggests this scenario has lower probability.

Upside breakout above $902.85 opens the path toward the $928 resistance highlighted in recent analyst predictions, with successful penetration of that level targeting the $949.77 strong resistance zone and ultimately the $950-$1,100 range mentioned in end-of-year forecasts.

BNB Correlation Analysis
Bitcoin's positive performance continues to provide a tailwind for BNB, though the exchange token has shown slight outperformance, suggesting sector-specific strength. The correlation remains constructive for continued upside momentum.

Traditional markets have shown mixed signals, with equity markets facing year-end positioning flows. However, cryptocurrency markets have largely decoupled from traditional risk assets in recent sessions, allowing crypto-specific factors to drive price action.

Among sector peers, BNB has demonstrated relative strength compared to other exchange tokens, likely reflecting Binance's market leadership position and the platform's continued growth trajectory.

Trading Outlook: Binance Coin Near-Term Prospects
Bullish Case
A sustained move above $900 with accompanying volume would confirm the breakout scenario, targeting the $928 level initially and $950-$1,000 on extension. The technical momentum structure supports this scenario, particularly if Bitcoin maintains its positive trajectory.

Bearish Case
Failure to hold above the $875 support zone could trigger a deeper pullback toward $856-$850, where the 20-day moving average should provide stronger support. A break below $850 would negate the immediate bullish outlook.

Risk Management
Conservative traders should consider stops below $875 to protect against breakdown scenarios, while more aggressive positions could use $856 as the key risk management level. Given the daily ATR of $26.38, position sizing should account for potential volatility expansion around key technical levels.

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2026-01-04 20:36 3mo ago
2026-01-04 13:45 3mo ago
XRP ETF Inflows Hit 30-Day Streak as Price Breaks Above $2.08 Resistance cryptonews
XRP
James Ding
Jan 04, 2026 19:45

XRP trades at $2.08 (+3.5%) following sustained ETF inflows totaling $1.27B in assets, with technical indicators suggesting further upside potential toward $2.31 resistance.

Quick Take
• XRP trading at $2.08 (up 3.5% in 24h)
• XRP ETFs recording over 30 consecutive days of inflows with $15.55M added December 30
• Price breaking above upper Bollinger Band at $2.03 signals momentum shift
• Following broader crypto market strength as Bitcoin maintains bullish sentiment

Market Events Driving Ripple Price Movement
The primary catalyst behind XRP price strength has been the remarkable consistency of institutional flows into XRP exchange-traded funds. These products have attracted capital for more than 30 consecutive trading days, culminating in $15.55 million in fresh inflows on December 30 alone. Total ETF-held XRP assets have reached $1.27 billion, representing a significant institutional validation of the asset.

This sustained institutional interest has provided a fundamental backdrop for XRP's technical breakout above the $2.03 level, which had served as resistance throughout the final days of 2025. The ETF flow data suggests professional money managers are positioning for potential upside in the early weeks of 2026.

The scheduled release of 1 billion XRP from escrow on January 1 had minimal market impact, as expected given Ripple's historical pattern of returning significant portions of these releases back to escrow. This technical event typically creates temporary selling pressure, but current price action suggests institutional demand is absorbing any supply concerns.

XRP Technical Analysis: Bullish Momentum Building
Price Action Context
XRP price has established itself above all short-term moving averages, trading 7.2% above the 20-day SMA at $1.90 and 6.2% above the 7-day SMA at $1.94. However, the asset remains 19% below its 200-day moving average at $2.57, indicating the longer-term trend recovery is still developing. Current trading above the upper Bollinger Band at $2.03 with a %B position of 1.17 suggests strong momentum, though this also signals potential overbought conditions in the near term.

Volume on Binance spot markets reached $231.7 million in the past 24 hours, representing elevated activity levels that support the legitimacy of the current breakout. This volume profile aligns with periods of institutional accumulation rather than retail speculation.

Key Technical Indicators
The RSI at 61.37 remains in neutral territory, providing room for additional upside before reaching overbought levels around 70. More encouraging is the MACD histogram reading of 0.0324, which indicates bullish momentum is building despite the MACD line remaining negative at -0.0126. The Stochastic oscillator at 85.91 suggests XRP is approaching overbought territory but has not yet reached extreme levels that would signal an immediate reversal.

Critical Price Levels for Ripple Traders
Immediate Levels (24-48 hours)
• Resistance: $2.12 (24-hour high and psychological barrier)
• Support: $2.00 (round number and recent breakout level)

Breakout/Breakdown Scenarios
A sustained move above $2.12 would target the strong resistance zone at $2.31, representing potential upside of approximately 11% from current levels. This level coincides with technical projections from the recent consolidation pattern and would bring XRP price closer to analyst targets in the $2.50-$2.70 range.

Conversely, failure to hold the $2.00 support level would likely trigger a retest of the upper Bollinger Band at $2.03, with deeper selling potentially reaching the immediate support at $1.77.

XRP Correlation Analysis
XRP is currently following the broader cryptocurrency market's positive momentum, with Bitcoin's continued strength providing a supportive backdrop for altcoin performance. The correlation appears moderate rather than perfect, as XRP's institutional ETF flows represent an asset-specific catalyst driving outperformance.

Traditional market factors remain secondary to crypto-native developments, though any significant shift in risk sentiment from equity markets could influence crypto positioning broadly. The sustained ETF inflows suggest institutional participants are treating XRP as a distinct asset class rather than purely following Bitcoin beta.

Trading Outlook: Ripple Near-Term Prospects
Bullish Case
Continued ETF inflows combined with technical momentum above $2.08 could drive XRP price toward the $2.31 resistance level within the next 1-2 weeks. A break above this level would open the path toward analyst targets of $2.50-$2.70, representing 20-30% upside potential. The combination of institutional demand and improving technical structure supports this scenario.

Bearish Case
Risk factors include potential profit-taking at current levels given the recent breakout, broader crypto market correction, or any negative developments affecting ETF flows. The elevated Stochastic reading suggests short-term consolidation or pullback risk. A break below $2.00 would negate the current bullish setup.

Risk Management
Traders should consider stop-losses below $1.95 to protect against breakout failure, representing roughly 6% downside risk from current levels. The daily ATR of $0.08 suggests position sizing should account for normal volatility swings of approximately 4% in either direction on any given trading session.

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2026-01-04 20:36 3mo ago
2026-01-04 13:51 3mo ago
ADA Price Rebounds 2.5% as Cardano-Binance Academy Partnership Counters Year-End Selloff cryptonews
ADA
Luisa Crawford
Jan 04, 2026 19:51

Cardano trades at $0.40 following a 2.5% daily gain, as the new Binance Academy educational partnership provides fundamental support against broader crypto market weakness.

Quick Take
• ADA trading at $0.40 (up 2.5% in 24h)
• Cardano-Binance Academy partnership announcement offsetting year-end pressure
• Price testing upper Bollinger Band at resistance near $0.41
• Bitcoin correlation remains strong as both assets recover from December lows

Market Events Driving Cardano Price Movement
The primary catalyst supporting ADA price action this week has been Cardano's strategic partnership announcement with Binance Academy to launch the 'Cardano Fundamentals' educational course. This free educational initiative represents a significant step toward mainstream adoption, designed to educate users on Cardano's unique blockchain advantages compared to competitors.

However, this positive development comes against the backdrop of severe year-end weakness that saw Cardano plunge over 60% in 2025, including a 5% decline on December 31st alone. The educational partnership, while fundamentally bullish for long-term adoption, has provided only modest price support as institutional selling pressure dominated the final trading days of 2025.

Traditional markets also closed 2025 with modest losses, as the S&P 500 dropped 0.7% in thin holiday trading. This broader risk-off sentiment has weighed on crypto markets, though Bitcoin's recent recovery has helped lift ADA price alongside other altcoins.

ADA Technical Analysis: Testing Upper Bollinger Band Resistance
Price Action Context
ADA price currently sits at $0.40, precisely at the 50-day moving average and upper Bollinger Band resistance. The token has recovered from its 52-week low of $0.33 set in recent weeks, with short-term moving averages (7-day and 20-day SMA both at $0.37) providing dynamic support below current levels.

Volume on Binance spot markets reached $45.16 million in 24 hours, indicating moderate institutional interest as the price tests this critical resistance zone. The recovery has been swift but faces significant overhead resistance given the proximity to the upper Bollinger Band.

Key Technical Indicators
The Cardano technical analysis reveals mixed momentum signals. The RSI sits at 53.90 in neutral territory, suggesting neither overbought nor oversold conditions. However, the Stochastic oscillator shows extreme readings with %K at 90.14 and %D at 91.29, indicating potential short-term exhaustion.

The MACD histogram turned positive at 0.0080, generating the first bullish momentum signal in recent sessions, though the main MACD line remains negative at -0.0100, indicating the broader trend remains weak.

Critical Price Levels for Cardano Traders
Immediate Levels (24-48 hours)
• Resistance: $0.41 (24-hour high and upper Bollinger Band)
• Support: $0.37 (20-day moving average and recent consolidation floor)

Breakout/Breakdown Scenarios
A break above $0.41 resistance could target the next significant level at $0.51, representing the strong resistance zone where sellers previously emerged. Failure to hold current levels would likely see ADA price retreat toward the lower Bollinger Band at $0.33, coinciding with the 52-week low and strong support zone.

ADA Correlation Analysis
Cardano continues to trade with high correlation to Bitcoin, which has shown similar recovery patterns over the past 24 hours. The correlation has strengthened as both assets bounce from year-end lows, suggesting institutional flows are treating crypto as a unified asset class.

Traditional market weakness, evidenced by the S&P 500's year-end decline, has created headwinds for risk assets including crypto. However, the correlation has been less pronounced than during major market stress periods, indicating some independence in crypto price action.

Trading Outlook: Cardano Near-Term Prospects
Bullish Case
A sustained break above $0.41 resistance, supported by increasing volume and continued positive news flow around ecosystem development, could target $0.45-$0.51. The Binance Academy partnership represents the type of adoption catalyst that could drive sustainable upward momentum.

Bearish Case
Failure to break upper Bollinger Band resistance at current levels, combined with any resumption of year-end tax selling or broader crypto market weakness, could send ADA price back toward $0.37 support. A break of this level would target the 52-week low at $0.33.

Risk Management
Given the high Stochastic readings and proximity to resistance, traders should consider tight stop-losses below $0.37 for long positions. The daily ATR of $0.02 suggests position sizing should account for potential 5% daily moves in either direction.

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2026-01-04 20:36 3mo ago
2026-01-04 13:56 3mo ago
Solana Tests Upper Bollinger Band at $133 as DeFi Market Share Hits 10% Milestone cryptonews
SOL
Peter Zhang
Jan 04, 2026 19:56

SOL trades at $133.51 near technical resistance as institutional ETF inflows reach $755M and Solana captures 10% DeFi market share, surpassing Ethereum in DEX volume.

Quick Take
• SOL trading at $133.51 (up 1.3% in 24h)
• Solana DeFi market share reaches 10%, exceeding Ethereum in daily DEX volume
• Price testing upper Bollinger Band resistance at $133.25
• Following Bitcoin's modest gains amid broader crypto market stability

Market Events Driving Solana Price Movement
Solana's recent price stability reflects strong fundamental developments rather than speculative trading. The most significant catalyst has been Solana's achievement of a 10% market share in decentralized finance, with its DEX platforms now processing higher 24-hour trading volumes than Ethereum's counterparts. This milestone represents a structural shift in DeFi adoption that could support long-term SOL price appreciation.

Institutional interest continues building momentum through spot ETF accumulation. Solana-focused ETFs have attracted $755.77 million in net inflows without recording a single week of outflows since launch. This consistent institutional buying provides a technical floor for SOL price action, particularly evident in the successful defense of the $120 support level throughout recent market volatility.

Historical seasonality patterns add another bullish layer to Solana technical analysis. January has historically delivered average gains of 59% for SOL, with median returns around 22%. This seasonal strength becomes more pronounced following negative December performance, suggesting potential for a significant rebound as Q1 2026 begins.

SOL Technical Analysis: Testing Critical Resistance Zone
Price Action Context
SOL price currently trades at $133.51, positioned above short-term moving averages with the 7-day SMA at $128.43 and 20-day SMA at $125.70 providing dynamic support. However, the 50-day SMA at $131.23 and 200-day SMA at $172.85 highlight the medium-term consolidation pattern. Trading volume of $253.5 million on Binance spot markets indicates healthy institutional participation without excessive speculation.

The current position relative to Bitcoin shows moderate correlation, with SOL following the broader crypto market's cautious optimism while maintaining relative strength against altcoin peers.

Key Technical Indicators
The RSI reading of 57.17 keeps Solana in neutral territory with room for additional upside before reaching overbought conditions. More importantly, the MACD histogram shows a bullish reading of 1.8356, indicating strengthening momentum despite the negative MACD line at -0.7859.

The Bollinger Band position reveals SOL price testing the upper band at $133.25, with the %B indicator at 1.0172 confirming price pressure against this technical ceiling. The 14-day ATR of $6.10 suggests moderate volatility, typical for consolidation phases.

Critical Price Levels for Solana Traders
Immediate Levels (24-48 hours)
• Resistance: $135.54 (24-hour high and immediate technical barrier)
• Support: $131.35 (24-hour low and short-term floor)

Breakout/Breakdown Scenarios
A break above $135.54 could trigger momentum toward the stronger resistance at $146.91, representing the next major technical hurdle. Conversely, failure to hold $131.35 support would likely test the $120 level that has provided significant buying interest over recent weeks.

SOL Correlation Analysis
Bitcoin's modest gains today have provided a supportive backdrop for SOL price action, though Solana demonstrates relative strength through its DeFi market share expansion. Traditional market correlations remain muted, with SOL trading more on crypto-specific fundamentals than broader risk appetite indicators.

The altcoin sector shows mixed performance, but Solana's technical positioning appears stronger than many peers due to sustained institutional accumulation and ecosystem growth metrics.

Trading Outlook: Solana Near-Term Prospects
Bullish Case
A decisive break above $135.54 resistance, combined with continued DeFi market share gains and ETF inflows, could drive SOL price toward $146.91. January's historical seasonality patterns support this upside scenario, particularly if Bitcoin maintains current levels above key support zones.

Bearish Case
Failure to clear upper Bollinger Band resistance may lead to consolidation back toward $125.70 (20-day SMA). A break below $120 would negate near-term bullish momentum and potentially target the strong support zone around $116.88.

Risk Management
Conservative traders should consider stops below $131.35 for long positions, while aggressive entries above $135.54 require stops near $133 to limit downside exposure. Given the 14-day ATR of $6.10, position sizing should account for normal daily volatility ranges in Solana technical analysis.

Image source: Shutterstock

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2026-01-04 20:36 3mo ago
2026-01-04 14:08 3mo ago
MATIC Consolidates Near Weekly Lows as Technical Recovery Targets $0.45-$0.52 Range cryptonews
MATIC
Joerg Hiller
Jan 04, 2026 20:08

Polygon trades at $0.38 amid subdued volume as analysts eye potential recovery to $0.45-$0.52 despite current bearish momentum and broader crypto market weakness.

Quick Take
• MATIC trading at $0.38 (down 0.3% in 24h)
• Technical forecasts suggest potential recovery despite current weakness
• Testing support near 52-week lows with muted volume
• Following Bitcoin's downward pressure on broader crypto market

Market Events Driving Polygon Price Movement
With no significant Polygon-specific news events in the past 48 hours, MATIC price action has been primarily driven by technical factors and broader market sentiment. The most notable development affecting trader sentiment comes from recent analyst predictions suggesting MATIC could recover to the $0.45-$0.52 range within 4-6 weeks if it successfully breaks above the key $0.58 resistance level.

This technical outlook provides a framework for understanding current price consolidation, though MATIC continues to face headwinds from Bitcoin's recent decline and general risk-off sentiment in cryptocurrency markets. The broader traditional market backdrop has been more supportive, with the S&P 500 posting an 18% gain in 2025 despite various macro challenges, but this positive traditional market performance hasn't translated into immediate support for risk assets like MATIC.

Trading on Binance spot market has remained relatively subdued with $1.07 million in 24-hour volume, suggesting limited institutional interest at current levels as market participants await clearer directional catalysts.

MATIC Technical Analysis: Oversold Conditions Developing
Price Action Context
MATIC price currently sits well below all major moving averages, trading at $0.38 compared to the 20-day SMA of $0.43 and 50-day SMA of $0.45. This positioning indicates sustained selling pressure, with the token trading approximately 45% below its 200-day SMA of $0.69. The proximity to the 52-week low of $0.37 suggests MATIC is testing critical support levels that could determine near-term direction.

Volume analysis reveals diminished institutional interest, with current trading activity insufficient to drive meaningful price discovery. The lack of follow-through on recent selling suggests potential exhaustion, though confirmation requires increased participation.

Key Technical Indicators
The RSI reading of 38.00 places MATIC in neutral territory but approaching oversold conditions, historically a zone where technical bounces have materialized. However, the MACD remains bearish at -0.0246 with the histogram showing continued downward momentum at -0.0045, indicating selling pressure hasn't fully subsided.

Polygon technical analysis reveals the Stochastic oscillator deeply oversold with %K at 25.19 and %D at 19.74, suggesting potential for short-term relief rally. The Bollinger Bands position shows MATIC trading in the lower quartile at 0.2879, indicating compressed volatility that often precedes significant moves.

Critical Price Levels for Polygon Traders
Immediate Levels (24-48 hours)
• Resistance: $0.42 (EMA 26 confluence)
• Support: $0.37 (52-week low and psychological level)

Breakout/Breakdown Scenarios
A break below $0.37 support could trigger accelerated selling toward the $0.33 strong support level, potentially establishing new yearly lows. Conversely, reclaiming the $0.42-$0.43 zone would suggest the beginning of the predicted recovery phase, with initial targets at $0.45 (50-day SMA) and eventual objectives in the $0.45-$0.52 range as forecasted by recent technical analysis.

MATIC Correlation Analysis
Bitcoin's current weakness continues to weigh on MATIC price action, with the token following the broader cryptocurrency market's risk-off sentiment. Unlike previous periods where Polygon demonstrated relative strength during Bitcoin corrections, current correlation remains high, suggesting limited independent buying interest.

Traditional markets present a mixed picture, with equity strength providing some underlying support for risk assets, though this hasn't yet translated into meaningful crypto market outperformance. The disconnect between traditional market resilience and crypto weakness indicates sector-specific factors remain dominant.

Trading Outlook: Polygon Near-Term Prospects
Bullish Case
Recovery toward the $0.45-$0.52 target range requires MATIC to first reclaim the $0.42 resistance and establish support above the 20-day SMA at $0.43. Increasing volume above 1.5 million daily on Binance spot would signal renewed institutional interest, while broader crypto market stabilization could provide the catalyst needed for technical recovery.

Bearish Case
Failure to hold $0.37 support opens the path toward $0.33, representing a 13% decline from current levels. Extended weakness in Bitcoin or broader risk-off sentiment could pressure MATIC toward new cycle lows, particularly given the current lack of fundamental catalysts.

Risk Management
Conservative traders should consider stop-losses below $0.36 to limit downside exposure, while position sizing should account for the elevated ATR of $0.03, representing nearly 8% daily volatility. Given current technical positioning, risk-reward favors smaller position sizes until clearer directional momentum emerges.

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