Market Signal Briefing

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 HOOW 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.

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.

These players may help you along the path to wealth.

Investors always are searching for the next big hit in the world of technology -- and this is a wise move, considering how such innovations have resulted in soaring earnings and stock prices. Great examples are iPhone giant Apple and artificial intelligence (AI) chip designer Nvidia. They've created game-changing products that individuals or companies need, and this has helped their growth explode over time.

Right now, quantum computing is an area of such potential. Quantum computers, guided by the principles of quantum mechanics, work differently from classical computers and are complicated to build and scale -- but they hold enormous potential as they may allow us to solve problems deemed impossible today. That's why, if you're a growth investor looking for the next big boom, it's a great idea to add a few of these shares to your portfolio.

Here, we'll check out two players that are well-positioned for success in the field. One makes a great investment for investors who are comfortable with a bit of risk; the other is a buy for any investor interested in betting on quantum computing. These stocks, in the context of a diversified portfolio, could become potential millionaire-makers.

Image source: Getty Images.

1. IonQ IonQ (IONQ +6.81%) is a pure play quantum computing company, meaning it focuses specifically on this technology. This could result in enormous gains if the company makes it to the finish line, but it also implies more risk. Since IonQ truly depends on success in quantum computing, any setback or failure could seriously hurt stock performance. So the stock is right for you only if you can accept that risk.

IonQ stands out thanks to its way of constructing qubits, or the elements that power a quantum computer's computations. (Classical computers rely on bits for that.) The company uses trapped ion technology, a method that results in a lower error rate -- this is key because error rates have been a challenge in quantum computing. And trapped ions remain in quantum states longer, offering more computing time. These are significant advantages that could make this company a winner down the road.

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Today, IonQ offers access to its quantum computers primarily through major cloud service providers and generates some revenue, but as the company itself says, "we are still in the early stages of commercial growth." That's why now is a good time for aggressive investors to get in on this story and hold on as the technology progresses.

2. Alphabet Alphabet (GOOG 0.85%) (GOOGL 0.83%) is a company most of us are in contact with on a daily basis. That's because it's the owner of the world's No. 1 search engine, Google. And the Google platform, through advertising, generates billions of dollars in revenue quarter after quarter.

Alphabet's second major moneymaker is its cloud unit, known simply as Google Cloud. This business has been growing in leaps and bounds, and demand from AI customers has added to the momentum.

These two businesses make Alphabet a solid buy for any investor, whether you're cautious or aggressive. But what's even better is that the company also offers you the opportunity to benefit from the high-potential field of quantum computing.

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This is because Alphabet is working intensely in this area, developing its own quantum chip. In late 2024, the company introduced Willow, saying the chip can cut errors exponentially as systems are scaled up with more qubits -- this is a huge milestone. And this past fall, Alphabet ran a verifiable algorithm on its Willow platform, surpassing the performance of the most powerful supercomputers. This brings quantum computing a step closer to real-world usefulness.

So, Alphabet offers investors the strength of a long-established, highly profitable business along with the opportunity to potentially benefit from success in quantum computing. And if the company wins in quantum, it may help deliver million-dollar returns for early investors.

These consumer names could experience a significant stock recovery, along with continued dividend growth.

Dividend investing requires a different approach than investing in the growth stocks that attract significant investor attention. Instead of seeking the highest returns, dividend investors focus on steady, growing income from a company's payouts.

Despite this focus, some stocks are in a position to pay a dividend far above the S&P 500's average dividend yield of 1.1% and possibly benefit shareholders from a rising stock price. Knowing that, if an investor has $5,000 to buy shares, they can likely earn significant returns from these consumer names. Here's a look at two of them.

Image source: Getty Images.

Clorox Investors know Clorox (CLX 1.12%) best for its bleach. However, the company owns other well-known consumer brands such as Pine-Sol, Hidden Valley, and Burt's Bees.

It benefited during the COVID-19 pandemic when consumers obsessed over cleanliness. Since that time, inflation, a cyberattack, and steps to transition to new enterprise resource planning (ERP) software weighed on the stock, leading it to lose around half of its value over the last five years.

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Still, the lower stock price has taken its dividend yield to 4.4%. Also, the annual payout of $4.96 per share has risen for 49 straight years. Companies tend to maintain such streaks if possible, making it unlikely the annual dividend hikes will stop.

Fortunately, Clorox's well-known brands should bolster the company. Moreover, the investment in the ERP software should improve efficiency. At the current price, an investor can pick up 22 shares for around $2,450.

Ultimately, between that high dividend yield and its P/E ratio of 17, Clorox appears poised to offer its shareholders dividend growth and after a long wait, possibly a rising stock price as well.

Target Like Clorox, multiple missteps have hurt omnichannel retailer Target (TGT +0.14%). Target is one of America's more prominent retailers by virtue of its approximately 2,000 stores across the 50 states and its significant online presence.

Nonetheless, since just after the pandemic, rising inventories, falling sales, and unpopular political stances prompted investors to sell Target shares. Also, trying to solve this issue with a new CEO led to renewed selling when investors learned an internal candidate, COO Michael Fiddelke, would become the new CEO.

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But the stock has begun to recover from its November low. Moreover, its depressed stock price has boosted its dividend yield to 4.1%, and it is a Dividend King by virtue of its 54 years of payout hikes. With the latest increase, the annual dividend is now $4.56 per share.

Additionally, the stock sells at a 13 P/E ratio, far below its retail industry peers, Walmart and Costco, which trade at 42 times and 51 times earnings, respectively.

At today's prices, one can buy 23 shares for about $2,525. Now that Target stock has begun to recover, its low valuation could foster a stock price recovery as it delivers rising dividend payments.

There's one Vanguard bond ETF that Buffett would love.

Even though Warren Buffett is now retired as the chief executive officer of Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.A +0.28%)(BRK.B +0.14%), his lessons on investing will live on. He's now handed the company's reins over to new CEO Greg Abel. However, we have more than enough history through what Berkshire is invested in and his past comments to understand the Buffett investing style.

Berkshire Hathaway's current largest holdings include Apple (AAPL 0.93%), American Express (AXP +2.08%), Bank of America (BAC +0.81%), Coca-Cola (KO 0.06%), and Chevron (CVX +0.07%). Buffett has long favored individual companies backed by strong cash flows, durable balance sheets, economic moats, and some degree of value.

He's not an exchange-traded fund (ETF) investor, but what if he were?

For this, we need to sift through his public comments and past actions to get a sense of where he would put his money. In some cases, he's been quite specific. And that leads me to one Vanguard ETF I think Buffett would buy.

Image source: Getty Images.

Warren Buffett advocates for a 90/10 portfolio Buffett has always favored an approach that emphasizes simplicity, low fees, and a long-term time horizon. This was clear in a 2013 letter to shareholders at the annual Berkshire Hathaway shareholder meeting.

In discussing what he plans to do with the portion of his estate that will go to his wife upon his passing, he plans on taking an old-school approach:

My advice to the trustee could not be more simple: Put 10% of the cash in short-term government bonds and 90% in a very low-cost S&P 500 index fund. (I suggest Vanguard's.)

In a past article, I wrote about how this statement serves as a de facto endorsement of the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO 0.08%). That covers the 90% part of the 90/10 portfolio. Now, let's take a look at the Vanguard ETF that can fit the 10% part.

Buffett would look for a Treasury Bill ETF The ETF that Buffett would likely look to add is the Vanguard 0-3 Month Treasury Bill ETF (VBIL +0.04%). The fund tracks the Bloomberg U.S. Treasury Bills 0-3 Months Index. As the name suggests, it invests in a portfolio of U.S. Treasury bills that have maturities of three months or less. It offers a dividend yield of 3.67% (as of Jan. 9, 2026) and comes with an expense ratio of 0.07%.

NASDAQ: VBILVanguard Institutional Index Fund - 0-3 Months Treasury Bill ETF

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It's not a terribly exciting fund by any stretch, but it fits in exactly with the Buffett investing style. In true Vanguard fashion, it's one of the cheapest ETFs in this category, something Buffett advises investors to seek out whenever possible.

We know from the Berkshire portfolio that Buffett is quite comfortable keeping large amounts of cash on hand to help take advantage of opportunities when they come up or when he doesn't find any particularly attractive investments. Pairing a Treasury bill ETF with an S&P 500 ETF lets investors keep some dry powder on hand in case stock prices pull back to more attractive levels.

And let's not discount the return that investors can still get with Treasury bills. It's not the 5% that they were paying a year or two ago, but the current 3.7% yield is more than adequate right now for a risk-free investment. In the post-COVID era, holding Treasury bills was essentially a sunk cost for a diversified portfolio because it offered no yield. Now, investors can capture a reasonable return that's above the current inflation rate while waiting on the sidelines.

In summary, Buffett's recent statements and actions suggest there are two types of ETFs he would buy -- the ultra-cheap S&P 500 ETF and a Treasury bill ETF. The Vanguard S&P 500 ETF is perhaps the best in the business for investing in that index. Pairing it with the Vanguard 0-3 Month Treasury Bill ETF, an arrangement that Buffett has already said he would set up for his wife, looks like a winning combination.

Bank of America is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. American Express is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. David Dierking has positions in Apple. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Apple, Berkshire Hathaway, Chevron, and Vanguard S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Analyst’s Disclosure:I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within 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.

I am not a registered investment, tax, or legal advisor or broker and therefore cannot promise or guarantee any financial returns from my opinions on this page or site. The content of this article is based on my own personal thoughts and research, and you should do your own due diligence before making any investment decisions. This article may be structured as such, but it is not financial or investment advice. While I do make my best effort to ensure that all information in my articles is accurate and up-to-date, occasionally unintended errors or misprints may occur. Remember that all investments in the market face the risk of going to $0. The writer of this article has no business or personal relationship with any company mentioned in the above article.

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.

This company is already scoring an AI win.

The Nasdaq has climbed in recent years thanks to excitement about game-changing technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing. Investors have wanted to get in on potential winners earlier to maximize their gains once these technologies are fully developed and become anchored in our daily lives.

The AI boom and the interest in quantum computing are far from over. If we look at AI alone, analysts predict that today's $300 billion market will reach into the trillions by the end of the decade. Considering this and the solid earnings we've seen from tech companies, my prediction is the Nasdaq will soar in 2026. And here's one AI stock to buy now before it does.

Image source: Getty Images.

A modest 2025 gain This particular player saw its stock rise only about 5% last year, even as it reported growth from AI -- and from its well-established e-commerce and cloud computing businesses. I'm talking about Amazon (AMZN +0.40%), a leader in these key growth areas.

Amazon is a great buy for both aggressive and cautious investors, and here's why. Cautious investors will like the fact that Amazon has demonstrated its strength and ability to grow well before the emergence of AI. This means that if AI spending slows, Amazon can rely on other parts of its business for growth. Even Amazon Web Services (AWS), which offers AI chips and platforms, also provides a broad range of products and services outside of the AI space.

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Aggressive investors will appreciate Amazon because, on top of this already strong business, it's also benefiting from the AI boom. Amazon uses AI to improve its operations, for example, streamlining processes at fulfillment centers. And AWS is delivering tremendous growth thanks to the successes of its AI offerings -- from its own in-house designed chips to top Nvidia chips and a fully managed AI service called Amazon Bedrock. All of this has helped the unit reach an annual revenue run rate of $132 billion.

A reasonable valuation Meanwhile, Amazon stock remains very reasonably priced. It trades for about 30x forward earnings estimates, down from more than 50x a few years ago.

This valuation could attract investors right now as they shift out of AI players that have reached lofty price levels. In recent times, concern has grown about the formation of an AI bubble, so investors may prefer buying AI stocks with proven strengths -- and for reasonable prices. This could work in Amazon's favor in the new year as potential AI winners and losers begin to emerge.

Amazon has already scored AI victories, such as AWS revenue growth, so it's on track to become a true AI winner. And that's why it's a great idea to buy this stock before the Nasdaq climbs in 2026.

Adria Cimino has positions in Amazon. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Amazon and Nvidia. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Analyst’s Disclosure:I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of WDAY either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. 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.

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.

Analyst’s Disclosure:I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within 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.

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.

Things are beginning to look up for the artificial intelligence (AI) chipmaker.

Last year was a bit unnerving for Nvidia (NVDA 0.29%) stock investors. After a blistering run that lasted more than two years, the stock plunged 37% from an all-time high in early 2025, before rebounding and ascending new heights. The ongoing battle with inflation, concerns about the impact of tariffs on the economy, and uncertainty about the future of artificial intelligence (AI) led to significant volatility for the chipmaker last year.

Nvidia gained 977% over the past three years (as of this writing), as its graphics processing units (GPUs) have become the gold standard for AI processing. After its relentless run, however, the stock is taking a well-deserved breather and currently sits 12% below its peak hit in early November.

A new year represents new opportunities for Nvidia, and the stock could be setting the stage for the next leg of its ascent. At an annual trade event last week, CEO Jensen Huang made an announcement that could have significant implications for Nvidia stock investors and sets the stage for 2026.

Image source: Nvidia.

You want chips with that? CES (formerly the Consumer Electronics Show) is the premier technology event, taking place in Las Vegas every January and showcasing product innovations, futuristic gadgets, and advancements in AI. Huang, who is something of a rock star in tech circles, is frequently the event's keynote speaker, and this year was no different.

In a surprise development, Huang announced that Nvidia's next-generation AI chip -- Vera Rubin -- is now in full production, a full six months ahead of schedule:

Vera Rubin is designed to address this fundamental challenge that we have: The amount of computation necessary for AI is skyrocketing. Today, I can tell you that Vera Rubin is in full production.

Nvidia says its Rubin architecture reduces AI token processing costs by as much as 90%, using 75% fewer GPUs.

The company already has a significant competitive advantage in the semiconductor industry, with an aggressive one-year release cadence, bucking the existing industry practice of releasing new processors every two years. This relentless pace of innovation, announced in late 2023, has catapulted Nvidia ahead of the competition, making it even more difficult for rivals to gain ground.

The revelation that the company's next-generation processor was already rolling off the production line caught industry watchers off guard, as it extends Nvidia's already sizable advantage. The company had previously announced that Rubin would reach full production in the second half of 2026.

While this might not seem like a big deal, it has significant implications for Nvidia investors.

The growing specter of competition The rapid adoption of AI has led to a persistent and ongoing shortage of chips with the necessary computational horsepower for AI processing. Nvidia's state-of-the-art chips have long been in short supply, forcing customers to seek viable alternatives.

In fact, one of the biggest risks to Nvidia is the threat of growing competition, particularly from well-heeled technology companies, many of whom are already developing rival processors.

Advanced Micro Devices is Nvidia's most recognized competitor, making a splash with its MI350X data center GPU. The company just announced the MI440 series, which will begin shipping early this year. Broadcom is the leader in application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), which can be customized to perform specific tasks more efficiently. The company has been making inroads as a more energy-efficient alternative to Nvidia's GPUs. Alphabet has been developing its custom Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) for internal use for more than a decade. The company turned heads this week on reports that it may lease its chips to Meta Platforms, which would be a first for the company. Late last year, Amazon announced the latest version of its Trainium chip, which it says provides 30% to 40% lower AI training costs than GPU-based alternatives. There are more potential competitors, but you get the point.

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The implications for Nvidia investors Despite fierce competition in the AI chip market, Nvidia has maintained its lead by providing its best-in-class chips long before its rivals. The announcement that Vera Rubin chips are at full production only increases that advantage.

Nvidia also has clear visibility into its future sales. Late last year, Huang stated that the company's backlog exceeded $500 billion, which would be filled over the six quarters ending in early 2027.

Since that announcement, Nvidia has reported revenue of $57 billion, and forecast $65 billion for its soon-to-be-reported fourth quarter. That suggests potential sales of as much as $378 billion next year, which would represent growth of 155%.

Even that might be conservative. At an investor event last week, CFO Colette Kress said demand has only increased since Nvidia provided its $500 billion estimate, and the company would "definitely" surpass its previous outlook.

Nvidia's industry-leading position, relentless innovation, and growing backlog suggest the runway ahead is long. And at just 24 times next year's expected sales, I'd argue the stock is a steal.

Danny Vena, CPA has positions in Alphabet, Amazon, Broadcom, Meta Platforms, and Nvidia. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Advanced Micro Devices, Alphabet, Amazon, Meta Platforms, and Nvidia. The Motley Fool recommends Broadcom. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Star fund manager Stanley Druckenmiller sold Broadcom and bought Sandisk in the third quarter.

Billionaire Stanley Druckenmiller ran Duquesne Capital between 1981 and 2010. The hedge fund returned 30% annually without a single down year during that period, which qualifies him as one of the most successful money managers in history. Druckenmiller does not take clients anymore, but he still manages his own wealth through Duquesne Family Office.

In the third quarter, Druckenmiller sold his position in semiconductor company Broadcom (AVGO +2.53%) and started a position in flash memory maker Sandisk (SNDK +1.07%), a stock that has added 1,050% since it was spun off from Western Digital in February 2025.

Here's what investors should know about these artificial intelligence stocks.

Image source: Getty Images.

Broadcom Broadcom has a dominant position in three semiconductor markets: wireless networking, wired (Ethernet) networking, and application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). Strength in Wi-Fi chips is important, as the market is forecast to grow at 15% annually until 2030, according to Grand View Research, but leadership in the other two end markets is more consequential, as it makes Broadcom a key supplier of artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure.

Particularly important is that Broadcom has about 75% market share in AI ASICs, custom chips that are purpose-built to accelerate training and inference workloads. The company has long designed AI ASICs for Alphabet's Google and Meta Platforms, and it more recently started designing custom accelerators for OpenAI and Anthropic.

Broadcom CEO Hock Tan said AI revenue (from networking chips and ASICs) rose 65% to $20 billion in 2025. That figure will likely increase rapidly in coming years as hyperscalers and AI start-ups invest in data center infrastructure. Indeed, Beth Kindig at the I/O Fund expects AI sales to triple by 2027, and Harlan Sur at JPMorgan Chase estimates AI sales will increase more than 5x to $110 billion by 2027.

Wall Street estimates Broadcom's adjusted earnings will grow at 43% annually through 2027, which makes the current valuation of 51 times earnings look quite reasonable. Most analysts who follow the company agree. Broadcom has a median target price of $461 per share, which implies 34% upside from its current share price of $343. I think Druckenmiller sold this stock too soon.

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Sandisk: The AI stock Stan Druckenmiller bought in the third quarter Sandisk manufactures data storage solutions based on NAND flash technology for data centers, personal computers, mobile devices, video game consoles, and automotive systems. It benefits from a strategic partnership with Kioxia, a Japanese company with which it shares capital expenditures and research and development costs related to wafer fabrication and memory design.

Flash memory devices like solid-state drives (SSDs) are more expensive than hard-disk drives (HDDs), but they are also faster, more durable, and more efficient in their use of power. Therefore, SSDs are used when performance is the top priority, such as for training AI models and running AI applications. But HDDs are used when cost is the top priority, such as for long-term storage for large datasets.

Importantly, beyond its partnership with Kioxia, Sandisk also realizes cost efficiencies and supply chain security from vertical integration. The company designs process technology, manufactures flash memory wafers, packages wafers into chips, integrates chips into final products, and develops the associated firmware.

Sandisk is the fifth-largest NAND flash memory manufacturer behind Samsung, SK Hynix, Kioxia, and Micron Technologies, but the company gained a percentage point of market share during the first half of 2025, and investors have reason to think that momentum will continue. Two hyperscalers recently began testing Sandisk's enterprise SSDs, and a third hyperscaler (plus a major storage original equipment manufacturer) will begin testing the products in 2026, according to management.

Wall Street estimates Sandisk's adjusted earnings will grow at 79% annually through the fiscal year ending in June 2029. That makes the current valuation of 170 times earnings look high. Sandisk shares traded at an average price of $58 during the third quarter, when Druckenmiller bought the stock, but the price has since increased 7x and no longer looks attractive. The median target price of $307 per share implies 26% downside from its current share price of $415.

HomeStock IdeasLong IdeasTech 

SummarySolarEdge remains a BUY as fundamentals improve and sector trends stabilize, with a DCF-based target price of $41 indicating further upside.SEDG benefits from European market share gains, US commercial strength, and residential leasing tailwinds driven by ITC subsidies through 2027.Cost-cutting and working capital release have deleveraged the balance sheet; positive free cash flow is expected by FY2026, excluding inventory releases.Infineon partnership for next-gen data centers offers unmodeled upside, with management set to provide medium-term forecasts in 2026. Image Source/DigitalVision via Getty Images

My thesis SolarEdge (SEDG) stock has rallied and more than doubled since my previous article. A severe cost-cutting program combined with working capital release has helped deleverage the balance sheet. I expect the

Analyst’s Disclosure:I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within 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.

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.

Itaconix PLC (AIM:ITX, OTCQB:ITXXF, FRA:18G0) John Shaw talked with Proactive about the company’s record revenue performance, growth drivers, and outlook as it enters 2026 with strong momentum.

Shaw highlighted that Itaconix PLC has delivered its third consecutive record half-year, with revenues rising 59% year on year to exceed $10 million for the first time, marking a major milestone for the specialty ingredients company. He said the result reflects years of development work to commercialise a fundamentally new class of chemistry focused on odour-neutralising and scale-inhibiting ingredients.

Shaw explained that demand is being driven by customers seeking safer, high-performance, and sustainable solutions across multiple consumer product categories, including automatic dish detergents, laundry detergents, pet products, and carpet cleaning. He noted that Itaconix PLC’s ingredients are plant-based, non-persistent in the environment, and often reduce production costs for customers while improving cleaning performance.

“What’s really changed,” Shaw said, is that the company now has “a strong balance sheet from our successful fundraise in 2023,” enabling it to build a broader customer base that recognises the value of its technology. He added that improved customer engagement and visibility have also contributed to accelerating adoption, particularly for the company’s scale inhibitor products.

Looking ahead, Shaw said Itaconix PLC is well-positioned operationally, with production capacity in place to meet demand through at least 2027, supported by ongoing investment at its Stratham facility. While he does not expect to repeat last year’s growth rate, Shaw believes the company will continue to grow strongly, stating that “2026 is going to be another milestone year for us” with a robust pipeline of customer projects.

Proactive: John, very good to speak with you and happy New Year. Positive news to start 2026. You’ve reported your third consecutive record half-year revenues, increasing 59% year on year to exceed $10 million for the first time.

John Shaw: You’re right, Steve, we are on quite a run right now. We’re in a great position to stay on this path for many more years.

Proactive: What were the key drivers of this revenue growth?

John Shaw: From our field work, we’ve known for many years that our scale and ambition in odour neutralising ingredients enable new, better consumer products in certain categories. These include automatic dish detergent, laundry detergents, pet products, and carpet cleaning. They’re better because they’re safe for consumers to use, do not persist in the environment, and deliver excellent cleaning performance. They’re also cost-effective, often reducing production costs.

They are better sustainably because they use plant-based ingredients. What’s really changed is having a strong balance sheet from our successful fundraise in 2023, which allowed us to create and develop a broad customer base that recognises the value we deliver. Over the last three years, we’ve focused on customers who value our ingredients and work with us to create new generations of better consumer products.

We’ve also improved how we work with the right customers, which you can see in our website resources and social media communications. Finally, customer success creates more success. Our scale inhibitors are becoming more prevalent in certain detergent classes and are increasingly seen as necessary for a brand to be competitive.

Proactive: As you continue to scale at pace, do you have the infrastructure in place to meet demand?

John Shaw: We’re in great shape to meet all of our needs through at least 2027. We have excellent production operations in Stratham and we’re continuing to invest to improve costs and capacity. We’re in an excellent position.

Proactive: Based on recent performance, what are your expectations for 2026 and how confident are you in the path to profitability?

John Shaw: We’re going to be a large, profitable specialty ingredients company. Reaching $10 million in revenues was a major milestone, but it took many years to get a fundamentally new class of chemistry into commercial use. 2026 is going to be another milestone year for us. We have great momentum coming out of 2025 and a strong pipeline of customer projects.

I don’t expect us to repeat last year’s growth rate, but I believe we will sustain growth rates that get us to our next $10 million in revenue much faster than the first.

Proactive: Congratulations again on that milestone, and thank you for your time.

Analyst’s Disclosure:I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within 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.

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.

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SummaryThe Dividend Power strategy highlights 35 high-yield, low-valuation stocks, with 6 identified as 'safer' due to strong free cash flow coverage.The top ten DiviPower stocks are projected to deliver an average net gain of 40.62% by January 2027, with risk/volatility 14% below the market.Seventeen of thirty-five Dividend Power Dogs show negative free cash flow margins, signaling unsustainable dividends and elevated risk.Analyst targets suggest the five lowest-priced top-yield Dividend Power Dogs could outperform the broader group by 11.04% over the next year.Looking for a portfolio of ideas like this one? Members of The Dividend Dog Catcher get exclusive access to our subscriber-only portfolios. Learn More »Ирина Мещерякова/iStock via Getty Images

Foreword Only one on this Dividend Power list of 35 was too pricey or revealed skinny dividends! 6 of the 35 low-priced Dividend Power dogs are ready to buy because they also show "safer" dividends whose free cash-flow

Analyst’s Disclosure:I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within 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.

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.

Key takeaways:

ETH derivatives flash caution as pro traders remain neutral-to-bearish, and weak DApps demand and falling fees pressure Ether’s price.

Corporate ETH buying and spot ETF inflows have not restored investor confidence, as lower staking yields and soft network activity persist.

Ether (ETH) price experienced a two-day 4% correction after briefly reaching $3,400 on Wednesday. The move caught bulls by surprise, triggering $65 million in liquidations of leveraged long ETH futures. More importantly, professional traders have maintained a neutral-to-bearish stance, according to derivatives markets, despite ETH reaching its highest level in two months.

ETH 2-month futures basis rate. Source: laevitas.chETH monthly futures traded at a 4% annualized premium (basis rate) relative to spot markets on Friday. Levels below 5% are deemed bearish, as sellers typically demand a premium to compensate for the longer settlement period. This lack of confidence can be partially explained by a sharp downtrend in the broader cryptocurrency market, while gold and the S&P 500 index jumped to all-time highs in 2026.

ETH/USD (left) vs. Total Crypto capitalization (right). Source: TradingViewEther’s drop to $3,280 closely matches the 28% decline in total cryptocurrency market capitalization since Oct. 6, 2025. Lower interest in decentralized applications (DApps) has weighed on prices, especially after demand for memecoin launches and trading activity faded. New entrants are essential to stimulate blockchain activity, fees and demand for native tokens.

Top blockchains ranked by 30-day network fees, USD. Source: NansenEthereum base layer transactions grew by 28% over 30 days, but network fees fell by 31% versus the standardized average. By comparison, transactions on competitors Solana and BNB Chain remained relatively stable, while fees jumped by 20% on average. More concerning, Ethereum’s largest scaling solution, Base, saw a 26% decline in transactions over the same period.

ETH momentum weak amid low fees, DApps demand, and staking risksWhales and market makers are highly sensitive to overall network usage, as Ethereum has a built-in mechanism that burns ETH during periods of excessive demand for blockchain data processing. Lower network activity reduces ETH staking returns, leaving investors less incentivized to hold positions. Currently, 30% of the total ETH supply remains locked in staking.

Regardless of whether Ether’s lack of bullish momentum simply reflects weaker DApps demand, traders are unlikely to regain confidence while institutional flows remain neutral. Ethereum spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the United States recorded a modest net inflow of $123 million since Jan. 7, while publicly listed companies that purchased ETH remain mostly underwater.

Bitmine Immersion (BMNR US) market capitalization stood 13% below the $13.7 billion worth of ETH held in its corporate reserves. Similarly, Sharplink (SBET US) holds $2.84 billion worth of ETH, while the company’s market capitalization totaled $2.05 billion. Even as these companies continue to acquire ETH at current levels, investor confidence in the cryptocurrency continues to erode.

ETH options 30-day delta skew (put-call) at Deribit. Source: laevitas.chETH put (sell) options traded at a 6% premium relative to call (buy) instruments on Friday, a level considered the threshold of a neutral-to-bearish market. Ether professional traders appear less comfortable holding downside price exposure, signaling low expectations for a bullish breakout to $4,100 in the near term. 

The decline in network fees further reduces the likelihood of a sustained bullish momentum. Ultimately, ETH price appears heavily dependent on external factors rather than developments within the Ethereum ecosystem itself. Professional traders’ skepticism reflects weak demand for DApps and concerns over potential outflows from the ETH native staking program.

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

Zach Anderson Jan 17, 2026 07:36

Toncoin trades at $1.71 with neutral RSI at 49.49. Recent analyst targets point to $2.40 potential, while technical indicators show mixed signals requiring breakout confirmation.

Toncoin (TON) continues to navigate a critical technical juncture as the cryptocurrency trades at $1.71, down 0.58% in the past 24 hours. With recent analyst forecasts pointing toward potential upside and technical indicators showing mixed signals, this TON price prediction examines the key levels that could determine the token's near-term trajectory.

TON Price Prediction Summary • Short-term target (1 week): $1.76-$1.80
• Medium-term forecast (1 month): $2.00-$2.40 range
• Bullish breakout level: $1.94 (Upper Bollinger Band)
• Critical support: $1.65

What Crypto Analysts Are Saying About Toncoin Recent analyst coverage has painted an increasingly optimistic picture for Toncoin's medium-term prospects. According to CoinCodex's January 15 analysis, "Toncoin is expected to reach a price of $2.20 by Jan 20, 2026," representing a 28% upside from current levels.

Blockchain.News has been even more bullish in their Toncoin forecast, stating on January 14 that "Toncoin shows bullish momentum with technical indicators pointing to $2.40 targets." Their updated analysis from January 15 noted that TON "is trading at $1.79 as of January 15, 2026, showing modest gains of 0.90% over the past 24 hours. With technical indicators painting a mixed but increasingly bullish picture," the $2.40 target remains in focus.

While specific analyst predictions provide directional guidance, on-chain metrics and trading data suggest the token is positioning for a potential technical breakout above key resistance levels.

TON Technical Analysis Breakdown Toncoin's current technical setup presents a neutral to slightly bearish short-term picture with improving medium-term prospects. The RSI at 49.49 sits in neutral territory, indicating neither oversold nor overbought conditions. This positioning often precedes significant directional moves once momentum builds.

The MACD histogram reading of 0.0000 signals bearish momentum in the immediate term, though the proximity to zero suggests this bearish pressure may be weakening. The MACD line at 0.0239 and signal line at the same level indicate potential for a bullish crossover if buying pressure emerges.

Bollinger Bands analysis reveals TON trading in the lower portion of its recent range, with the current price 37% of the way between the lower band at $1.58 and upper band at $1.94. This positioning often indicates potential for mean reversion toward the middle band at $1.76, which aligns with the 20-period simple moving average.

Moving average analysis shows mixed signals across timeframes. While TON trades below shorter-term averages (SMA 7 at $1.74, SMA 20 at $1.76), it maintains a position above the critical SMA 50 at $1.64. However, the significant gap to the SMA 200 at $2.47 highlights the longer-term recovery required.

Key resistance emerges at $1.76 (SMA 20 and strong resistance level), followed by $1.94 (Upper Bollinger Band). Support levels are well-defined at $1.68 (immediate) and $1.65 (strong support).

Toncoin Price Targets: Bull vs Bear Case Bullish Scenario In the bullish scenario for this TON price prediction, a break above the $1.76 resistance level could trigger momentum toward the $1.94 upper Bollinger Band. Technical confirmation would require sustained trading above $1.76 with increasing volume, as evidenced by the current 24-hour volume of $6.16 million on Binance.

A successful breakout above $1.94 would open the path toward the analyst targets of $2.20-$2.40. The $2.20 target represents the near-term objective, while $2.40 serves as the medium-term bullish target based on technical projections. This scenario would require RSI to break above 60 and MACD to generate a sustained bullish crossover.

Bearish Scenario The bearish case centers around a failure to hold the $1.68 immediate support level. A break below this level could accelerate selling toward the $1.65 strong support, with further downside risk extending to the $1.58 lower Bollinger Band.

Risk factors include broader cryptocurrency market weakness, regulatory concerns, or technical breakdown below the critical $1.64 level (SMA 50). The significant distance to the $2.47 long-term average suggests vulnerability to extended consolidation or correction phases.

Should You Buy TON? Entry Strategy For traders considering TON exposure, the current technical setup suggests a cautious approach with defined risk parameters. Potential entry points include:

Conservative Entry: Wait for a confirmed break above $1.76 with volume confirmation before establishing positions. This approach reduces downside risk but may sacrifice some upside potential.

Aggressive Entry: Current levels around $1.71 offer a reasonable risk-reward setup for those willing to accept higher volatility, with stop-loss placement below $1.65.

Stop-loss Strategy: Regardless of entry approach, risk management should include stops below $1.65 to limit downside exposure. The daily ATR of $0.08 provides guidance for position sizing based on expected volatility.

Risk Management: Given the mixed technical signals, position sizes should reflect the uncertainty in near-term direction. Consider scaling into positions rather than single large entries.

Conclusion This TON price prediction suggests cautious optimism for Toncoin's medium-term prospects, despite near-term technical uncertainty. The convergence of analyst targets around $2.20-$2.40 and supportive technical levels provides a framework for potential upside, though immediate momentum remains mixed.

The key catalyst will be TON's ability to reclaim and hold above the $1.76 resistance level, which would validate the bullish thesis and open the path toward higher targets. Until this technical confirmation emerges, traders should maintain disciplined risk management while positioning for potential breakout opportunities.

Disclaimer: This analysis is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Cryptocurrency investments carry significant risk, and price predictions are inherently speculative. Always conduct your own research and consider your risk tolerance before making investment decisions.

Image source: Shutterstock

ton price analysis ton price prediction

Terrill Dicki Jan 17, 2026 07:48

CRV price prediction shows bullish momentum building with analysts targeting $0.55-$0.72 range. Technical indicators suggest potential 25-65% upside if Curve breaks above $0.45 resistance.

CRV Price Prediction Summary • Short-term target (1 week): $0.47 • Medium-term forecast (1 month): $0.55-$0.72 range
• Bullish breakout level: $0.45 • Critical support: $0.41

What Crypto Analysts Are Saying About Curve Recent analyst sentiment around Curve DAO Token has turned increasingly bullish, with multiple predictions converging on similar upside targets. Jessie A Ellis noted on January 10, 2026: "CRV price prediction shows bullish momentum building with analyst targets of $0.55-$0.72. Curve forecast indicates potential 33-75% upside from current $0.41 levels."

This optimistic outlook was reinforced by Luisa Crawford on January 13, who stated: "CRV price prediction shows bullish momentum with technical indicators signaling potential rally to $0.55-$0.72 range as Curve breaks above key resistance levels."

Most recently, Rongchai Wang emphasized on January 15: "Curve (CRV) price prediction shows bullish momentum building as technical indicators align for potential breakout above $0.44 resistance toward $0.55-$0.72 targets."

The consensus among these analysts points to a potential 25-65% upside from current levels, contingent on breaking through key technical barriers.

CRV Technical Analysis Breakdown Current technical indicators paint a mixed but increasingly optimistic picture for CRV. Trading at $0.44, the token sits above all short-term moving averages, with the SMA 7 at $0.42, SMA 20 at $0.41, and SMA 50 at $0.40. This ascending order of moving averages typically signals bullish momentum.

The RSI reading of 58.43 places CRV in neutral territory, providing room for further upside without entering overbought conditions. However, the MACD histogram at 0.0000 suggests bearish momentum in the very short term, indicating potential consolidation before the next move.

Bollinger Bands analysis reveals CRV positioned at 0.78 between the bands, with the upper band at $0.45 acting as immediate resistance. The middle band at $0.41 aligns with the SMA 20 and represents crucial support. The Stochastic indicators show %K at 86.29 and %D at 69.03, suggesting the token may be approaching overbought levels in the short term.

Key trading levels highlight $0.45 as both immediate and strong resistance, while support lies at $0.42 (immediate) and $0.41 (strong). The daily ATR of $0.02 indicates moderate volatility, typical for consolidation phases before significant moves.

Curve Price Targets: Bull vs Bear Case Bullish Scenario In the bullish case, CRV breaks decisively above the $0.45 resistance level with strong volume confirmation. This would open the path toward the analyst-predicted range of $0.55-$0.72, representing potential gains of 25-65% from current levels.

The first target of $0.55 aligns with previous resistance zones and would require sustained buying pressure. A move to $0.72 would bring CRV closer to its 200-day moving average at $0.62, though this would represent a significant recovery from current levels.

Technical confirmation for the bullish scenario would include RSI breaking above 65, MACD turning definitively positive, and daily closing prices consistently above $0.45 with increasing volume.

Bearish Scenario Should CRV fail to break above $0.45 and instead fall below the critical $0.41 support level, bearish targets come into focus. The lower Bollinger Band at $0.37 represents the first downside target, followed by potential moves toward $0.35 or lower.

Risk factors include broader cryptocurrency market weakness, reduced trading volume, and failure to maintain support above the key moving averages. A break below $0.40 would signal that the current bullish setup is invalidated.

Should You Buy CRV? Entry Strategy For traders looking to position in CRV, the current price around $0.44 offers a reasonable risk-reward setup. Conservative entries could target pullbacks to the $0.42-$0.43 range, which aligns with immediate support and the SMA 7.

More aggressive traders might consider entries on a confirmed break above $0.45 with volume, targeting the $0.55-$0.72 range predicted by analysts. Stop-loss levels should be placed below $0.41 to limit downside risk.

Position sizing should account for the moderate volatility indicated by the ATR of $0.02, and traders should be prepared for potential consolidation before any significant breakout occurs.

Conclusion The Curve forecast appears increasingly bullish based on both analyst predictions and technical indicators. While short-term momentum shows some mixed signals, the convergence of multiple analysts on the $0.55-$0.72 target range suggests meaningful upside potential for CRV.

The key catalyst remains a decisive break above $0.45 resistance, which could trigger the predicted 25-65% rally. However, failure to break this level could lead to continued consolidation or potential downside toward $0.37-$0.41.

Disclaimer: Cryptocurrency price predictions are highly speculative and subject to extreme volatility. This analysis is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Always conduct your own research and risk assessment before making investment decisions.

Image source: Shutterstock

crv price analysis crv price prediction

Darius Baruo Jan 17, 2026 07:54

Injective (INJ) trades at $5.44 with neutral RSI and analyst targets pointing to $6.20 within 4-6 weeks. Key resistance at $5.73 could trigger bullish breakout.

Injective Protocol (INJ) is showing signs of consolidation at current levels, with multiple analysts converging on similar price targets for the coming weeks. Trading at $5.44 as of January 17, 2026, INJ has gained 4.60% in the past 24 hours while technical indicators suggest a neutral to slightly bullish bias.

INJ Price Prediction Summary • Short-term target (1 week): $5.90 • Medium-term forecast (1 month): $6.00-$6.20 range • Bullish breakout level: $5.73 • Critical support: $4.88

What Crypto Analysts Are Saying About Injective Several blockchain analysts have provided consistent Injective forecasts over the past week, with remarkable alignment on price targets. Terrill Dicki noted on January 10 that "Injective (INJ) shows neutral RSI at 53.95 with bullish analyst targets of $6.20 within 4-6 weeks," setting an initial target that has been echoed by subsequent analysis.

Tony Kim provided a more detailed breakdown on January 15, stating: "INJ Price Prediction Summary: Short-term target (1 week): $5.90; Medium-term forecast (1 month): $6.00-$6.20 range; Bullish breakout level: $5.90; Critical support: $5.02." This analysis highlighted key technical levels that align closely with current market structure.

Most recently, Rongchai Wang reinforced the bullish sentiment on January 16, observing: "Injective (INJ) trades at $5.22 with analysts targeting $6.20 within 4-6 weeks. Technical indicators show neutral momentum as INJ approaches key resistance levels."

The consistency among these analyst predictions suggests a measured optimism for INJ's near-term price action.

INJ Technical Analysis Breakdown Current technical indicators paint a picture of consolidation with bullish undertones. The RSI reading of 55.23 places INJ in neutral territory, avoiding both overbought and oversold conditions that could signal immediate reversals.

The MACD analysis reveals interesting dynamics, with the MACD line at 0.0861 matching the signal line exactly, resulting in a histogram reading of 0.0000. This convergence suggests that momentum is at an inflection point, with the next directional move likely to be significant.

Bollinger Bands analysis shows INJ positioned at 0.72 between the bands, indicating the price is closer to the upper band ($5.86) than the lower band ($4.33). This positioning suggests upward pressure, though the token hasn't yet reached overbought territory.

The moving average structure provides mixed signals. While INJ trades above shorter-term averages (SMA 7: $5.33, SMA 20: $5.09), it remains significantly below the 200-day SMA at $9.80, indicating the longer-term trend remains bearish despite recent recovery efforts.

Key resistance levels are clearly defined, with immediate resistance at $5.58 and strong resistance at $5.73. On the downside, immediate support sits at $5.16, with stronger support at $4.88.

Injective Price Targets: Bull vs Bear Case Bullish Scenario In a bullish scenario, INJ would need to break above the immediate resistance at $5.58, followed by a decisive move through the strong resistance at $5.73. This level aligns with analyst predictions of a breakout catalyst that could propel the token toward the $6.20 target zone.

The path to $6.20 appears technically sound, representing approximately 14% upside from current levels. A break above $5.73 would likely trigger momentum-based buying, potentially accelerating the move toward the upper Bollinger Band and beyond.

Volume confirmation will be crucial for this bullish case, as the current 24-hour volume of $4.02 million on Binance spot suggests moderate but not overwhelming interest.

Bearish Scenario The bearish case for this Injective forecast would unfold if INJ fails to hold immediate support at $5.16. A breakdown below this level could quickly test the stronger support at $4.88, representing a potential 10% decline from current levels.

The concerning technical factor in the bearish scenario is the significant gap between current price levels and the 200-day SMA at $9.80. This suggests that any broader crypto market weakness could disproportionately impact INJ.

Risk factors include broader market sentiment shifts, potential regulatory concerns affecting DeFi protocols, and general cryptocurrency market volatility.

Should You Buy INJ? Entry Strategy For traders considering INJ positions, the current technical setup offers relatively clear entry and exit parameters. Conservative entries could wait for a pullback to the $5.16-$5.20 range, providing a better risk-reward ratio for the move toward $6.20.

More aggressive traders might consider entries on a break above $5.58 with confirmation volume, using $5.30 as a stop-loss level. This approach would target the analyst consensus around $6.20 while limiting downside risk.

Position sizing should account for INJ's daily ATR of $0.37, which indicates moderate but manageable volatility. Risk management becomes particularly important given the token's position below longer-term moving averages.

Conclusion The INJ price prediction consensus around $6.20 appears technically justified based on current market structure and analyst forecasts. With neutral RSI readings and clear resistance levels identified, the next 4-6 weeks should provide clarity on whether Injective can achieve these targets.

The confluence of analyst predictions and technical levels creates a moderate to high confidence scenario for upside movement, though traders should remain aware of broader market risks that could impact this Injective forecast.

Disclaimer: Cryptocurrency investments carry significant risk. This analysis is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Always conduct your own research before making investment decisions.

Image source: Shutterstock

inj price analysis inj price prediction

Polygon (POL) price is pulling back as crypto markets slow, but the move is raising more questions than concern. As broader altcoins consolidate, POL has slipped toward $0.145, easing from recent highs after reports that Polygon Labs cut around 30% of its workforce. 

The headline briefly weighed on sentiment, coming just days after POL price delivered a sharp recovery from December lows. Yet while the news grabbed attention, Polygon price structure tells a more nuanced story. Instead of breaking down, POL is holding above key post-breakout levels, suggesting that the market may be absorbing headlines rather than repricing the trend.

That dilemma between negative flows and resilient price structure now sits at the center of Polygon’s-short term outlook.

For the past few months, Polygon (POL) traded inside a descending channel, printing lower highs and lower lows that defined a broader downtrend. That bearish structure was invalidated in late December, when price broke decisively above the channel’s upper trendline, signaling a trend reversal.

The breakout sparked a swift surge from the $0.10 region toward the $0.18 resistance zone, where supply temporarily capped further upside. Since then, Polygon price has retraced in a controlled manner toward $0.14-$0.16, a zone that now aligns with former channel resistance turned support.

As Polygon chart structure showcases a textbook breakout and retest pattern, until POL price holds strength above $0.135, the bullish structure remains intact. A sustained reclaim of $0.16 could revive momentum toward $0.19, with a broader extension toward $0.20-$0.23 if sentiment and participation improves.

Layoff Headlines Trigger Caution, Not CapitulationReports indicate the workforce reduction follows Polygon’s aggressive $250 million acquisition push, including deals designed to strengthen its Open Money Stack and accelerate stablecoin payments and real-world financial use cases. 

However, the announcement landed as POL price was already cooling from a sharp rally, creating a natural window for profit-taking. The result was a pullback, but not the kind typically associated with panic or structural weakness.

While Polygon price retraces and consolidates near the key zones, POL’s ecosystem metrics continue to strengthen. The network consistently ranks among the most active Layer-2 networks by user engagement, reflecting steady adoption across DeFi, gaming and payments use cases.

Despite the negative headlines, Polygon (POL) price holds support above $0.14 suggests controlled retracement. As long as POL price holds support, the broader recovery remains intact.

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

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8h05 ▪ 3 min read ▪ by Lydie M.

Summarize this article with:

The Iranian crypto economy experienced a spectacular acceleration in 2025, reaching around 7.78 billion dollars, according to Chainalysis data. This growth is far from being purely technical. It is closely linked to social movements, economic constraints, and digital disruptions that have shaken the country.

In brief Iran’s crypto economy exceeded 7.8 billion dollars in 2025, driven by Bitcoin use during major popular protests But this growth is accompanied by tightened control and a regulatory gray area that maintains uncertainty. A crypto boom at the heart of unrest The growth of the crypto market in Iran in 2025 is not just a number. It symbolizes the adaptation of a population under economic and political pressure. As protests intensified at the end of the year, Iranians turned to Bitcoin and other cryptos as means to safeguard their savings. The country even offered advanced arms sales in crypto.

In a context where the national currency, the rial, significantly depreciated against the dollar, crypto offered a form of “value anchor” to those who still had access to the global internet. This dynamic was particularly visible when Bitcoin withdrawals surged during massive network shutdowns.

The intensive use of crypto during protests illustrates a pragmatic reality: faced with a loss of confidence in the national monetary system, many seek digital alternatives. Bitcoin, by its decentralized nature, meets this demand.

Understanding the scale of the Iranian crypto asset market These 7.8 billion dollars must be put into context. This figure reflects all transactions, withdrawals, and movements on the blockchain related to Iranian addresses. It is not just trading. Indeed, an entire economic layer has formed around cryptos.

The growth observed in 2025 was faster than the previous year. This means that the role of cryptos is becoming increasingly significant in the Iranian economy. And that, even if this sector remains fragmented and influenced by political events.

This growth does not mean a monetary revolution is underway. It rather shows that, in crisis situations, individuals turn to alternative tools to protect their wealth. Bitcoin, despite its volatility, appears as a potential option when the traditional financial system is under pressure.

Several factors combine to explain this rise of crypto in Iran. First, social pressure. In 2025, large protest movements broke out in several cities, confronting the population with prolonged instability.

Next, the rampant inflation of the rial pushed Iranians to seek safe havens for their money. Restrictions imposed by the central bank on stablecoins show that authorities fear the growing impact of cryptos on the formal economy.

Finally, frequent internet access cuts pushed some to use more resilient means to send and receive value. Bitcoin, in particular, operates on a distributed network that is not controlled by a single actor or government.

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Lydie M.

Enseignante et ingénieure IT, Lydie découvre le Bitcoin en 2022 et plonge dans l’univers des cryptomonnaies. Elle vulgarise des sujets complexes, décrypte les enjeux du Web3 et défend une vision d’un futur numérique ouvert, inclusif et décentralisé.

DISCLAIMER

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

TLDR: Nexo becomes Audi Revolut F1 Team’s inaugural official digital asset partner through a multi-year agreement. Partnership launches ahead of Audi’s Formula 1 debut in the 2026 season with global activation strategies planned. Collaboration focuses on premium fan experiences, exclusive access, and digital-first engagement initiatives. Both brands share innovation-driven values with an emphasis on disciplined execution and performance excellence. Audi Revolut F1 Team has secured Nexo as its first official digital asset partner through a multi-year agreement. 

The partnership launches ahead of Audi’s Formula 1 entry in 2026. Both organizations will collaborate on global digital campaigns and exclusive fan experiences during this strategic alliance.

Strategic Alliance Marks New Era for Both Brands The agreement between Audi Revolut F1 Team and Nexo represents a calculated move in the motorsport and digital asset sectors. 

Nexo brings its position as a leading digital assets platform to Formula 1’s global audience. The timing aligns with Audi’s upcoming debut in the racing series and Nexo’s expansion plans.

Both entities share similar values centered on innovation and performance excellence. The partnership builds on these common principles through careful execution and engineering focus. 

Audi’s selection process for partners emphasized quality over quantity as the team prepares for its F1 launch.

Stefano Battiston, Chief Commercial Officer of the Audi Revolut F1 Team, explained the reasoning behind this collaboration. “As we prepare to enter Formula 1, we are highly selective about the partners we bring on this journey,” Battiston stated. 

He added that the partnership creates tangible value from exclusive experiences to new engagement methods.

Premium Experiences and Global Activation Plans Nexo’s role extends beyond traditional sponsorship into active engagement with the team’s fanbase. 

The platform will deliver premium experiences that connect supporters with the racing operation. This approach creates value for both Nexo’s existing clients and Audi’s growing audience.

The collaboration will feature exclusive access opportunities throughout the partnership period. Fans and Nexo clients can expect behind-the-scenes content and educational initiatives. 

These offerings aim to bridge the gap between digital assets and motorsport entertainment.

Antoni Trenchev, co-founder of Nexo, shared his perspective on the partnership’s strategic importance. “Nexo was built for a demanding reality: instant, self-directed, and always on,” Trenchev noted. 

He described the collaboration as a statement about future vision in digital asset management and motorsport.

The activation strategy includes digital-first engagement methods and immersive brand experiences. These initiatives will roll out globally as the partnership progresses toward the 2026 season. 

The collaborative effort seeks to demonstrate how digital asset platforms can integrate with traditional sports properties while maintaining authenticity and relevance in both sectors.

The attacker then used THORChain to swap the funds.

Popular on-chain investigator ZachXBT revealed on Friday that a victim lost over $282 million worth of BTC and LTC due to a hardware wallet social engineering scam.

The stolen funds were converted to Monero (XMR), which was among the reasons behind the asset’s massive price increase that began last week. The on-chain sleuth added that a big portion of the swiped BTC was bridged to Ethereum, Ripple, and Litecoin via THORChain.

On January 10, 2026 at around 11 pm UTC a victim lost $282M+ worth of LTC & BTC due to a hardware wallet social engineering scam.

The attacker began converting the stolen LTC & BTC to Monero via multiple instant exchanges causing the XMR price to sharply increase.

BTC was also…

— ZachXBT (@zachxbt) January 16, 2026

The crypto community was quick to pick up THORChain’s posts on X. Some members blamed the platform’s social media team for bragging about enabling and even “celebrating” crime.

Others outlined the dangers of social engineering scams, which put even funds on hardware wallets at risk. Such scams are typically carried out via fake accounts impersonating an attractive woman who has suddenly fallen for the victim, even though they’ve never met.

At the time of the event and before the swaps to XMR began, the privacy coin traded at around $450. It exploded to consecutive all-time highs in the following days, with the latest occurring on January 15 when it neared $800.

Since then, XMR has retraced heavily, perhaps as the attackers offloaded some of the proceeds, and now sits below $630.

You may also like: Michael Saylor Defends Bitcoin Treasury, Says Credit Matters More Than Price Bitcoin Long-Term Holders Show Early Capitulation Signals Crypto Funds Hit by $454M Weekly Exodus as Fed Rate-Cut Hopes Fade Tags:

About the author

Jordan got into crypto in 2016 by trading and investing. He began writing about blockchain technology in 2017 and now serves as CryptoPotato's Assistant Editor-in-Chief. He has managed numerous crypto-related projects and is passionate about all things blockchain.

On January 16, Ethereum’s price hovered around $3,300, showing slight declines as the cryptocurrency experienced market consolidation. The lack of a definitive short-term trend has left investors watching closely for any signs of directional movement in the coming days.

Ethereum, the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, is integral to the digital asset market. Its price fluctuations often signal broader trends in the crypto space, influencing investor sentiment and market dynamics. The current consolidation phase indicates a period of relative stability, with neither bullish nor bearish forces gaining the upper hand.

In the cryptocurrency market, price consolidation typically follows periods of volatility, as traders and investors assess recent developments and adjust their positions. Ethereum’s current price stability may reflect a wait-and-see approach among market participants, who are possibly anticipating new information or market catalysts.

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are among the potential market developments that could impact Ethereum’s price. An ETF is an investment fund traded on stock exchanges, much like stocks. “Spot” refers to the current market price at which an asset is bought or sold for immediate delivery. Issuers file for ETFs to offer investors a regulated way to gain exposure to cryptocurrencies. Approval for such funds involves regulatory scrutiny, particularly around aspects like custody, market integrity, and investor protection.

Regulators play a crucial role in the cryptocurrency landscape, focusing on ensuring market integrity, transparency, and investor safety. They typically evaluate applications for crypto-related products to ensure that they comply with existing financial laws and regulations. This involves examining factors such as how assets are stored, the mechanisms for preventing market manipulation, and the adequacy of disclosures to investors.

Institutional interest in cryptocurrency products continues to grow, driven by client demand and the potential for fee-generating opportunities. Large banks and asset managers explore crypto offerings as a way to provide clients with access to this emerging asset class while diversifying their product portfolios. The pursuit of crypto products by institutional players is considered a significant factor in the maturation of the digital asset market.

Ethereum’s role as a leading smart contract platform further enhances its prominence in the crypto ecosystem. Its blockchain technology supports various decentralized applications, making it a critical infrastructure element for developers and businesses in the space. As a result, Ethereum’s price movements are closely monitored by investors and stakeholders interested in the technological advancements and applications built on its network.

Despite the current consolidation, the cryptocurrency market is inherently volatile, subject to rapid price changes due to a range of factors including regulatory developments, technological innovations, and macroeconomic trends. Investors must navigate these complexities, balancing potential rewards with the risks associated with crypto investments.

Competitive pressures also characterize the crypto market, with multiple issuers often filing for similar financial products. The timelines for approvals can be unpredictable, and regulatory bodies may request amendments or additional information before reaching a decision. This competitive landscape means that issuers must be prepared for ongoing regulatory engagement and potential revisions to their offerings.

Looking ahead, the market will continue monitoring regulatory decisions, potential ETF approvals, and any technological advancements within the Ethereum network that could influence its price trajectory. Stakeholders are poised to analyze new data and market signals that may provide insights into future movements.

In conclusion, Ethereum’s current price consolidation at the $3,300 level reflects a period of stability amid uncertainties in the broader crypto market. As observers await further developments, the situation remains fluid, with various factors capable of influencing the next phase of Ethereum’s price movement. Investors and market participants should stay informed about regulatory updates and industry trends to navigate the evolving landscape effectively.

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Amin Ayan

Crypto Journalist

Amin Ayan

Part of the Team Since

Apr 2025

About Author

Amin Ayan is a crypto journalist with over four years of experience in the industry. He has contributed to leading publications such as Cryptonews, Investing.com, 99Bitcoins, and 24/7 Wall St. He has...

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A White House crypto advisor said the US government has not sold any Bitcoin forfeited in the Samourai Wallet case, pushing back against market rumors sparked by recent on-chain activity.

Key Takeaways:

The DOJ confirmed it has not sold any Bitcoin forfeited in the Samourai Wallet case. The clarification follows scrutiny over a 57.5 BTC transfer that sparked sale rumors. The forfeited Bitcoin will remain part of the US Strategic Bitcoin Reserve as accumulation plans continue. Patrick Witt, executive director of the White House President’s Council of Advisors for Digital Assets, said he received direct confirmation from the US Department of Justice that the assets were neither liquidated nor earmarked for sale.

“We have received confirmation from DOJ that the digital assets forfeited by Samourai Wallet have not been liquidated and will not be liquidated,” Witt wrote on X on Friday, adding that the Bitcoin would remain part of the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.

57.5 BTC Transfer Sparks Questions Over US Government Bitcoin SalesQuestions first surfaced in November after blockchain analysts flagged a transfer of 57.5 BTC from a government-controlled wallet to a Coinbase Prime deposit address.

The movement prompted speculation that US authorities may have sold or planned to sell the funds, drawing criticism from market participants who pointed to Executive Order 14233.

Signed by President Donald Trump in March, the order requires that any Bitcoin obtained through criminal or civil forfeiture “shall not be sold” and instead be retained for the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.

Some observers accused the US Marshals Service of violating the directive, allegations now denied following the DOJ clarification.

Public data suggests the US government remains one of the world’s largest Bitcoin holders. Figures from Bitcoin Treasuries show federal authorities control 328,372 BTC, valued at more than $31 billion at current prices.

UPDATE: we have received confirmation from DOJ that the digital assets forfeited by Samourai Wallet have not been liquidated and will not be liquidated, per EO 14233. They will remain on the USG balance sheet as part of the SBR. https://t.co/v2GchC3vk8

— Patrick Witt (@patrickjwitt) January 16, 2026 That total includes 127,271 BTC forfeited in October from a Cambodia-based entity accused of running a so-called pig-butchering investment scam.

Witt reiterated that expanding the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve remains a policy priority. In a recent interview, he said progress depends on coordination between the Treasury and Commerce departments to address outstanding legal and operational issues.

Legislative efforts are also underway. A bill sponsored by Cynthia Lummis proposes accelerating reserve accumulation, targeting the acquisition of up to 1 million Bitcoin over five years.

The proposal emphasizes budget-neutral methods, with officials saying any accumulation would avoid costs to taxpayers.

Trump Signals Possible Pardon for Samourai Wallet DeveloperTwo developers behind Samourai Wallet were sentenced to prison in November after prosecutors said the privacy-focused Bitcoin wallet processed more than $237 million in criminal proceeds.

Keonne Rodriguez received a five-year sentence on Nov. 6, while his co-developer, Hill, was sentenced to four years on Nov. 19. Both were also ordered to forfeit roughly $6.3 million in fees earned through the platform.

The case took a political turn in December when Donald Trump said he would consider pardoning Rodriguez.

Speaking to reporters during an Oval Office event on Dec. 16, Trump said he had “heard about it” and instructed Attorney General Pam Bondi to review the case.

Rodriguez later welcomed the remarks, arguing on social media that the prosecution reflected “lawfare” and a weaponized Justice Department under the Biden administration.

Trump has previously pardoned Ross Ulbricht and Changpeng Zhao in related crypto cases, and has raised optimism of a similar pardon for Rodriguez.

TLDR: Gold achieved its strongest annual performance since 1979 with 61.4% gains reaching record $4,600 levels. JP Morgan and Bank of America forecast gold prices hitting $5,000 in 2026 with 79% Polymarket probability. Tokenized gold products Pax Gold and Tether Gold control nearly 80% of digital commodities market share. Current institutional preference for gold represents tactical positioning awaiting macroeconomic clarity.  Gold’s remarkable surge to $4,600 has captured institutional attention while Bitcoin consolidates below $100,000.

American institutional capital currently flows into traditional safe havens rather than cryptocurrency markets. 

This tactical deviation reflects current economic uncertainties, including Federal Reserve caution and geopolitical tensions that drive investors toward protective assets.

Traditional Asset Performance Outpaces Digital Currency Rally Market analyst GugaOnChain examines the current positioning of institutional capital amid diverging asset performance trends. 

Gold posted its strongest annual performance since 1979, registering gains of 61.4% as institutional investors sought stability. 

Source: Cryptoquant

Major financial institutions, including JPMorgan and Bank of America, project prices reaching $5,000 by 2026. Prediction markets on Polymarket assign a 79% probability to this bullish gold scenario materializing. 

The precious metal’s rally accelerated following political uncertainty surrounding Federal Reserve policy decisions.  Investors prioritized capital preservation over growth opportunities during this period of heightened risk aversion.

Tokenized gold products have gained substantial market share within the digital commodities sector. Pax Gold commands approximately $1.1 billion in market capitalization, while Tether Gold reaches $1.64 billion. 

Together, these two products control nearly 80% of the tokenized commodities market segment.

Capital Rotation Expected Once Risk Environment Stabilizes The current preference for gold represents a temporary strategic position rather than a permanent allocation shift. 

Institutional investors are capturing gains from the precious metals rally while monitoring macroeconomic indicators. This positioning allows capital managers to reduce portfolio volatility during uncertain conditions.

Federal Reserve policy direction remains a critical factor influencing institutional asset allocation decisions. 

Persistent inflation concerns and cautious monetary policy have extended the period of risk aversion. These conditions favor traditional safe havens over speculative growth assets.

Capital currently positioned in gold is expected to rotate toward higher-growth opportunities when conditions improve. 

Bitcoin stands positioned to receive substantial inflows once institutional investors regain confidence in risk assets. 

The cryptocurrency market awaits catalysts that would trigger this anticipated rotation of institutional capital.