Market Signal Briefing

Charles d'Haussy, CEO of the DYdX Foundation, outlines eight major trends he believes will shape digital assets, DeFi, and AI in 2026.

Ondo Finance and LayerZero have launched a bridge enabling cross-chain transfers of tokenized stocks and exchange-traded funds across Ethereum and BNB Chain.

Summary

Ondo Finance and LayerZero launched a bridge for cross-chain transfers of tokenized stocks and ETFs.
The bridge supports over 100 assets across Ethereum and BNB Chain at launch.
Ondo plans to expand the bridge to additional EVM networks.

Ondo Finance has introduced a new cross-chain tool aimed at expanding how tokenized securities move across blockchain networks.

The launch was announced on Dec. 17 in a statement from Ondo confirming a collaboration with interoperability provider LayerZero.

Cross-chain transfers for tokenized stocks and ETFs
The new Ondo Bridge allows users to transfer more than 100 tokenized stocks and exchange-traded funds between Ethereum and BNB Chain. Additional EVM-compatible networks are expected to be added over time.

The bridge connects Ondo Global Markets assets across chains with one-to-one parity, meaning tokens remain fully backed as they move between networks. Ondo said the system replaces its earlier setup, which relied on separate bridge contracts for each asset and chain.

Ondo Global Markets launched on Ethereum in September and expanded to BNB Chain in October. Since then, the platform has grown to more than $350 million in total value locked and over $2 billion in cumulative trading volume, according to the company.

Built on LayerZero infrastructure
The bridge uses LayerZero’s messaging framework, allowing Ondo to manage cross-chain transfers through a single architecture rather than asset-specific bridges. Ondo said this setup makes it easier to deploy its tokenized securities to new chains, with integrations measured in weeks rather than months.

Because the bridge relies on LayerZero, applications already connected to that network can add Ondo assets with limited additional work. LayerZero said more than 2,600 apps currently support its standard across Ethereum and BNB Chain. Stargate has already added Ondo assets following the launch.

Ondo described the bridge as the largest live bridge dedicated to tokenized securities, based on the number of supported assets available at launch. The company has continued to expand its tokenized finance offerings in recent months, including a private tokenized money market fund announced with State Street and Galaxy Digital on Dec. 10.

Earlier this month, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission closed its investigation into Ondo Finance, removing a regulatory overhang as the company pushes further into compliant on-chain securities.

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Bitcoin is struggling to break away from the bearish market structure that has been in place since late October. Despite several short-lived relief rallies, price action continues to reflect weakness, with bulls failing to reclaim key resistance levels or generate sustained momentum.

As uncertainty and fatigue spread across the market, many participants are questioning whether Bitcoin’s current behavior fits the traditional cycle framework that has defined previous bull and bear phases.

A recent analysis by Darkfost highlights a structural shift that adds important context to this debate. According to the data, the number of active Bitcoin addresses has been in a persistent decline since April 2021. Historically, bullish phases were characterized by a clear expansion in active addresses, as new investors entered the market and on-chain activity surged. This growth typically peaked near cycle tops, followed by a contraction during bear markets as participation dried up.

This cycle, however, looks markedly different. Even during periods of strong price performance since 2022, active addresses have failed to recover meaningfully and continue trending lower. This divergence suggests that Bitcoin’s market structure may be evolving away from a retail-driven, on-chain participation model toward something more concentrated and institutionally influenced.

As Bitcoin attempts to stabilize after weeks of downside pressure, understanding these structural changes is becoming critical. The decline in active addresses may not simply signal weakness, but rather a transformation in how Bitcoin is held, traded, and valued in this cycle.

Active Addresses Signal A Structural Shift In The Market
The analysis suggests that despite Bitcoin’s strong price performance since 2022, on-chain participation continues to deteriorate. Active addresses are once again approaching the lowest levels observed during this cycle, highlighting a growing disconnect between price action and network activity. At the peak in April 2021, Bitcoin recorded roughly 1.15 million active addresses. Today, that figure has nearly halved, sitting near 680,000, a contraction that cannot be ignored.

Bitcoin Active Address Momentum | Source: Darkfost
This decline is difficult to attribute to a single cause. Instead, it likely reflects a combination of structural changes in how Bitcoin is held and accessed. One contributing factor appears to be the rise in inactive addresses. While precise classification criteria vary, the broader trend points toward a stronger long-term holding mentality, where coins remain dormant rather than actively transacted on-chain. This behavior reduces visible network activity without necessarily implying bearish conviction.

At the same time, a portion of market participants may have shifted away from direct on-chain usage altogether. Centralized exchanges, custodial platforms, and financial products such as ETFs offer exposure to Bitcoin without requiring on-chain interaction. As a result, demand for block space declines even as capital allocation to Bitcoin remains significant.

Taken together, the sustained drop in active addresses suggests Bitcoin’s market structure is evolving. The network is becoming less retail-driven and more concentrated, reinforcing the idea that traditional cycle metrics may be losing some of their explanatory power in this environment.

Bitcoin Price Tests Long-Term Support as Structure Weakens
Bitcoin continues to trade under pressure, with the chart highlighting a clear deterioration in market structure. After failing to sustain prices above the $100K–$110K zone earlier in the year, BTC has entered a corrective phase marked by lower highs and heavy selling momentum. The recent move toward the $87K area places price directly on a critical demand zone, closely aligned with the rising long-term moving averages.

BTC testing critical demand | Source: BTCUSDT chart on TradingView
From a trend perspective, the loss of the short- and medium-term moving averages is significant. The blue and green averages have rolled over, acting as dynamic resistance rather than support, reinforcing the bearish bias.

Price is now hovering just above the red long-term moving average, a level that has historically defined the boundary between bull market corrections and deeper bearish transitions. A clean breakdown below this zone would materially increase downside risk toward the low-$80K region.

Volume behavior adds further context. Selling pressure expanded notably during the sharp drawdown from the highs, while recent bounce attempts have occurred on comparatively weaker volume. This suggests that dip-buying interest remains cautious rather than aggressive. Structurally, the market appears to be consolidating after distribution, not building a strong base yet.

In the near term, holding the $85K–$88K range is crucial. A failure to defend this area would confirm a broader trend shift, while reclaiming the $95K–$100K region is required to neutralize the current bearish structure.

Featured image from ChatGPT, chart from TradingView.com

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Sebastian's journey into the world of crypto began four years ago, driven by a fascination with the potential of blockchain technology to revolutionize financial systems. His initial exploration focused on understanding the intricacies of various crypto projects, particularly those focused on building innovative financial solutions. Through countless hours of research and learning, Sebastian developed a deep understanding of the underlying technologies, market dynamics, and potential applications of cryptocurrencies.
As his knowledge grew, Sebastian felt compelled to share his insights with others. He began actively contributing to online discussions on platforms like X and LinkedIn, focusing on fintech and crypto-related content. His goal was to expose valuable trends and insights to a wider audience, fostering a deeper understanding of the rapidly evolving crypto landscape. Sebastian's contributions quickly gained recognition, and he became a trusted voice in the online crypto community.
To further enhance his expertise, Sebastian pursued a UC Berkeley Fintech: Frameworks, Applications, and Strategies certification. This rigorous program equipped him with valuable skills and knowledge regarding Financial Technology, bridging the gap between traditional finance (TradFi) and decentralized finance (DeFi). The certification deepened his understanding of the broader financial landscape and its intersection with blockchain technology.
Sebastian's passion for finance and writing is evident in his work. He enjoys delving into financial research, analyzing market trends, and exploring the latest developments in the crypto space. In his spare time, Sebastian can often be found immersed in charts, studying 10-K forms, or engaging in thought-provoking discussions about the future of finance.
Sebastian's journey as a crypto analyst and investor has been marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a dedication to sharing his insights. His ability to navigate the complex world of crypto, combined with his passion for financial research and communication, makes him a valuable asset to the industry. As the crypto landscape continues to evolve, Sebastian remains at the forefront, providing valuable insights and contributing to the growth of this revolutionary technology.

Aster is taking another step to reward loyal users as it moves closer to a key network milestone.

Summary

Aster’s Stage 5 airdrop distributes 1.2% of supply with an optional three-month vesting period
Early claims trigger token burns, reinforcing supply discipline
The phase leads into Aster Chain’s testnet and mainnet launch in early 2026

Aster is entering a new phase of its airdrop program as it shifts toward lower emissions and prepares to launch its own blockchain.

According to a Dec. 17 announcement, Aster’s fifth airdrop phase, known as Crystal, will begin on Dec. 22 and run for six weeks through Feb. 1, 2026. 

Stage 5 airdrop introduces lower emissions and vesting choice
The phase will distribute 1.2% of the total Aster (ASTER) supply, roughly 96 million tokens, marking the project’s lowest-emission airdrop to date. The allocation is split evenly. 

Half of the tokens are available immediately as a base allocation, while the remaining half is granted as a bonus that unlocks after a three-month vesting period. Users must decide between accessing part of their allocation right away or waiting to receive the full amount.

1/ Stage 5: Crystal — Less Inflation. Same Conviction. 💎

On Dec 22, Aster will enter its fifth airdrop stage.

Stage 5: Crystal marks our lowest-emission airdrop yet — a deliberate step toward stronger supply discipline as we move closer to Aster Chain.

– Duration: 6 weeks (22… pic.twitter.com/deIMDymLU8

— Aster (@Aster_DEX) December 17, 2025

If a user claims early, the vesting bonus is forfeited and permanently burned. Aster said this structure is designed to reduce sell pressure while introducing a deflationary element tied directly to early claims.

Participation details have not changed materially from earlier stages. Based on how previous stages were structured, eligibility generally depends on users’ activity within the Aster platform, such as their trading volume in perpetuals. The final eligibility requirements and claiming tools will be released closer to launch.

Aster Chain roadmap and buyback clarification
As Aster gets closer to launching its own layer-1 blockchain, Aster Chain, Stage 5 marks a shift toward the project’s next phase. The main network is expected to launch in Q1 2026, and a testnet is scheduled for late December. The initial release does not include staking and governance tools, which are planned for Q2 2026. 

Building its own chain will help the platform manage transaction fees, validator rewards, and protocol upgrades directly. This will tie the token’s value more closely to actual network use. 

Alongside the airdrop update, Aster also addressed confusion around its buyback program. The team said Stage 4 buybacks were accelerated in early December, with roughly $32 million executed over eight days, using about 90% of accumulated Stage 4 fee income.

Buybacks resumed on Dec. 17 and will continue through the end of Stage 4 on Dec. 21. Aster said buybacks will remain a standing policy, with updated parameters to be shared after Stage 4 concludes.

ASTER was trading at $0.6919 at press time, down about 10% on the day and 44% over the past month, reflecting broader market pressure rather than a change in project fundamentals.

Bitcoin price attempted to start a fresh increase but failed at $90,000. BTC is now consolidating and might struggle to clear the $88,000 zone.

Bitcoin started a fresh decline below the $87,000 zone.
The price is trading below $87,500 and the 100 hourly Simple moving average.
There was a break below a bullish trend line with support at $86,450 on the hourly chart of the BTC/USD pair (data feed from Kraken).
The pair might continue to move up if it settles above the $87,500 zone.

Bitcoin Price Consolidates Losses
Bitcoin price attempted a fresh surge above $88,000 and $88,500. BTC tested the $90,000 resistance zone and reacted to the downside. There was a sharp decline below $88,000.

There was a break below a bullish trend line with support at $86,450 on the hourly chart of the BTC/USD pair. The price even spiked below the $86,000 support. However, the bulls were active near the $85,250 zone. A low was formed at $85,282 and the price recently started an upside correction. There was a move above the 23.6% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the $90,318 swing high to the $85,282 low.

The bears are active near $87,000. Bitcoin is now trading below $87,000 and the 100 hourly Simple moving average. If the bulls remain in action, the price could attempt more gains. Immediate resistance is near the $86,800 level. The first key resistance is near the $87,350 level.

Source: BTCUSD on TradingView.com
The next resistance could be $87,800 or the 50% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the $90,318 swing high to the $85,282 low. A close above the $87,800 resistance might send the price further higher. In the stated case, the price could rise and test the $88,000 resistance. Any more gains might send the price toward the $89,200 level. The next barrier for the bulls could be $90,000 and $90,500.

Another Drop In BTC?
If Bitcoin fails to rise above the $87,800 resistance zone, it could start another decline. Immediate support is near the $85,500 level. The first major support is near the $85,250 level.

The next support is now near the $85,000 zone. Any more losses might send the price toward the $84,200 support in the near term. The main support sits at $83,500, below which BTC might accelerate lower in the near term.

Technical indicators:

Hourly MACD – The MACD is now losing pace in the bearish zone.

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

Major Support Levels – $85,500, followed by $85,000.

Major Resistance Levels – $87,800 and $88,000.

The founder of Capriole Investments has warned about the Quantum risk to Bitcoin, saying there’s a 34% chance it breaks BTC in the next three years.

Bitcoin Could Trade At A Discount If No Quantum Fix Is Deployed
As Quantum Computing continues to advance, many in the Bitcoin community have been raising concerns about what a breakthrough could mean for the cryptocurrency. Capriole Investments founder Charles Edwards has been one of those voices.

Last week, Edwards gave a presentation on the Quantum threat to Bitcoin at the Global Blockchain Show in Abu Dhabi. The analyst has also shared some insights on X.

According to Edwards, there’s a 34% chance that Quantum will undermine BTC’s cryptography in the next three years. Based on this, the Capriole founder has assigned a 34% discount to BTC today. “Given a 2-3 yr timeline to deploy fix, this is the current discount rate,” noted Edwards. “And it is growing. Every. Single. Day.”

The probability of Quantum breaking BTC by year | Source: @caprioleio on X
The probability has been estimated using seven different sources providing timelines for Quantum Computing breakthroughs. If Capriole’s calculations are to go by, the Quantum threat has a chance of more than 50% to affect blockchain technology by 2030.

What will happen in the scenario that Quantum Computing does end up unlocking Bitcoin’s cryptography? Even if wallets today are secured properly, there are still old wallets that can be vulnerable. A chunk of the BTC supply has been dormant for years, and with a Quantum breakthrough, it could potentially find its way back into circulation.

The most popular example of dormant holdings is, of course, the ones attributed to the cryptocurrency’s pseudonymous creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. Satoshi’s wallets hold a total of 1,096,354 BTC, worth a whopping $95 billion at current prices. All these coins possibly being dumped on the market would naturally have a negative effect on the Bitcoin price. Not just because of the scale involved, but also because of the loss of confidence that such an event would result in.

Considering the threat, Capriole has repeatedly stressed that a fix needs to be implemented as soon as possible. So far, the community hasn’t reached a consensus on when or what the solution should be.

In an X post, Strategy co-founder and chairman Michael Saylor has also chimed in on the topic. “Quantum computing won’t break Bitcoin—it will harden it,” wrote Saylor. “The network upgrades, active coins migrate, lost coins stay frozen.” In this scenario, the coins attached to Satoshi and other early miners will forever become inaccessible.

Edwards has warned that if a solution isn’t implemented in time, the coin may face its biggest bear market in history. “If we haven’t deployed a fix by 2028, I expect Bitcoin will be sub $50K and continue to fall until it’s fixed,” said the Capriole founder.

BTC Price
At the time of writing, Bitcoin is trading around $86,500, down 5.7% over the last week.

The trend in the price of the coin over the last five days | Source: BTCUSDT on TradingView
Featured image from Dall-E, Capriole.com, chart from TradingView.com

Journalist

Posted: December 18, 2025

Bitcoin’s market sentiment has remained tilted toward the bearish side for weeks, with the latest decline over the past day pushing the asset down to the $86,000 level.

Whether Bitcoin [BTC] stages a recovery or extends its downward trend will depend on several market factors, with trading activity on Binance standing out as a key signal to watch.

According to CoinMarketCap, Binance remains the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by global user base. This dominance offers insight into broader market behavior and investor positioning.

Based on these dynamics, AMBCrypto examines what current Bitcoin investment activity on Binance suggests.

Capital floods Binance as trading hits record levels
Activity on Binance has intensified noticeably.

A recent CryptoQuant report shows that capital inflows into Binance have reached $1.17 trillion, representing a 31% year-on-year increase and the highest inflow recorded across all exchanges.

In both the Spot and perpetual markets—where investor conviction is most clearly expressed—the signals are increasingly evident.

Source: Spot Trading Volume

Spot trading volume has reached a record high, hitting $7 trillion so far this year.

This surge confirms strong investor participation and marks a significant gap between Binance and its closest competitor, Bybit, which recorded nearly five times less spot trading volume.

A similar pattern appears in the perpetual Futures market, where Binance leads with a cumulative volume of $24.5 trillion.

The report also notes that this activity stems from more than 300 million investors, reinforcing Binance’s market dominance.

More importantly, it suggests that Bitcoin’s next major price move could be influenced by this cohort of traders.

Bullish positioning grows on Binance market
Binance investors have increasingly pointed toward a possible bullish rebound, particularly within the perpetual Futures market.

Currently, Binance controls the largest share of Bitcoin Open Interest, valued at $10.90 billion, while total market-wide Open Interest stands at $58.63 billion.

This imbalance highlights Binance’s influence on price direction. Beneath the surface, trading data shows that volume has been largely driven by bullish positioning, with investors favoring long trades.

Source: CoinGlass

This trend is confirmed by the Taker Buy/Sell Ratio, also known as the Long/Short Ratio, which measures whether buyers or sellers dominate market volume.

Taker buys lead with a ratio of 2.2 at press time, a notably strong reading that sat well above the neutral level of 1.

If Binance’s Open Interest continues to rise alongside elevated trading volume skewed toward bullish positions, the market could be approaching a rebound.

At the time of writing, Binance’s Bitcoin trading volume was $16.58 billion.

Bitcoin market hesitates
The broader market has yet to fully reflect the bullish signals emerging from Binance investors.

In the Spot market, however, sentiment appears constructive.

Notably, investors purchased roughly $83 million worth of Bitcoin over the past day. Cumulative net transactions showed that about $315 million worth of Bitcoin has been accumulated since the start of the week.

Source: CoinGlass

Meanwhile, the wider Bitcoin perpetual market remained slightly bearish. The Taker Buy/Sell Ratio across the broader market was 0.98, indicating marginal seller dominance.

While readings below 1 favor sellers, the narrow gap suggests weak bearish conviction.

Other perpetual market indicators, including the Funding Rate and the Open Interest-Weighted Funding Rate, continued to point toward a bullish bias.

Overall, Bitcoin’s investors appear increasingly optimistic, with the broader market gradually catching up. A sustained accumulation phase could provide the momentum needed to push Bitcoin back towards $90,000.

Final Thoughts

Crypto trading hits $1.17 trillion on Binance as other exchanges scramble to catch up, putting Bitcoin on the line.
Investors on Binance are pricing in Bitcoin ahead of the broader market, signaling bullish sentiment.

Every crypto cycle has a phase that feels slow, boring, and almost forgettable. Prices move sideways, headlines repeat themselves, and many traders lose interest. Yet history shows that these quiet stretches are often when the strongest setups are built. Long before price explosions make headlines, positioning quietly takes place.

As the market looks ahead to 2025, conversations are shifting again. Instead of chasing short-term moves, many are asking a bigger question: which crypto will explode in 2025? This question is not about guessing tops or bottoms. It is about identifying projects with strong narratives, clear positioning, and the ability to capture attention when momentum returns.

This listicle explores six projects shaping those conversations. Some are established names with institutional relevance. Others are early-stage or narrative-driven plays that thrive on community and timing. Together, they offer a snapshot of where attention may concentrate as the next cycle unfolds.

Apeing: Early Momentum and the Power of Acting First

Apeing is increasingly mentioned whenever discussions turn to early-stage positioning and asymmetric upside. The project is built around a simple but powerful idea. Crypto rewards those who act while others hesitate. Instead of waiting for perfect confirmation, Apeing leans into instinct-driven participation.

The structure of Apeing emphasizes early entry above all else. Stage 1 access is expected to open at just $0.0001, with an anticipated listing price projected near $0.001. On paper, that alone suggests a 10x baseline opportunity before broader market attention even arrives. For early participants, the upside narrative extends further, with community discussions openly exploring the possibility of 10,000%+ ROI if momentum accelerates.

What separates Apeing from countless speculative tokens is timing and framing. The project is not launching during peak euphoria. It is building during a period of uncertainty, when many market participants are frozen. That environment historically favors projects that capture attention early and reward conviction. For anyone asking which crypto will explode in 2025, Apeing is often mentioned precisely because it is still early.

XRP: A Familiar Name With Renewed Long-Term Focus

XRP remains one of the most recognizable names in crypto, and its presence in 2025 conversations reflects resilience more than hype. After years of regulatory uncertainty and market fatigue, XRP has reached a stage where clarity matters more than speculation. That shift is quietly reshaping sentiment.

Institutional interest in blockchain-based payments continues to grow, and XRP’s core focus on cross-border settlements keeps it relevant. While it may not offer the same early-stage upside as newer projects, its strength lies in infrastructure and long-term adoption. Many investors view XRP as a stabilizing anchor rather than a moonshot.

In the context of which crypto will explode in 2025, XRP represents a different type of bet. It is not about explosive entry pricing but about renewed momentum once broader market confidence returns. If global payment adoption accelerates, XRP remains positioned to benefit from that trend.

APEMARS: A Story-Driven Mission Built for Community Energy

APEMARS takes a very different approach to crypto participation. Rather than presenting itself as a standard token launch, it frames the entire experience as a community-powered mission to Mars. Built on Ethereum using the ERC-20 standard, APEMARS unfolds as a structured journey rather than a single event.

The project progresses across 23 weekly stages, each symbolizing a segment of Commander Ape’s 225 million kilometer voyage. Pricing and narrative move together, giving holders a sense of shared progression. This storytelling approach taps into one of crypto’s strongest forces: collective belief.

Token mechanics reinforce that narrative. APEMARS includes major burn checkpoints at Stages 6, 12, 18, and 23. Unsold tokens from those stages are pooled and burned, reinforcing scarcity at key milestones. After launch, the ecosystem introduces the APE Yield Station, offering 63% APY inspired by Mars’ average temperature of −63°C, with rewards locked for two months.

Hedera: Enterprise Infrastructure With Quiet Momentum

Hedera often flies under the radar compared to louder narratives, yet it consistently appears in serious long-term discussions. Its hashgraph technology is designed for speed, security, and scalability, making it attractive for enterprise use cases rather than speculative hype.

Major organizations continue to experiment with distributed ledger technology, and Hedera’s governance model appeals to institutions seeking stability and predictability. While it may not generate viral excitement, its steady development builds a foundation for future growth.

Avalanche: Scalability and Institutional Conversations

Avalanche remains one of the more technically respected Layer 1 networks. Its focus on scalability, low latency, and customizable subnets keeps it relevant as developers search for efficient blockchain environments. Recent regulatory and institutional discussions around Avalanche have added another dimension to its narrative.

While price action has been volatile, Avalanche continues to attract developer interest and strategic partnerships. That combination matters when evaluating long-term breakout potential. Networks that support real-world applications often outperform once market conditions improve.

In the broader conversation around which crypto will explode in 2025, Avalanche sits in the middle ground. It offers more maturity than early-stage projects, but more growth potential than legacy chains that have already peaked.

Binance Coin: Utility Backed by a Massive Ecosystem

Binance Coin remains tightly linked to one of the largest crypto ecosystems in the world. Its utility spans trading fees, ecosystem participation, and various blockchain services. That built-in demand gives BNB a different risk profile compared to purely speculative assets.

Despite regulatory scrutiny facing centralized exchanges globally, Binance Coin continues to benefit from sheer scale. Millions of users interact with the Binance ecosystem daily, creating consistent usage rather than narrative-driven hype.

Conclusion
As the market looks toward 2025, the question is no longer whether another cycle will emerge, but which narratives will dominate it. Projects like Apeing and APEMARS thrive on early participation and community energy. XRP and Binance Coin bring infrastructure and scale. Hedera and Avalanche offer technical foundations that may benefit from broader adoption.

For readers tracking early signals, platforms like Best Crypto To Buy Now are often used to spot where attention is slowly shifting before momentum becomes obvious. There is no single answer to which crypto will explode in 2025. Each project represents a different type of opportunity, from high-risk early positioning to long-term structural growth. The common thread is timing. Those who pay attention during quiet periods are often the ones best positioned when momentum returns.

For More Information:
Website: Visit the Official Apeing Website

Telegram: Join the Apeing Telegram Channel

Twitter: Follow Apeing ON X (Formerly Twitter)

FAQ About Which Crypto Will Explode in 2025
Which crypto will explode in 2025?
There is no guaranteed answer, but projects with strong narratives, early positioning, and real use cases tend to perform best.

Is Apeing a high-risk option?
Yes. Early-stage projects carry higher risk but also offer higher potential upside.

Why is XRP still relevant for 2025?
Its focus on cross-border payments and regulatory clarity keeps it positioned for long-term adoption.

What makes APEMARS different from other meme coins?
Its structured, story-driven progression and token mechanics tied to narrative milestones.

Summary
This article explores six cryptocurrencies shaping conversations around which crypto will explode in 2025. Apeing stands out for early-stage positioning and high upside potential, while XRP offers long-term infrastructure relevance. APEMARS blends storytelling with token mechanics, Hedera focuses on enterprise adoption, Avalanche emphasizes scalability, and Binance Coin leverages ecosystem utility. Together, they reflect the diverse strategies investors are considering as the market prepares for its next major cycle.

Disclaimer: The statements, views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily represent those of Crypto Reporter. Crypto Reporter is not responsible for the trustworthiness, quality, accuracy of any materials in this article. This article is provided for educational purposes only. Crypto Reporter is not responsible, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused or alleged to be caused by or in connection with the use of or reliance on any content, goods or services mentioned in this article. Do your research and invest at your own risk.

Crypto Reporter

Shalini Nagarajan

Crypto Reporter

Shalini Nagarajan

Part of the Team Since

Jan 2024

About Author

Shalini is a crypto reporter who provides in-depth reports on daily developments and regulatory shifts in the cryptocurrency sector.

Has Also Written

Last updated: 

December 17, 2025

Bitcoin dipped toward $86,000 on Thursday as Asian markets opened softer, extending a risk-off swing that hit both crypto and equities after a sharp tech-led slide on Wall Street.

The pressure built overnight as investors cut exposure to high-multiple technology names and the broader AI trade, a shift that usually spills into crypto when momentum fades.

In early Asia, shares in Japan and Australia fell and Hong Kong shares pointed lower.

Market snapshot
Bitcoin: $86,575, down 1.1%
Ether: $2,832, down 4.2%
XRP: $1.86, down 3.7%
Total crypto market cap: $3 trillion, down 1.5%
Tech Rout Deepens As AI Valuation Fears Grip Wall StreetIn the US, the tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 dropped 1.9% on Wednesday. Nvidia slid 3.8% to its lowest since September, and the S&P 500 fell 1.2% to a three-week low, slipping under its 50-day moving average.

The selling gathered pace as investors questioned whether the companies at the center of the AI boom can continue to justify their lofty valuations and heavy spending. Concerns around the cost and viability of data centre expansion added to the unease, with traders watching how big-ticket financing plans ripple through the sector.

Oracle fell 5.4% after a report said its largest data centre partner, Blue Owl Capital, will not back a $10B deal for its next facility.

Amazon slipped 0.6% after a report said it is in talks to invest about $10B in ChatGPT maker OpenAI, and Alphabet dropped 3.2% after a Reuters report said Google is working on an effort, alongside Meta, to erode Nvidia’s software advantage.

The chip complex took a broader hit. Broadcom fell 4.5% and the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index dropped 3.9%, reinforcing a market mood that has turned more sensitive to any sign that the AI buildout may deliver profits slower than hoped.

Crypto Awaits CPI As Bitcoin Hovers Without Clear SupportFor Bitcoin, that backdrop kept the move heavy and the bounce restrained. Mike Marshall, head of research at Amberdata, said the key is that the “support bid” has not shown up in size.

“We are seeing weak market structure beneath price and relatively light ETF inflows, which reduces the market’s ability to stabilize quickly when momentum flips. Broader macro worries around rates, growth uncertainty, and cautious risk sentiment are compounding it.”

“In this environment, the market tends to probe until it finds a level where buyers have conviction. Based on our ETF cost-basis analysis, the first meaningful floor is near $80K, and if we see sustained outflows or tighter financial conditions, $60K becomes the next major reference,” he said.

Rate markets reflected the same caution. Comments from Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller, often viewed as dovish, supported demand for two- and five-year Treasuries, and longer-dated bonds lagged, nudging the 10-year yield about one basis point higher to roughly 4.15%.

Traders now turn to Thursday’s consumer inflation data, which could reset rate expectations into year-end and decide whether crypto stabilizes near current levels or keeps probing for a clearer floor.

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Ava Labs’ leadership believes the future of decentralized networks lies in sovereign, purpose-built blockchains rather than generic, one-size-fits-all chains. The comments come as the Avalanche ecosystem gains traction with institutional partners and enterprise developers heading into 2025.

In an interview with TheStreet Roundtable, John Nahas, Chief Business Officer at Ava Labs, emphasized the company’s long-term vision of creating customized blockchain environments tailored to specific use cases — from finance to global brands and enterprise deployments. Rather than following short‑lived trends that dominate social media, Nahas said Avalanche is focused on durable, real‑world blockchain solutions.

“We don’t need more block space. We don’t need more blockchains,” Nahas said. “But we do need more blockchains that are purpose‑built, because that’s how the real world works.”

Projects that dwell too heavily on buzzy crypto narratives also struggle to gain traction, says Nahas, as trends typically last only a few months before losing steam. He noted that Avalanche, by contrast, has emphasized fundamentals.

Nahas said that this patience was now being rewarded, as adoption extended well beyond crypto-native users into traditional finance, international brands, and enterprise operators. He said valuable infrastructure takes time to build and that success in crypto today is increasingly a function of medium- to long-term thinking.

Avalanche builds blockchains for real-world use
Avalanche’s core technology enables developers to launch sovereign Layer‑1 blockchains — sometimes referred to as subnets — that operate independently with unique governance, performance parameters, and economic models. According to Nahas, this architecture positions Avalanche to cater to a broad spectrum of use cases that existing monolithic networks cannot serve effectively.

For a long time, Nahas has said that the industry nonetheless follows an outdated model predicated on the idea that all applications eventually run on a single, dominant blockchain. He dismissed the notion, adding that the world doesn’t require endless generic block space.

Instead, blockchains must be carefully tailored to the specific needs of their users. Sectors such as finance, supply chains, digital identity, and enterprise operations all have unique requirements, and Avalanche’s architecture is designed to meet them.

Companies can establish their own separate networks, with their own rules and governance, within the network. These chains can be private, public, or hybrid and remain interoperable, but with separate sets of rules and governance. Nahas pointed out that this method emulates the operation of real-world systems, where independent but interrelated infrastructures connect.

Enterprise adoption accelerates worldwide
Avalanche’s model is already attracting major institutions. Nahas explained banks want regulated and compliant environments, asset managers want custom-made infrastructure, and the enterprise also needs systems that fit its internal operations, he said.

Avalanche, he added, offers solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Toyota, for instance, is constructing four different Avalanche chains designed to work in tandem with varying business processes. Additionally, FIFA and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation in Japan are building independent environments on the network. These projects demonstrate how Avalanche is extending into new frontiers of crypto-native use cases. Nahas emphasized these enterprise chains as not separate silos.

Avalanche promotes interoperability (utilizing both private and public networks) and thus maintains control over the same infrastructure while simultaneously retaining the benefits of shared infrastructure. He said this balance will be a key to long-term adoption.

There is expanding growth on the network. Nahas stated that nearly 80 Avalanche layer-one chains are already live, with more than 100 others in test networks. By next year, he anticipates that roughly 200 institutional and enterprise chains will be operating in finance, digital identity, artificial intelligence, and government services.

As crypto enters its next phase, Avalanche’s leadership thinks these are the clearer prospects for the industry. The future will be developed on purpose-built blockchains rather than hype, Nahas said.

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Bitcoin is approaching a critical inflection point as on-chain data from Glassnode highlights the True Market Mean near $81,300 as a decisive level separating mild, time-driven drawdowns from periods of more aggressive loss realization. In the post-October trading regime, this level has gained added significance as market structure, liquidity, and correlations have shifted.

According to Glassnode, the True Market Mean represents a fair-value zone derived from multiple cost-basis and valuation metrics. Historically, when bitcoin trades above this level, market pullbacks tend to remain uneven and contained. However, extended trading below the True Market Mean has often coincided with broader selling pressure spreading across crypto markets, rather than remaining isolated in high-risk assets.

Recent correlation data reinforces why this level matters beyond bitcoin itself. Over the past 90 days, and particularly following the October 10 flash crash, large-cap cryptocurrencies have remained tightly correlated with BTC. This dynamic has strengthened bitcoin’s role as the market’s anchor, meaning its price action increasingly dictates broader market direction. While high-beta and lower-liquidity tokens have already experienced sharp drawdowns, large-cap assets have largely moved in step with bitcoin.

If bitcoin were to sustain a move below $81,300, Glassnode’s historical data suggests the risk would shift from selective weakness to a more synchronized market reset. In an environment defined by thin liquidity and elevated correlations, a failure to reclaim the True Market Mean could pull losses back into the market’s core, deepening downside across major crypto assets.

As of the latest market data, bitcoin trades near $86,400, down about 1% on the day and roughly 6.5% over the past week. Ether has underperformed, trading around $2,830, down nearly 15% on the week. Outside crypto, gold has surged to record highs above $4,300 per ounce in 2025, driven by central bank buying, geopolitical risks, and growing investor demand.

Overall, the focus is less on predicting a breakdown and more on identifying balance. As long as bitcoin holds above its True Market Mean, market stress may remain fragmented. A decisive loss of $81,300, however, could signal a shift toward broader, more coordinated selling pressure across the crypto market.

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When expressed in terms of value, the promise indicates a commitment to support the long-term growth of GMC.
In order to fulfill this promise that spans many years, Bhutan will conduct an assessment of a variety of appropriate measures that are in line with long-term stewardship.

Bhutan has introduced a national Bitcoin Development Pledge with the intention of bolstering the nation’s long-term economic growth, the cultivation of employment opportunities, and the resiliency of the nation.

GelephuMindfulness City (GMC) is a new economic hub in southern Bhutan that is focused around mindfulness, sustainability, and innovation. The promise includes a commitment of up to 10,000 Bitcoin (BTC) towards the establishment of GMC. This is the centerpiece of the pledge.

When expressed in terms of value, the promise indicates a commitment to support the long-term growth of GMC with up to one billion USD worth of sovereign Bitcoin reserves.

The pledge is in accordance with the vision of His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, and it reflects Bhutan’s resolve to implement contemporary digital technologies with care, patience, and responsibility, with the aim of serving its people and future generations.

In order to fulfill this promise that spans many years, Bhutan will conduct an assessment of a variety of appropriate measures that are in line with long-term stewardship. The method will be decided upon in the following months, and some of the possibilities that are being considered include collateralizing the Kingdom’s Bitcoin holdings, risk-managed yield and treasury techniques, and targeted long-term holding approaches that are aimed to maintain and safeguard the value of the Kingdom’s digital assets.

In any use of Bitcoin, good governance and prudent decision-making will serve as guiding principles, with a particular focus on the protection of capital, adequate supervision, and openness. Since Bhutan acknowledges that Bitcoin’s enduring strength lies in its capacity to compound value over time, the country’s top priority will be to preserve that long-term potential while also ensuring that development proceeds in a stable and sustainable manner, delivering positive economic and social outcomes, particularly for the country’s young population.

One of the first sovereign countries to mine Bitcoin, Bhutan has been utilizing renewable hydropower to produce digital assets for a number of years. Bhutan is also one of the first nations to mine Bitcoin. It is possible for its rich natural hydropower resources to surpass domestic demand at times, which enables excess clean energy to be transformed into a long-term national asset without causing any further positive influence on the environment. When it comes to mining Bitcoin in a responsible manner, the nation will continue to make use of any surplus renewable energy that is generated by its national power generating utility.

In order to contribute in the establishment of Gelephu Mindfulness City, the pledge strengthens collaboration with responsible international businesses that are involved in the fintech and digital asset industries. For the purpose of providing regulatory clarity, contemporary financial connections, and a long-term environment that is values-led for the sake of cooperation and progress, the GMC is now undergoing development as a Special Administrative Region.

Because Bhutan has a well-established track record of being a careful and competent adopter of digital and financial infrastructure, this announcement builds on that track record. There are large national Bitcoin reserves in Bhutan today, which have been created by the use of sustainable energy.

At the same time, Bhutan has established its national digital identity system on public blockchain infrastructure. This has made it possible for approximately 800,000 residents to authenticate their identities in a safe manner and have access to public services. In order to build upon this basis, Bhutan has implemented crypto-based payments across businesses and tourist services, incorporated digital assets into the strategic reserves of the GMC, and introduced TER, a digital token that is backed by the government and is tied to real gold. These projects, when taken as a whole, demonstrate a methodical and long-term approach to innovation that is founded on governance, sustainability, and practical application in the contemporary world.

On the occasion of National Day, His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck delivered the following address:

״As your King, I must ensure that every Bhutanese is a custodian, stakeholder, and beneficiary of GMC.

We are therefore developing a new land policy that protects landowners, prevents widening disparities, and ensures shared national prosperity. Think of GMC as a company and landowners as its shareholders. Since most land is state-owned, Bhutanese from all Dzongkhags will share in its success.

To support this policy, I am announcing today the allocation of up to 10,000 BTC, valued at approximately USD 1 billion. This commitment is for our people, our youth, and our nation.״

You may read the whole Bhutan Bitcoin Development Pledge by clicking on the following link: https://gmc.bt/pledge.

The Gelephu Mindfulness City Special Administrative Region is a huge goal that aims to establish a world-class economic powerhouse in the southern region of Bhutan. Mindfulness, sustainability, and innovation will serve as the focal points of this endeavor. Traditional Bhutanese values are incorporated into the SAR, together with internationally recognized legal frameworks, cutting-edge design and technology, and the use of the Kingdom’s rich renewable energy resources, in order to serve as a worldwide model of holistic development. To get further details, please visit www.gmc.bt or send an email to [email protected].

Journalist

Posted: December 18, 2025

Hyperliquid [HYPE] is showing notable fundamental activity.

The token slipped below the $30 level but remained up more than 3% on the day at press time. This modest rally followed a proposal from The Hyper Foundation aimed at reducing supply.

The key question now is whether this move will drive prices higher, or if the upcoming December unlocks will counteract the effect.

Hyper Foundation proposes to burn 1B HYPE 
The Assistance Fund held 1 billion HYPE tokens, which the Hyper Foundation proposed to burn. Validators will signal their intention for governance on December 21st, with voting results expected on December 24th, when users can start staking.

At press time, the Assistance Fund held more than a billion tokens valued at more than $37 billion.

If the Foundation’s proposal prevails in the voting stage, it will significantly decrease the total and circulating supply, indicating a positive outlook.

Source: Hyper Foundation/X

Due to the magnitude of the tokens burned, a supply shock would follow. When supply reduces and meets rising demand, prices tend to move up, a classic trend in supply dynamics.

However, the current scenario did not show evidence of demand, as price and activity were in decline.

Will bulls defend the $20 zone?
On the charts, the HYPE price was breaking lower levels, aligning with the broader crypto market. The altcoin breached the $35 zone, which had previously prevented further breakdown more than five times.

After hitting $27, HYPE was down about 56% and looked headed toward the critical support at $20. However, the shift in supply dynamics could change this outlook.

Source: TradingView

The $20 level served as both a psychological marker and a previous higher high from April. As such, it represented a potential turning point if the bulls could defend the zone.

HYPE’s price weakness mirrored a sharp drop in Perpetual Futures (Perps) volume. Once accounting for 57% of the market, Perps volume has fallen to just 16%, as of writing.

In practical terms, trading volume declined from a mid‑October peak of about $30 billion to roughly $8 billion.

Source: Blockworks

On the other hand, the Spot Volume was around $200 million from levels above $1.2 billion when HYPE was rallying.

As its activities and prices fall, more selling pressure appears to be building.

Upcoming sell pressure from unlock 
While the proposal could help turn around the price direction, the upcoming HYPE token unlocks for December posed a problem.

According to a post by Ali Charts, an additional 10 million tokens will enter the market, bringing the total unlocked since November to 20 million.

While this may not fully offset the impact of burning 1 billion tokens, the increase in circulating supply could still create short‑term selling pressure.

Final Thoughts

HYPE proposes to burn about 1 billion tokens and has opened the voting 
HYPE price struggles as it looks headed toward $20, though a reversal seemed possible given the potential shift in supply dynamics.  

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Bitcoin is once again testing investor conviction as it struggles to reclaim the $90,000 level, a price zone that has now become a clear psychological and structural barrier. After weeks of choppy price action and repeated failures to sustain upside momentum, sentiment across the market has shifted sharply.

Fear and apathy are increasingly dominant, with a growing number of analysts and participants beginning to call for a broader bear market. For many investors, the narrative has changed from buying dips to questioning whether the cycle has already peaked.

This deterioration in confidence is occurring alongside renewed selling pressure from large, well-capitalized players. According to data from Arkham, two wallets linked to Matrixport deposited a combined 4,000 BTC, worth approximately $347.56 million, into Binance today.

Matrixport-Linked Wallet sends Bitcoin to Binance | Source: Arkham
Matrixport is a large digital-asset financial services platform founded by former Bitmain executives, offering products including crypto lending, structured products, asset management, and custody solutions.

Such large inflows to exchanges are closely watched by the market, as they often precede distribution or hedging activity, particularly during periods of heightened uncertainty. While not every deposit translates directly into spot selling, the timing of these transfers adds to the growing sense of caution.

Whether current demand can absorb this supply and stabilize price will likely determine if this phase becomes a deeper correction—or the start of a more prolonged bearish regime.

Exchange Inflows And What They Mean For Bitcoin
Large Bitcoin deposits to exchanges are almost always interpreted by the market as a bearish signal, since they increase the immediate supply available for sale. In most historical cases, sharp spikes in exchange inflows have preceded periods of downside volatility, reinforcing the perception that whales are preparing to distribute into liquidity. However, some investors urge caution when reading this data in isolation, as not every exchange transfer results in spot selling.

In certain scenarios, large inflows can be linked to internal treasury management, collateral rotation, or the opening of hedged derivatives positions rather than outright liquidation. Institutions may move Bitcoin to centralized venues to post margin for futures or options, allowing them to hedge downside risk without selling their underlying holdings.

In other cases, funds prepare liquidity for over-the-counter settlements or cross-exchange arbitrage, activities that do not necessarily translate into sustained selling pressure on the spot market.

Looking ahead, Bitcoin’s price action over the coming months will likely depend on whether these inflows are followed by a clear increase in realized selling volume. If demand continues to absorb supply near the $85K–$86K zone, the market could transition into a prolonged consolidation phase, allowing sentiment to reset.

However, if exchange balances continue to rise alongside weakening spot demand, downside risks remain elevated. In that scenario, Bitcoin may revisit lower support levels before any durable recovery can begin.

Price Tests Critical Long-Term Support
Bitcoin’s higher-timeframe structure shows a clear loss of momentum after failing to hold above prior highs. On the weekly chart, BTC is now consolidating around the $86,000–$87,000 zone after a sharp rejection from the $110,000–$120,000 region. This area has become a critical demand zone, as price is currently hovering near the rising 200-day moving average, which historically acts as a key trend filter during cycle transitions.

BTC consolidates above key MA | Source: BTCUSDT chart on TradingView
The short-term structure remains fragile. Bitcoin is trading below the 50-week moving average, which has started to roll over, signaling weakening upside momentum. Meanwhile, the 100-week moving average is still trending higher and sits below the current price, suggesting that the broader macro trend has not fully broken but is clearly under stress.

From a price-action perspective, BTC is forming a lower high relative to the previous cycle peak, while volatility remains compressed. This often precedes a larger directional move. If bulls fail to defend the $85,000 support decisively, the next downside targets sit near the $78,000–$80,000 region, where previous consolidation occurred.

Conversely, any structural recovery would require a reclaim and weekly close above $90,000, followed by sustained acceptance above the 50-week average.

Featured image from ChatGPT, chart from TradingView.com

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Leading cryptocurrencies plunged alongside stocks on Wednesday, as investors await the Consumer Price Index report for hints on the Federal Reserve’s next moves.

CryptocurrencyGains +/-Price (Recorded at 8:25 p.m. ET)Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC)-2.01%$85,977.58Ethereum (CRYPTO: ETH)
               -4.57%$2,825.89XRP (CRYPTO: XRP)                         -3.80%$1.85Solana (CRYPTO: SOL)                         -4.47%$123.51Dogecoin (CRYPTO: DOGE)                         -4.82%$0.1255Bitcoin Pumps And DumpsBitcoin saw a sharp jump to $90,000 in the early trading hours before reversing all the gains in a jiffy, triggering massive liquidations. The apex cryptocurrency sank below $86,000 later in the day.

Ethereum saw a similar trajectory, pushing past $3,000 only to crash below $2,800 eventually. Trading volume for the second-largest cryptocurrency rose 17% in the last 24 hours.

Shares of cryptocurrency-linked stocks Strategy Inc. (NASDAQ:MSTR) and Bitmine Immersion Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:COIN) closed down 4.25% and 6.59%, respectively, during the regular trading session.

Benzinga Edge delivers real-time stock alerts, trade ideas, and professional investing tools to help you navigate the market. Find out more about MSTR and BMNR here.

Over $530 million was liquidated from the cryptocurrency market in the last 24 hours, according to Coinglass, with long liquidations accounting for nearly $385 million.

BTC's rebound toward $94,000 would likely trigger nearly $2.30 billion in short liquidation, suggesting that derivatives traders were positioning for further declines.

Meanwhile, Bitcoin's open interest fell 2.41% in the last 24 hours. 

The "Extreme Fear" sentiment prevailed in the market, according to the Crypto Fear and Greed Index.

Top Gainers (24 Hours) 

Cryptocurrency (Market Cap>$100 M)Gains +/-Price (Recorded at 8:25 p.m. ET)Humanity Protocol (H )   +34.41%    $0.09290pippin (PIPPIN )                 +22.75%      $0.3971Alchemist AI (ALCH )          +26.51%      $0.2192The global cryptocurrency market capitalization stood at $2.95 trillion, following a drop of 1.10% in the last 24 hours.

Stocks Fall Ahead Of CPI PrintStocks faced additional downward pressure on Wednesday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 228.29 points, or 0.47%, to end at 47,885.97. The S&P 500 lost 1.16% to finish at 6,721.43, while the tech-focused Nasdaq Composite shed 0.23% to end the day at 22,693.32.

Investors are eyeing Thursday’s November Consumer Price Index report, following the disappointing labor market data released earlier this week.

A cooler-than-expected print could boost expectations for a rate cut in January, which currently has only a 24% chance, according to the CME FedWatch tool.

Bitcoin Needs To Hold 80,000–$85,000 Level To Determine Next MovesHunter Rogers, co-founder of the Bitcoin yield protocol TeraHash said in a note to Benzinga that Bitcoin's ongoing downturn is a direct consequence of the "absence of fresh demand," where even mild selling putting pressure on the market.

"I think we're now seeing an exhausted market. Short interest has increased," Rogers stated. "All in all, what BTC needs now is to hold its key $80,000–$85,000 level. That would determine the price's next direction."

Michaël van de Poppe, a widely followed cryptocurrency analyst and trader, was not amused by Bitcoin's sharp reversal, stating that the $88,000 barrier needs to be breached to gain momentum.

"If not, then the levels at $83,000 for liquidity and $80,000 for liquidity are the important ones to look at," the analyst added.

Photo Courtesy: KateStock on Shutterstock.com

Read Next:    

Coinbase Adds Stock Trading, Kalshi Event Contracts, Shares Climb
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Bitcoin has retreated to its weekly low of around $85,500 after forming what traders often call a “Bart Simpson pattern,” a technical setup marked by a rapid price spike, a brief period of consolidation, and a sudden drop back to the original level. The unusual chart shape, resembling the cartoon character’s head, appeared earlier this week and reinforced growing concerns about short-term volatility in the crypto market.

The broader digital asset market continues to face a frustrating dynamic for crypto investors. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies appear largely uncorrelated with equities during stock market rallies, yet closely track stocks when markets decline. This pattern played out again as a sharp intraday rally in Bitcoin faded alongside a downturn in the Nasdaq, which fell roughly 1.5% late in the session. Weakness in technology stocks, particularly within the semiconductor sector, added further pressure.

Adding to the disappointment for crypto bulls is the strong performance of precious metals. Silver surged another 5% to fresh record highs, while gold climbed 1% and hovered just below its all-time peak. Historically, many investors viewed Bitcoin as a hedge during periods of monetary easing or market stress, similar to gold. Instead, traditional safe-haven assets such as gold, silver, and even copper are attracting capital, while cryptocurrencies lag behind.

Weekly performance numbers highlight the market’s struggles. Bitcoin is down about 8% on the week, ether has dropped roughly 15%, and major altcoins such as Solana and XRP are lower by around 12%. According to Jasper De Maere, desk strategist at Wintermute, Bitcoin is likely to remain range-bound between $86,000 and $92,000 in the near term. He noted that elevated volatility within this consolidation phase makes sharp price swings more common, especially as liquidations occur.

De Maere also cautioned against relying too heavily on technical indicators right now, pointing to ongoing profit-taking driven by year-end portfolio rebalancing and tax considerations. While he stopped short of calling a definitive market bottom, he suggested that Bitcoin may be approaching “max pain” levels and is increasingly oversold, with sideways price action likely to persist until new catalysts emerge later in December.

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Brazil’s main stock exchange, B3, is preparing to significantly deepen its presence in the cryptocurrency and digital asset market with plans to launch a tokenization platform and its own stablecoin in 2025. The move highlights how traditional financial institutions are increasingly embracing blockchain technology, tokenized assets, and crypto-linked products as demand continues to grow.

The upcoming tokenization platform will allow real-world assets to be tokenized and traded directly on B3’s exchange infrastructure. According to Luiz Masagão, B3’s vice president of products and clients, the platform will operate alongside traditional markets while sharing the same liquidity pool. This integration means investors may not even realize whether they are purchasing a tokenized asset or a traditional security, creating a seamless trading experience between conventional finance and digital assets. By unifying liquidity, B3 aims to reduce friction and encourage broader adoption of tokenized instruments.

To support settlement within this ecosystem, B3 also plans to issue a stablecoin pegged to the Brazilian real. The stablecoin is designed to function as a payment and clearing mechanism inside the tokenized environment, minimizing dependence on traditional cash settlement processes. Masagão stated that the stablecoin will be a core tool enabling efficient token trading, reinforcing B3’s commitment to building end-to-end digital market infrastructure.

Beyond tokenization, B3 is expanding its lineup of crypto-linked derivatives. Products currently under development include weekly options tied to bitcoin, ether, and solana, as well as event-based contracts linked to crypto price movements. These instruments are under review by Brazil’s securities regulator, the CVM, reflecting growing regulatory engagement with crypto markets.

B3 has been steadily increasing crypto exposure for years, beginning with the listing of a crypto ETF in April 2021, well ahead of similar moves in the United States. Today, the exchange offers products linked to BTC, ETH, SOL, and crypto indices, held by approximately 600,000 investors and totaling around $2.4 billion in assets under management. As the global real-world asset tokenization market surpasses $18 billion, B3’s strategy positions it as a major player in the evolving digital finance landscape.

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Digital Wealth Partners (DWP), a Registered Investment Advisory (RIA) focused on digital assets, has introduced a new algorithmic trading strategy designed specifically for high-net-worth (HNW) holders of XRP. The offering provides qualified investors with a systematic way to pursue portfolio growth and cash flow from their crypto holdings, including within tax-advantaged retirement accounts such as IRAs.

DWP is a subsidiary of the crypto-focused family office Ascension Group and partnered with Arch Public, a firm specializing in crypto algorithmic trading solutions, to develop the strategy. According to a press release, the approach allows certain types of trading activity to occur without triggering immediate tax consequences, depending on the investor’s account structure and individual circumstances.

The XRP algorithmic trading solution is delivered through a separately managed account (SMA) structure, ensuring each client’s assets remain distinct and fully identifiable. Client funds are held in qualified custody at Anchorage Digital, a U.S.-regulated crypto custodian, providing institutional-grade security, compliance, and insurance protections.

Unlike discretionary or speculative trading, the strategy relies on quantitative, rules-based signals to systematically trade XRP across different market conditions. Whether markets are trending up, down, or moving sideways, the algorithm applies the same consistent framework to seek long-term compounding returns. DWP emphasized that the strategy is not designed to predict XRP’s long-term price, but rather to capitalize on the asset’s liquidity, volatility, and fast settlement characteristics.

“We built this because individual investors shouldn’t be locked out of strategies typically reserved for institutions,” said Erin Friez, President of Digital Wealth Partners. She noted that many XRP holders either hold passively or trade without a disciplined system, while this solution offers a more structured alternative.

Friez added that XRP’s deep liquidity allows efficient trade execution, while its volatility creates opportunities for systematic yield generation. By combining regulated custody, tax-efficient account structures, and algorithmic trading, DWP aims to provide HNW investors with a more sophisticated way to manage and potentially grow their digital asset portfolios.

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Coinbase is accelerating its transformation into an all-in-one trading platform as competition intensifies across the crypto and fintech sectors. Rivals such as Robinhood, Kraken, and Gemini have already begun offering tokenized equities and exploring prediction markets outside the U.S., and Coinbase is now moving decisively to match and expand on those capabilities.

According to Coinbase, the main app will soon feature a streamlined interface that allows users to trade futures and perpetual contracts, access all Solana-based assets as soon as they are created, participate in primary token sales, and use the newly launched global Base App. This expansion reflects broader regulatory shifts in the U.S., where the Securities and Exchange Commission has implicitly signaled acceptance of always-on trading for certain tokenized stocks on blockchains.

At launch, Coinbase will not publish a fixed list of tradable stocks, as offerings remain subject to regulatory and operational changes. However, the exchange plans to support hundreds of leading stocks based on market capitalization, liquidity, and trading volume, with thousands more stocks and ETFs expected to be added over time. Users will be able to manage stocks, ETFs, and crypto assets in one Coinbase account using USD or USDC, benefiting from zero-commission trading and extended market access of up to 24 hours a day, five days a week. For users outside the U.S., Coinbase plans to roll out stock perpetuals next year, enabling 24/7 exposure to U.S. equities with greater capital efficiency.

These offerings are powered by Coinbase Tokenize, a new institutional-grade platform designed to support the tokenization of real-world assets. While specific custody and regulatory mechanics are still being finalized, Coinbase says its regulatory rigor positions it well as tokenized finance matures.

Beyond equities, Coinbase is integrating prediction markets through Kalshi, allowing users to trade outcomes tied to elections, sports, and economic indicators. The platform is also expanding derivatives trading, with over 30 futures and perpetual contracts already live across crypto, commodities, and equity indices, and plans to scale to hundreds more. Additionally, Coinbase is integrating the Solana DEX aggregator Jupiter directly into its app, enabling seamless Solana token swaps without leaving the platform.

The company is also expanding Coinbase Business for startups and small businesses in the U.S. and Singapore, while introducing Coinbase Advisor, an AI-powered wealth management tool that delivers personalized portfolio insights and execution. Meanwhile, Coinbase’s Ethereum-based network, Base, is now live in more than 140 countries, though the company says there are no immediate updates on a native Base token.

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Bitwise has outlined a bullish long-term outlook for Bitcoin, predicting that BTC will break its traditional four-year market cycle and reach a new all-time high in 2026. In a recent post on X, the crypto asset manager cited several structural changes in the market, including the impact of the Bitcoin halving, shifting interest rate cycles, and the weakening of historical boom-and-bust patterns that have defined prior crypto cycles.

According to Bitwise, Bitcoin’s market dynamics are evolving as institutional participation accelerates. Major financial institutions such as Citibank, Morgan Stanley, Wells Fargo, and Merrill Lynch are increasingly entering the crypto space, while allocations to spot Bitcoin ETFs continue to rise. Bitwise also highlighted that on-chain development is expected to accelerate in 2026, further strengthening Bitcoin’s fundamentals. The firm added that a sustained pro-regulatory shift in the United States could enable companies to adopt crypto at a faster pace, supporting higher long-term valuations.

Beyond Bitcoin, Bitwise is also optimistic about Ethereum and Solana. The firm believes both ETH and SOL could reach new all-time highs if the proposed CLARITY Act passes in Congress. The crypto bill is expected to be marked up next year, and while its approval is not guaranteed, Bitwise sees regulatory clarity as a major catalyst for growth. The company emphasized that stablecoins and tokenization are powerful megatrends, positioning Ethereum and Solana as key beneficiaries due to their dominant ecosystems.

Bitwise also forecasted that Bitcoin will become less volatile than NVIDIA in 2026, noting that BTC has already shown lower volatility than the tech stock throughout 2025. This trend, the firm explained, reflects Bitcoin’s gradual derisking as an asset and the diversification of its investor base through ETFs and institutional adoption.

Additional predictions include ETFs buying more than 100% of the new supply of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, crypto equities outperforming traditional tech stocks, rising activity on prediction markets like Polymarket, expanding stablecoin influence, and declining correlation between Bitcoin and equities as crypto matures into a distinct asset class.

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contributor

Posted: December 18, 2025

Valour’s B3 approval expanded institutional access to Solana, while ETF inflows continued. Even so, price action remained fragile.

Institutional investors often gravitate toward growing ecosystems, and Solana drew attention despite lagging prices amid market weakness. Bitcoin’s repeated dips weighed on sentiment and spilled into major altcoins.

Despite expanding institutional access, Solana remained cautious and directionless. At press time, Solana [SOL] hovered near $128, trading inside the $122–$145 range.

Sideways movement suggested consolidation rather than a decisive trend.

Valour received approval to list Valour Solana [VSOL] on Brazil’s B3 exchange on the 16th of December. The listing expanded BRL-denominated, regulated access to Solana through traditional brokerage and custody rails.

The move placed Solana alongside Bitcoin [BTC], Ethereum [ETH], Ripple [XRP], and Sui [SUI] on B3. By adding SOL to its Brazilian lineup, Valour increased Solana’s institutional visibility in a key Latin American market.

ETF inflows continued as exchange supply fell
Data from the SoSoValue dashboard showed Solana Spot ETFs continued to record Net Inflows. Daily inflows stood near $3.64 million, while total Net Assets remained close to $926.33 million.

Source: SosoValue

The steady inflows coincided with SOL’s sideways price action inside its established range.

At the same time, SOL tokens continued leaving exchanges, immediately reducing available sell-side supply. This divergence pointed to accumulation behavior rather than aggressive short-term positioning.

Liquidity clusters kept downside risks active
Binance Liquidation Heatmap highlighted dense liquidity clusters around the $123 level. That zone increased the probability of a short-term sweep during continued weakness.

Source: CoinGlass

If Bitcoin extended its decline, SOL could lose range support and slide toward the $95 zone. Such a move would likely be driven by broader market weakness rather than SOL-specific selling.

Can bulls reclaim higher supply?
On the chart, Solana traded in the mid ranges, with buyers still lacking clear momentum.

RSI printed 44.03, showing demand remained weak and below the neutral 50 line. MACD stayed compressed, suggesting bearish pressure was fading but not fully reversed.

Source: TradingView

Solana needed to break above $145 to reclaim $170 so as to push through to the range highs. A stronger recovery could then open the path toward the $200 supply zone.

Despite ecosystem growth, those upside paths depended on risk sentiment stabilizing.

Final Thoughts

Valour’s B3 approval underscored growing institutional confidence in Solana’s ecosystem.
Liquidity risks and Bitcoin-led weakness continued to shape SOL’s near-term direction.

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Home Altcoins News Zcash Faces Potential Delay in Upward Movement Amid Recent Price Fluctuations

Zcash Faces Potential Delay in Upward Movement Amid Recent Price Fluctuations

James Thorp

December 18, 2025

Zcash (ZEC), a cryptocurrency known for its privacy features, has experienced a cooling period following a significant rally that spanned several months. Although the token has seen an impressive increase of over 650% within the past three months, recent trends have introduced a cautious sentiment into the market. Over the last week, Zcash has declined by approximately 11%, and over the past month, it has dropped nearly 43%. This shift in momentum raises questions about whether the current dip is a temporary pause or indicative of a weakening rally. Analysts suggest that the key to Zcash’s future direction lies in its ability to reclaim the $404 price level, which is seen as a crucial threshold.

In examining the signals from various momentum indicators, mixed messages emerge, albeit with some important implications for investors. The Chaikin Money Flow (CMF), an indicator that monitors the flow of capital into and out of a market, has displayed a minor bullish divergence during the period from December 11 to December 17. In this time frame, while the price of Zcash registered a lower high, the CMF index printed a slightly higher high. Such a pattern often suggests that there is underlying buying pressure, though it remains subtle at present. Importantly, the CMF has yet to cross above the zero line, indicating that the net capital flow remains negative. This suggests that while some buying is taking place, it is characterized by caution rather than aggression.

The On-Balance Volume (OBV) indicator provides a similar cautious message. OBV is used to determine whether the volume is confirming price movements. For Zcash, OBV is moving in tandem with the price and has not surpassed its descending trend line, indicating a lack of bullish divergence in volume. These factors collectively suggest that while there is some accumulation occurring, it lacks the momentum required for a full-blown trend reversal, representing more of an initial positioning than a definitive shift.

Further insights are derived from the analysis of leverage data, which sheds light on trading behaviors and expectations. According to the seven-day liquidation map, short positions are prevalent, with roughly $44 million in shorts compared to about $14 million in longs. This imbalance highlights that short-term traders are predominantly positioned for a downward trend, anticipating further price declines. However, a broader perspective is offered by the 30-day view, where both long and short positions are more balanced at around $38 million each. This equilibrium suggests that longer-term traders are not decidedly bearish, with nearly half of derivatives traders anticipating a potential upward movement in Zcash’s price.

This divergence between short-term caution and longer-term optimism aligns with the observed indicator signals. While immediate downward pressure persists, the improving long-term bullish positioning suggests that Zcash’s upward movement might be delayed rather than derailed entirely.

Turning to price levels, critical thresholds offer insights into potential future movements. The $301 level is identified as a significant support point. This level has been tested multiple times and marks the lower boundary of the current price structure. As long as Zcash maintains a position above this level, the broader uptrend remains valid. However, the immediate challenge lies in the $404 region, which Zcash has struggled to surpass. This level now functions as a pivotal point of control, with a daily close above it serving as a signal that cautious buyers are gaining confidence. Should Zcash manage to reclaim $404, the next significant resistance is around the $520 mark, a level that has restricted upward movement since late November.

Conversely, failure to overcome the $404 level keeps the downside risk open. A breach below the $301 mark could lead to a deeper pullback, even if the longer-term trend remains intact. Presently, the data suggests a delay in upward movement rather than a complete halt, indicating that Zcash is in a waiting mode for stronger market conviction. The path forward hinges on whether Zcash can convincingly reclaim the $404 price level, thereby instilling confidence among cautious investors and potentially setting the stage for the next phase of its market trajectory.

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James Thorp

James T, a passionate crypto journalist from South Africa, explores Litecoin, Dash, & Bitcoin intricacies. Loves sharing insights. Enjoy his work? Donate to support!
Dash: XrD3ZdZAebm988BfHr1vqZZu6amSGuKR5F

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XRP has declined to a critical support level following a 30-day pullback, prompting technical analysis of whether the cryptocurrency can maintain its current price structure.

Summary

XRP has fallen to a key macro support level after a month-long pullback, drawing close attention from technical analysts.
Momentum indicators such as the RSI are oversold on lower timeframes, increasing the probability of a short-term bounce.
If XRP holds above this level and avoids setting a new low, the structure would support a bullish continuation with potential upside later in the year.

The token reached an intraday low in the past 24 hours, according to data from CoinGecko. Technical analysis indicates that the price has reached a macro support level defined by a 0.5 Fibonacci retracement on higher-timeframe charts.

Source: CoinGecko
This support zone previously served as a pivot point, including during a bounce on November 21 that pushed the price higher within 48 hours, the analyst noted. Multiple Fibonacci confluences are clustered in the support region, suggesting structural significance to the price level.

The current pullback has proceeded without sharp breakdowns below the support level as of the latest data, with selling momentum appearing to decrease as the price compresses at this zone, according to the technical analysis.

According to crypto analyst Tara, such moments typically generate heightened concern among traders when price sits on support rather than moving away from it. The analyst noted that retesting support is not inherently bearish, as repeated tests can absorb selling pressure and establish conditions for a subsequent bounce.

Ohhh babbyy… #XRP just reached critical support again at $1.88. This is a VERY strong support level (macro .5!)… Remember, it's always the scariest at support. No need to worry or panic!

Just like on #BTC if XRP bounces and does not make a new low here, its going to get very… pic.twitter.com/uBpSX6HBOh

— TARA (@PrecisionTrade3) December 15, 2025

The analyst emphasized that the token’s reaction at this level carries more significance than the level itself. If XRP holds above the support and avoids establishing a decisive new low, “It’s going to get bullish!” Tara noted.

In that scenario, midterm upside targets could be achieved before the end of the year.

Momentum indicators, including the Relative Strength Index (RSI), have entered oversold territory on the 4-hour candlestick chart, adding to the possibility of a bounce from the support level, the analysis showed.

At press time, the token was showing signs of holding above the support level. However, a breakdown below the current range would invalidate the bullish setup and shift focus to lower retracement areas, according to the technical analysis.

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Mantle was one of the handful of tokens in the top 50 crypto assets that had a positive performance over the past week. MNT was up 9.13% in a week and 1.37% in 24 hours.

At the same time, the daily trading volume fell by 13%. This was likely due to the uncertainty around Bitcoin as the leading crypto asset fell to the $85.7k area on Monday and struggled to recover.

Mantle [MNT] has outperformed Bitcoin (down 5.55% in a week), but is this a sustainable trend? AMBCrypto looked into the price charts to find out.

Solving the Mantle trader dilemma

Source: MNT/USDT on TradingView

The daily chart’s technical indicators were encouraging. The DMI showed a strong uptrend in progress, with both its ADX (yellow) and +DI (green) above 20.

The CMF had also been above +0.05 over the past week to show sizeable capital inflows, though this has slowed down a bit.

Structure-wise, MNT bulls had reason to be hopeful.

While the $1.375 swing high remained unbeaten, the internal structure has shifted bullishly. This could set up a breakout.

Source: MNT/USDT on TradingView

The 1-hour chart also showed a bullish structure. Mantle has slowed down after its rally from the 5th to the 13th of December, and found support at the $1.24 area. The DMI showed a strong trend was not in place.

The CMF’s -0.08 reading indicated elevated selling pressure in this lower timeframe.

Putting the clues together
This situation is not easy to resolve. There is market-wide fear and a wobbly Bitcoin [BTC], and MNT is trending in December.

The swing structure was not yet bullish, with $1.375 being a key resistance. Until it is breached, bears have reason to maintain their bias.

Traders’ call to action – MNT traders need to wait for THIS…
The daily timeframe showed steady capital inflows and a bullish shift in December for the altcoin. Bitcoin might climb toward $94k to hunt the liquidity built up there, which could boost short-term MNT sentiment.

Both the bullish and bearish arguments have weight. Based solely on MNT’s price action across timeframes, the bullish scenario is more likely.

A breakout past $1.375 and a subsequent retest as support would offer a buying opportunity.

Traders need to have clear invalidations before looking to go long. For example, a drop below $1.21-$1.23 would spell trouble for the bulls in the short term.

Final Thoughts

Mantle has been one of the few top 25 crypto assets to have performed bullishly over the past week.
It was approaching a key swing high resistance, and market-wide sentiment did not seem to favor the bulls now.

Disclaimer: The information presented does not constitute financial, investment, trading, or other types of advice and is solely the writer’s opinion