Normal view

Japan’s Bond Yields Hit 1.98%: BOJ Rate Shift Impacts Gold, Silver, and Bitcoin

18 December 2025 at 17:20

Japan’s 10-year government bond yields surged to 1.98% in December 2025, the highest level since the 1990s. It comes as markets braced for the Bank of Japan’s (BOJ) policy meeting on December 19.

The move has triggered a global rally in precious metals, with gold and silver surging 135% and 175%, respectively, since early 2023. Meanwhile, Bitcoin is under pressure as forced selling intensifies across Asian exchanges, highlighting a divergence in market reactions to Japan’s rate shift.

Japan’s Bond Yields Hit 1.98%

For decades, Japan maintained near-zero interest rates, anchoring global liquidity through the yen carry trade.

Investors borrowed yen at a low rate to fund higher-yielding assets worldwide, effectively exporting ultra-low interest rates.

An expected 25-basis-point hike, raising the rate to 0.75%, may appear modest in absolute terms, but the pace of change matters more than the level.

BOJ Interest Rate Probabilities
BOJ Interest Rate Probabilities. Source: Polymarket

“Carry trade at risk: Nobody knows when the real consequences will materialize, but this continued shift will likely drain liquidity from markets, potentially causing a ripple effect through margin calls and other forced deleveraging,” warned Guilherme Tavares, CEO at i3 Invest.

Analysts see the BOJ move as more than a domestic adjustment.

“When Japan’s yields move, global capital pays attention. Gold and silver aren’t reacting to inflation headlines. They’re pricing sovereign balance sheet risk. Japan isn’t a sideshow anymore. It’s the fulcrum,” noted Simon Hou-Vangsaae Reseke.

Gold and Silver Prices Surge Amid Rising Sovereign Risk

Precious metals have been closely tracking Japanese yields. According to Global Market Investor, gold and silver are moving almost perfectly in line with Japanese government bond yields. This suggests that precious metals are being used as a primary hedge against the rising cost of government debt.

Gold and Silver Prices Tracking Japan’s 10Y Bond. Source: Global Markets Investor on X

“It’s not the yield itself, it’s what the move represents — rising sovereign risk, tighter global liquidity, and uncertainty about currency credibility. Gold responds as protection, and silver follows with more volatility,” commented analyst EndGame Macro.

The silver market is showing signs of speculative mania. The China Silver Futures Fund recently traded 12% above the physical metal it tracks, indicating that demand for leveraged exposure is outpacing the underlying asset.

⚠️ Silver market mania is an UNDERSTATEMENT:

The China Silver Futures Fund was trading +12% above the actual value of the silver it is supposed to track

Investors are buying the fund much faster than the silver behind is rising, a sign of SPECULATION. 👇https://t.co/8kAngXV9CH

— Global Markets Investor (@GlobalMktObserv) December 17, 2025

Investors are increasingly treating gold and silver as hedges against broader macro risks, rather than just inflation.

Bitcoin Faces Pressure as Carry Trades Unwind

Meanwhile, the Bitcoin price is feeling the strain of tightening yen liquidity.

“Asia-based exchanges have seen persistent spot selling. Miner reserves are falling — forced selling, not choice…Long-term Asian holders appear to be distributing…Price stays heavy until forced supply is cleared,” wrote CryptoRus, citing XWIN Research Japan.

US institutions continue buying, with the Coinbase Premium positive, but forced liquidations in Asia and an 8% drop in Bitcoin hashrate have added downward pressure.

Bitcoin Price and Coinbase Premium
Bitcoin Price and Coinbase Premium. Source: CryptoQuant

Past BOJ rate shifts have coincided with significant BTC declines, and traders are watching closely for further downside toward $70,000.

THE BANK OF JAPAN MIGHT BE BITCOIN’S BIGGEST ENEMY

Japan holds the most US debt.
Every time they hike, Bitcoin bleeds:

March 2024: -23%
July 2024: -30%
Jan 2025: -31%

Next hike: Dec 19
Next move: loading…

If the pattern repeats, $70K is in play. pic.twitter.com/R5916R702I

— Merlijn The Trader (@MerlijnTrader) December 14, 2025

The contrasting reactions of precious metals and Bitcoin highlight differences in risk positioning. Gold and silver are attracting safe-haven flows amid growing sovereign risk, while Bitcoin faces liquidation-driven price pressure.

Analysts note that future Fed rate cuts may offset the BOJ’s impacts, but the speed of the policy change is crucial.

The post Japan’s Bond Yields Hit 1.98%: BOJ Rate Shift Impacts Gold, Silver, and Bitcoin appeared first on BeInCrypto.

The 11th Crypto Prediction from Bitwise May Not Survive—James Seyffart Warns

18 December 2025 at 15:41

The US crypto ETF (exchange-traded fund) market is approaching a tipping point. Bitwise Asset Management’s 2026 forecast anticipates the launch of more than 100 new crypto-linked ETFs, driven by the SEC’s streamlined listing standards effective from October 2025.

While the outlook projects new all-time highs for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, Bloomberg ETF analyst James Seyffart warns that a significant shakeout may be inevitable as the sector becomes overcrowded.

Bitwise Shares 11 Crypto Predictions for 2026

Bitwise has made 10 projects for 2026, spanning crypto and ETF markets that investors will track closely. According to the crypto index fund manager:

  • Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana will set new all-time highs
  • Bitcoin will break the four-year cycle and set new all-time highs
  • Bitcoin will be less volatile than Nvidia.
  • ETFs will purchase more than 100% of the new supply of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana as institutional demand accelerates.
  • Crypto equities will outperform tech equities.
  • Polymarket open interest will set a new all-time high, surpassing 2024 election levels.
  • Stablecoins will be blamed for destabilizing an emerging market currency.
  • Onchain vaults will double in AUM.
  • Ethereum and Solana will set new all-time highs (if the CLARITY Act passes).
  • Half of Ivy League endowments will invest in crypto.
  • More than 100 crypto-linked ETFs will launch in the US.
  • Bitcoin’s correlation to stocks will fall.

A Wave of ETF Liquidations Could Occur in 2026, James Seyffart

The eleventh prediction turned heads, becoming of particular concern for analysts. The surge of anticipated crypto-linked ETF launches follows a major regulatory shift.

In September 2025, the SEC introduced generic listing standards for commodity-based trust shares, including crypto assets.

“[Several leading exchanges] filed with the SEC proposed rule changes to adopt generic listing standards for Commodity-Based Trust Shares. Each of the foregoing proposed rule changes… was subject to notice and comment. This order approves the Proposals on an accelerated basis,” the SEC’s filing claimed.

This change allows ETFs to list without individualized review, reducing delays and uncertainty.

Bitwise expects this regulatory clarity to drive institutional adoption and fresh inflows into crypto ETFs in 2026.

2026 PREDICTION: More than 100 crypto-linked ETFs will launch in the U.S.⁰⁰In October 2025, the SEC published generic listing standards, allowing ETF issuers to launch crypto ETFs under a general set of rules. A clearer regulatory roadmap in 2026 is why we see the stage being… pic.twitter.com/rQbcWe6JE4

— Bitwise (@BitwiseInvest) December 17, 2025

“I’m in 100% agreement with Bitwise here,” Seyffart indicated. “I also think we’re going to see a lot of liquidations in crypto ETP products. Might happen at the tail end of 2026, but likely by the end of 2027. Issuers are throwing A LOT of products at the wall.”

Bitcoin ETF Dominance and Altcoin Saturation

Bloomberg data shows 90 existing crypto ETPs managing $153 billion, with 125 filings pending. Bitcoin leads with $125 billion across 60 products, while Ethereum follows at $22 billion in 25 ETFs.

Altcoins like XRP and Solana remain niche, with 11–13 products each and $1.5–$1.6 billion in assets, signaling rising saturation risks.

The state of crypto ETFs/ETPs
The state of crypto ETFs/ETPs. Source: Bloomberg’s James Seyffart on X

With the market poised to be flooded, analysts anticipate direct competition for investor capital. However, historical trends suggest caution, with roughly 40% of ETFs launched since 2010 eventually closing, often due to insufficient assets or trading volume.

The Coming Crypto ETF Shakeout: Winners, Losers, and the Rise of ‘Zombie’ Assets

Seyffart’s warning reflects a broader concern that fast expansion often precedes consolidation. Crypto ETFs that fail to attract sufficient AUM, differentiate their strategies, or establish strong distribution networks may face early closure.

Products offering specialized exposure strategies, income features, or tailored risk profiles could establish lasting positions.

Chris Matta, CEO of Liquid Collective, echoes this concern in the context of “zombie” projects, describing crypto assets with market caps of $1 billion or more but minimal development.

“Maybe the failure to sustain an ETF in trad markets will be a stronger signal and will result in larger performance dispersion between active and dead crypto assets,” Matta said.

Therefore, investors entering the ETF space will need to be highly selective. Trading liquidity, tracking accuracy, fee structures, and issuer credibility will be crucial in distinguishing sustainable products from those that are likely to fail.

Meanwhile, Bitwise’s bullish predictions suggest that leading ETFs tied to major assets may continue to benefit from sustained institutional inflows.

The expected wave of liquidations by late 2027 will likely reshape the sector, consolidating capital among the strongest products.

While disruptive, the process may ultimately strengthen the US crypto ETF market by:

  • Removing weak offerings,
  • Clarifying choices for investors, and
  • Highlighting differentiated strategies.

The question remains: in a crowded ETF sector, which products will survive and which will join the growing ranks of crypto’s forgotten “zombie” assets?

The post The 11th Crypto Prediction from Bitwise May Not Survive—James Seyffart Warns appeared first on BeInCrypto.

Peter Brandt Turns Bearish on XRP Price Despite Ripple’s Push for Multichain Expansion

18 December 2025 at 14:27

Veteran trader Peter Brandt has struck a bearish tone on XRP price, warning that the token may be forming a classic double-top pattern. His stance comes despite Ripple accelerating ecosystem growth through multichain stablecoin expansion and new institutional tools for XRP holders.

Brandt’s caution comes at a moment when XRP’s fundamentals and infrastructure narrative appear to be strengthening, creating a growing disconnect between technical signals and long-term adoption developments.

Brandt Flags Potential Double-Top Risk for XRP Price

The veteran chartist highlighted what he views as a potentially bearish setup on the XRP price chart. According to Peter Brandt, XRP may be forming a double-top, an often-cited reversal pattern that emerges when an asset fails to break above resistance after two attempts.

XRP chart showing potential double top pattern
XRP price chart highlighting potential double-top formation. Source: Peter Brandt on X

Double-top patterns in technical analysis typically signal waning bullish momentum and can precede deeper pullbacks if confirmation follows.

“I know in advance that all you Riplosts XRP will forever remind me of this post — ask me if I care. This is a potential double top,” Brandt wrote.

The XRP price has been consolidating after its late-2024 rally, placing greater focus on whether support levels can hold.

However, Brandt also acknowledged that the pattern could fail, leaving room for alternative interpretations.

“Sure, it may fail, and I will deal with this if it does. But for now, this has bearish implications. Love it or not — you need to deal with it,” he added.

Analysts Highlight Bullish Historical Context

Other market analysts see the current setup very differently. Analyst Steph is Crypto pointed to XRP’s recurring behavior around its 50-week simple moving average (SMA), arguing that prior cycles suggest downside exhaustion rather than the start of a larger decline.

“Every cycle, when XRP breaks below the 50-week SMA and stays there for roughly 50–84 days, a strong rally has followed,” the analyst noted.

Historical examples include a 211% rally after 70 days below the SMA in 2017, a 70% move following 49 days in 2021, and an 850% surge after 84 days in 2024.

The XRP price has now spent roughly 70 days below its 50-week SMA, placing it squarely within the same historical window..

XRP historical performance relative to 50-week SMA
XRP’s historical rallies following extended periods below 50-week SMA. Source: Steph_iscrypto

The analysis suggests that what appears bearish in isolation could align with past cycle bottoms, mirroring the current split in technical interpretation.

Ripple Expands RLUSD Across Layer 2 Networks As Institutional Access Continues to Grow

While technical debate intensifies, Ripple continues to expand its ecosystem. On December 16, the company announced that its US dollar stablecoin, Ripple USD (RLUSD), will expand to Optimism, Base, Ink, and Unichain.

It leverages Wormhole’s Native Token Transfers (NTT) standard for multichain interoperability.

RLUSD was initially issued on the XRP Ledger and Ethereum. The Layer 2 rollout is designed to improve scalability, liquidity movement, and real-world utility across DeFi and institutional platforms.

Ripple emphasized that RLUSD is issued under a trust charter granted by the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS). This positions it as one of the most tightly regulated stablecoins entering Layer 2 ecosystems.

The company has also applied for a US OCC charter and recently gained regulatory recognition in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Wormhole added that XRP holders will be able to use XRP alongside RLUSD as a “premier trading and liquidity pair” across supported chains, supported by wrapped XRP (wXRP) issuance for cross-chain use.

Enhanced utility is coming for $XRP

XRP holders can use XRP alongside $RLUSD as a premier trading and liquidity pair on supported chains, allowing businesses to facilitate payments and checkout options that let users buy, sell, or send digital assets. pic.twitter.com/DMcSWyQ2XV

— Wormhole (@wormhole) December 17, 2025

Institutional tooling for XRP is also expanding. Digital Wealth Partners recently launched an algorithmic XRP trading strategy for qualified retirement accounts, offering insured custody through Anchorage Digital.

The service gives high-net-worth investors access to systematic XRP trading within regulated, tax-advantaged accounts. This reflects broader efforts to integrate crypto into traditional wealth management structures.

Digital Wealth Partners Launches Algorithmic XRP Trading Strategy Powered by @tryarchpublic for Qualified Retirement Accountshttps://t.co/ro7ipgP48D

— Digital Wealth Partners (@DWP_advisors) December 16, 2025

As XRP faces conflicting technical signals, its trajectory may hinge on whether bearish chart patterns dominate or whether historical cycles and expanding utility ultimately reassert control.

The post Peter Brandt Turns Bearish on XRP Price Despite Ripple’s Push for Multichain Expansion appeared first on BeInCrypto.

Bitfinex Bitcoin Whale Long Positions Surge 36%: What Does it Mean?

18 December 2025 at 13:23

Large Bitcoin investors on Bitfinex are once again commanding market attention. Analysts tracking leveraged positioning data show that margined Bitcoin long positions held by “whales” have surged sharply, approaching levels last seen in March 2024.

The renewed build-up is occurring even as broader market participation cools, raising questions about what these well-capitalized traders are signaling.

What Does the Record High in Whale Long Positions on Bitfinex Signify?

According to on-chain analyst James Van Straten, Bitfinex whales have continued to add aggressively to their positions.

“Bitfinex whale continues to add to its margin long bitcoin position, approaching March 2024 highs. 36% higher in the past 3 months,” he wrote on X (Twitter).

The data highlights a steady accumulation trend since September, with long exposure expanding during periods of price weakness rather than rallies.

Bitfinex itself appeared to acknowledge the activity, highlighting that large, experienced traders may be positioning with conviction, while smaller participants are reducing risk.

Whale moves 🐳https://t.co/1Zgcof54xV

— Bitfinex (@bitfinex) December 8, 2025

This divergence in behavior is notable. While Bitcoin’s price action has remained choppy in recent weeks, whale accumulation has intensified.

Bitfinex Bitcoin long positions approaching March 2024 highs
Bitfinex Bitcoin long positions approaching March 2024 highs. Source: TradingView

Historically, these Bitfinex long positions have been associated with traders who use leverage tactically. They often scale into positions during drawdowns rather than chasing upside momentum.

According to crypto executive Samson Mow, the current dynamic is a transfer of coins from impatient sellers to long-term holders.

“Bitfinex whales out in force buying from paper hands,” he said, pointing to the contrast between selling pressure from weaker hands and sustained buying by large accounts.

A Contrarian Signal, But Not a Timing Tool

The Bitfinex whale long metric has long been watched as a potential leading indicator in technical analysis. However, its interpretation requires nuance.

These traders have a documented pattern of increasing long exposure during declines and trimming positions into strength. As a result, elevated long positions are often followed, not preceded, by price rallies.

Van Straten cautioned that the signal’s real value lies in watching for reversals rather than absolute levels.

“Short term, once the trend reverses,” he noted, implying that the eventual reduction of these longs may be more informative than their current size.

Not everyone agrees on the reliability of the indicator. Analyst Parabear Nick challenges overly confident interpretations of whale data, dismissing some bullish narratives entirely, amid claims that whale accumulation alone guarantees higher prices.

Indeed, historical data support a more balanced view. Whale long positions have reached extremes at different points in past cycles, sometimes remaining elevated for months before any decisive move in price.

Multi-year comparison of whale positioning versus Bitcoin price trends
Multi-year comparison of whale positioning versus Bitcoin price trends. Source: Parabear Nick on X

This suggests that while the metric can provide insight into positioning and sentiment, it should be evaluated in conjunction with other indicators, such as open interest, funding rates, and macro liquidity conditions.

The current accumulation comes as open interest across derivatives markets trends lower, signaling reduced participation from retail and short-term traders.

In that context, the concentration of leverage among whales becomes more significant. With fewer speculative participants, large players exert greater influence over marginal price movements.

What remains unclear is timing. Elevated whale longs suggest expectations of higher prices, but not necessarily an imminent breakout.

The key inflection point will come if and when these positions begin to unwind. Historically, such shifts have preceded changes in market regimes.

The post Bitfinex Bitcoin Whale Long Positions Surge 36%: What Does it Mean? appeared first on BeInCrypto.

Tether’s New Move Could Make Cloud Passwords Obsolete | US Crypto News

17 December 2025 at 23:02

Welcome to the US Crypto News Morning Briefing—your essential rundown of the most important developments in crypto for the day ahead.

Grab a coffee as USDT stablecoin issuer, Tether, pushes to change the way we protect our digital lives. A new approach promises to put control back in your hands, bypassing the cloud and leaving traditional password methods looking increasingly outdated.

Crypto News of the Day: Tether Just Unleashed A Secret Weapon Against Cloud Breaches

Tether has taken a bold step into cybersecurity with the launch of PearPass, a first-of-its-kind peer-to-peer password manager designed to eliminate reliance on cloud storage. The app:

  • Keeps all credentials on users’ devices
  • Removes centralized servers and intermediaries from the equation
  • Gives users full control over their digital security.

The launch comes at a time when billions of login credentials have been leaked in high-profile breaches, exposing users to identity theft, financial loss, and other cyber risks.

Traditional cloud-based password managers, while convenient, have become attractive targets for hackers due to their centralized storage models.

PearPass addresses these vulnerabilities by storing all data locally on users’ devices and enabling encrypted, peer-to-peer synchronization across devices chosen by the user.

“Every major breach proves the same point: if your secrets live in the cloud, they’re not really yours…PearPass removes the single point of failure. No servers, no intermediaries, no back doors. Recovery and synchronization across devices happen peer-to-peer, under your control. This is security that can’t be switched off, seized, or compromised, because it was never in someone else’s hands to begin with,” read an excerpt in Tether’s announcement, citing CEO Paolo Ardoino.

PearPass combines ease of use with advanced security features. It includes a built-in password generator, end-to-end encryption powered by open-source cryptography, and a peer-to-peer architecture that ensures credentials are never exposed to third parties.

Recovery is entirely user-controlled through private keys, eliminating dependency on external systems.

PearPass Sets a New Standard for Decentralized, Open-Source Security

Additionally, PearPass is fully open-source and community-audited, enabling security experts and users to inspect, verify, and contribute to the software.

The platform has also reportedly undergone an independent security audit by Secfault Security, a firm specializing in offensive security and cryptographic analysis. This reinforces its resilience against real-world cyber threats.

Introducing🍐🔒 PearPass — the password manager that keeps your data on your devices.

No servers to hack. No cloud to leak.

Just pure local security.

Follow @Pears_p2p & Download the App https://t.co/gP9FIPn2dW pic.twitter.com/ObIuyfToMo

— Tether (@Tether_to) December 17, 2025

This release reflects Tether’s broader strategy to develop technologies resilient against the pressures of centralization. As governments, corporations, and intermediaries increasingly seek access to private data, PearPass offers a model for systems that remain private, independent, and functional, even under high-threat scenarios.

However, while peer-to-peer avoids cloud risks:

  • It can be less convenient for users who frequently switch devices.

Recovery relies entirely on users managing their own keys, which could be risky for non-technical users.

  • Experts may question whether the average consumer will adopt a decentralized password manager.

This is at a time when mainstream cloud-based options are more user-friendly and integrated into browsers and mobile platforms.

  • Users still need strong device-level security.

While PearPass helps prevent cloud breaches, it cannot protect against local device hacking, malware, or physical theft.

Encrypted peer-to-peer synchronization is promising, but peer networks can introduce latency, synchronization errors, or potential attack vectors if not properly secured.

In as much as PearPass relies on open-source audits and Secfault Security, no system is entirely risk-free. Skeptics may point out that first-of-its-kind peer-to-peer solutions carry unknown risks until widely tested in real-world environments.

Byte-Sized Alpha

Here’s a summary of more US crypto news to follow today:

Crypto Equities Pre-Market Overview

CompanyAt the Close of December 16Pre-Market Overview
Strategy (MSTR)$167.50$167.40 (-0.060%)
Coinbase (COIN)$252.61$254.00 (+0.51%)
Galaxy Digital Holdings (GLXY)$24.31$24.51 (+0.82%)
MARA Holdings (MARA)$10.69$10.75 (+0.56%)
Riot Platforms (RIOT)$13.47$13.65 (+1.34%)
Core Scientific (CORZ)$14.73$15.11 (+2.58%)
Crypto equities market open race: Google Finance

The post Tether’s New Move Could Make Cloud Passwords Obsolete | US Crypto News appeared first on BeInCrypto.

Binance Puts $5 Million Bounty on Fake Listing Agents as Scrutiny Intensifies

17 December 2025 at 20:35

Binance has launched a whistleblower reward of up to $5 million as part of a sweeping crackdown on fraudulent third-party “listing agents.”

The exchange warns crypto projects that any individual claiming to influence listings on the exchange is operating illegally.

Binance Offers $5 Million Whistleblower Reward as It Cracks Down on Fake Listing Agents

The announcement, published Wednesday in a transparency update, comes at a sensitive moment for the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange.

Binance faces heightened scrutiny over its listing practices following alleged insider trading incidents linked to leaked token information.

$year of yellow fruit
0x2fe3731d8b61515aad65757c7cab8042c43a4444
Trades and Price Chart:https://t.co/MOHKDeoL43
"year of yellow fruit" comes from a Binance Futures tweet:
“The year of the yellow fruit and harvest! Plant wisely. Harvest abundantly.”Before this tweet was posted,… pic.twitter.com/1aHMu7TWkw

— Nineteen (@nineteenthvibe) December 7, 2025

In its notice, Binance reiterated that all token listing applications must be submitted exclusively through its official channels, covering Binance Alpha, Futures, and Spot markets.

The exchange stressed that it does not authorize external brokers, consultants, or intermediaries to negotiate, facilitate, or guarantee listings.

“Any party claiming to represent Binance or offering listing-related services in exchange for payment is engaging in fraudulent behavior,” the company said.

Blacklist and Internal Audit Findings

The exchange revealed that an internal audit uncovered repeated cases of individuals and firms misrepresenting themselves as Binance-connected facilitators while soliciting fees from project founders.

As a result, the exchange has blacklisted seven entities and individuals, including:

  • BitABC
  • Central Research
  • May/Dannie
  • Andrew Lee
  • Suki Yang
  • Fiona Lee, and
  • Kenny Z

According to Binance, these parties were identified for falsely implying relationships with the exchange or offering paid listing services. The company said legal action would be pursued “where appropriate.”

Blockchain data provider RootData shows that one of the blacklisted groups, Central Research, has previously backed several crypto projects, including Fireverse, Nebula Revelation, AKI Network, Fusionist, and Artyfact.

Of those, only Fusionist (ACE) currently trades on Binance. The exchange did not draw any connection between the blacklist findings and prior listing decisions.

Central Research-Backed Projects
Central Research-Backed Projects. Source: Rootsdata

To encourage reporting, Binance said whistleblowers who provide verifiable evidence of fraudulent activity could receive rewards of up to $5 million, depending on the quality and impact of the information submitted.

Binance Tightens Listing Rules Amid Insider Trading Fallout

As part of the update, Binance published a detailed breakdown of how projects progress through its listing ecosystem, from early-stage exposure on Binance Alpha to Futures and eventual Spot listings.

The exchange emphasized that it does not charge fees for listing applications and that all communications must come directly from a project’s core team.

Projects found to have used intermediaries or middlemen will be immediately disqualified from current and future listing reviews, Binance warned. However, teams that proactively report fraudulent agents may receive priority consideration.

The announcement follows Binance’s confirmation earlier this month that an employee leaked confidential listing information related to the “year of the yellow fruit” meme coin. The exchange’s co-CEO, Yi He, had addressed the incident.  

“Currently, the community is engaging in community behavior unrelated to Binance by issuing coins based on Binance’s official Twitter, my statements, or words excerpted from posts. But we cannot stop posting just because someone might come looking for angles,” she said.

Binance also disclosed that it distributed $100,000 in rewards to five whistleblowers who helped expose the misconduct.

Taken together, the blacklist, bounty program, and stricter enforcement signal a broader effort by Binance to rebuild trust around its listing process.

This is at a time when exchanges face increasing pressure to demonstrate transparency, internal controls, and fair market practices.

The post Binance Puts $5 Million Bounty on Fake Listing Agents as Scrutiny Intensifies appeared first on BeInCrypto.

The Nonfarm Payrolls Surprise That Could Rattle Bitcoin Before Christmas | US Crypto News

17 December 2025 at 00:18

Welcome to the US Crypto News Morning Briefing—your essential rundown of the most important developments in crypto for the day ahead.

Grab a coffee as the latest US labor data delivers mixed signals on jobs, wages, and unemployment. Traders are weighing what it all means for risk assets, from equities to Bitcoin, as volatility sets the tone.

Crypto News of the Day: October Jobs Collapse and November Modest Gain Signal Uneven Market

The US Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) report for October and November 2025 delivered a shock to markets, as it is one of the crucial economic data points this week. It revealed a cooling labor market that could reverberate through both equities and crypto.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS),October saw a sharp decline of 105,000 jobs, far below the estimated -25,000. This marks a pronounced slowdown in labor market momentum.

Analysts are labeling it an outlier, reflecting disruptions from delayed government data collection and seasonal adjustments.

*US OCT. NONFARM PAYROLLS FALL 105K M/M; EST. -25K

this is all govt and an outlier

— zerohedge (@zerohedge) December 16, 2025

November posted a 64,000 gain, slightly above the 50,000 consensus, but with the unemployment rate climbing to 4.6% from 4.4% in October, higher than the expected 4.5%.

🚨 Just In: November Nonfarm Payrolls rise 64,000, above expectations for 40,000.

The U.S. Unemployment Rate rose from 4.4% to 4.6%, worse than estimates for 4.5%.

What will Jerome Powell do now? pic.twitter.com/kFozsmOsgh

— Jesse Cohen (@JesseCohenInv) December 16, 2025

While November’s rise offers some relief, it highlights the uneven nature of recent US labor market activity.

Fed and Market Implications For Bitcoin and Risk Assets

The data is likely to reinforce dovish narratives for the Federal Reserve. Powell previously cited a weakening labor market as justification for rate cuts, and today’s figures suggest the economy is far from overheated.

Traders may interpret the report as a signal that further easing in 2026 is plausible, which could support risk assets, including Bitcoin, if liquidity expectations remain intact. Bitcoin has been trapped near $90,000, and today’s data could trigger short-term volatility.

Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance
Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance. Source: BeInCrypto

A weak October print followed by a modest November recovery may fuel a relief rally toward $95,000 as markets price in potential Fed accommodation.

Conversely, the unexpectedly high unemployment rate could reignite recession fears, creating whipsaw moves in crypto, equities, and FX.

“While markets typically cheer the resolution of uncertainty, this specific data dump is unique. The cooling trend might spark an initial crypto rally on renewed hopes for aggressive Fed cuts in 2026. But if the numbers are too weak, the narrative could quickly pivot from liquidity hopes to recession fears, historically dampening risk appetite across the board,” Jimmy Xue, COO and Co-founder at Axis, told BeInCrypto.

Market participants remain wary. With October’s data representing an outlier and November’s figures collected late, statistical distortions and revisions are possible.

Algorithm-driven trading and lean liquidity could amplify volatility in the near term, making measured positioning critical.

Amid mixed signals, traditional safe havens like gold may continue to attract flows, as the US dollar faces pressure and risk sentiment remains fragile in tech-heavy sectors.

Chart of the Day

Analysis of BLS Current Establishment Survey
Analysis of BLS Current Establishment Survey. Source: Jed Kolko on X

Byte-Sized Alpha

Here’s a summary of more US crypto news to follow today:

Crypto Equities Pre-Market Overview

CompanyAt the Close of December 15Pre-Market Overview
Strategy (MSTR)$162.08$165.23 (+1.94%)
Coinbase (COIN)$250.42$253.61 (+1.27%)
Galaxy Digital Holdings (GLXY)$24.54$24.59 (+0.20%)
MARA Holdings (MARA)$10.70$10.82 (+1.12%)
Riot Platforms (RIOT)$13.71$13.81 (+0.73%)
Core Scientific (CORZ)$15.28$15.27 (-0.065%)
Crypto equities market open race: Google Finance

The post The Nonfarm Payrolls Surprise That Could Rattle Bitcoin Before Christmas | US Crypto News appeared first on BeInCrypto.

Tom Lee Spots a Big Ethereum Signal in JPMorgan’s Tokenization Push| US Crypto News

15 December 2025 at 23:41

Welcome to the US Crypto News Morning Briefing—your essential rundown of the most important developments in crypto for the day ahead.

Grab a coffee, because Wall Street has just sent another signal that crypto’s future is becoming increasingly institutional. As JPMorgan moves a core financial product on-chain, market watchers are wondering whether this is merely experimentation or a deeper shift toward Ethereum as an economic infrastructure.

Crypto News of the Day: JPMorgan Takes Money Markets On-Chain with Ethereum-Powered Fund

JPMorgan Chase has taken another decisive step into blockchain-based finance, launching its first tokenized money market fund on the Ethereum network.

According to reporting by WSJ, the banking giant’s $4 trillion asset-management arm has rolled out the My OnChain Net Yield Fund, or MONY. It is a private money market fund deployed on Ethereum and supported by JPMorgan’s tokenization platform, Kinexys Digital Assets.

The bank will seed the fund with $100 million of its own capital before opening it to outside investors, signaling strong internal conviction in tokenized financial products.

JPMORGAN STEPS FURTHER INTO CRYPTO WITH TOKENIZED MONEY FUND

The banking giant’s $4 trillion asset-management arm is rolling out its first tokenized money-market fund on the Ethereum blockchain. JPMorgan will seed the fund with $100 million of its own capital, and then open it… pic.twitter.com/TTlS5E1MyV

— Evan (@StockMKTNewz) December 15, 2025

MONY is structured for institutional and high-net-worth participation only. It is open to qualified investors, including individuals with at least $5 million in investable assets and institutions with a minimum of $25 million, as well as a $1 million investment minimum.

Investors receive digital tokens representing their fund interests, bringing traditional money-market exposure onto blockchain rails while preserving familiar yield dynamics.

According to the report, JPMorgan executives attribute client demand as the driving force behind the launch.

“There is a massive amount of interest from clients around tokenization,” read an excerpt in the report, citing John Donohue, head of global liquidity at JPMorgan Asset Management.

He added that the firm expects to be a leader in the space by offering blockchain-based equivalents to traditional money-market products.

The launch comes amid accelerating momentum for tokenized assets on Wall Street, following the passage of the GENIUS Act earlier this year.

The legislation established a US regulatory framework for stablecoins and is widely viewed as a catalyst for broader tokenization efforts across funds, bonds, and real-world assets.

Since then, major financial institutions have moved quickly to explore blockchain as core market infrastructure rather than a peripheral experiment.

For Ethereum, JPMorgan’s decision to deploy MONY on its network is being read as a meaningful institutional endorsement. Fundstrat co-founder Tom Lee reacted to the news by calling it “bullish for ETH.”

This is bullish for $ETH https://t.co/LdGMHYKM9P

— Thomas (Tom) Lee (not drummer) FSInsight.com (@fundstrat) December 15, 2025

This comment highlights how products like MONY expand Ethereum’s real-world utility through transaction activity, smart contract execution, and deeper integration into global finance.

Crypto commentators echoed the sentiment, with some arguing that Ethereum’s role as the settlement layer for regulated financial products is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

JPMorgan vs. BlackRock: Tokenized Money Market Funds Signal a New Era in Finance

JPMorgan’s move also invites comparisons with BlackRock’s tokenized money market fund, BUIDL, which has grown to roughly $1.83 billion in assets under management, according to public blockchain data.

BlackRock’s Money Market Fund (BUIDL)
BlackRock’s Money Market Fund (BUIDL). Source: Rwa.xyz

Like MONY, BUIDL invests in short-term US Treasuries, repurchase agreements, and cash equivalents. However, it follows a multi-chain strategy and is administered through a different tokenization partner.

Together, the two funds highlight a broader trend that traditional finance (TradFi) firms are converging on blockchain to modernize low-risk, yield-bearing products.

More broadly, analysts view tokenization as a means for traditional money market funds to remain competitive with stablecoins, while unlocking new use cases such as on-chain settlement, programmability, and enhanced transferability.

JPMorgan has already experimented with tokenized deposits, private equity funds, and institutional payment tokens, suggesting that MONY is part of a longer-term strategy rather than a standalone pilot.

As regulatory clarity improves and institutional participation deepens, JPMorgan’s Ethereum-based fund reinforces the narrative that blockchain, once seen as niche, is steadily becoming an integral part of the operating system of modern finance.

For Ethereum, that shift may prove to be one of the most consequential signals yet.

Chart of the Day

BlackRock’s BUIDL vs JPMorgan’s MONY Tokenized Money Market Fund
BlackRock’s BUIDL vs JPMorgan’s MONY Tokenized Money Market Fund

Byte-Sized Alpha

Here’s a summary of more US crypto news to follow today:

Crypto Equities Pre-Market Overview

CompanyAt the Close of December 12Pre-Market Overview
Strategy (MSTR)$176.45$176.75 (+0.17%)
Coinbase (COIN)$267.46$268.40 (+0.35%)
Galaxy Digital Holdings (GLXY)$26.75$26.75 (0.00%)
MARA Holdings (MARA)$11.52$11.56 (+0.35%)
Riot Platforms (RIOT)$15.30$15.31 (+0.065%)
Core Scientific (CORZ)$16.53$16.65 (+0.73%)
Crypto equities market open race: Google Finance

The post Tom Lee Spots a Big Ethereum Signal in JPMorgan’s Tokenization Push| US Crypto News appeared first on BeInCrypto.

Mike Belshe Claims BitGo Outsmarts the SEC’s Custody Rules

15 December 2025 at 05:33

In response to the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s recent investor bulletin on crypto custody, BitGo CEO Mike Belshe has positioned his firm as the only provider offering all the custody options described by the SEC.

It comes only days after BitGo secured regulatory approval to operate as a bank, effectively expanding its institutional services.

BitGo Claims It Can Do What No Other Crypto Custodian Can

In a post on X (Twitter), Belshe emphasized that the BitGo exchange enables institutions to combine self-custody and third-party custody into a single hybrid strategy, creating custom risk profiles that no other provider can replicate.

“BitGo stands alone as the only provider delivering an institutional-grade platform for every option described by the SEC,” Belshe wrote. “Our clients no longer have to choose between security and control—they can have both.”

The SEC bulletin, released on December 12, 2025, outlined the basics of crypto custody for retail investors, defining two primary models:

  • Self-custody, where investors hold their private keys, and
  • Third-party custody, where a qualified custodian manages assets.

While most providers require clients to pick one model, BitGo allows institutions to utilize both simultaneously.

Under BitGo’s framework, 90% of client assets can be stored in BitGo Trust cold storage, meeting standards of regulatory compliance, insurance, and security.

The remaining 10% can reside in self-custody hot wallets, enabling real-time transactions and operational flexibility.

This hybrid approach mitigates single points of failure. If self-custody keys are lost, assets in the trust remain safe, while traditional exchanges would risk freezing all funds in the event of insolvency.

BitGo Bank & Trust, NA, a federally chartered national bank, underpins the platform’s third-party custody solution. Subject to regular SOC 1 Type 2 and SOC 2 Type 2 audits, the bank supports more than 1,400 coins and tokens under segregated accounts, backed by a $250 million insurance policy from Lloyd’s of London syndicates.

Curious about crypto wallets and how to store and access crypto assets? Check out our Crypto Asset Custody Basics Investor Bulletin.https://t.co/x4HMYMHLAe pic.twitter.com/bSbP25nzOc

— U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (@SECGov) December 13, 2025

According to Belshe, BitGo does not rehypothecate, lend, or commingle client assets, maintaining strict 1:1 custody standards.

For self-custody, BitGo provides wallets with 2-of-3 Multi-Sig or MPC threshold security. Clients retain two keys while BitGo holds one for co-signing, enabling policy controls without compromising autonomy.

Together with the third-party trust, these options are consolidated on a single dashboard, providing clients with full transparency, flexibility, and control across various custody models.

BitGo Aligns with SEC Questions While Offering Full Custody Flexibility

BitGo also addresses the seven questions the SEC recommends investors ask when selecting a custodian. These include:

  • Background verification
  • Asset coverage
  • Storage protocols
  • Use of assets
  • Privacy protections, and
  • Fee structures.

By answering these questions, BitGo demonstrates that institutions can manage their crypto assets securely, compliantly, and efficiently.

As regulators increasingly scrutinize crypto custody, BitGo’s model sets a new industry benchmark: one that combines compliance, operational control, and insurance coverage on a unified platform.

Belshe’s assertion highlights the growing demand from institutions seeking both the security of qualified custody and the autonomy of self-custody. Such a combination was previously unavailable in a single interface.

The assertions come only days after BitGo received a conditional approval to become a national trust bank. Others include Ripple, Fidelity Digital Assets, and Paxos.

We're pleased to announce that BitGo has met the conditions for full approval and is now a federally chartered bank for digital assets.

Hear more from BitGo CEO @mikebelshe on Bloomberg News 👇 pic.twitter.com/jf4f9MzPAK

— BitGo (@BitGo) December 12, 2025

In a sector where asset security and regulatory compliance often conflict, BitGo’s hybrid model may represent the next evolution of institutional crypto custody.

The post Mike Belshe Claims BitGo Outsmarts the SEC’s Custody Rules appeared first on BeInCrypto.

5 Reasons Q1 2026 Could Spark the Biggest Crypto Bull Run Yet

15 December 2025 at 04:20

Experts are increasingly signaling a potential crypto bull run in the first quarter (Q1) of 2026, driven by a convergence of macroeconomic factors.

Analysts suggest Bitcoin could surge between $300,000 and $600,000 if these catalysts materialize.

Five Macro Trends Fueling a Potential Rally in Q1 2026

A combination of five key trends is creating what analysts describe as a “perfect storm” for digital assets.

1. Fed Balance Sheet Pause Removes Headwind

The Federal Reserve’s quantitative tightening (QT), which drained liquidity throughout 2025, ended recently.

Simply halting the liquidity drain is historically bullish for risk assets. Data from previous cycles suggest Bitcoin can rally up to 40% when central banks stop contracting their balance sheets.

Analyst Benjamin Cowen indicated that early 2026 could be the time when markets begin to feel the impact of the Fed ending its QT.

In 2019, the Fed announced QT would end on August 1st.

The balance sheet of the Fed continued dropping in August despite QT having officially ended because the last round of treasury maturities did not settle until mid August.

Just because QT ends December 1st does not mean the…

— Benjamin Cowen (@intocryptoverse) December 1, 2025

2. Rate Cuts Could Return

The Federal Reserve recently cut interest rates, with its commentary and Goldman Sachs forecasts indicating interest rate cuts could resume in 2026, potentially bringing rates down to 3–3.25%.

Goldman: "We expect another Fed cut in December, followed by two more moves in March and June 2026 that take the funds rate to 3-3.25%."

— zerohedge (@zerohedge) November 23, 2025

Lower rates typically increase liquidity and boost appetite for speculative assets such as cryptocurrencies.

3. Improved Short-End Liquidity

Increased Treasury bill purchases or other support at the short end of the yield curve could ease funding pressures and reduce short-term rates. The Fed says it will start technical buying of Treasury bills to manage market liquidity.

“[buying is] solely for the purpose of maintaining an ample supply of reserves over time, thus supporting effective control of our policy rate…these issues are separate from and have no implications for the stance of monetary policy,” said Fed Chair Jerome Powell.

The Fed periodically comes in during short-term funding markets amid instances of liquidity imbalances. These imbalances manifest in the overnight repo market, where banks borrow cash in exchange for Treasuries.

Recently, multiple indicators point to a rising short-term funding pressure, including:

  • Money market funds sitting on elevated levels of cash,
  • T-bill issuance tightening as the Treasury shifted its borrowing mix, and
  • Increasing seasonal demand for liquidity.

The Fed initiated a controlled purchase plan of Treasury bills to prevent short-term interest rates from deviating from the target Federal Funds Rate. These are the shortest-maturity government securities, typically ranging from a few weeks to one year in duration.

While not a classic QE move, this measure could still serve as a significant liquidity tailwind for crypto markets.

Schedule for regular Treasury bill (T-bill) purchase operations conducted by the New York Fed
Schedule for regular Treasury bill (T-bill) purchase operations conducted by the New York Fed. Source: XWIN Research and Asset Management

For Q1 2026, the broader implications for risk assets, such as crypto and equities, are generally positive but moderate, stemming from a shift in Fed policy toward maintaining or gradually expanding liquidity.

4. Political Incentives Favor Stability

With US midterm elections scheduled for November 2026, policymakers are likely to favor market stability over disruption.

This environment reduces the risk of sudden regulatory shocks and enhances investor confidence in risk assets.

“If the stock market in the USA falters before the midterm elections, the current US administration will be held accountable – hence they will do everything they can to keep things going in equities (and crypto,” wrote macro researcher Thorsten Froehlich.

5. The Employment “Paradox”

Weakening labor market data, such as soft employment or modest layoffs, often triggers dovish Fed responses.

Softer labor conditions increase pressure on the Fed to ease policy, indirectly creating more liquidity and favorable conditions for cryptocurrencies.

Expert Outlook Suggests Bullish Sentiment Growing

Industry observers are aligning with the macro view. Alice Liu, Head of Research at CoinMarketCap, forecasts a crypto market comeback in February and March 2026, citing a combination of positive macro indicators.

“We are going to see a market comeback in Q1 of 2026. February and March will be a bull market again, based on a combination of macro indicators,” Binance reported, citing said Alice Liu, Head of Research, CoinMarketCap

Some analysts are even more optimistic. Crypto commentator Vibes predicts Bitcoin could reach $300,000 to $600,000 in Q1 2026. This reflects extreme bullish sentiment amid improving liquidity and easing macro conditions.

CRYPTO IS ABOUT TO HAVE THE BIGGEST PUMP WE'VE EVER SEEN IN OUR LIVES

I'M EXPECTING ANYWHERE BETWEEN $300K AND $600K IN Q1 2026

— Vibes (@Vibesmetax) December 14, 2025

Currently, market participation remains muted. Bitcoin open interest has declined, reflecting cautious trader sentiment.

However, if these macroeconomic tailwinds materialize, consolidation could quickly give way to a significant surge, setting the stage for a historic start to 2026 in the crypto markets.

The post 5 Reasons Q1 2026 Could Spark the Biggest Crypto Bull Run Yet appeared first on BeInCrypto.

Bank of Japan Rate Hike Could Trigger 20-30% Bitcoin Decline as Markets Price 98% Probability

15 December 2025 at 02:06

Markets are bracing for a potentially pivotal week for Bitcoin as the Bank of Japan (BOJ) heads into its December 18–19 policy meeting. Expectations point to a near-certain rate hike.

Prediction markets and macro analysts alike are converging on the same conclusion: Japan is poised to raise rates by 25 basis points. Such a move could reverberate far beyond its domestic bond market and into global risk assets, especially Bitcoin.

Bank of Japan Rate Hike Puts Bitcoin’s Liquidity Sensitivity Back in Focus

Polymarket is currently assigning a 98% probability of a BOJ hike, with a measly 2% wagering that policymakers will hold interest rates steady.

BOJ Interest Rate Probabilities
BOJ Interest Rate Probabilities. Source: Polymarket

The general sentiment among crypto analysts is that this is not good for Bitcoin, with the pioneer crypto already trading below the $90,000 psychological level.

Polymarket is pricing in a 🇯🇵 BOJ rate hike with 98% certainty right now.

This is not good… 👀 pic.twitter.com/Huace8iTBk

— Mister Crypto (@misterrcrypto) December 14, 2025

If implemented, the move would take Japan’s policy rate to 75 basis points, a level not seen in nearly two decades. While modest by global standards, the shift is significant because Japan has long been the world’s primary source of inexpensive leverage.

For decades, institutions borrowed yen at ultra-low rates and deployed that capital into global equities, bonds, and crypto, a strategy known as the yen carry trade. That trade is now under threat.

“For decades, the Yen has been the #1 currency people would borrow & convert into other currencies & assets… That carry trade is diminishing now, as Japanese bond yields are rising rapidly,” wrote analyst Mister Crypto.

If yields continue to climb, leveraged positions funded in yen may be unwound, forcing investors to sell risk assets to repay debt.

Liquidity Fears Grow Amid Bitcoin’s BOJ Track Record

The historical backdrop is fueling anxiety in crypto markets. Bitcoin is currently trading at $88,956, down 1.16% in the last 24 hours.

Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance
Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance. Source: BeInCrypto

However, traders are focused less on the current price and more on what has happened after previous BOJ hikes.

  • In March 2024, the price of Bitcoin fell by roughly 23%.
  • In July 2024, it dropped around 25%.
  •  Following the January 2025 hike, BTC slid more than 30%.

Against this backdrop, several traders see a troubling pattern, urging investors to brace for volatility this week.

“Every time Japan hikes rates, Bitcoin dumps 20–25%. Next week, they will hike rates to 75 bps again. If the pattern holds, BTC will dump below $70,000 on December 19. Position accordingly,” cautioned analyst 0xNobler.

This week, therefore, analysts see the Bank of Japan as the biggest threat to the Bitcoin price, with a play to $70,000 now in the cards.

THE BANK OF JAPAN MIGHT BE BITCOIN’S BIGGEST ENEMY

Japan holds the most US debt.
Every time they hike, Bitcoin bleeds:

March 2024: -23%
July 2024: -30%
Jan 2025: -31%

Next hike: Dec 19
Next move: loading…

If the pattern repeats, $70K is in play. pic.twitter.com/R5916R702I

— Merlijn The Trader (@MerlijnTrader) December 14, 2025

Similar projections have been echoed across crypto-focused accounts, with repeated references to a potential drop below $70,000 if history rhymes. Such a move would constitute a 20% drop below current levels.

Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance
Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance. Source: TradingView

Regime Shift or Liquidity Shock? Why Traders Are Split on the BOJ–Fed Policy Mix

Yet not everyone agrees that a BOJ hike spells inevitable downside. A competing macro narrative argues that Japan’s tightening, when paired with US Federal Reserve rate cuts, could ultimately be bullish for the crypto market.

Macro analyst Quantum Ascend framed the situation as a regime shift rather than a liquidity shock.

Japan raising rates has a lot of people worried about the potential impact on the market. 🚨

Couple that with the Fed cutting rates, and it's seemingly a mixed picture.

But it's NOT.

This is EXTREMELY BULLISH for crypto‼️

Here's why ⬇️

— Quantum Ascend (@quantum_ascend) December 13, 2025

According to this view, Fed cuts would inject dollar liquidity and weaken the USD, while gradual BOJ hikes would strengthen the yen without meaningfully destroying global liquidity.

The result, Quantum Ascend argues, is capital rotation into risk assets with asymmetric upside, crypto’s “sweet spot.”

Still, near-term conditions remain fragile. The Great Martis cautioned that bond markets are already forcing the BOJ’s hand.

“This could trigger the carry trade unwind and cause havoc in equities,” the analyst warned.

The analyst also pointed to broadening tops in major stock indices and globally rising yields as signs of mounting stress.

Meanwhile, Bitcoin’s price action reflects the uncertainty. The pioneer crypto’s price has been largely flat through December, marking what analysts call a very choppy period into the end of the year.

Specifically, analyst Daan Crypto Trades cites low liquidity and limited conviction ahead of year-end holidays.

With equities flashing topping signals, yields breaking higher, and Bitcoin historically sensitive to Japan-driven liquidity shifts, the BOJ’s decision is shaping up to be one of the most consequential macro catalysts of the year.

Whether it triggers another sharp drawdown or sets the stage for a post-volatility crypto rally may depend less on the hike itself and more on how global liquidity responds in the weeks that follow.

The post Bank of Japan Rate Hike Could Trigger 20-30% Bitcoin Decline as Markets Price 98% Probability appeared first on BeInCrypto.

Top 3 Price Prediction Bitcoin, Gold, Silver as Stocks Move Out of the Fear Zone

12 December 2025 at 06:01

Bitcoin, gold, and silver prices continue to trade with bullish biases this week, as the pioneer crypto and the two commodity safe havens see the Fed’s interest rate decision through a rearview mirror.

After policymakers decided to cut interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point, data show that the stock market is no longer flashing fear, a major break last seen in early October.

Bitcoin, Gold, Silver: Updated Price Outlook as Stock Market Calm Returns

The US stock market hit an all-time high on Thursday, December 11, with analysts projecting further upside. It follows the Fed’s decision to cut interest rates, a move that usually lifts the stock market.

Lower borrowing costs boost corporate profits, encourage business investment, and increase the value of future earnings. Similarly, cheaper credit increases consumer spending, while investors shift from bonds to equities in search of higher returns.

Together, this improves liquidity and risk appetite, typically driving stock prices higher across most sectors. This explains why the stock market is no longer flashing fear.

JUST IN 🚨: Stock Market says Goodbye to Fear for the first time since early October 🫡🥳🫂 pic.twitter.com/vSd1qLkbkO

— Barchart (@Barchart) December 11, 2025

Meanwhile, Bitcoin, gold, and silver are evoking similar optimism, with XAU and XAG prices surging as holding costs decline and inflation expectations rise.

Bullish Reversal Builds for Bitcoin Price as Liquidity Flows Return

Bitcoin’s daily chart shows the price recovering within a well-defined ascending channel, which formed after the sharp correction from its early October highs.

Despite still trading below the major exponential moving averages (50 and 100 at $96,583 and $101,943, respectively), BTC is showing early signs of trend stabilization. This is seen with each recent low forming higher than the previous one, a classic early-stage recovery pattern.

The bullish Volume Profiles (green horizontal bars) reveal a significant high-volume node around the 78.6% Fibonacci retracement level, suggesting bulls could defend $90,358 as critical support.

This level may act as an anchoring point for price inflection, potentially serving as the jumping-off point for the next move north.

A decisive candlestick close above the $90,358 level could allow BTC to target the heavier liquidity cluster around $98,000–$103,000.

Meanwhile, the RSI (Relative Strength Index) indicator remains neutral, suggesting room for expansion in either direction.

The histograms of the AO indicators (Awesome Oscillator) are edging toward positive territory and flashing green, suggesting bullish momentum is growing.

Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance
Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance. Source: TradingView

Nonetheless, short-term bullish continuation depends on maintaining the upward channel structure. Breaking below the lower boundary of the channel, which confluences with the 78.6% Fibonacci retracement level at $90,358, would expose BTC to bearish pressure, with the ensuing seller momentum likely to send BTC to the range between $86,000 and $80,600.

The main challenge remains reclaiming the EMAs, particularly the 50-day and 100-day, which cluster around $96,583 and $101,943.

Historically, BTC tends to accelerate once it breaks above these moving averages during mid-cycle consolidations.

Overall, BTC exhibits a controlled recovery, rising volume, and a constructive channel, but major confirmation will only come if bulls reclaim the $100,000 psychological level.

Gold Price’s Breakout Momentum Strengthens Above Key Resistance

The 4-hour chart for the XAU/USD trading pair shows the gold price teasing with a clean breakout from a long, compressing symmetrical triangle. This technical formation formed after the sharp $490 retracement (-11.19%) earlier in the quarter.

Symmetrical triangles at the top of an uptrend often behave as continuation patterns, where price consolidates before resuming its prior direction. Gold’s breakout aligns with this playbook, pushing above the downtrend line with strong momentum.

The measured move of the triangle projects an upside target of roughly $4,720, up by just over 11% above the breakout point.

Meanwhile, the gold price is currently stabilizing around $4,273, where the breakout candle closed. As long as Gold holds above the triangle’s upper boundary, the bullish structure remains intact.

Traders waiting to take long positions on XAU/USD should consider waiting for a successful retest of the upper trendline.

The RSI is mid-range but leaning bullish at 65, suggesting gold is still not overbought. Its trajectory shows rising momentum, typically a healthy setup for continuation.

The MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence) lines have crossed bullishly and are widening, a sign of increasing upward force.

Support levels to monitor sit at $4,180, $4,140, $4,098, and the deeper pivot at $3,998, which marks the base of the prior correction. As long as the gold price stays above these levels, bulls maintain control.

Gold (XAU) Price Performance
Gold (XAU) Price Performance. Source: TradingView

It is also worth noting that Gold’s breakout aligns with its broader macro trend: rising geopolitical uncertainty, persistent inflation expectations, and strong demand from central banks.

Central banks are ramping up gold purchases:

Global central banks purchased +53 tonnes of gold in October, the most since November 2024.

This marks a +194% jump compared to July, and the 3rd-straight monthly acceleration.

In the first 10 months of the year, central banks have… pic.twitter.com/7pZWyEjjvf

— The Kobeissi Letter (@KobeissiLetter) December 4, 2025

Technically, the structure supports the possibility of revisiting, and potentially surpassing, recent highs.

Silver Price’s Long-Term Cup-and-Handle Signal Targets Major Upside

The Silver price’s multi-decade chart is displaying one of the strongest long-term bullish structures in commodities, a giant multi-cycle Cup & Handle breakout.

The cup spans from the 1980 peak to the 2011 rejection, an 871% measured move. The handle, smaller but still powerful, forms a pattern between 2011 and 2024, showing a 152% measured move. Both formations converge at the same breakout line near $36, a level Silver has struggled to clear for over 40 years.

The latest candle shows a decisive, high-volume breakout far above this resistance, suggesting a structural shift rather than a temporary spike.

When a commodity breaks a multi-decade ceiling, price discovery can accelerate quickly due to lack of historical resistance.

Silver (XAG) Price Performance
Silver (XAG) Price Performance. Source: TradingView

However, the RSI is in overbought territory (above 80), but in long-term breakouts, this often reflects momentum rather than exhaustion. The MACD has crossed strongly into bullish territory, confirming the upward trend.

If the breakout sustains, the next key psychological level is $70, with the 1980/2011 all-time high zone, now near $50, flipped into support.

Silver soars to $64 for the first time in history 🚨📈 Dear God 🤯👀 pic.twitter.com/2ffpTOUB1E

— Barchart (@Barchart) December 11, 2025

Given the prolonged consolidation and tight multi-year supply constraints in the silver market, a move beyond historical highs cannot be ruled out.

However, Silver has historically remained volatile, so a retest of the $36 zone would be normal before a sustained continuation.

The post Top 3 Price Prediction Bitcoin, Gold, Silver as Stocks Move Out of the Fear Zone appeared first on BeInCrypto.

Top 3 Price Prediction Bitcoin, Gold, Silver: Is the Fed-Driven Rally Built to Last?

10 December 2025 at 06:47

Bitcoin, gold, and silver experienced a sudden surge in strength on Tuesday, the eve of what appears to be another Fed rate cut.

The pioneer crypto, as well as the two commodity safe havens, Gold and Silver, may face volatility around the Fed’s interest rate decision, even as XAG price breaks above $60/oz for the first time in history, now up +108% in 2025.

Top BTC, XAU, and XAG Price Targets Ahead of the Fed Cut

All eyes are on the Fed’s interest rate decision tomorrow and the subsequent Jerome Powell press conference. This is one of the most important macroeconomic events for Bitcoin and commodity safe havens this week.

Data from the CME FedWatch Tool shows that interest bettors see an 87.6% chance that the Fed will cut interest rates.

Interest Rate Cut Probabilities
Interest Rate Cut Probabilities. Source: CME FedWatch Tool

A Fed rate cut is generally a tailwind for Bitcoin as it injects liquidity into the financial markets. Gold is typically the cleanest and fastest beneficiary of rate cuts, while silver often lags gold initially, then outperforms during strong reflation moves. This is why silver tends to make violent upside moves after cuts once momentum builds.

  • Gold reacts first and most predictably
  • Bitcoin benefits as liquidity expands
  • Silver often becomes the late-stage momentum winner

Based on current price action, however, markets are already pricing in the event, with traders already front-running a rate cut amid near-certain probabilities.

Bitcoin Races for $100,000 Ahead of Fed’s Interest Rate Decision

The Bitcoin price is trading with a bullish bias, consolidating within an ascending parallel channel since bottoming out at $80,600 on November 21. As long as the price remains confined within this technical formation, the prospects for further upside remain alive.

Based on the RSI (Relative Strength Index) indicator, momentum is rising, which could push BTC further north. Its position above the 50 threshold suggests significant buyer momentum, but a lot remains in the balance, as this midline level is also susceptible to a bearish takeover.

The Bitcoin price faces immediate resistance due to the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at $97,015, a roadblock in BTC’s path to the most critical Fibonacci retracement level, 61.8%, at $98,018.

This would be a key entry point for late bulls, such that if the Bitcoin price breaks cleanly through the level with strong volume, it would signal a strengthening trend. Such a directional bias would see the pioneer crypto extend a neck higher to $103,399, earmarked by the 50% midrange.

In a highly bullish case, BTC could reach the 38.2% Fibonacci retracement level, signaling a strong trend.  

Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance
Bitcoin (BTC) Price Performance. Source: TradingView

Conversely, if the 61.8% Fibonacci retracement level holds as resistance, it would set the tone for a trend reversal.

Sellers pulling the trigger at current levels could see the 78.6% Fibonacci retracement level give way as support, a move that could cause BTC to fall out of the ascending parallel channel.

Such a directional bias could send the pioneer crypto’s price toward the $80,600 support floor. Such a move would constitute a drop of almost 15% from current levels.

Gold may be in a Stage A Classic Reload Zone

The gold price could sell off towards the lows of $4,199 and potentially violate the rising support trendline before reversing higher. Based on the RSI, momentum is fading, putting the XAU price at risk of a correction.

However, with the RSI still above the 50 threshold and strong downward support provided by the confluence of the 50- and 100-day EMAs at $4,202 and $4,203, respectively, the price could forge higher.

Critical support resides in the range between $4,178 and $4,192. If this zone holds, the bull structure would remain intact.

Meanwhile, the key resistance is at $4,241, with a clean break above this supplier congestion level likely to spark an acceleration.

In such a directional bias, targets would be $4,260, or in a highly bullish case, $4,300 before a potential recapture of the $4,381 all-time high (ATH).  

Gold (XAU) Price Performance
Gold (XAU) Price Performance. Source: TradingView

Therefore, current price levels could be a classic reload zone, with every dip providing a buying opportunity for late bulls.

Silver is up 6x as Much as the S&P 500 YTD

The silver price is experiencing one of the strongest bull runs in stock market history, up six times the S&P 500’s year-to-date (YTD) gain. The XAG/USD price is now on track for the largest 12-month gain since 1979.

After establishing a new all-time high of $60.794, silver is on price discovery levels, with potential for further upside.

On the 15-minute chart below, the XAG/USD price shows a clean bullish continuation breakout. The silver price has decisively cleared the prior range high near $58.83 and accelerated to price discovery, confirming a shift from consolidation to expansion.

All key EMAs (50/100/200) are now stacked bullishly and turning higher, signaling strong short-term trend alignment and trend strength.

Silver (XAG) Price Performance
Silver (XAG) Price Performance. Source: TradingView

Momentum supports the move, as evidenced by the RSI above 73, indicating strong buying pressure. However, this RSI position also warns of near-term overheating and the risk of a shallow pullback or consolidation before continuation.

Structurally, the former resistance at $58.80 to $59.00 now acts as first support, while the next psychological and technical target sits around $61.00–$61.50.

As long as the silver price holds above the rising 50-EMA (red), the bias remains buy-the-dip, with downside risk increasing only on a sustained breakdown back below $59.00.

The post Top 3 Price Prediction Bitcoin, Gold, Silver: Is the Fed-Driven Rally Built to Last? appeared first on BeInCrypto.

Yen Carry Trade Collision: Bank of Japan’s Rate Shock Aims at Bitcoin | US Crypto News

6 December 2025 at 00:01

Welcome to the US Crypto News Morning Briefing—your essential rundown of the most important developments in crypto for the day ahead.

Grab a coffee as global markets quietly shift with Japan’s bond yields surging and the BoJ hinting at a rate hike. The decades-long yen carry trade, which fueled stocks, crypto, and risk assets, could be unraveling faster than anyone expects.

Crypto News of the Day: Bitcoin Braces as BoJ May End Decades of Cheap Money

Global markets are bracing for a potential macro shock as the Bank of Japan (BoJ) prepares for its December 18–19 monetary policy meeting.

Traders now price a 90% chance of a 25 basis point rate hike, following signals from BoJ Governor Kazuo Ueda and persistent inflation above 2%.

BoJ Interest Rate Cut probabilities
BoJ Interest Rate Cut probabilities. Source: Polymarket

Japan’s 2-year government bond yield has climbed above 1%, its highest since the 2008 Global Financial Crisis, while the 10-year JGB hit a 17-year high, highlighting rising borrowing costs.

Why the Yen Carry Trade Matters

For nearly three decades, the yen carry trade fueled global risk-taking. Investors borrowed yen at ultra-low rates, converted it to dollars, and deployed capital into higher-yielding assets, including US stocks, bonds, and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.

When Japan raises rates or the yen strengthens, this trade unwinds violently, forcing rapid asset sales.

The consequences are not hypothetical: in August 2024, a BoJ hike triggered a $600 billion crypto market wipe, including Bitcoin falling to $49,000 and $1.14 billion in liquidations. Analysts warn that a similar scenario could repeat if Japanese yields rise further.

🚨 The BOJ is about to shake crypto markets
🇯🇵Japan's likely rate hike to 80% Dec 18-19 – this threatens the yen carry trade that's been funding $BTC & risk assets for years
Last time they hiked was Aug 2024.

🔥BTC crashed to $49K
$600B wiped from crypto
$1.14B in liquidations…

— PaulBarron (@paulbarron) December 5, 2025

Besides Paul Barron, analyst Great Martis also calls the BoJ hike a potential “canary in the coal mine” for crypto and global markets.

“When the reckless BOJ is forced to raise rates, the yen carry trade will begin to unwind, causing market turmoil. Canary in the coal mine,” Martis wrote in a post.

Meanwhile, early signs of stress are emerging, as hedge funds and institutional investors closely monitor the simultaneous tightening of liquidity in Japan, the US, and China. This rare convergence could accelerate deleveraging.

Nonetheless, counterpoints exist. Analyst Negentropic notes that most leverage has already been flushed since October. In the same tone, Bob Elliot argues the yen carry trade is largely muted.

The Yen Carry Trade Is Dead

Despite a falling FX and low rates, the yen carry trade remains muted. Naked FX borrowing ended with the GFC, with the only thing left a lingering nostalgia for a trade that mattered 20yrs ago.https://t.co/1h7Zlp3KVQ pic.twitter.com/2llIZerTqt

— Bob Elliott (@BobEUnlimited) December 2, 2025

Yet even modest unwinding could pressure highly leveraged crypto positions and risk assets globally.

If QE Is Not the Immediate Solution, What’s Next for Bitcoin and Global Risk Assets?

Nic Puckrin, co-founder of Coin Bureau, emphasizes that quantitative easing (QE) historically follows a crisis, not routine rate adjustments.

The current tightening in Japan, the US, and China suggests that markets may face further drawdowns before any liquidity support arrives. Investors betting on easy money could face sharper-than-expected volatility.

Crypto markets are often the first to absorb funding shocks, making Bitcoin and Ethereum bellwethers for liquidity stress.

With the BoJ’s rate decision looming, traders should monitor:

  • JGB yields,
  • USD/JPY levels, and
  • Leveraged positions.

If Japan continues tightening, global deleveraging could persist into 2026, testing the resilience of both crypto and traditional markets.

The era of free Japanese money appears to be coming to an end. Markets now face a higher-volatility environment, where fundamental value may replace cheap leverage as the main driver of asset prices.

Chart of the Day

Japan’s 10-Year Bond Yield
Japan’s 10-Year Bond Yield. Source: Trading Economics

Byte-Sized Alpha

Here’s a summary of more US crypto news to follow today:

Crypto Equities Pre-Market Overview

Company  
Strategy (MSTR)$186.01$184.62 (-0.75%)
Coinbase (COIN)$274.05$273.30 (-0.27%)
Galaxy Digital Holdings (GLXY)$27.57$27.73 (+0.58%)
MARA Holdings (MARA)$12.44$12.37 (-0.57%)
Riot Platforms (RIOT)$15.59$15.57 (-0.13%)
Core Scientific (CORZ)$17.08$17.09 (+0.059%)
Crypto equities market open race: Google Finance

The post Yen Carry Trade Collision: Bank of Japan’s Rate Shock Aims at Bitcoin | US Crypto News appeared first on BeInCrypto.

Wall Street Braces as Bitcoin Goes Public for the First Time | US Crypto News

4 December 2025 at 23:57

Welcome to the US Crypto News Morning Briefing—your essential rundown of the most important developments in crypto for the day ahead.

Grab a coffee and brace for Wall Street’s latest twist: a Bitcoin-native company is about to hit the NYSE. Shareholders have approved a major merger, putting billions in Bitcoin under one roof and signaling a shift in how crypto meets traditional markets.

Crypto News of the Day: Twenty One Capital Gains NYSE Approval

Cantor Equity Partners (CEP) shareholders voted to approve the merger with Twenty One Capital, clearing the final major hurdle for the business combination.

The deal, subject to standard closing conditions, is expected to finalize on December 8, 2025. Following the completion, the merged entity will operate under the Twenty One Capital name and begin trading the next day (December 9).

Strike CEO Jack Mallers will lead the company, which Tether and Bitfinex hold as majority owners. The firm markets itself as the first Bitcoin-native company preparing for a public listing, offering investors a regulated pathway to gain exposure to the cryptocurrency.

“Following the consummation of such transactions, the combined company will operate as Twenty One Capital, Inc., and its shares of Class A common stock are expected to trade on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) beginning on December 9, 2025, under the symbol XXI,” read an excerpt in the announcement.

Public Equity Exposure to Bitcoin Amid Crypto and Banking Frictions

Twenty One Capital currently holds 43,514 BTC, valued at approximately $4 billion, making it the third-largest Bitcoin holder among publicly traded companies, after Strategy and MARA Holdings.

Top 22 Public BTC Treasury Companies
Top 22 Public BTC Treasury Companies. Source: Bitcoin Treasuries

The firm emphasizes “capital-efficient Bitcoin accumulation” and plans to introduce a “Bitcoin Per Share” metric. This metric would enable shareholders to track Bitcoin holdings in real time with auditable on-chain proof-of-reserves.

“This listing provides a transparent, regulated way for investors to access Bitcoin without directly holding the asset,” the company added.

The NYSE debut also positions Twenty One Capital as a bridge between crypto-native operations and traditional equity markets, potentially reshaping investor access to digital assets.

“…offers investors a new way to gain BTC exposure via the equity markets,” commented Conor Kenny, a popular user on x (Twitter).

The announcement comes amid wider discussions about the banking sector’s relationship with crypto firms. In late November, Jack Mallers revealed that JPMorgan Chase abruptly closed his personal accounts without explanation, fueling fears of “debanking” in the crypto industry.

Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino described the move as an opportunity for crypto executives to operate independently of centralized financial institutions.

I think it's for the best

— Paolo Ardoino 🤖 (@paoloardoino) November 23, 2025

These tensions coincide with broader market scrutiny. JPMorgan is currently monitoring potential MSCI reclassification rules that could impact companies with significant Bitcoin holdings, such as MicroStrategy.

Analysts estimate that index changes could trigger billions in passive fund outflows, potentially as high as $9 billion for MicroStrategy.

As Twenty One Capital prepares to trade under the “XXI” ticker on December 9, market participants will watch for trading volumes, investor appetite, and the reception of the Bitcoin-per-share metric.

The listing could set a precedent for other crypto-native firms seeking regulated market exposure, potentially broadening institutional and retail participation in the Bitcoin economy.

Chart of the Day

Twenty One Capital (XXI) BTC Holdings
Twenty One Capital (XXI) BTC Holdings. Source: Bitcoin Treasuries

Byte-Sized Alpha

Here’s a summary of more US crypto news to follow today:

Crypto Equities Pre-Market Overview

   
Strategy (MSTR)$188.39$187.82 (-0.30%)
Coinbase (COIN)$276.92$275.85 (-0.39%)
Galaxy Digital Holdings (GLXY)$27.05$26.93 (-0.44%)
MARA Holdings (MARA)$12.47$12.45 (-0.16%)
Riot Platforms (RIOT)$15.64$15.57 (-0.45%)
Core Scientific (CORZ)$16.55$16.50 (-0.30%)
Crypto equities market open race: Google Finance

The post Wall Street Braces as Bitcoin Goes Public for the First Time | US Crypto News appeared first on BeInCrypto.

Bitcoin Mining Hit Its Breaking Point — Now AI Is Taking Over Its Racks | US Crypto News

3 December 2025 at 23:35

Welcome to the US Crypto News Morning Briefing—your essential rundown of the most important developments in crypto for the day ahead.

Grab a coffee to read how the Bitcoin mining sector is changing. Skyrocketing costs, collapsing fees, and the rise of AI are forcing miners to rethink their playbook, turning once-stable operations into a battleground for next-generation compute power.

Crypto News of the Day: AI Takes Over Bitcoin Mining Racks as Costs Explode and Profitability Craters

The CoinShares Bitcoin Mining Report Q4 2025 reported that the sector has hit its breaking point. Production costs have surged to all-time highs, hash price has collapsed, and artificial intelligence (AI) is now outbidding miners for their own infrastructure, triggering the most dramatic structural shift the sector has ever faced.

The industry entered Q2 2025 with a brutal new reality:

  • The average cash cost to mine one BTC among public miners jumped to approximately $74,600,
  • All-in costs soared to $137,800.
  • Transaction fees, once a buffer for miner revenue, fell below 1% of block rewards in May and June, the weakest contribution since the 2024 halving.

Yet even as margins collapsed, the Bitcoin network continued to climb, smashing through 1 Zetta hash/s for the first time in August.

Public miners contributed only about 80 EH/s of year-to-date growth, meaning most of the expansion is now coming from private operators, sovereign miners, and well-capitalized energy players with vastly cheaper power.

The result: miners are being diluted by hashrate growth they are no longer driving.

AI Moves In — And It Pays 10–20× More Per Megawatt

A far bigger disruption is unfolding at the infrastructure level. Industrial-scale mining campuses, comprising 100MW to 1GW sites, share nearly identical power, cooling, and rack density requirements with modern AI datacenters.

That overlap has turned mining facilities into prime targets for hyperscalers.

Deals from Google–TeraWulf, Google–Cipher, and multi-site agreements with Fluidstack signal the same direction, that big-tech is moving into miner-built capacity at a premium.

The math explains why. Bitcoin mining yields roughly $1 million per megawatt, while AI compute generates $10 million to $20 million per megawatt.

No miner can ignore that spread.

Industry Splits: AI Megacampuses vs. Mobile, Ultra-Low-Cost Miners

The sector is now diverging into two clear models:

  1. 1. Megascale miners → fully or partially converting to AI/HPC

These facilities can upgrade their electrical topology and uptime standards to meet enterprise requirements. They’re signing decade-long contracts and shifting from volatile block rewards to stable, capacity-based revenue.

2. Low-cost, mobile miners → shifting to stranded energy

Miners unable to compete with AI are moving off-grid: flare gas, remote hydro, and surplus renewables. Portable rigs are being deployed everywhere cheap energy exists, echoing mining’s early decentralized roots.

This migration marks a long-term reshaping of the industry, and not a temporary cycle.

According to a CoinShares report:

  • Hashprice averaged approximately $50 per PH/s/day throughout Q2, continuing its post-halving slide.
  • With difficulty rising, fees stagnant, and Bitcoin trading mostly sideways, older ASIC fleets have been forced offline.

Analysts expect hashprice to remain range-bound between $37–55 per PH/s/day through 2028 unless BTC rallies far faster than hashrate growth.

A Structural Shift: AI Outbids Bitcoin

For the first time in Bitcoin’s history, miners are being priced out of their own infrastructure.

AI’s superior economics, hyperscaler deal flow, and the rising cost of industrial mining are pushing the industry into a permanent transformation.

The Bitcoin network remains strong, where hashrate is still climbing, but the business of mining is being rewritten fast.

This puts miners at an impasse, to either go big into AI, or go remote into stranded power.

Chart of the Day

Analysis of Cost to Mine Bitcoin
Analysis of Cost to Mine Bitcoin. Source: CoinShares

Byte-Sized Alpha

Here’s a summary of more US crypto news to follow today:

Crypto Equities Pre-Market Overview

CompanyAt the Close of December 2Pre-Market Overview
Strategy (MSTR)$181.33$185.83 (+2.48%)
Coinbase (COIN)$263.26$269.39 (+2.33%)
Galaxy Digital Holdings (GLXY)$25.36$25.90 (+2.13%)
MARA Holdings (MARA)$11.91$12.27 (+3.02%)
Riot Platforms (RIOT)$15.22$15.55 (+2.17%)
Core Scientific (CORZ)$15.82$16.03 (+1.33%)
Crypto equities market open race: Google Finance

The post Bitcoin Mining Hit Its Breaking Point — Now AI Is Taking Over Its Racks | US Crypto News appeared first on BeInCrypto.

PENGU Token Jumps 30% on NHL Deal, But $108 Million Sell-Off Sparks Fear

3 December 2025 at 22:00

PENGU rallied over 30% in early December 2025 following news of a major collaboration between Pudgy Penguins and the National Hockey League (NHL) for the 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic.

Despite the price jump, on-chain data shows persistent transfers of PENGU from the project’s deployment address to centralized exchanges. This trend has sparked debate about the sustainability of PENGU’s recovery.

NHL Partnership Sparks PENGU Rally

PENGU, the Pudgy Penguins community token, experienced a notable surge during the first week of December. It has increased by almost 30% in the last 24 hours, trading at $0.01246 as of this writing.

Pudgy Penguins (PENGU) Price Performance
Pudgy Penguins (PENGU) Price Performance. Source: Coingecko

This price increase aligned with Pudgy Penguins’ announcement of an NHL partnership lasting from December to January.

The collaboration launched at Art Week Miami, highlighted by activations, giveaways, and live appearances at NHL events.

Pudgy Penguins X @NHL

We will be collaborating with the NHL for the 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic from December to January, starting this week at Art Week Miami.

From giveaways to Pengu meeting NHL fans and more, these activations will bring Pengu into the world of the NHL. pic.twitter.com/rcnIAT6fet

— Pudgy Penguins (@pudgypenguins) December 2, 2025

The partnership spans December through January, beginning with activations at Art Week Miami. The campaign, supported by an animated video of cartoon penguins skating across an ice rink, reflects the brand’s broader push into mainstream entertainment.

Once known primarily as an NFT collection, Pudgy Penguins has expanded into toys, physical events, and global licensing, now aiming to “own winter” through sports tie-ins.

The partnership reignited enthusiasm in the token. DEX trading volume for PENGU reached its monthly high in early December, as noted by Solscan. This surge reflected increased activity from traders responding to the partnership news.

PENGU DEX Trading Volume
PENGU DEX Trading Volume. Source: Solscan

Bullish sentiment received further support from whale accumulation. In late November, large investors acquired about $273,000 in PENGU, buying at nearly three times their average volume. Smart money inflows tracked $1.3 million from new addresses in early November.

At the same time, Bitso Exchange, the leading Latin American crypto exchange, announced a Q1 2026 launch of a perpetuals aggregator, featuring PENGU as a primary asset. This move targets the region’s $1.37 trillion remittance market.

$PENGU is there still hope ? after experiencing a pump of +35% blueprint of pengu with a potential increase of +359% to ATH$PENGU is the official community token of Pudgy Penguins, a web3 entertainment brand based on 8,888 unique NFTs launched on Ethereum in 2021 Acquired by… pic.twitter.com/kBIb0JPgtH

— Vespamatic.hl (@vespamatic96) December 3, 2025

However, with hype building around Pudgy Penguins’ new NHL partnership, traders now face a sharp contrast between bullish momentum and uneasy sell-pressure signals.

On-Chain Analysis: Selling Pressure Persists

Although price action turned positive, blockchain data identified ongoing token transfers. The PENGU deployment address has routinely moved about $3 million in tokens to centralized exchanges every few days.

On-chain analyst EmberCN reported that these transfers have continued, with the latest seen in early December.

“The most recent transfer was in the early hours of this morning,” they wrote.

Since mid-July, the address moved 3.881 billion PENGU tokens, worth $108 million, to centralized exchanges. This activity tracked directly with the decline in PENGU’s price, which fell from its $0.04 second peak to roughly $0.01.

Regular outflows from the project’s core wallet suggest ongoing selling or strategic distribution, challenging recent price gains.

PENGU price chart showing sell-off period
PENGU price decline correlates with on-chain transfers to exchanges / EmberCN

Such token movements often prepare for sales or liquidity. In the PENGU ecosystem, however, the scale and sustained pace suggests ongoing distribution rather than routine liquidity management.

This dynamic creates tension between positive news, such as the NHL partnership, and continued selling from unlocked team or ecosystem tokens.

The post PENGU Token Jumps 30% on NHL Deal, But $108 Million Sell-Off Sparks Fear appeared first on BeInCrypto.

MicroStrategy Builds $1.44 Billion Cash Wall Amid Rising Market Fear | US Crypto News

1 December 2025 at 23:40

Welcome to the US Crypto News Morning Briefing—your essential rundown of the most important developments in crypto for the day ahead.

Grab a coffee, because today’s story is not what it first appears to be. MicroStrategy’s new $1.44 billion cash wall has sparked more questions than answers, landing at a moment when markets feel unusually tense, and every move seems to hint at something deeper beneath the surface.

Crypto News of the Day: MicroStrategy Builds USD Reserve as Market Panic Tests Saylor’s Bitcoin Doctrine

MicroStrategy’s latest move was supposed to calm nerves. Instead, it has become the new focal point of a market gripped by fear, speculation, and a fast-approaching liquidity stress test.

On Monday, Strategy Inc. (formerly MicroStrategy) confirmed it has established a $1.44 billion USD Reserve. This cash buffer is designed to cover dividends and interest for up to 21 months.

$MSTR announces the formation of a $1.44 billion USD Reserve and an increase in its BTC Reserve to 650,000 $BTC. pic.twitter.com/e1tAhDUo9G

— Michael Saylor (@saylor) December 1, 2025

Strategy chair Michael Saylor also revealed that the firm has added 130 BTC to its already massive treasury.

“Strategy has acquired 130 BTC for ~$11.7 million at ~$89,960 per bitcoin. As of 11/30/2025, we hodl 650,000 BTC acquired for ~$48.38 billion at ~$74,436 per bitcoin,” Saylor indicated.

The announcement arrived barely a day after traders obsessively dissected Michael Saylor’s cryptic “green dot” comments. Speculation ranged from an MSTR buy to the firm adding to its BTC stockpile.

BREAKING: MicroStrategy establishes a $1.44B USD reserve for dividend payments.

This is the actual “Green Dot.”

— Conor Kenny (@conorfkenny) December 1, 2025

The new purchase brings the company’s holdings to 650,000 BTC, or roughly 3.1% of all Bitcoin that will ever exist.

A Cash Reserve—Or a Warning Sign?

The company framed the USD Reserve as a strategic evolution. Saylor called it “the next step in our evolution” and essential for facing near-term volatility.

“…the reserve currently covers 21 months of Dividends. We intend to use this reserve to pay our Dividends and grow it over time,” Strategy CEO Phong Le indicated.

However, these remarks did not bring stability, but rather stress, coming after the MicroStrategy executive admitted to a scenario once considered unthinkable: a potential sale of Bitcoin.

In a recent interview, CEO Phong Le acknowledged a “kill switch” tied to two conditions:

  • MicroStrategy’s stock trades below 1.0x mNAV—meaning the company is valued at less than the Bitcoin it owns.
  • The firm cannot raise capital through equity or debt.

As of this writing, mNAV sits above 1x, pulling away from the 0.9x danger zone, below which, MicroStrategy could be pushed toward BTC-funded dividend obligations.

Markets are already on edge, with Jim Cramer, cited in a recent US Crypto News publication, issuing a warning.

“This kneejerk, somewhat vicious, decline smacks of anticipation of hedge funds blowing up over the Japan carry-trade… and Strategy/Bitcoin given that at this level they are almost the same thing,” wrote Cramer.

The line “almost the same thing” captures the structural shift: MicroStrategy has functionally become a leveraged Bitcoin ETF with a software company attached. That structure works spectacularly when Bitcoin rips higher, but compresses violently when liquidity tightens.

And liquidity is tightening fast.

MicroStrategy insists it faces no forced liquidation risk. However, the admission of a sale condition, combined with a $1.44 billion cash wall, marks a turning point.

Where Saylor once said, “We will never sell Bitcoin,” investors now have a measurable tripwire:
0.9× mNAV.

Bitcoin’s next move won’t just shape market sentiment; it may decide whether MicroStrategy remains the face of corporate Bitcoin accumulation or becomes the first high-profile test of its limits.

Chart of the Day

Strategy BTC Data
Strategy BTC Data. Source: Bitcoin Treasuries

Byte-Sized Alpha

Here’s a summary of more US crypto news to follow today:

Crypto Equities Pre-Market Overview

CompanyAt the Close of November 28Pre-Market Overview
Strategy (MSTR)$177.18$168.10 (-5.12%)
Coinbase (COIN)$272.82$260.53 (-4.50%)
Galaxy Digital Holdings (GLXY)$26.59$25.30 (-4.85%)
MARA Holdings (MARA)$11.81$11.06 (-6.35%)
Riot Platforms (RIOT)$16.13$15.14 (-6.14%)
Core Scientific (CORZ)$16.89$16.37 (-3.07%)
Crypto equities market open race: Google Finance

The post MicroStrategy Builds $1.44 Billion Cash Wall Amid Rising Market Fear | US Crypto News appeared first on BeInCrypto.

Japan’s Bond Shock Slams Crypto: $640 Million Liquidated as 10-Year JGB Hits 17-Year High

1 December 2025 at 15:57

Crypto markets sold off sharply after Japan’s 10-year government bond yield surged to its highest level since 2008. The move triggered a wave of global de-risking and one of the largest liquidation events in weeks.

The move erased billions of dollars in digital-asset value, highlighting just how exposed crypto remains to macroeconomic liquidity shifts far outside its own ecosystem.

Japan’s Yield Spike: The Yen Carry Trade Unwinds and Crypto Feels It First

The total crypto market cap declined by approximately 5% over the last 24 hours, with Bitcoin and Ethereum prices falling by more than 5%.

Crypto Market Performance
Crypto Market Performance. Source: CoinGecko

According to Coinglass, more than 217,000 traders were liquidated during the downturn, resulting in a loss of almost $640 million in positions.

Crypto Liquidations
Crypto Liquidations. Source: Coinglass

This illustrates how quickly leverage can evaporate when global rates move violently.

The catalyst came from Tokyo, where the 10-year Japanese government bond yield spiked to 1.84%, a level not seen since April 2008.

BREAKING: Japan's 10Y Government Bond Yield surges to 1.84%, its highest level since April 2008.

This chart is concerning to say the least. pic.twitter.com/fBkMMyBnqy

— The Kobeissi Letter (@KobeissiLetter) December 1, 2025

The prevailing sentiment is that the yield breakout is more than just a technical move. It signals that the decades-long yen carry trade may finally be unwinding.

For nearly 30 years, Japan’s near-zero interest rates allowed investors to borrow cheaply in yen and deploy capital into higher-yielding assets abroad. Such avenues include:

  • US Treasuries
  • European bonds
  • Risk assets like equities and crypto.

Rising yields in Japan threaten to reverse this flow, pulling capital back home and tightening liquidity globally.

“For 30 years, the Yen Carry Trade subsidized global arrogance — zero rates… free leverage… fake growth… entire economies built on borrowed time and borrowed money. Now Japan has reversed the switch. Rates climbed. Yen strengthened. And the world’s favourite ATM just turned into a debt-collector,” wrote data scientist ViPiN on X (Twitter).

When Japanese yields rise, global liquidity contracts, leading to a repricing across the market. This likely explains why Silver (XAG) has not yet experienced its Supercycle, and Bitcoin is dealing with late-cycle volatility.

“Japan is draining liquidity, Bitcoin is absorbing the shock, and Silver is preparing for the repricing of a lifetime,” stated one analyst in a post.

Crypto’s Sell-Off Isn’t Local, It’s a Macro Liquidity Crunch

Shanaka Anslem, an ideologist and popular user on X (Twitter), described the JGB breakout as “the chart that should terrify every portfolio manager.

THE CHART THAT SHOULD TERRIFY EVERY PORTFOLIO MANAGER ON EARTH

Japan’s 10 Year Government Bond Yield just hit 1.84%.

The highest since April 2008.

Up 11.19% in a single session.

You need to understand what this means.

For three decades, Japan was the anchor. Zero rates.… https://t.co/1mpX0HuPdp

— Shanaka Anslem Perera ⚡ (@shanaka86) December 1, 2025

The strategist, who has reportedly witnessed infrastructural breakdowns, currency shocks, and state-level crises, cited:

  • Inflation above 3%,
  • Higher wage growth, and
  • A Bank of Japan that is increasingly losing its ability to suppress yields.

These forces are pushing Japan into a structural shift away from the ultra-loose monetary regime that defined global markets for decades.

“When Japan raises rates, it sucks liquidity out of the global system. The “fuel” that powered the stock market rally is being drained. We can expect volatility in high-growth stocks as this “cheap money” era ends,” added another investor in a post.

The timing of the move is especially significant. The Federal Reserve has just ended its quantitative tightening program, the US faces record Treasury issuance, and interest payments on US debt have crossed the $1 trillion annual mark.

Meanwhile, China, historically one of the largest foreign buyers of US Treasuries, has slowed its accumulation. With Japan now under pressure to repatriate capital, two of America’s most important external funding sources are simultaneously stepping back.

“When the world’s creditor nations stop funding the world’s debtor nations at artificially suppressed rates, the entire post-2008 financial architecture must reprice. Every duration bet. Every leveraged position. Every assumption about perpetually falling rates. This is not a Japanese story. This is the global story. The 30-year bond bull market ended. Most just have not realized it yet,” Shanaka articulated.

Crypto, as one of the highest-beta corners of global markets, tends to react first when liquidity tightens. The scale of the liquidations suggests that leveraged traders were caught offside by the bond volatility, forcing rapid position unwinds across major assets.

Rather than a crypto-specific meltdown, the sell-off reflects a broad revaluation of duration, leverage, and risk as global bond markets reset.

Therefore, traders should probably watch Japan’s bond market as closely as they watch Bitcoin charts. If JGB yields continue to rise, it could tighten global liquidity through the end of the year.

The post Japan’s Bond Shock Slams Crypto: $640 Million Liquidated as 10-Year JGB Hits 17-Year High appeared first on BeInCrypto.

4 US Economic Events to Shake Bitcoin Sentiment in First Week of December 2025

1 December 2025 at 14:11

The first week of December 2025 features critical US economic events that will influence monetary policy expectations and Bitcoin’s direction, as traders prepare for potential Federal Reserve (Fed) actions.

Bitcoin investors face a pivotal week as Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell speaks on December 1, coinciding with the official end of quantitative tightening (QT). With odds of a rate cut in December now at 86%, significant volatility is expected across risk assets.

Powell’s Speech and End of QT

Fed Chair Jerome Powell is set to address markets on Monday, December 1, at 8:00 pm ET. This date marks not just his highly anticipated speech but also the official end of the Federal Reserve’s quantitative tightening program, an important policy shift announced by the FOMC in October.

“The Committee decided to conclude the reduction of its aggregate securities holdings on December 1,” read an excerpt in the Fed’s October 29 statement.

This decision reflects the presence of ample reserves in the banking system. Powell’s remarks come amid speculation about possible changes in Fed leadership, introducing another layer of market uncertainty.

🚨 BREAKING:

JEROME POWELL WILL GIVE A SPEECH ON DECEMBER 1ST AND QT ENDS THE SAME DAY.

RATE CUT ODDS FOR DECEMBER HAVE NOW SURGED TO 86%.

I WILL KEEP YOU UPDATED ON THE OUTCOME, NOTIS ON.

HUGE VOLATILITY AHEAD. pic.twitter.com/MV7UhJWUWi

— NoLimit (@NoLimitGains) November 30, 2025

Because Powell’s speech takes place just before the Fed’s blackout period ahead of the December policy meeting, it is likely to have outsized importance.

Any hints regarding future rates could trigger immediate market reactions. Ending quantitative tightening signals a shift toward a more accommodative monetary policy, possibly increasing dollar liquidity.

Adding to the uncertainty, reports indicate President Trump has selected Powell’s replacement, though there is no official announcement yet.

This speculation may boost volatility, as markets weigh the prospect of a new chair who could push for faster rate cuts.

Probabilities of Fed Chair Jerome Powell Replacement Prospects
Probabilities of Fed Chair Jerome Powell Replacement Prospects. Source: Kalshi

ADP Employment

Automatic Data Processing Inc. (ADP), the largest payroll processor in the US, is set to release the ADP Employment Change report for November, which measures the change in the number of people privately employed in the US, at 8:15 am ET on Wednesday. 

The prior November report showed just 42,000 jobs added, according to MarketWatch’s economic calendar. New data will provide key insights into the health of the labor market ahead of the official government jobs numbers.

US Economic Events This Week
US Economic Events This Week. Source: Market Watch

A strong employment figure could reduce chances of a rate cut and put pressure on Bitcoin and other risk assets. In contrast, weak job growth would reinforce the case for Federal Reserve easing, which typically benefits crypto markets.

The colloquial AI bubble is expected to play a role in the US jobs report this week, even as different industry experts express their sentiment.

For the record, U.S. stocks peaked in October 2007 and the economy entered recession in December 2007. As of now, the S&P 500 peaked in October.

ADP private payroll job creation year to date is at the same level it was at when the GFC recession started.

Is the AI super bubble… pic.twitter.com/yqI4WcjEz2

— Mac10 (@SuburbanDrone) November 30, 2025

Labor statistics are crucial for the Fed’s dual mandate and guide policy decisions.

Initial Jobless Claims

Initial jobless claims arrive on Thursday, December 4, at 8:30 am ET. As a weekly measure of layoffs, this report provides a real-time view of labor market conditions. It determines the number of US citizens who filed for unemployment insurance for the first time last week.

INITIAL JOBLESS CLAIMS REPORT 📉

This week’s initial claims held steady near 220K, close to recent multi-year lows — signaling continued labor market resilience.

Key highlights:

🔴Initial claims remain far below recession-trigger levels, reinforcing the soft-landing narrative.… pic.twitter.com/ggNRWeDo4E

— Zeiierman Trading (@zeiierman) November 26, 2025

Rising claims may indicate economic weakness and support calls for easier monetary policy, while falling claims would suggest resilience and less urgency for rate cuts.

Historically, Bitcoin has been highly sensitive to employment releases since they shape Fed monetary outlooks and liquidity.

Traders often position ahead of these reports, generating increased volatility in both spot and derivatives markets.

PCE Inflation Data

Friday, December 5, brings the PCE (Personal Consumption Expenditures) price index at 8:30 am ET, the Fed’s preferred inflation benchmark.

This report is pivotal, as it tracks progress toward the central bank’s 2% goal. It will be released alongside personal income and spending data, providing a comprehensive view of consumer health.

Investors will focus on both headline and core PCE numbers. A softer reading could confirm the disinflation trend, solidifying expectations for a December rate cut.

Data from the CME Fed Watch Tool shows that interest bettors wager an 87.6% chance of a rate cut in the December 10 meeting, against a 12.4% chance that policymakers will hold steady.

Fed Interest Cut Probabilities
Fed Interest Cut Probabilities. Source: CME FedWatch Tool

Conversely, persistent inflation would prompt caution from the Fed, possibly disappointing markets looking for aggressive easing.

Consumer sentiment is reported at 10:00 am ET, with the prior value at 51.0 on the economic calendar. This data gauges household views on the economy and spending. Weakening sentiment can signal slowing demand and further support the case for easier monetary policy, which often lifts Bitcoin.

These four key economic releases in a single week create a high-stakes environment for digital asset markets. Bitcoin’s correlation with traditional risk assets means macroeconomic news is likely to drive market direction more than crypto-specific events.

As the first week of December commences, the interplay between jobs data, inflation trends, and the Federal Reserve’s stance will determine Bitcoin’s momentum and response to changing monetary policy signals.

The post 4 US Economic Events to Shake Bitcoin Sentiment in First Week of December 2025 appeared first on BeInCrypto.

❌