The post Bitcoin Bear Market Alert: Will BTC Price Drop to $55K Next? appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Bitcoin is once again testing investor confidence. After falling below $66,000 and triggering about $177 million in long liquidations, BTC quickly bounced back above $69,000, forcing nearly $140 million in short positions to close. This sharp move in both directions shows that the market is being driven more by leveraged trades than steady buying or selling.

At the time of writing, Bitcoin is trading around $68,752. However, market mood remains weak. The Bitcoin Fear and Greed Index has dropped to 9, which signals Extreme Fear. Even though the price looks stable, many traders are hesitant and unsure about the next move.

Bitcoin Key Price Levels to Watch

Right now, price movement is focused on important support and resistance zones.

On the downside, the $63,000–$65,000 range is an important support area. If selling pressure increases, Bitcoin could revisit this zone. A break below it may lead to further downside.

On the upside, the $69,000–$71,000 range is acting as strong resistance. If buyers manage to push the price above this level and hold it, Bitcoin could aim for higher levels. If not, the price may pull back again before trying another move up. Data from Glassnode shows that although Bitcoin has been moving between $65,000 and $73,000 recently, traders in the options market expect a bigger price swing soon. This suggests the current calm may not last long.

Why $55,000 Is Important for Bitcoin Price?

According to CryptoQuant, Bitcoin’s realized price is close to $55,000. The realized price represents the average price at which coins last moved on-chain. In previous bear markets, Bitcoin often dropped 24% to 30% below this level before forming a strong bottom.

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For now, Bitcoin is still well above $55,000. This means the market has not seen full panic selling yet. On-chain data also shows that more than half of the Bitcoin supply is still in profit. Long-term holders are not selling heavily, which suggests the market has not reached a deep crisis point.

Historically, major bottoms do not form in one sudden crash. They usually take several months of sideways movement and repeated testing of support levels.

What Happens Next for BTC?

If selling pressure increases, Bitcoin could move toward the $55,000 level, or even the low $50,000 range. On the other hand, if buyers push the price above $70,000 and hold it, confidence could slowly return.

For now, Bitcoin remains in a sensitive phase. Fear is high, volatility is building, and price is moving between key support and resistance levels. The next few months will likely decide whether this is the start of a deeper correction or the early stage of recovery.

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The post HSDT Stock Rises 15% After Launching Solana-Backed Lending Program appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Shares of Nasdaq-listed Helius Medical Technologies (HSDT) surged nearly 15%  after the company announced a new lending program linked to staked Solana (SOL).

The company will now let institutions borrow against their staked SOL without selling or unstaking it. This move pushed investor interest higher, especially after the stock had touched record lows earlier this week.

How the Lending Program Works

HSDT partnered with Anchorage Digital and Kamino Finance to launch the program.

Institutions can keep their SOL staked, continue earning rewards, and still borrow funds. The assets remain in custody while firms access liquidity. Companies do not need to sell tokens to raise cash.

This setup helps institutions manage cash needs while holding long-term crypto investments.

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Why It Matters Now

Solana’s price has fallen from highs near $245 to around $83 during the broader market correction. The drop has hurt companies that hold large SOL reserves.

HSDT remains well below levels seen before it shifted to a Solana treasury strategy. The recent stock jump reflects optimism about better capital management, not a full recovery in crypto prices.

Market Impact

Several SOL-focused firms are adjusting their approach. Some are increasing staking operations to earn steady rewards. Others are exploring additional income strategies.

The broader crypto market still faces pressure. However, companies continue building financial tools around staking and lending. Investors reacted positively to signs that institutions are improving risk management instead of exiting the space.

For now, the stock rally signals cautious confidence as firms look for ways to strengthen their position during a volatile market.

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The post China Plans Blockchain Integration in Unified National Electricity Market by 2030 appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

China’s State Council has issued new implementation guidelines to accelerate the creation of a unified national electricity market, with a strong focus on digital infrastructure and green energy accountability. A key highlight is the proposal to comprehensively introduce blockchain and other technologies to enable full-chain certification of green electricity production and consumption.

The policy, outlined in a State Council document, aims to strengthen traceability in renewable power usage and explore incorporating green certificates into carbon emission accounting systems. This marks a notable intersection between blockchain technology, energy reform, and carbon market development.

How the Plan Will Work

Under the proposal, blockchain would be used to verify and record renewable energy generation and consumption across the entire value chain. Green certificates, which certify that electricity was generated from renewable sources, would become digitally traceable, helping prevent fraud and double-counting.

The broader electricity reform plan targets the establishment of a fully unified national electricity market by 2030, with around 70% of total power consumption conducted through market-based trading. By 2035, China aims for complete integration of inter-provincial and regional electricity trading, unified pricing mechanisms, and mature spot and capacity markets.

The integration of blockchain into this system would enhance transparency and credibility, particularly as China works to link green power consumption with carbon accounting and emissions reduction goals.

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What It Means for Crypto and Blockchain

While the policy does not directly mention cryptocurrencies, it is significant for the blockchain sector. Government-level endorsement of blockchain for national infrastructure reinforces China’s distinction between speculative crypto trading, which remains restricted, and strategic blockchain deployment.

This move could boost enterprise blockchain adoption, particularly in energy, carbon markets, and supply chain traceability. It also signals that blockchain is becoming embedded in critical infrastructure, not just financial applications.

For the broader crypto market, sentiment may remain mixed. China continues to maintain tight controls on crypto trading and mining, so this is not a reopening of digital asset markets. However, the policy strengthens the global narrative that blockchain technology has long-term institutional value.

Current Market Sentiment

Globally, crypto markets are navigating volatility, regulatory pressure, and increasing institutional involvement. China’s blockchain-backed green electricity initiative adds another layer to the evolving narrative. Governments may resist decentralized currencies, but they are actively adopting distributed ledger technology where it enhances transparency and efficiency.

If implemented successfully, China’s model could influence how other nations integrate blockchain into energy certification and carbon accounting systems, expanding the technology’s role in the real economy, even as crypto markets continue to fluctuate.

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The post Russia Reconsiders Stablecoin Ban as Central Bank Signals Policy Shift appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Russia’s central bank is reassessing its previous opposition to stablecoins, signaling a potential shift in digital currency strategy. First Deputy Chairman Vladimir Chistyukhin confirmed that the Bank of Russia will conduct a formal study into the feasibility of launching a domestic stablecoin. While this does not mean immediate approval, it marks a significant policy rethink.

Previously, Moscow rejected centralized stablecoin models due to financial stability and regulatory risks. Now, officials argue that global developments, particularly in the United States and the European Union, justify a renewed evaluation. Stablecoins have evolved from niche crypto tools into key infrastructure for payments, trading, and cross-border settlements. Ignoring them could leave Russia at a strategic disadvantage.

How Russia Could Approach a Domestic Stablecoin

If pursued, a Russian stablecoin would likely be structured with sovereign oversight and regulated reserves. The goal would not simply be to create another crypto token, but to design a state-aligned digital asset capable of supporting trade and financial settlement outside traditional Western-controlled systems.

The shift is partly influenced by the rapid regulatory progress in the US and EU. The United States’ GENIUS Act formalized strict rules for dollar-backed stablecoins, strengthening their legitimacy in global finance. Meanwhile, Europe’s digital euro initiative and MiCA-compliant euro stablecoins aim to secure regional monetary sovereignty.

Faced with these developments, Russia may see a domestic stablecoin as a defensive move to maintain control over its monetary ecosystem and reduce reliance on foreign-issued digital currencies.

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What Impact Could This Have on Crypto?

Russia’s entry into the regulated stablecoin arena could have meaningful implications for the broader crypto market. First, it would reinforce the idea that stablecoins are becoming core financial infrastructure rather than speculative instruments. More sovereign-backed or state-aligned stablecoins could accelerate the institutionalization of digital assets.

Second, it may increase fragmentation in the stablecoin market. Instead of dollar dominance alone, regional digital currencies could compete for cross-border settlement flows. This could reshape liquidity patterns in crypto exchanges and decentralized finance platforms.

Finally, the geopolitical dimension cannot be ignored. If sanctions pressure is driving this reconsideration, stablecoins may increasingly be viewed as tools of monetary sovereignty. That could push other nations to explore similar initiatives, intensifying the global race to control digital payment rails.

For now, Russia remains in the exploratory phase. However, even studying the concept reflects how stablecoins are rapidly becoming central to the future structure of global finance and crypto markets alike.

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The post Binance Converts $1 Billion SAFU Fund Into Bitcoin appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Binance has completed a major treasury shift by converting its entire $1 billion Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU) into Bitcoin.

The exchange purchased 4,545 BTC in its final transaction, bringing the total SAFU holdings to 15,000 BTC. At a Bitcoin price of $67,000, the reserve is worth just over $1 billion.

With this move, Binance has made Bitcoin its main reserve asset, replacing stablecoins that were previously used for stability and quick access to funds.

What Is the SAFU Fund?

The SAFU (Secure Asset Fund for Users) is Binance’s emergency reserve. It is designed to protect users in case of serious events such as hacks, security issues, or unexpected market problems.

Earlier, this fund was held in stablecoins because their value stays close to the US dollar. Now, Binance has fully converted the reserve into Bitcoin within 30 days of announcing the plan.

To maintain transparency, Binance shared the wallet address publicly so anyone can verify the holdings on the blockchain.

Why Did Binance Switch to Bitcoin?

Binance appears to be strengthening its long-term confidence in Bitcoin.

By holding Bitcoin instead of stablecoins, the company is signaling that it views BTC as a strong long-term store of value. It also aligns with growing industry demand for clear proof of reserves and greater transparency.

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Has Bitcoin Reached a Bottom?

After the SAFU announcement, Bitcoin dropped from $84,000 to around $67,000, marking roughly a 20% decline.

Some market watchers compare this to a previous period when Binance accumulated Bitcoin around $30,000. At that time, prices dipped briefly before rising significantly over the next two years. However, past trends do not guarantee similar results.

Data from CryptoQuant suggests that Bitcoin has not yet entered a full panic phase that is often seen at major market bottoms. While there was a large wave of losses in early February, broader indicators suggest the market is in a normal downturn rather than a final collapse.

Some models estimate a possible downside of $55,000, noting that major bottoms often take time to form.

What Are Large Investors Doing?

Despite ETF outflows and weak earnings from Coinbase, some analysts believe large investors are quietly buying rather than selling.

Market volumes remain low, and overall sentiment is cautious. However, steady accumulation by experienced traders and companies could help stabilize prices over time.

Binance’s $1 billion Bitcoin move adds to the view that major players still see long-term value in BTC, even during short-term volatility.

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The post Brazil Proposes Plan to Buy 1 Million Bitcoin Over Five Years appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Brazil’s Congress is once again debating a bold proposal that could reshape the country’s financial strategy. Lawmakers have reintroduced a bill that would allow the gradual purchase of up to 1 million Bitcoin over five years, creating what they call the Strategic Sovereign Bitcoin Reserve (RESbit). If approved, the plan would make Brazil one of the largest holders of Bitcoin in the world and show strong support for the asset from a major economy.

How It Could Impact Bitcoin’s Supply and Price

Bitcoin has a fixed supply of 21 million coins, and many are already lost or held for the long term. If a large country buys up to 1 million BTC over five years, it would reduce the amount available in the market.

If the buying happens slowly, the price impact may not be immediate. However, steady government purchases could increase demand over time and reduce available supply. Even the expectation of such buying could push prices higher, as traders often react in advance. When a country commits to buying Bitcoin, it sends a strong signal that it believes in its long-term value.

When the Effects Could Begin

The timing depends on the political process. The bill must pass through congressional committees and may face resistance from Brazil’s central bank, which does not currently treat Bitcoin as part of official reserves. This process could take months or even longer.

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Still, markets often react before policies are fully implemented. If the proposal gains support or shows signs of approval, prices could move even before any actual purchases begin. On the other hand, delays or rejection could reduce excitement in the market. Early price changes are likely to be driven by sentiment, while later effects would depend on real buying activity.

Broader Impact on the Crypto Market

Beyond Bitcoin, such a move could influence how other governments view digital assets. If Brazil commits around $68 billion to buying BTC, other emerging economies may consider similar steps so they are not left behind. The revised bill sets a clear goal of acquiring at least 1,000,000 BTC over five years.

This could encourage more governments to hold Bitcoin as part of their national reserves, similar to how countries hold gold. Greater government participation could also attract more institutional investors and increase trust in the crypto market.

Over time, the plan could strengthen Bitcoin’s image as “digital gold” and as a way to protect against currency risks. Although the proposal still faces regulatory and political challenges, its discussion alone shows a shift in how some countries view Bitcoin — not just as a speculative asset, but as a possible part of national financial strategy.

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The post Top Altcoins That Could Outperform Despite Bitcoin Price Crash appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Bitcoin has pulled back sharply, falling to levels seen before Donald Trump’s reelection and bringing fresh fear into the crypto market. In a recent YouTube update, Altcoin Daily analyst Austin explained why the drop happened and shared a few altcoins he believes could perform well over the long term despite the crash.

He made it clear that most altcoins may not survive in the long run. However, projects with real use cases and growing adoption could still reward patient investors.

Why Bitcoin Crashed

According to 10x Research, Bitcoin’s sharp rally after Trump’s late-2024 victory created a weak price structure. The price jumped from $70,000 to $90,000 in less than two weeks. Because the rise was so fast, there was not much strong buying support in between those levels.

When selling pressure began, Bitcoin dropped quickly through those thin areas. Around $75,000, large traders who deal in options had to sell even more as the price fell, which pushed Bitcoin down faster toward the $60,000 range before it found some stability.

At the same time, Fundstrat’s Tom Lee suggested that gold may have attracted a large share of investor money, which could explain why Bitcoin struggled. Austin noted that in the past, Bitcoin has often outperformed gold as a store of value, and he believes that trend could return.

Cardano and the Stablecoin Boost

Austin highlighted Cardano as a key project to watch. The network is preparing to launch USDCx at the end of February. Founder Charles Hoskinson confirmed that users will have full wallet support and direct conversion access through major exchanges.

He described this as an important step for Cardano. The network has fallen behind Ethereum, Tron, Solana, and BNB Chain in stablecoin usage. With clearer stablecoin rules developing globally, better liquidity on Cardano could help bring new capital into its ecosystem.

Zcash and Bittensor

Speaking about comments from Digital Currency Group CEO Barry Silbert at Bitcoin Investor Week, Austin mentioned Zcash and Bittensor as potential high-upside bets.

Zcash fits into the privacy-focused theme, which could gain attention as governments increase financial monitoring. However, Austin personally prefers Bittensor because it combines crypto with artificial intelligence. The project runs a system where developers compete to build useful AI tools, and stronger projects are rewarded. He sees this link between crypto and AI as a major long-term opportunity.

Solana’s Growing Role

Solana was also highlighted as a strong infrastructure project. Developer activity on the network has grown sharply since 2020, with thousands of new developers joining last year. Payment activity is increasing, and some major prediction markets are reportedly planning token launches on Solana.

Although Austin does not expect Solana to deliver extreme returns because of its already large size, he believes it still has solid growth potential compared to traditional financial infrastructure.

XRP, Chainlink, Polkadot, and Propy

XRP focuses on fast international payments and liquidity services. Supported by Ripple’s enterprise efforts, it remains one of the most widely discussed utility tokens. While it is unlikely to disappear, very large returns would depend on broader global adoption.

Chainlink continues to be viewed as an important infrastructure project in the crypto space. Austin also still holds Polkadot but with more modest expectations.

Propy stands out as a higher-risk opportunity. The project has raised over $100 million, completed a $14 million commercial real estate deal using USDT, and is expanding escrow services across several U.S. states. Austin believes Propy could modernize real estate transactions by turning them into software-based processes.

He concluded by reminding viewers that Bitcoin and Ethereum remain his core holdings, while these altcoins represent higher-risk investments that could deliver strong returns if their long-term visions succeed.

The post Bhutan Sells $6.7M in Bitcoin, Still Holds $372M  appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

The Royal Government of Bhutan has sold another $6.7 million worth of Bitcoin this week, continuing a steady pattern of sales over the past three weeks. Data tracked by Arkham shows these transactions are part of an ongoing treasury plan, not a sudden sell-off.

Even after the recent sales, wallets linked to the government still hold around $372 million in Bitcoin. Bhutan had already sold at least $100 million worth of BTC in September and appears to be continuing its gradual selling strategy.

From Mining Expansion to Post-Halving Reality

Most of Bhutan’s Bitcoin comes from state-backed mining operations managed by Druk Holding and Investments. The country previously partnered with Bitdeer Technologies to expand mining capacity to as much as 600 megawatts.

However, mining rewards were reduced after the April 2024 Bitcoin halving, which cut the amount of Bitcoin miners receive for validating transactions. This change made mining less profitable across the industry. As a result, Bhutan appears to have moved from simply holding its mined Bitcoin to selling portions of it when needed to generate cash.

Analysts estimate Bhutan’s average purchase cost is close to $8,000 per Bitcoin, meaning the country is still sitting on large profits despite recent price swings.

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Structured Selling, Not Panic

Market analyst Vugar Usi said Bhutan’s recent sales look planned and controlled. The government has been selling in smaller amounts over time rather than making one large transaction.

Reports suggest that some transactions involve large trading firms such as QCP. The steady weekly pattern indicates Bhutan is managing risk by spreading out its sales instead of trying to sell at a perfect price.

Reuters has previously reported that Bhutan has used crypto profits to support public spending, including salary payments. This supports the idea that the sales are meant to fund operations, not signal a loss of confidence.

A Sign of Market Growth

Bhutan’s approach shows how governments may be starting to treat Bitcoin more like a financial reserve than a speculative asset. The country uses its hydropower resources to mine Bitcoin, then sells some of it when funds are required.

The key question for the broader market is not whether Bhutan is bearish, but whether Bitcoin is increasingly being handled like a balance-sheet asset. If a small country can manage its Bitcoin holdings in a transparent way, it suggests that other governments or institutions could be following similar strategies.

In that sense, Bhutan’s steady sales may reflect the crypto market’s growing maturity rather than a shift in long-term belief in Bitcoin.

The post XRP Price Crash Ahead? Analysts Flag Potential Drop to $0.85 appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Sentiment around XRP has turned cautious as the token struggles to hold important price levels during a wider crypto market slowdown. After trading comfortably above $1 earlier in the cycle, XRP is now hovering near a critical support zone. Analysts warn that a clear break below $1 could lead to a deeper decline.

The $1 level is seen as a major psychological support. If XRP falls below this mark and fails to recover quickly, selling pressure may increase and push the price lower.

Key XRP Levels to Watch

Market analyst Tara believes XRP may continue its pullback before finding strong support.

In the short term, she sees:

• $1.30 as an important support level
• $1.65 as a key resistance level

If XRP fails to move above $1.65 and hold that level, the price could decline again. A drop below $1 may open the door for a fall toward the $0.85 to $0.87 range.

This area is considered a strong technical support zone based on previous price movements and historical retracement levels.

How Bitcoin Could Impact XRP

XRP often follows Bitcoin’s price trend. Tara noted that if Bitcoin falls toward the $52,200 support level, XRP could face additional pressure.

During market downturns, altcoins like XRP tend to drop faster than Bitcoin. If Bitcoin weakens further, XRP may see sharper losses.

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Bearish Scenario for XRP

Another analyst, CasiTrades, described the recent price bounce as a temporary recovery within a larger correction.

According to her outlook:

• If XRP fails to hold above $1.65, the next downside target could be $1.09
• In a stronger sell-off, the price could slide toward $0.90
• In an extreme case, XRP may test support near $0.85

A move toward $0.85 would mark one of the largest pullbacks of this cycle.

Current XRP Price

As of now, XRP is trading near $1.38, down more than 4% in the past 24 hours.

For now, $1.30 support and $1.65 resistance remain the key levels to watch. A move above resistance could support recovery, while a break below support may lead to another drop before a stronger rebound begins.

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The post CFTC Launches Innovation Advisory Committee, Appoints Coinbase and Ripple CEOs appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission has officially launched its Innovation Advisory Committee, appointing a broad group of leaders from both crypto and traditional finance. The initiative comes under Chairman Mike Selig as the agency positions itself to take on a greater role in overseeing digital asset and derivatives markets.

Among the most prominent appointees are Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong and Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse. Their inclusion signals a direct line between major U.S.-based crypto firms and federal regulators at a time when policy clarity remains a top industry priority.

Selig described the committee as a critical resource for modernizing regulatory frameworks to keep pace with financial and technological innovation.

A Wider Role in Crypto Regulation

The 35-member committee will advise the CFTC on innovation-driven developments in financial markets. Its creation reflects the agency’s growing influence in crypto oversight, particularly as it works more closely with the Securities and Exchange Commission on digital asset initiatives.

The CFTC is increasingly viewed as a primary regulator for crypto derivatives and potentially broader digital commodity markets. By expanding the advisory body beyond its previous CEO-level council and nearly tripling its size, the agency is signaling a more structured engagement with industry stakeholders.

Notably, the panel brings together crypto-native leaders and established financial institutions, including executives from Nasdaq, CME Group, Cboe Global Markets, the Futures Industry Association, and the International Swaps and Derivatives Association. The presence of traditional market infrastructure firms underscores how digital assets are becoming integrated into mainstream finance.

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Key Crypto Figures at the Table

Beyond Armstrong and Garlinghouse, the committee includes Uniswap Labs CEO Hayden Adams, Gemini CEO Tyler Winklevoss, Kraken Co-CEO Arjun Sethi, Solana Labs CEO Anatoly Yakovenko, Chainlink Labs co-founder Sergey Nazarov, and Grayscale CEO Peter Mintzberg.

Venture capital representation comes from Chris Dixon of a16z Crypto and Alana Palmedo of Paradigm. The diversity of participants, from decentralized protocol founders to centralized exchange executives, reflects the CFTC’s attempt to gather broad market insight.

Industry Reaction and Market Implications

The move has drawn positive reactions within the crypto community. Crypto analyst Michael Petricone described it as an example of serious U.S. fintech leadership, arguing that bringing builders into the policy process ensures digital finance develops under American rules and values.

Crypto user Diana called Garlinghouse’s appointment a major win for Ripple and XRP holders. She framed it as giving XRP a seat at the U.S. regulatory table, fueling optimism about Ripple’s long-term regulatory positioning.

While the committee is advisory, its influence could shape derivatives rules, exchange compliance standards, and token classifications. For the crypto sector, the development marks a shift from enforcement-driven headlines toward collaborative rulemaking, a sign that regulatory integration may be entering a new phase.

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The post Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong Sells $550M in Shares as COIN Stock Faces Pressure appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong has sold more than $550 million worth of company shares over the past year, according to publicly available data.

Figures highlighted by VanEck’s Head of Digital Assets Research, Matthew Sigel, show Armstrong sold over 1.5 million Coinbase (COIN) shares between April 2025 and January 2026.

Key Share Sales Details

• Total shares sold: 1.5 million+
• Total value: Around $550 million
• Largest sale: June 25, 2025 – 336,265 shares at about $355 per share
• Most recent sale: January 5, 2026 – 40,000 shares at about $249 per share
• Total transactions: 88 separate sales
• Shares purchased during this period: None

Despite the sales, Armstrong still holds an estimated $14 billion worth of Coinbase stock, keeping him one of the company’s largest shareholders.

Why Is Brian Armstrong Selling Coinbase Stock?

The sales were made under a Rule 10b5-1 trading plan. This is a legal framework that allows company executives to schedule stock sales in advance. The purpose of this plan is to reduce insider trading concerns by setting up automatic transactions ahead of time.

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Armstrong adopted the trading plan in August 2025. Because the sales were pre-arranged, they were not necessarily based on short-term market movements. However, large insider sales can still create negative sentiment, especially when they happen during periods of stock price weakness.

Coinbase Stock Under Pressure

Armstrong’s stock sales come at a time when Coinbase shares have pulled back from earlier highs. On February 12, major banks, including JPMorgan and Citi, lowered their price targets on COIN ahead of the company’s earnings report. Analysts pointed to softer crypto trading volumes and cautious revenue expectations.

The decline in Coinbase stock has also affected Armstrong’s personal net worth, reportedly pushing him off Bloomberg’s list of the world’s 500 richest individuals.

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The post Bitcoin Price Outlook: Analysts Warn BTC Could Fall to $40,000 Before Recovery appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Bitcoin sentiment has weakened as the market continues its correction after reaching nearly $120,000. Since that peak, BTC price has struggled to regain strength, and many analysts believe the decline may not be over.

Unlike previous bull markets that ended with sharp spikes and sudden crashes, this cycle has been different. Instead of a dramatic fall, Bitcoin has been slowly trending lower. This steady drop has frustrated many investors and created what some describe as a slow and exhausting bear market.

Now, several market experts believe Bitcoin could revisit much lower levels before finding a strong bottom.

Could Bitcoin Price Drop to $40,000?

Crypto analyst Benjamin Cowen recently said that Bitcoin is still in a bear phase and may fall toward $40,000 if past patterns repeat.

According to Cowen, Bitcoin’s latest peak came around day 1,062 of its market cycle. This timing is similar to previous cycle tops, which suggests the broader four-year Bitcoin cycle may still be playing out.

When Could Bitcoin Bottom?

Cowen believes there is a 60% to 70% chance that Bitcoin will form its final bottom around October 2026. He sees May 2026 as the second most likely time for the market to reach its lowest point.

In past cycles, Bitcoin often reached its lowest point during April or May before starting a new recovery phase.

He also compared the current situation to 2019. At that time, Bitcoin peaked shortly before monetary policy tightened. Even after liquidity conditions improved, the price failed to recover immediately.

Is the Four-Year Bitcoin Cycle Still Valid?

In past cycles, Bitcoin has fallen heavily before recovering. In its early years, it dropped about 94%. In the last bear market, it fell around 77%. If Bitcoin declines 70% from its $120,000 high, the price would be near $40,000. 

Current data also shows important levels in this range. The average buying price of holders is around $55,000, and another key support level is close to $40,000.

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In earlier cycles, Bitcoin traded below these levels before forming a long-term bottom.

Another key indicator, which tracks how much Bitcoin supply is in profit versus loss, has not yet reached the level that historically signals full capitulation. That shift would likely happen if BTC trades in the $45,000 to $50,000 range.

Zacks Investment Research Chief Equity Strategist John Blank also told CNBC that Bitcoin bear markets usually last 12 to 18 months, and a move toward $40,000 remains technically possible.

Will Bitcoin Recover in 2026?

Despite short-term weakness, long-term Bitcoin forecasts remain positive.

Major firms such as Grayscale and Bernstein believe Bitcoin could reach a new all-time high in 2026. Some analysts suggest the market may now follow a five-year cycle instead of the traditional four-year pattern, which could delay the next major peak.

Bitcoin could remain under pressure through 2025 and 2026. Based on past cycles, $40,000 may act as a strong support level. While short-term weakness is possible, the long-term outlook still points to recovery. Investors may need patience before the next sustained bull run begins.

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The post Barry Silbert Says 5–10% of Bitcoin Capital Could Shift to Privacy Coins Like Zcash appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Digital Currency Group CEO Barry Silbert believes a noticeable shift could be coming inside the crypto market. Speaking at Bitcoin Investor Week in New York, Silbert said that 5% to 10% of Bitcoin’s capital may eventually move into privacy-focused cryptocurrencies such as Zcash.

He remains bullish on Bitcoin and still sees it as a core portfolio holding. But he made it clear that Bitcoin’s size limits its explosive upside. According to Silbert, Bitcoin is unlikely to deliver 500x returns unless there is a complete collapse of the U.S. dollar. Smaller projects with focused use cases, like Zcash and even AI-driven network Bittensor, offer much higher return potential because they are earlier in their growth cycles.

Why Privacy Is Gaining Attention

Silbert’s argument revolves around financial privacy. He acknowledged that Bitcoin’s old narrative as anonymous digital cash no longer holds up. With blockchain analytics firms such as Chainalysis and Elliptic tracking transactions, Bitcoin is now highly transparent.

As more institutional capital enters crypto, regulatory oversight and compliance standards are increasing. That shift is creating a new dynamic. The more regulated and monitored the space becomes, the more valuable privacy technology may appear.

Silbert does not believe Bitcoin will meaningfully integrate strong privacy features. Because of that, he expects capital to flow toward networks that are designed with privacy at their core, especially those using zero-knowledge technology to protect transaction data.

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DCG’s Position Reflects the Thesis

Silbert’s comments carry weight because of DCG’s history in crypto. Grayscale, a DCG subsidiary, launched the first institutional Bitcoin investment vehicle in 2013. That product later became one of the most actively traded spot Bitcoin ETFs.

Grayscale also runs the Grayscale Zcash Trust, launched in 2017, and is working toward an ETF conversion. DCG has previously backed other privacy-focused projects as well. Silbert even suggested that Zcash could act as a long-term hedge against potential quantum computing risks to Bitcoin, though he does not see that threat as immediate.

Privacy Chain or Privacy Layer

Not everyone agrees that standalone privacy coins will dominate. Crypto user neural_gin argued that privacy is becoming a premium feature as regulations tighten, but questioned whether it needs its own blockchain.

He suggested that zero-knowledge proofs integrated into major networks like Ethereum or Solana could compete directly with projects like Zcash. In his view, privacy should be a feature users can switch on when needed rather than something tied to a separate token.

If even a small portion of Bitcoin capital rotates, the privacy sector could see renewed momentum. The real debate now is where that value ultimately lands.

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The post Charles Hoskinson Confirms LayerZero Integration on Cardano appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Charles Hoskinson has confirmed that LayerZero will be integrated into the Cardano blockchain, marking a major step in Cardano’s institutional expansion strategy. The announcement came during his keynote at Consensus Hong Kong 2026, where the Input Output CEO revealed that the institutional-focused protocol will be ported over to Cardano.

LayerZero has been positioning itself as infrastructure for institutional-grade financial markets and recently secured backing from Citadel Securities. Its arrival on Cardano signals a stronger push toward cross-chain interoperability and high-performance financial applications, areas increasingly critical for attracting large-scale capital.

USDCx Launch and Stablecoin Expansion

A key highlight of the partnership is the upcoming launch of USDCx on Cardano, with broad wallet and exchange support already planned. Hoskinson described the rollout as a milestone moment, bringing compliant and institution-ready stablecoin infrastructure to the network.

He emphasized that the integration will enable privacy-enhanced and immutable stablecoin functionality powered by zero-knowledge technology. The move aligns with Cardano’s long-term strategy of combining regulatory clarity with technical innovation. The announcement also coincided with the rollout of Midnight’s mainnet, strengthening Cardano’s privacy-focused ecosystem and expanding its utility stack.

Bear Market Sentiment, Bullish Long-Term Vision

Hoskinson directly addressed the ongoing market downturn during his speech, calling sentiment “at an all-time low.” In a lighthearted but symbolic gesture, he appeared wearing a McDonald’s uniform, referencing a popular crypto meme about bear markets.

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Despite the short-term weakness, he maintained that the broader macro outlook for crypto remains bullish. According to Hoskinson, partnerships like LayerZero demonstrate that institutional development continues regardless of price action. Infrastructure building, he suggested, does not stop during downturns; it accelerates.

Market Signals and Related Activity

The timing of the integration is notable. Just days after LayerZero revealed plans to launch its own Layer 1 blockchain, Zero, a bankruptcy-linked Alameda Research wallet swapped approximately $24 million worth of Stargate (STG) tokens for LayerZero’s ZRO token. Arkham data shows 129.04 million STG, valued at $24.49 million, was exchanged for 11.14 million ZRO worth about $24.29 million.

While the move is tied to bankruptcy proceedings, it highlights growing market attention around LayerZero’s ecosystem.

Overall, Cardano’s LayerZero integration strengthens its position in the competitive Layer 1 race, expands its institutional toolkit, and signals that long-term ecosystem building continues even in challenging market conditions.

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The post Tether Emerges as Major U.S. Treasury Holder as Stablecoin Demand Explodes appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Tether could soon become one of the top 10 buyers of U.S. Treasury bills, according to Bo Hines, CEO of Tether’s U.S. arm. The shift is being driven by explosive demand for USDT, the world’s largest stablecoin, and the launch of USAT, its new U.S.-compliant counterpart. Speaking at Bitcoin Investor Week, Hines signaled that as stablecoin issuance grows, so too will Tether’s appetite for short-term government debt.

USDT now has roughly $185 billion in circulation and serves an estimated 530 million users, adding about 30 million new users each quarter. To back this supply, Tether holds more than $122 billion in U.S. Treasury bills, accounting for over 83% of its reserves. At current levels, that places Tether among the top 20 global holders of U.S. government debt, between major sovereign nations like Germany and Saudi Arabia.

When Stablecoins Became a Profit Engine

The turning point for Tether’s influence came as interest rates surged globally. With higher Treasury yields, stablecoin reserves became significantly more profitable. According to The Kobeissi Letter, Tether reported $10 billion in profit in just the first nine months of 2025, supported by $137 billion in Treasury holdings, ranking it as the 17th-largest holder of U.S. debt at the time.

The model is simple but powerful: users mint USDT and receive a dollar-pegged digital token that pays no interest. Tether invests the underlying reserves into short-term Treasurys and captures the yield spread. In effect, stablecoin users provide zero-cost capital, while Tether earns interest on highly liquid government securities.

What Makes Tether the Top Choice?

Tether’s dominance stems from liquidity, global accessibility, and trust in redemption stability. USDT remains deeply integrated across exchanges, DeFi platforms, and emerging markets, making it the primary on-chain dollar substitute. The introduction of USAT, issued through Anchorage Bank and structured under the U.S. GENIUS Act, further strengthens its regulatory positioning. USAT is designed to meet strict 1:1 high-quality asset backing requirements, signaling alignment with U.S. compliance standards.

This dual-token approach, global USDT and compliant USAT, reinforces Tether’s reach across both offshore and regulated markets.

Crypto and Market Impact

Tether’s growing Treasury footprint links crypto liquidity directly to U.S. debt markets. As stablecoin supply expands, so does demand for Treasurys, effectively turning crypto adoption into a driver of sovereign debt buying.

However, rising scrutiny is emerging around whether stablecoin issuers should share yield with users. Competitors like Jupiter’s $JUPUSD aim to redistribute Treasury returns on-chain. If that model gains traction, it could reshape the stablecoin landscape and challenge Tether’s high-margin dominance.