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Editor’s note: A new Global AI for Finance Competitiveness Index places Saudi Arabia and the UAE among the world’s top ten markets for AI adoption in financial services, ranking 7th and 9th respectively. Released by Deep Knowledge Group with the Hong Kong Financial Services Development Council as observer, the index benchmarks 20 countries and 15 city hubs on finance-grade AI capability, maturity, and deployment readiness. The results highlight how Gulf markets are moving beyond experimentation toward operational use of AI in regulated finance, with Saudi Arabia scaling rapidly and the UAE demonstrating strong execution across institutions.

Key points

Saudi Arabia ranks 7th globally, cited as the Gulf’s fastest-scaling market for AI-enabled finance.

The UAE ranks 9th, recognized for turning AI capability into deployed systems in regulated markets.

The index evaluates countries and city hubs on deployment readiness, institutional capacity, and ecosystem breadth.

Leaders are defined by production-grade AI adoption, not research output alone.

Why this matters

The rankings underscore a shift in AI for finance from pilot projects to infrastructure-level deployment. For builders, banks, and regulators in the Gulf, this signals growing expectations around governance, auditability, and resilience. For investors and market participants, it highlights where capital, talent, and policy alignment are converging to support scalable AI use in financial services. The results also position the region as an increasingly relevant testbed for finance-grade AI under real regulatory constraints.

What to watch next

How Saudi Arabia translates rapid scaling into sustained, production-grade deployments.

The UAE’s continued rollout of AI systems within regulated financial institutions.

Updates to the index methodology and future editions tracking maturity over time.

Disclosure: The content below is a press release provided by the company/PR representative. It is published for informational purposes.

Hong Kong, 28 January 2026: Saudi Arabia and the UAE have been ranked 7th and 9th respectively in the Global AI for Finance Competitiveness Index (GAICI), which was released today by Deep Knowledge Group with the Hong Kong Financial Services Development Council (FSDC) serving as an observer.

Access the full report here.

The index provides a benchmark analysing AI competitiveness from a finance, economy and financial services perspective. It combines a global landscape overview of AI adoption in finance with an indicator-based competitiveness index that ranks 20 countries and 15 city-level finance hubs on AI-for-Finance capability and maturity.

Saudi Arabia has emerged as the Gulf’s fastest-scaling contender in AI-enabled finance, securing a remarkable 7th place globally in the index. This achievement underscores the country’s ambitious drive to integrate AI within its financial systems, fueled by state-led investments and a strategic focus on modernizing its financial infrastructure. While not yet a mature global finance hub, Saudi Arabia is quickly building the capabilities to become a key player in AI for finance. The nation’s rapid AI adoption is propelled by its institutional commitment and capital investment, positioning it as a major force in shaping the future of finance in the Gulf region.

The UAE stands out not only for its technological capability but also for its ability to turn AI potential into operational financial systems. This unique combination of state-driven AI development, a globally oriented financial ecosystem, and robust institutional execution makes the UAE a front-runner in deploying AI in regulated financial markets. As a “system builder,” the UAE competes not on the sheer volume of research output but on its speed of AI adoption, regulatory modernization, and efficient deployment pathways. Its ability to rapidly implement AI programs, set clear regulatory frameworks, and scale AI-powered financial tools has positioned it as a global testbed for finance-grade AI.

“Saudi Arabia’s rapid scaling in AI-driven finance is a testament to its strategic vision and ability to turn ambition into action,” said Dmitry Kaminskiy, General Partner of Deep Knowledge Group. “The Kingdom’s strong institutional backing and focus on infrastructure development are setting the stage for long-term success. Prioritizing AI adoption in critical financial services, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself to become an essential player in the global AI finance ecosystem.”

“The UAE’s unique position in the AI for Finance Index highlights its ability to not just innovate but to efficiently deploy AI systems that meet the rigorous demands of regulated financial markets. This makes the UAE a key player in shaping the future of finance through AI across the globe,” Kaminskiy added.

The index is led by the United States (98.84) and China (83.41), followed by the United Kingdom (78.26) and Switzerland (73.09), with Singapore (69.12) next. The leaders are not defined by a single strength, but by multi-pillar performance that supports production-grade AI in finance—including deployment readiness, institutional capacity, and ecosystem breadth. The U.S. leads with large-scale capability across AI, capital markets, and financial services adoption. China ranks second on the strength of ecosystem scale and rapid implementation dynamics in AI-enabled financial services. The U.K. and Switzerland follow as high-performing financial centres where strong institutional environments and finance-grade expectations—governance, accountability, and risk discipline—support consistent AI adoption. Singapore rounds out the top tier, reflecting strong ecosystem coordination and high deployment readiness relative to its size.

“The leaders in this index are not simply ‘AI-strong’; they are strong at converting AI capacity into deployed financial systems—where governance, resilience, and market integrity are non-negotiable,” Kaminskiy continued.

Meanwhile, city-hub ranking places New York (99) and London (81) first and second, with Hong Kong (76) third—reflecting their combined advantages in market connectivity, institutional concentration, and capital formation for AI-enabled financial activity. The next positions—San Francisco (70) and Shanghai (67)—reflect the interaction between AI capability and financial-market pull. Mid-table hubs (e.g., Toronto, Singapore, Tokyo, Chicago, Riyadh) typically show strengths in one or two dimensions but less complete end-to-end breadth. Lower-ranked hubs are often constrained by thinner ecosystem density, fewer scalable deployment pathways into regulated institutions, or weaker global market connectivity. Moving up the ranking generally requires (i) strengthening capital-formation and listing pathways, (ii) expanding production-grade adoption mechanisms across regulated institutions, and (iii) increasing ecosystem breadth so that AI capabilities translate into repeatable, auditable deployments rather than isolated pilots.

Dr King Au, Executive Director of the FSDC, remarked, “Hong Kong’s ranking among leading global finance hubs reflects the city’s excellent market connectivity and top-notch institutional quality—two conditions that matter when AI for finance must operate under finance-grade expectations.”

Dr Patrick Glauner, Professor of AI at Deggendorf Institute of Technology, a co-author of the report, noted, “In finance, competitive advantage comes from trustworthy AI—models that are explainable, auditable, and robust under real-world constraints. The index makes clear that deployment quality matters as much as innovation.”

Additional Key Findings

AI for finance is shifting from novelty to infrastructure: competitive advantage now reflects repeatable deployment in regulated workflows.

Top-ranked countries pair ecosystem scale with execution capacity: strong performance typically requires strength across multiple pillars, not one-off advantages.

The hub ranking underscores concentration: AI-for-finance activity clusters in a limited set of global financial centres with strong market infrastructure.

Model governance and assurance are central: monitoring, auditability, and operational resilience are becoming baseline expectations.

Data exchange and interoperability remain most common bottlenecks in mid-tier markets.

Strategic takeaway: the next phase of competition is about institutionalisation—turning tools into operating systems.

About Deep Knowledge Group

Deep Knowledge Group is a consortium of commercial and non-profit organizations active on many fronts in the realm of DeepTech and Frontier Technologies (AI, Longevity, FinTech, GovTech, InvestTech), from scientific research to investment, entrepreneurship, analytics, media, philanthropy, and more.

About Financial Services Development Council (FSDC)

The FSDC was established in 2013 by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government as a high-level, cross-sectoral advisory body to engage the industry in formulating proposals to promote the further development of financial services industry of Hong Kong and to map out the strategic direction for the development.

In September 2018, the FSDC was incorporated as a company limited by guarantee. This change allows it to better discharge its functions through research, market promotion, and human capital development with greater flexibility.

This article was originally published as KSA and UAE Rank in Global Top 10 for AI in Finance Competitiveness on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Editor’s note: Investcorp Saudi Arabia has entered a distribution agreement with Stake to expand access to select international real estate opportunities through Stake’s digital platform. The partnership combines Investcorp’s institutional investment process and due diligence with Stake’s app-based investing experience, enabling individual investors to participate in offerings typically reserved for institutions. The move aligns with Investcorp’s broader digital platform strategy, following the rollout of its Investcorp Wealth app, and operates within Saudi Arabia’s CMA regulatory framework. An initial US-based offering has already seen strong participation, with a second tranche now available on Stake.

Key points

Investcorp partners with Stake to distribute select international real estate investments via a digital app.

Offerings target individual investors seeking access to institutional-grade opportunities.

The initiative complements Investcorp’s existing digital platform strategy.

All products are structured under Saudi Arabia’s CMA regulatory framework.

A first US-based offering drew strong demand; a second tranche is live.

Why this matters

The agreement highlights how established asset managers are using fintech platforms to widen access to private markets in the MENA region. For investors, it signals growing availability of global real assets through regulated digital channels. For the market, it reflects a broader shift toward technology-enabled distribution, where compliance, due diligence, and user experience converge to support participation beyond traditional institutional circles.

What to watch next

Investor uptake of the second US-based tranche on the Stake platform.

Potential expansion to additional geographies or asset types under the agreement.

Further integration of Investcorp offerings within Stake’s digital ecosystem.

Disclosure: The content below is a press release provided by the company/PR representative. It is published for informational purposes.

Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, January 28th, 2026: Investcorp Saudi Arabia Financial Investments Company (together with its affiliates, “Investcorp”), a leading global alternative investment manager, has expanded its digital platform offering through a distribution agreement with Stake, the MENA region’s leading digital real-estate investment platform. The partnership provides investors with access to select international real estate opportunities via the Stake digital application, combining Investcorp’s institutional‑grade investment expertise and rigorous due diligence with Stake’s world-class technology‑enabled user experience.

Through the Stake platform, investors are able to participate seamlessly in opportunities traditionally available only to institutional partners, reinforcing Investcorp’s commitment to broadening access to private markets through digital innovation.

The agreement forms part of Investcorp’s broader strategy to build a global digital platform ecosystem, following the wider launch last year of its proprietary, award‑winning Investcorp Wealth mobile app, which provides investors with a streamlined gateway to private market investments. The joint initiative with Stake represents a complementary expansion of this strategy, extending Investcorp’s digital reach through a leading third‑party fintech platform.

All offerings made available under the agreement are structured within the regulatory framework of the Capital Market Authority (CMA) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which has established a progressive and forward‑looking regime designed to broaden investor participation in private investment funds, while maintaining robust standards of investor protection and compliance.

Mashaal Al Jomaih, CEO of Investcorp Saudi Arabia, said: “Investcorp is committed to redefining access to private markets through digital innovation, and strategic partnerships with platforms such as Stake are a key pillar of our global digital platform strategy. This agreementenables individual investors to participate in high‑quality opportunities historically reserved for institutions, combining Stake’s advanced technology with our global investment capabilities and disciplined approach.”

Manar Mahmassani, Co‑Founder and Co‑CEO of Stake, commented: “As we continue to make real estate investing more accessible, partnering with top tier investment managers like Investcorp allows us to bring high-quality opportunities to our users. This partnership brings us one step closer to our vision of enabling investors worldwide to access prime, institutional-grade global real estate investments through a single digital platform.”

The first US‑based offering launched under the agreement attracted strong investor demand, with participation from thousands of investors. A second tranche is now live on the Stake platform.

About Investcorp

Investcorp is a global investment manager specializing in alternative investments across four asset classes: Private Equity (mid-market buyouts, growth investments, and GP staking), Real Assets (real estate and infrastructure), Credit (CLOs, broadly syndicated loans and structured credit, and middle market direct lending), and Liquid Strategies (absolute return investments and insurance asset management).

Since its inception in 1982, Investcorp has focused on generating attractive returns for its clients and creating sustainable long-term value by employing a disciplined investment process, leveraging deep sector expertise, and drawing on the resources of a global platform.

Investcorp invests its own capital alongside its clients, aligning interests across its investment strategies, and is committed to responsible investing and sustainable value creation within portfolio companies and the communities in which it operates.

Today, Investcorp manages approximately US $60 billion in assets, including assets managed by third party managers. The firm operates from 14 offices across the United States, Europe, the GCC, and Asia – including India, China, Japan, and Singapore – and employs approximately 500 professionals representing over 50 nationalities worldwide.

For further information, visit http://www.investcorp.com/ and follow us @Investcorp on LinkedIn, X and Instagram.

About Stake

Regulated by the Capital Market Authority (CMA) in Saudi Arabia for fund distribution and regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) for fractional properties, Stake has built a community spanning over 2 million users from 211+ nationalities and has enabled over 250,000 investments across 3 real estate funds and 500+ properties, paying out over AED 59.5 million in rental income and surpassing AED 1.4 billion in real estate transactions to date. Stake is backed by prominent investors such as Saudi Aramco’s Wae’d Ventures, Mubadala Investment Company, MEVP, Property Finder and Republic.com.

For further information, visit http://www.getstake.com and follow Stake on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, X, and Facebook.

Media Contacts

For Investcorp:

Firas El Amine

+973 175 15404

felamine@investcorp.com

For Stake:

Yasmeen Dahbour

+971 52 1414130

yasmeen@getstake.com

This article was originally published as Investcorp Expands Digital Platform via Stake Partnership in Saudi Arabia on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Speculative capital is shifting away from cryptocurrency markets and toward other high-growth tech narratives, notably artificial intelligence and robotics, according to research from Delphi Digital. In a Wednesday post on X, the firm argued that last year’s underperformance across altcoin sectors dented crypto’s appeal as a default destination for risk-seeking capital. The takeaway is not simply a reshuffle within crypto, but a broader competition for speculative dollars as investors chase narratives with the most dynamic risk-adjusted returns. The post highlights how crypto must compete with every exponential technology thesis vying for attention and money in a crowded tech landscape.

“Crypto isn’t just competing with other crypto anymore. It’s competing with every exponential technology narrative vying for speculative dollars.”

The implications of this shift extend beyond narrative sentiment. Market data show a relative deterioration in crypto prices against select tech-enabled sectors. Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) has slipped about 12% over the past year, while the Global X Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF has gained roughly 13% over the same period, according to TradingView. In contrast, altcoins outside the top 10 have fared worse, with declines surpassing 30% in many cases. The juxtaposition underscores a landscape where risk appetite is increasingly tethered to the perceived upside of AI and robotics rather than a broad crypto beta.

BTC, Others, BOTZ, one-year chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingView

As Aurelie Barthere, principal research analyst at crypto intelligence platform Nansen, notes, the outflow from crypto into AI-themed plays is not solely about price momentum. “Another key factor is the repricing of Fed rate cuts, with markets now pricing an elevated terminal rate of around 3.8% over the next five years, which tightens liquidity conditions for risk assets,” Barthere told Cointelegraph. She adds that crypto-specific headwinds are accumulating amid broader macro pressures and ongoing regulatory uncertainty.

The regulatory environment has become a material driver of sentiment. This week, the US Senate Agriculture Committee delayed a markup of its version of the Market Structure bill to Thursday from Tuesday due to a severe winter storm, a development Cointelegraph reported earlier. The delay signals continued legislative uncertainty at a time when crypto markets are grappling with liquidity constraints and questions about how new rules will shape market structure, exchange transparency, and enforcement. The outcome of this process remains a watch item for asset allocators who want to understand how any forthcoming framework may affect crypto flows relative to traditional tech equities and ETFs focused on AI and robotics.

On the funding side, the past year has seen a paradox: while risk capital is pulling back from some corners of crypto, interest remains robust in robotics and AI. CrunchBase data show robotics startups raised a cumulative $13.8 billion in 2025, up from $7.8 billion in 2024 and exceeding the prior record of $13.1 billion in 2021. This surge reflects continued VC appetite for real-world deployment potential in automation, perception systems, and autonomous capabilities. In the same period, crypto-focused venture activity remained resilient but cooled somewhat, with VC funding reaching about $18.2 billion across 902 deals in 2025, up roughly 80% from $10.1 billion across 1,548 deals in 2024, according to Rootdata.

Year-end data reveal a dramatic slowdown in deal activity, even as overall investment remained elevated relative to early 2024. November closed with about $3.1 billion raised across 67 deals in crypto, followed by December’s $700 million across 59 deals, marking a sharp 77% monthly decline. The broader context includes a notable October event—the record $19 billion crypto market crash that occurred as geopolitical tensions and regulatory anxieties weighed on markets. That event, described by market trackers as the largest liquidation wave since the April 2021 spike, helped cool demand for riskier crypto exposure as investors recalibrated assumptions about risk, liquidity, and leverage. The dynamics underscore a market entering a state of recalibration, with capital seeking alignments between disruptive tech narratives and risk-managed exposure in crypto markets.

Alongside these developments, high-profile pieces of market data and analysis have emphasized a broader pattern: capital is chasing opportunities with clearer, near-term applicability in AI-driven products and automated systems. The divergence in performance between a benchmark like BTC and a robotics-focused ETF illustrates a bifurcated investment thesis becoming more pronounced in late 2025 and into 2026. The debate now centers on whether crypto assets can reassert a unique growth narrative or whether the next phase of speculative capital resides primarily in AI-enabled platforms and robotics-enabled services.

Market reaction and key details

Delphi Digital’s takeaway centers on a reallocating investor base. The firm asserts that crypto’s risk premium has shifted as investors weigh the potential of AI-centric sectors against the more uncertain tail risks associated with crypto-native innovations. This thesis is reinforced by the price trajectories of the period: while BTC retraced, robot-focused equities, and related AI exposure captured attention and capital in a way that crypto did not. The narrative suggests a multi-asset environment where portfolios diversify into AI, robotics, and automation themes to balance volatility and potential upside.

The macro backdrop—policy expectations, rate trajectories, and legislative progress—will continue to shape how capital flows between crypto and alternative technology narratives. With the Fed’s terminal rate being priced higher than earlier expectations, liquidity tightness in risk assets is likely to persist. Policymakers’ actions on regulatory clarity will also play a decisive role in determining whether crypto can re-enter the risk-on mix or remain relatively anchored as a niche within the broader technology landscape.

Investors should also watch for developments in robotics and AI deployment. The robust fundraising activity in robotics, contrasted with crypto venture capital, suggests a bifurcated risk environment where automation technologies may provide more immediate cost savings and productivity gains. For market participants, the question is whether crypto can demonstrate differentiated value—such as programmable money, on-chain asset security, or novel financial primitives—that excites a similar level of risk appetite as AI and robotics narratives.

From a liquidity and market structure perspective, ongoing regulatory scrutiny and potential policy changes will influence how capital is allocated across risk assets. The liquidity landscape remains a critical variable for traders and institutions evaluating the relative attractiveness of crypto versus AI-enabled tech groups. The possibility of further regulatory clarity—whether through comprehensive crypto legislation or more targeted reforms—could either unlock or constrain the ability of crypto markets to attract speculative capital aligned with cutting-edge technology themes.

Why it matters

For traders, the shift toward AI and robotics signals a broader redefinition of where growth can come from in the tech sector. Crypto may need to demonstrate distinctive capabilities—such as improved settlement efficiency, programmable financial tools, or novel tokenized ecosystems—to regain a leadership role in speculative capital allocation. For builders and founders, the data points to a competitive landscape where robotics and AI startups attract capital and talent at a time when crypto ventures face heightened scrutiny and regulatory uncertainty. The evolution also matters for policy-minded readers who watch how regulatory clarity and policy incentives influence the relative appeal of crypto versus other exponential technologies.

Investors in the crypto space should prepare for a more nuanced contribution landscape. A bifurcated market could persist, with AI and robotics narratives drawing capital to propulsive business models while crypto markets consolidate and await clearer regulatory guidance. This environment may translate into distinctive risk/return profiles across sectors, underscoring the importance of diversified exposure and disciplined risk management as the technology investment cycle evolves.

Ultimately, the narrative is about timing, transparency, and the alignment of capital with durable value creation. As AI and robotics ecosystems mature, they may offer tangible returns that appeal to risk-tolerant investors, while crypto markets adapt to tighter monetary conditions and ongoing policy negotiations. The path forward will depend on policy outcomes, macro liquidity, and the pace at which AI-enabled solutions scale across industries, creating a broader ecosystem of demand for advanced technologies beyond digital assets alone.

What to watch next

Regulatory progress on the Market Structure bill: any firm scheduling of a markup or clarifications that affect crypto exchanges and on-chain activity.

Macro policy signals: Fed rate decisions and updated rate-path expectations that influence liquidity for risk assets.

Robotics/AI funding trends: continued VC data for 2026 and potential record-breaking rounds in AI/automation.

Market reactions to policy outcomes: liquidity availability and how the crypto market adapts to policy clarity or further uncertainty.

Sources & verification

Delphi Digital’s X post citing the shift of speculative capital toward AI and robotics narratives.

TradingView data on Bitcoin price performance and the Global X Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF performance.

CrunchBase data on robotics startup fundraising for 2025.

Rootdata data on venture funding in crypto for 2025, including deal counts and totals.

Cointelegraph reporting on US Senate Agriculture Committee delay of the Market Structure bill markup and broader regulatory context.

Shifting capital: Crypto markets pivot toward AI and robotics amid policy headwinds

Speculative capital appears to be rotating away from broad crypto exposure and toward technologies with clear, near-term productivity and deployment advantages. Delphi Digital’s analysis highlights a multi-asset dynamic in which investors are weighing the potential upside of automated systems, machine perception, and autonomous processes against the volatility and regulatory risk still attached to crypto markets. The narrative underscores a growing skepticism among risk-tolerant traders who once treated crypto as a primary growth engine but are now chasing opportunities in AI and robotics that promise tangible, real-world applications and scalable economics.

The data narrative supports a tale of divergent performance. Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) has retraced over a 12-month horizon, while the robotics and AI space has shown resilience with an ETF proxy delivering positive returns. Altcoins outside the leading ranks have fared far worse, with many recording declines well into double digits. The disconnect between crypto price action and AI/robotics performance raises questions about the resilience of crypto’s risk premium and whether the sector can reestablish a compelling growth narrative amid a sea of competing technology stories.

Beyond price action, the broader macro backdrop is shaping risk sentiment. Market participants are recalibrating expectations for rate cuts and the trajectory of the terminal rate, now priced higher than earlier in the cycle. This repricing tightens liquidity for risk assets, including digital assets, and nudges investors toward assets with clearer cash flows or scalable business models such as automation and AI-enabled services. The regulatory horizon adds another layer of uncertainty, particularly as policymakers work through how to define and oversee crypto markets within a rapidly evolving technology landscape.

In late 2025, the robotics and AI funding environment demonstrated a strong runway for real-world deployment. Robotics startups attracted substantial capital: about $13.8 billion was raised in 2025, a marked increase from 2024’s $7.8 billion and surpassing the 2021 record of $13.1 billion. The momentum reflects a sustained investor appetite for technologies with tangible operational efficiencies and measurable productivity gains. Crypto venture funding, while still sizable, followed a different cadence, registering roughly $18.2 billion across 902 deals in 2025—an 80% year-over-year rise from $10.1 billion across 1,548 deals in 2024. Yet, the late-year cadence cooled dramatically, with November activity giving way to a December slowdown, signaling caution as markets and policymakers assess next steps for both crypto and AI ecosystems.

As the regulatory narrative unfolds, market participants will be testing a core hypothesis: can crypto regain a role as a disruptive force within finance while AI and robotics deliver tangible operational and economic gains elsewhere? The answer will depend on policy clarity, liquidity conditions, and the pace at which AI-enabled platforms unlock efficiencies across industries. For now, the evidence points to a nuanced ecosystem where capital seeks the most compelling narratives across a spectrum of exponential technologies, rather than a single discipline dominating the imagination of risk-tolerant investors.

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This article was originally published as Speculative Crypto Flows to Robotics and AI, Delphi Digital on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

South Korea’s top financial regulator signaled a deeper pivot on crypto-exchange governance, arguing that licensed platforms should be treated as core public infrastructure rather than purely private firms. The remarks come amid ongoing work on the Digital Asset Basic Act, a legislative package that aims to tighten oversight and create a formal authorization regime for exchanges. FSC chair Lee Eog-weon outlined a plan to cap ownership by major shareholders and to align governance standards with those used in traditional securities markets. Lawmakers are also weighing a separate stablecoin framework that would set minimum capital requirements for issuers, with a target of 5 billion won ($3.7 million). The package signals Seoul’s intent to escalate governance reforms in a rapidly evolving market.

Key takeaways

Major crypto exchanges in Korea could face ownership caps modeled on securities, aiming to prevent control by a few families or entities.

The plan would move exchanges from a renewal-based notification system to an authorization regime with longer-duration licenses.

The FSC frames exchanges as infrastructure with public responsibilities, aligning governance with traditional market venues and ATS frameworks.

Stakeholders cited in reporting include Dunamu and Coinone, where sizable family or founder stakes have drawn scrutiny and may trigger restructurings.

The proposed stablecoin regime would require at least 5 billion won in capital for issuers, a contentious provision amid broader regulatory negotiations.

Timeline for enactment remains fluid, with committee reviews and a National Assembly vote still pending ahead of the Lunar New Year.

Market context: The debate in Seoul mirrors a broader trend in crypto regulation as jurisdictions seek clearer governance standards for exchanges, stablecoin issuers, and other on-chain financial actors. In Asia, regulators are increasingly tying operator licenses to infrastructure-like responsibilities, while policymakers weigh how to balance innovation with investor protection and financial stability.

Why it matters

For users and investors, the potential ownership caps could reshape who controls Korea’s largest exchanges and how they participate in governance. Concentrated ownership can affect liquidity, strategic decisions, and access to long-term capital. If enacted, the rules could force incumbents to renegotiate stakes or bring in new strategic partners to comply with a stricter regime, potentially altering trading dynamics and product development timelines.

For builders and practitioners, the shift toward an authorization framework brings more predictability to licensing, but also raises compliance costs and due diligence expectations. Governance reforms tied to public-infrastructure status may push platforms to adopt more rigorous suitability assessments and disclosure practices, aligning with how traditional securities venues operate.

What to watch next

Committee reviews and a National Assembly vote on the Digital Asset Basic Act, with a timeline likely before the Lunar New Year (Feb 17).

Decisions on the ownership cap thresholds (15–20%) and any required restructuring by top exchanges such as Dunamu and Coinone.

Finalization of the stablecoin capital requirement (5 billion won) and the central bank’s role within the regulatory framework.

Public statements from exchange operators and investors on the feasibility and commercial impact of the proposed reforms.

Sources & verification

Yonhap News Agency coverage of the ownership cap move and its progression toward an public-infrastructure framing for exchanges.

Maeil Business Newspaper reporting the proposed 5 billion won minimum capital requirement for stablecoin issuers.

Korea Times coverage of FSC Chair Lee Eog-weon’s comments and the push for governance reforms in the exchange sector.

Policy coordination document submitted to the National Assembly outlining preparations for the Digital Asset Basic Act.

Regulatory push redefines governance for Korea’s crypto exchanges

South Korea is intensifying its regulatory posture around the crypto markets, driven by a conviction that exchanges operate as indispensable infrastructure within the digital-asset ecosystem. In statements reported as part of ongoing preparatory work for the Digital Asset Basic Act, the Financial Services Commission (FSC) chair emphasized a shift in how exchanges should be treated — from private firms with occasional regulatory oversight to entities carrying public-infrastructure responsibilities. The core of the plan is to introduce ownership caps on major shareholders, a move designed to dilute the lopsided control that could enable market manipulation or undermine confidence in the trading environment.

The chairman’s remarks align with a broader push to move exchanges from a three-year renewal model toward an authorization regime that grants more durable operating status. In this framework, governance rules — including robust suitability reviews for investors and tighter disclosure requirements — would parallel the standards applied to securities markets and alternative trading systems (ATS). The aim is to cultivate a more resilient, transparent, and accountable trading landscape that can support a formal licensing regime as the Digital Asset Basic Act takes shape.

The policy direction rests on a recognition that concentrated ownership can pose risks to market integrity. Reports describe the ownership cap as a lever to ensure more distributed control and to deter strategic moves that could stifle competition or distort price discovery. The policy narrative also notes that exchanges serve as core market infrastructure, a characterization that justifies governance rules that resemble those imposed on traditional financial venues.

As the discussions unfold, questions remain about the practical impact on the ownership structure of Korea’s largest platforms. Public statements cited that Dunamu Chair Song Chi-hyung and related parties hold more than 28% of the company’s shares, while Coinone founder Cha Myung-hoon maintains a controlling stake of 53% in the exchange. If the caps are enacted, such concentrations could trigger mandatory restructurings or force the recruitment of new, independent investors to meet regulatory thresholds. While these details paint a potentially disruptive picture, supporters argue that a more distributed ownership base would bolster market confidence and long-term resilience.

The regulatory equation is further complicated by the stablecoin provisions, which set a capital floor for issuers at 5 billion won. Lawmakers have signaled that the negotiating process is ongoing, with the Lunar New Year deadline on February 17 serving as a milestone rather than a hard enforcement date. Earlier iterations of the bill faced delays as policymakers debated how to oversee stablecoin issuers without stifling innovation. In the current round of discussions, other elements of the Digital Asset Basic Act appear to be advancing, but the ownership caps and the central bank’s role remain among the most contentious topics. If approved, the framework would mark a significant shift in how Korea regulates the intersection of finance and technology, with implications for both domestic players and the broader regional ecosystem.

In parallel, observers note that the transition to an authorization regime would bring Korea’s exchange governance more in line with international norms, potentially easing cross-border collaboration and enhancing investor protection. Critics, however, warn that abrupt shifts in ownership structures could disrupt strategic collaborations, financing plans, and product roadmaps at a moment when the market is already undergoing rapid experimentation with tokens, lending protocols, and new trading formats. The policy debate continues to unfold against a backdrop of evolving regulatory expectations across Asia, where several jurisdictions are recalibrating their stance on licensing, stablecoins, and capital requirements for crypto-asset issuers.

The path forward will likely hinge on the National Assembly’s scrutiny, committee deliberations, and the alignment of the Digital Asset Basic Act with broader financial policy goals, including the central bank’s perspective on macro-stability and monetary policy transmission. As the discussions advance, industry participants will be watching for concrete timelines, the specifics of the ownership cap, and the exact criteria that would trigger an authorization status for exchanges. The outcome could shape not only the competitive dynamics within Korea but also the manner in which regional operators structure partnerships, governance, and capital planning in a rapidly changing regulatory environment.

This article was originally published as FSC Chair Defends South Korea’s Crypto Exchange Ownership Caps on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Editor’s note: LVMH has released its full-year 2025 results, showing how the world’s largest luxury group navigated a challenging macroeconomic and currency environment. While reported revenue declined year on year, the Group preserved strong margins, improved free cash flow, and significantly reduced net debt. Performance varied across divisions, with Selective Retailing, led by Sephora, standing out as a key growth driver. Alongside the numbers, management outlined a clear strategic focus on brand experience, creative renewal, and selective expansion, setting the tone for how LVMH plans to protect value and pursue growth heading into 2026.

Key points

2025 revenue reached €80.8 billion, with a limited organic decline of 1% despite currency headwinds.

Operating margin remained solid at 22%, highlighting cost discipline and brand pricing power.

Free cash flow rose 8% to €11.3 billion, allowing a 26% reduction in net debt.

Selective Retailing grew organically by 4%, driven by Sephora’s global performance.

Why this matters

LVMH’s results offer a clear snapshot of how a global consumer group is managing volatility in currencies, demand, and geopolitics. For investors and market watchers, the focus on cash generation, balance sheet strength, and disciplined investment provides insight into how large-cap leaders defend profitability during slower growth cycles. The Group’s emphasis on brand experience and creative renewal also signals where capital and strategic attention may be directed in the luxury sector over the medium term.

What to watch next

Execution of the new creative leadership across key fashion houses.

Performance trends in Fashion and Leather Goods following 2025’s sales decline.

Progress of experiential retail projects and new flagship openings.

Disclosure: The content below is a press release provided by the company/PR representative. It is published for informational purposes.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – January 28, 2026: In a strained global macroeconomic environment, LVMH has once again demonstrated the resilience of its diversified, multi-sector business model. While full-year 2025 results showed a modest decline compared with the previous year, the Group delivered strong cash-flow performance and maintained the enduring appeal of its portfolio of brands.

The Group reported revenue of €80.8 billion, reflecting an organic decline of 1%. On a reported basis, sales fell by 5%, a decrease almost entirely attributable to unfavourable currency effects, as the strengthening euro weighed on the conversion of international revenues. Despite this impact, LVMH maintained a solid operating margin of 22%.

Commenting on the results, Antoine Fraysse-Soulier, Market Analyst at eToro, said: “LVMH’s 2025 performance highlights exemplary cash-flow management and the continued strength of its brands, even in a complex macroeconomic and currency environment.”

A key highlight of the year was operating free cash flow, which increased by 8% to €11.3 billion, enabling the Group to reduce its net debt by 26%.

Selective Retailing emerged as the Group’s primary growth engine, delivering organic growth of 4%. Sephora posted a particularly strong performance, further strengthening its global leadership position and market share. In contrast, the Fashion & Leather Goods division recorded a 5% decline in sales, although profitability remained highly resilient, with an operating margin reaching an impressive 35%.

Beyond the financial results, Bernard Arnault reaffirmed LVMH’s long-term strategy of transforming purchasing into a cultural and emotional experience. The Group continues to evolve its maisons into unique destinations, including The Louis in Shanghai and new Tiffany & Co. flagship stores in Milan and Tokyo, aimed at deepening local engagement and customer loyalty.

LVMH is also pursuing a significant creative renewal, marked by the appointment of new artistic directors, including Jonathan Anderson at Dior, Sarah Burton at Givenchy, and Michael Rider at Céline. This “creative shock” is designed to stimulate both commercial performance and media attention.

In parallel, the world’s leading luxury group is accelerating its expansion into new territories, particularly Lifestyle and Sport, through a ten-year partnership with Formula 1 and its participation in the Osaka World Expo, underscoring its ambition to extend the art of living beyond fashion.

Looking ahead, LVMH (EPA: MC)enters 2026 with heightened vigilance but undiminished confidence, supported by strong cash generation, disciplined financial management, and a clear strategic vision.

Media Contact:
PR@etoro.com

About eToro

eToro is the trading and investing platform that empowers you to invest, share and learn. We were founded in 2007 with the vision of a world where everyone can trade and invest in a simple and transparent way. Today we have 40 million registered users from 75 countries. We believe there is power in shared knowledge and that we can become more successful by investing together. So we’ve created a collaborative investment community designed to provide you with the tools you need to grow your knowledge and wealth. On eToro, you can hold a range of traditional and innovative assets and choose how you invest: trade directly, invest in a portfolio, or copy other investors. You can visit our media centre here for our latest news.

This article was originally published as LVMH Navigates Headwinds With Creative Renewal Ahead of 2026 on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Key Takeaways

The Russian Federation has declared WhiteBIT cryptocurrency exchange, as well as its affiliated organizations, ‘undesirable’.

The exchange is alleged to have transferred approximately $11 million in support of Ukraine Armed Forces.

Despite this ban, WhiteBIT maintains its pro-Ukraine stance and is focused on expanding its operations worldwide.

Russia has barred crypto exchange WhiteBIT from operating in its country. This comes after prosecutors labelled the platform as well as its affiliated and subsidiary organizations as ‘undesirable’ over allegations tied to support for Ukraine’s war efforts.

The announcement came from the Prosecutor General’s Office of the Russian Federation. It alleged the exchange funded Ukrainian Armed Forces, facilitated ‘gray’ schemes and other illegal activities.

Exchange Accused of Financing the Ukrainian Forces

According to the Russian authorities, since the beginning of their war with Ukraine in 2022, WhiteBIT crypto exchange has donated a total of approximately $11 million in support of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Of that total, $900,000 was allocated for the purchase of drone systems for the forces and Azov, an organization that has also been considered a terrorist group in Russia.

The office alleged that the exchange was also part of a ‘grey’ scheme designed to move money out of Russian territory. In addition, the exchange is said to be collaborating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine through United24, a fundraising platform created to collect cryptocurrency donations for Ukraine.

All these connections contributed to the decision to label the exchange as ‘undesirable’. In Russia, laws dictate that organizations with such labels must cease operations in the country. Any individual or group found to be cooperating with them is subject to fines or criminal charges carrying a term in prison.

WhiteBIT’s Public Stance On Support for Ukraine

Headquartered in Lithuania, WhiteBIT began its operations in 2018 under the leadership of Ukrainian entrepreneurs. Since this war began, the exchange has consistently maintained a pro-Ukrainian position. In a statement, it said that it is aware of the decision announced by the Russian Prosecutor’s Office and considers it the strongest confirmation of its clear and consistent pro-Ukrainian position.

Recently, it revealed that it provided technical infrastructure for the United24 platform. Also on its website and official channels, the company reported donations to Ukraine exceeding $11 million, consistent with figures quoted by Russian prosecutors.

While it has faced this ban in Russia, the company says it remains focused on global growth, transparency, and supporting Ukraine.

This article was originally published as Russia Bans Crypto Exchange WhiteBIT Over Ukraine Ties on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Summary

U.S. consumer sentiment increased in January, with the index revised up to 56.4 from December’s 52.9.

Inflation expectations eased, with consumers expecting 4% price increases over the next year.

Consumer spending remains resilient, but weakening fundamentals may slow consumption ahead.

Consumer sentiment in the United States continued to improve in January, despite the sentiment being 21% below a year ago.

The University of Michigan on Friday released data showing consumer sentiment in the U.S. has greatly increased more than what was anticipated to occur in January 2026.

The University stated that its consumer sentiment index for January was upwardly revised to 56.4 from a preliminary reading of 54.0. The index was at 52.9 in December, and economists had predicted the index would be unrevised from the preliminary estimate.

“While the overall improvement was small, it was broad-based, seen across the income distribution, educational attainment, older and younger consumers, and Republicans and Democrats alike,” Joanne Hsu, survey director, said in an analysis.

She added “However, national sentiment remains more than 20% below a year ago, as consumers continue to report pressures on their purchasing power stemming from high prices and the prospect of weakening labor markets.”

According to data released on Friday, consumers anticipate price increases of 4% annually over the next year, which is the lowest since January 2025. Consumers’ expectations for inflation over the next five years dipped to 3.3% from a preliminary estimate of 3.4%. Long-term inflation expectations edged up from 3.2% last month.

“With affordability pressures proving stubborn, a near-term sentiment rebound looks unlikely,” said Oren Klachkin, financial markets economist at Nationwide.

This confidence is a crucial indication for Federal Reserve policymakers, who are concerned that long-standing anxieties about price increases may affect wage-setting and spending decisions, potentially causing inflation to spiral out of control.

Consumer spending has persisted despite general discontent

This spending resilience indicates that although households are under stress, they have not yet made a significant cutback.

“While resilient spending has defied depressed consumer sentiment, a sluggish labor market alongside a declining saving rate points to consumption weakness ahead, particularly as lower-income households show increasing signs of stress,” Felix-Antoine Vezina-Poirier, chief strategist at BCA Research, wrote Friday morning. “Consumption was the largest contributor to GDP (gross domestic product) growth in Q3. It still shows resilience in Q4, but its underlying drivers are weakening.”

This article was originally published as U.S. Consumer Sentiment Grows in January 2026 on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

The latest assessment from Chainalysis shows a marked shift in how illicit funds move within the crypto ecosystem. Centralized exchanges, once a primary conduit for laundering, are seeing their role diminish as informal, Chinese-language service networks expand their reach through laundering-as-a-service models. The report, published this week, details a landscape where money mules, informal over-the-counter desks, and gambling platforms are used to mix and route funds, bypassing traditional on-ramps and scrutiny. The trend sits within a broader growth in on-chain laundering, highlighting the continuous evolution of crypto crime even as regulators tighten rules around exchanges and custodians. In 2025, the on-chain laundering ecosystem reportedly processed more than $82 billion in illicit funds, a striking rise from roughly $10 billion in 2020, underscoring both rising liquidity and the persistent gap between crypto crime and enforcement capabilities.

Key takeaways

Chinese-language networks now account for about 20% of tracked illicit crypto funds, aligning with a wider migration away from centralized venues as exchanges gain the ability to freeze funds.

Inflows to identified Chinese-language laundering networks have surged dramatically since 2020, growing 7,325 times faster than inflows to centralized exchanges.

In 2025 alone, illicit funds laundered on-chain reached an estimated $82 billion, with Chinese-language networks responsible for roughly $16 billion of that total (~$44 million per day).

The laundering ecosystem is increasingly accessible, with crypto’s liquidity and adoption fueling new methods—telegram-based services and informal desks are highlighted as key facilitators.

Law-enforcement capacity building is emphasized as crucial, calling for upskilling and better information sharing to disrupt on-chain laundering networks.

Despite progress in centralized-exchange controls, the shift toward on-chain and service-based laundering reflects a broader regulatory and enforcement challenge across borders.

Market context: The findings come as regulators worldwide tighten crypto-asset rules and exchanges strengthen KYC/AML controls, yet illicit actors adapt by exploiting on-chain rails and informal channels. The shift reinforces the importance of on-chain analytics and cross-border cooperation as tools to curb crypto-enabled crime.

Why it matters

The Chainalysis report is a sobering reminder that the crypto-crime landscape is not static. While centralized exchanges have made meaningful strides in customer checks and security, the rise of Chinese-language networks signals a pivot toward less-regulated, on-chain pathways. The fact that these networks now account for a meaningful share of illicit flows—despite increased exchange scrutiny—illustrates how crime-adjacent actors exploit the friction between regulation and innovation. The magnitude of 2025’s on-chain laundering, pegged at more than $82 billion, underscores the scale of the problem and the urgency for robust global coordination among law enforcement, policymakers, and the private sector.

Experts interviewed by Chainalysis describe a persistent gap between criminal capabilities and enforcement capacity. Tom Keatinge of the Royal United Services Institute argues that many countries lack a parallel development of crypto-tracing skills within law enforcement, a deficiency that hampers disruption efforts. He notes that while private sector analytics providers have helped in specific cases, the real-world need is a systemic upgrade of investigative capabilities and cross-border information sharing. The report therefore frames upskilling as not merely a technical issue but a strategic one, essential to counter the nimble and persistent laundering networks that now dominate a large portion of on-chain activity.

What to watch next

Regulatory developments that expand cross-border information sharing and harmonize AML standards for crypto service providers.

Law-enforcement training programs and joint task forces aimed at dismantling laundering-as-a-service operations and advertising venues.

Advances in on-chain tracing tech and analytics that can attribute laundering flows more precisely to networks and facilitators.

Policy updates on the treatment of Chinese-language service channels and Telegram-based networks in enforcement actions.

Potential enforcement cases that target money-mules, OTC desks, and gambling platforms implicated in laundering networks.

Sources & verification

Chainalysis: 2026 crypto money laundering report and accompanying status updates, including on-chain flow analyses and network-specific findings.

Chainalysis discussion of laundering dynamics via Chinese-language Telegram-based services and other informal channels.

Related materials cited in the report, including regulatory and enforcement context and expert commentary from policy think tanks.

Chinese-language laundering networks reshape on-chain crime

Chainalysis’s latest research paints a clear picture: as exchanges intensify their compliance regimes, illicit actors are increasingly leveraging non-traditional routes to move and conceal funds. The Chinese-language networks—anchored in informal service-based models—have built out infrastructures that resemble “laundering-as-a-service,” drawing on money mules, OTC desks operating outside formal compliance regimes, and gambling platforms used to mix and route illicit funds. These networks did not appear overnight; they matured in the COVID-era environment that facilitated remote coordination and new digital-adoption patterns. Since then, they have grown to dominate known on-chain money-laundering activity, becoming a formidable force in the global crypto crime ecosystem.

One of the most striking metrics in the report is the share of illicit flows attributed to these Chinese-language networks. Roughly one-fifth of tracked illicit crypto funds are associated with these channels, a testament to their reach and persistence. This rise comes at a time when international efforts to police crypto activity are intensifying. Centralized exchanges, long the workhorse for compliant crypto trading, have tightened monitoring and built stronger controls. Yet the networks described in the Chainalysis study illustrate a contrasting, more diffuse approach to laundering—one that leverages low-friction channels, informal desks, and a distributed advertising ecosystem to recruit participants and move funds across borders.

In numerical terms, the growth story is compelling: inflows to identified Chinese-language laundering networks have surged at a pace that dwarfs that of centralized exchanges. Since 2020, inflows to these networks have expanded 7,325 times faster than inflows to centralized exchanges—an asymmetry that highlights how quickly illicit actors can adapt to changing regulatory environments. The implication is not only about the scale of illicit funds moving through these channels but also about the speed at which their operational models can pivot in response to enforcement pressure.

Beyond the raw figures, the report emphasizes shifts in the mechanics of on-chain laundering. While not discounting the role of traditional laundering endpoints, Chainalysis notes a broader ecosystem in which on-chain mixing services, mule networks, OTC desks, and gambling platforms together form a complex web that can obfuscate provenance and destination of funds. The accessibility and liquidity of crypto assets fuel this ecosystem, enabling rapid movement, layering, and swapping across multiple wallets and chains. The trend underscores the need for more sophisticated cross-chain analytics and heightened collaboration between regulators, exchanges, and law-enforcement agencies to disrupt such networks at multiple points of exposure.

The discussion also underscores a practical policy takeaway: law enforcement must be equipped with enhanced capabilities and better information-sharing mechanisms. As Tom Keatinge suggested, the gap between criminals’ crypto usage and authorities’ investigative prowess remains a critical vulnerability. Private-sector tracing tools have proven useful in some cases, but the real-time, global-scale disruption of these laundering networks requires a concerted, systemic effort. The call is for a holistic upgrade of capabilities—from workforce training to interoperable data-sharing protocols—that can translate analytics into actionable enforcement outcomes.

Against this backdrop, the crypto industry, regulators, and researchers are likely to maintain a careful balance between enabling legitimate financial activity and curbing illicit flows. The rise of Chinese-language laundering networks does not necessarily indict the asset class as a whole; rather, it highlights the importance of robust compliance, transparent reporting, and continued investment in enforcement-relevant capabilities. The report’s findings invite policymakers to consider more nuanced, globally coordinated responses that can adapt to evolving laundering strategies without stifling legitimate innovation.

As the ecosystem continues to evolve, stakeholders should monitor indicators such as shifts in flow volumes by language regions, the emergence of new informal service clusters, and the effectiveness of cross-border information-sharing initiatives. The coming years will likely reveal whether intensified regulatory regimes and advanced analytics can meaningfully compress the playbook of these laundering networks or whether adaptivity will maintain their foothold in the on-chain crime landscape.

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This article was originally published as Crypto Laundering on Centralized Exchanges Declines: New Report Finds on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Steak ’n Shake has added $5 million in Bitcoin to its Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, lifting the fund to $15 million and roughly 167.7 BTC at current prices. The Tuesday update follows a $10 million infusion announced on January 18, underscoring the chain’s commitment to funneling all sales conducted in Bitcoin into the reserve. While the exact balance remains undisclosed, management has framed the move as part of a broader fintech-driven transformation aimed at strengthening the chain’s financial flexibility and driving growth across its footprint.

Key takeaways

Steak ’n Shake increased its Strategic Bitcoin Reserve by $5 million, bringing total holdings to about $15 million (roughly 167.7 BTC at press time).

The company began accepting Bitcoin payments across its restaurant network in May, integrating crypto into everyday transactions.

Same-store sales growth across company-owned and franchise locations rose 18% so far in 2026, with Bitcoin adoption cited as a primary catalyst.

Public treasury entities have accumulated significant Bitcoin exposure, holding about 1.13 million BTC collectively, valued at roughly $101.33 billion.

Steak ’n Shake will extend crypto-based incentives by offering Bitcoin bonuses to hourly employees at company-operated locations, starting March 1 with a two-year vesting period.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC

Sentiment: Bullish

Market context: The move aligns with a broader corporate trend toward crypto treasuries as firms weigh longer-horizon strategies amid macro uncertainty. Bitcoin’s price hovered near the $89,000 mark around the time of reporting, while public treasury holders collectively own about 1.13 million BTC, worth approximately $101.33 billion, per BitcoinTreasuries.Net.

Why it matters

The Steak ’n Shake development illustrates how a traditional consumer brand is integrating cryptocurrency into both treasury management and employee incentives. By funneling Bitcoin-based sales directly into the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, the company signals a longer-term bet on crypto as a durable part of corporate financial planning rather than a speculative sideline. The approach echoes a growing roster of public and private enterprises that view BTC as a hedge against fiat volatility and a means to align incentives with the evolving digital economy.

Industry observers view the initiative as a test case for how a fast-food operator can maintain day-to-day liquidity while building a crypto-backed balance sheet. A senior analyst who follows corporate crypto adoption noted that Bitcoin can serve as a backstop that supports resilience during lean periods, particularly for businesses with variable revenue streams. The rationale is not merely speculative; the BitcoinTreasuries.Net data show a substantial, ongoing accumulation of BTC by treasury-focused companies, reflecting a broader reallocation of risk and potential upside from crypto markets.

On the consumer side, Steak ’n Shake has framed Bitcoin adoption as a driver for growth in its core metric: same-store sales. Management has attributed part of the 18% SSS improvement in 2026 to the increased visibility and engagement that crypto offerings generate among customers who increasingly value digital payment options and a tech-forward brand experience. Acknowledging the broader trend, the company highlighted that fintech-driven strategies are transforming operations and how the brand interacts with its customer base. The move also aligns with a wider push among retailers to experiment with crypto-driven incentives and compensation models, which can help attract and retain talent in a competitive labor market.

Market participants remain cautious about short-term price trajectories for BTC, given fluctuating macro signals. Nonetheless, the longer-term narrative around corporate crypto adoption appears to be gaining momentum as more firms disclose treasury positions and explore payroll or bonus structures linked to digital assets. In the case of Steak ’n Shake, the planned Bitcoin bonuses for hourly workers—set to begin March 1 with a two-year vesting schedule—signal a tangible step toward aligning employee rewards with the company’s crypto strategy, potentially improving retention and morale as the restaurant expands its crypto footprint.

Overall, the trend toward corporate BTC holdings is supported by a growing number of public and private entities that view digital assets as a strategic resource rather than a mere speculative asset. The combination of a strengthened reserve, revenue-linked incentives, and a credible path toward broader crypto integration could influence peers to reexamine treasury policies, compensation schemes, and the role of digital assets in growth plans. While the price path remains uncertain in the near term, the underlying shift toward crypto-enabled business models appears to be gaining legitimacy across sectors.

For readers tracking the crypto-capitalization of businesses, Steak ’n Shake’s approach offers a concrete example of how a traditional brand can fuse sales, treasury strategy, and workforce incentives around BTC. As more companies publish figures on treasury allocations and as employees gain exposure to token-based rewards, the sector could see increased liquidity, more robust demand for BTC-based payroll tools, and a gradual normalization of crypto within mainstream corporate finance.

Details on the brand’s BTC journey, including past disclosures, are interwoven with broader market data and corporate commentary. A May 2026 disclosure noted the first wave of BTC acceptance across its restaurant network, and subsequent communications emphasize how crypto adoption is connected to growth metrics and investor-facing narratives. The broader ecosystem continues to monitor how these treasury-driven strategies influence company performance and market sentiment, especially as the industry seeks to balance risk with the potential upside of long-term Bitcoin holdings.

The ongoing development of Steak ’n Shake’s Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, alongside employee incentives and rising public corporate involvement in BTC, suggests that the landscape for Bitcoin as a corporate asset is evolving beyond a niche experiment. While price volatility remains a consideration, the structural shift—where crypto serves as a strategic financial instrument, a customer engagement catalyst, and a tool for talent retention—appears to be gaining traction across the broader business world.

For additional context, Bitcoin’s price movements and treasury data are widely tracked across market data platforms, including CoinMarketCap, which documented the broader price landscape during this period. The historical trajectory of BTC, coupled with the growing prevalence of corporate treasuries, underscores a convergence between traditional commerce and digital asset strategies that could shape sector-wide decision-making in the years ahead.

Sources and follow-ups on the Steak ’n Shake initiative include the company’s X posts detailing its fintech-focused transformation and its revenue-driving goals, as well as reference materials on the company’s earlier BTC payments and bonus program plans. Readers can also verify industry-wide BTC holdings at public treasury aggregators and track BTC’s price context via mainstream market data outlets.

In the longer run, investors and industry observers will want to watch for further increments to the SBR, any updates to the employee bonus program, and how the integration of BTC-based revenue channels interacts with same-store sales performance and franchise development plans. As corporate appetite for BTC grows, the coming quarters should reveal whether these structural shifts translate into sustained financial and operational advantages for Steak ’n Shake and similar operators.

Sources & verification: Steak ’n Shake’s X posts outlining fintech-driven strategy and SBR expansion; the January 18 and May disclosures related to BTC injections and acceptance; BitcoinTreasuries.Net data on public treasury BTC holdings; the company’s March 1 Bitcoin bonus plan for hourly workers; Bitcoin price data from CoinMarketCap.

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This article was originally published as Steak ‘N Shake Bolsters Its Strategic Bitcoin Reserve with $5M on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Morgan Stanley (EXCHANGE: MS) has appointed Amy Oldenburg to lead a newly formed crypto unit, signaling a deeper push into digital assets for a bank that has long observed the sector from the sidelines. Oldenburg, a veteran of the firm’s equity franchise with a tenure dating back to 2001, will transition to head of digital asset strategy after guiding the Emerging Markets Equity team since late 2021. The move comes as the bank accelerates its crypto ambitions, including plans to roll out three crypto exchange-traded funds and a dedicated crypto wallet. The decision underscores the institution’s intent to integrate digital assets more thoroughly into its advisory and wealth-management platforms and to structure products that can appeal to a broader set of clients. Bloomberg reported on Tuesday on Oldenburg’s appointment and the strategic shift, highlighting Morgan Stanley’s evolving stance on crypto.

Oldenburg has been instrumental in shaping the EM equities unit’s digital asset considerations, according to people familiar with the matter. Her transition positions her at the intersection of traditional capital markets and a rapidly expanding crypto product set. In tandem with her appointment, the bank has signaled ongoing expansion of its crypto team, listing roles on LinkedIn for a digital assets strategy director, a digital assets strategist, and a digital assets product lead, among others. The staffing push reflects a broader industry trend: financial institutions are building out internal capabilities to support clients who want access to crypto exposure through regulated channels rather than ad hoc, peripheral offerings.

Morgan Stanley’s broader crypto roadmap has been moving forward since late 2024, when the bank announced plans to launch a portfolio of crypto-focused exchange-traded funds. The objective—introducing regulated products that can provide diversified exposure to digital assets—aligns with a growing appetite among wealthy clients and wealth-management platforms seeking to offer crypto access within a familiar, audited framework. In addition to the ETF initiatives, the firm has explored a crypto wallet that would support both direct currencies and tokenized real-world assets such as stocks, bonds, and real estate. The wallet concept nods to a future where clients can manage a broader spectrum of digital assets in a single, integrated custody and settlement environment. This strategy has been discussed in industry circles as part of the ongoing evolution of how traditional banks interact with crypto liquidity and settlement rails.

Oldenburg has publicly advocated for critical fundamentals in crypto infrastructure. In her public appearances, she has emphasized the maxim “Not your keys, not your coins,” underscoring the importance of self-custody and robust custody solutions, especially for participants in emerging markets who may lack mature infrastructure. She has also suggested that the best adoption model for some clients requires a balance between custody resilience and the liquidity needs that come with 24/7 markets. In a 2025 forum, she noted the desire for liquidity that allows clients to move assets freely and to leverage the digital-asset space’s features for banking and treasury use cases. While she acknowledged the limitations of ETFs at the time—particularly around staking and yield-bearing products—she implied that regulatory environments are evolving toward a broader suite of crypto offerings.

Key takeaways

Amy Oldenburg, a long-time Morgan Stanley executive, has been named head of digital asset strategy, signaling a formalized and amplified crypto leadership track at the firm.

Oldenburg previously led the Emerging Markets Equity team since November 2021, a role that included guiding the division’s digital asset strategy while the bank built out its crypto capabilities.

Morgan Stanley has publicly pursued a multi-product crypto push, including plans to launch three crypto exchange-traded funds and a crypto wallet as part of expanding access to digital assets for clients.

In parallel with ETF ambitions, the bank filed for a staked Ether (ETH) ETF, aiming to combine exposure to ETH with staking income, subject to regulatory approvals.

Staffing moves—explicit LinkedIn postings for roles like digital assets strategy director and digital assets product lead—signal a concerted capacity-build to support a broader crypto product line.

The strategy aims to leverage Morgan Stanley’s wealth-management footprint, potentially routing inflows from its 19 million clients into crypto products via established advisory channels.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC, $ETH, $SOL

Sentiment: Neutral

Market context: The moves reflect a broader institutional shift as banks experiment with regulated crypto products, from ETFs to wallet services, amid evolving regulatory frameworks and increasing client demand for on-platform digital-asset access.

Why it matters

The appointment of Oldenburg to lead Morgan Stanley’s digital asset strategy marks a clear pivot from opportunistic pilots to a structured, scalable crypto program. By naming a senior, long-tenured executive to spearhead the unit, the bank signals it views digital assets as a core business line rather than a peripheral offering. The shift is likely to shape how Morgan Stanley designs, markets, and supervises crypto products, with potential implications for client onboarding, custody standards, and risk management across its wealth-management and investment-banking franchises.

These developments come as major banks seek to balance client demand for regulated exposure with the need for robust governance and compliance. The firm’s ETF filing strategy—particularly for spot asset ETFs tied to well-known digital assets—suggests an intent to provide broad access with regulated oversight. At the same time, the ETH staking ETF effort signals a willingness to explore yield-bearing structures, potentially expanding the banking sector’s toolkit for recommending crypto-related income streams within a regulated framework. The evolving stance from regulators, including a more open posture from the Securities and Exchange Commission toward a wider array of crypto products, adds a layer of potential momentum to Morgan Stanley’s plans.

On the client side, Oldenburg’s remarks about liquidity and usability highlight a practical orientation toward institutional needs. The bank’s ambition to offer a crypto wallet capable of handling tokenized real-world assets could streamline how clients move between fiat, digital currencies, and tokenized securities. If realized, such a wallet would enable parallel custody rails and settlement mechanisms, potentially reducing friction for high-net-worth clients seeking cross-asset liquidity and streamlined access to yield opportunities.

What to watch next

Regulatory decisions on the proposed spot BTC and SOL ETFs and the ETH staking ETF, including timing and conditions for approvals.

The progression of Morgan Stanley’s wallet project, including technical milestones and compliance safeguards for tokenized assets.

Progress on expanding the crypto-team footprint, including the hiring outcomes for the digitally focused roles listed on LinkedIn.

Any formal guidance from Morgan Stanley on how these products will be integrated into wealth and investment-management workflows for clients.

Sources & verification

Morgan Stanley appoints Amy Oldenburg to lead digital asset strategy, Bloomberg report and related video

Morgan Stanley files to launch spot Bitcoin and Solana ETFs (first week of 2025)

Morgan Stanley files staking ETH ETF (third crypto fund)

ETFs challenges Bitcoin self-custody roots discussion

Key figures and next steps

Market reaction and key details

Morgan Stanley’s leadership change arrives as the bank accelerates its crypto product roadmap, signaling a long-term commitment to integrating digital assets into its core offerings. The announcement dovetails with ongoing conversations about how traditional financial institutions can provide regulated, transparent access to crypto markets while maintaining rigorous risk controls. Oldenburg’s experience in emerging markets and her advocacy for self-custody infrastructure place custodial reliability and client liquidity at the center of the bank’s strategy, which could influence how other banks approach product development and fiduciary safeguards in this space.

What to watch next

Regulatory decisions on BTC/SOL ETFs and ETH staking ETFs—watch for approvals or conditions in the coming months.

Updates on Morgan Stanley’s crypto wallet rollout, including security architecture and cross-asset tokenization features.

Results from the bank’s expanded crypto recruitment efforts and how new hires influence product development timelines.

Rewritten Article Body: Morgan Stanley’s deeper crypto push gains a new leader

Morgan Stanley has elevated Amy Oldenburg, a veteran of the firm’s equity divisions, to head its newly formed crypto unit, underscoring a more deliberate push into digital assets. Oldenburg, who has spent more than two decades at the bank and has led the Emerging Markets Equity team since 2021, will now be responsible for shaping the bank’s digital asset strategy. The appointment aligns with Morgan Stanley’s broader push into the crypto space, including plans to roll out a trio of crypto exchange-traded funds and a wallet capable of handling digital currencies and tokenized assets. The bank’s leadership transition and strategic roadmap were highlighted in a Bloomberg video report that noted the shift as part of a broader realignment of the firm’s crypto ambitions.

The bank’s crypto strategy, which has been percolating for years, is now moving toward a more formal, client-facing form. LinkedIn postings show Morgan Stanley actively recruiting for roles such as digital assets strategy director, digital assets strategist, and digital assets product lead, signaling an expanded operating model that will support a growing portfolio of crypto products. This expansion mirrors a wider industry trend: traditional financial institutions are developing dedicated teams to navigate the regulatory, liquidity, and custody challenges that come with digital-asset offerings. The emphasis on building out an internal capability suggests a commitment to integrating crypto products into the bank’s advisory and wealth-management platforms, rather than treating crypto as a standalone experiment.

The bank’s early-2025 disclosures reflect a deliberate strategy to move beyond pilot projects and into a regulated, multi-product framework. Morgan Stanley filed to launch spot Bitcoin (BTC) and Solana (SOL) exchange-traded funds in the first week of 2025, marking its first sustained foray into the institutional crypto space since largely sitting on the sidelines during the prior wave of institutional adoption. The filing signals the bank’s intent to provide clients with regulated exposure to leading digital assets through familiar product structures. In a separate filing, Morgan Stanley also pursued a staked Ether (ETH) ETF, aiming to hold ETH while staking an undisclosed amount to generate staking income—an approach that, if approved, could add a yield-oriented dimension to traditional crypto exposures.

The broader context for these moves includes a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape. The Securities and Exchange Commission has shown signs of openness toward a broader set of crypto products, a development Oldenburg referenced when discussing the potential for ETFs and other vehicles to fit client needs. She has also stressed the importance of liquidity and the ability for clients to move assets fluidly, a theme she touched on at industry events. While she acknowledged ETF structures as valuable entry points, she argued that the industry should continue exploring how staking and yield-bearing products can be integrated into regulated offerings, all while maintaining robust custody and risk controls. The bank’s strategy thus sits at the intersection of liquidity, accessibility, and prudent governance, aiming to deliver regulated pathways that align with client goals.

Beyond ETFs, Morgan Stanley has teased a crypto wallet capable of supporting tokenized real-world assets, including stocks, bonds, and real estate. If realized, the wallet would provide a more integrated view of digital assets within a single ecosystem, potentially harmonizing custody, settlement, and regulatory compliance across multiple asset classes. Such an offering could attract clients who want to manage a diverse mix of assets—from traditional securities to digital currencies—through one platform. The wallet concept also echoes broader market interest in tokenization, which could unlock new forms of liquidity and ownership for a wide range of assets.

Oldenburg’s emphasis on self-custody infrastructure—and her past stance that ETFs alone were not sufficient for a fully realized crypto strategy—reflects a pragmatic understanding of the sector’s current limitations. She highlighted the need for better custody, more reliable liquidity, and the ability for clients in emerging markets to participate in the digital-asset economy. The evolving regulatory climate and the bank’s internal preparations suggest that Morgan Stanley is charting a course toward more comprehensive digital-asset services, anchored by a leadership team with deep market experience and a track record of integrating new product lines into a traditional banking framework.

In sum, the leadership shift signals a firmer commitment to a multi-faceted crypto program. By combining a seasoned executive with a roadmap that includes regulated ETFs, staking opportunities, and tokenized real-world assets, Morgan Stanley is positioning itself to serve a broader spectrum of clients while navigating the risks inherent in digital-asset markets. The coming quarters will reveal how quickly the firm can translate these plans into tangible products and how regulators respond to a more expansive crypto offering from a major Wall Street bank. The next steps will hinge on regulatory approvals, technology development for custody and wallet features, and the firm’s ability to integrate these products into its wealth-management and corporate-banking channels.

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This article was originally published as Morgan Stanley Appoints Digital Asset Strategy Lead on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Úřady USA zahájily formální vyšetřování tvrzení, že program pro správu federálních aktiv byl zneužit k odčerpání kryptoměn zabavených vládními agenturami. Zaměření se soustředí na Johna Daghitu, syna prezidenta CMDSS Deana Daghity, a na to, zda neautorizovaný přístup k peněženkám spojeným s vládním programem ochrany aktiv umožnil převody z aktiv, o kterých se věří, že byla zabavena v letech 2024 a 2025. Výzkumníci kryptoměn tvrdí, že peněženky spojené s Daghitou drží přibližně 23 milionů dolarů v digitálních aktivech, která souvisejí s až 90 miliony dolarů zabavenými vládou v posledních letech. Další stopa také ukazuje na peněženku obsahující 12,540 Ether, oceněnou na přibližně 36 milionů dolarů v té době, spojenou s Daghitou. Mluvčí služby U.S. Marshals řekl novinářům, že záležitost je předmětem vyšetřování a odmítl poskytnout další komentáře, protože úředníci přezkoumávají tvrzení.

Měsíční zisky Bitcoinu se ochladily na přibližně 2,2% v posledním období, ale mnozí pozorovatelé vidí únor jako potenciální inflexní bod pro největší kryptoměnu. Od roku 2016 týden končící 21. února přinesl mediánový výnos blízko 8,4%, a BTC zavřel výše asi 60% těchto týdnů. I když volatilita zůstává stále zvýšená, ale postupně se zmírňuje, účastníci trhu sledují makrosignály pro známky obnovené chuti k riziku na kryptoměnových trzích.

Hlavní poznatky

Únor historicky přinesl silný mediánový týdenní výnos pro BTC, přibližně kolem 7%, často překonávající sezónní sílu října.

Key Takeaways

With Bitcoin price trading around $88,000 and the average nationwide cost of energy at about $0.14, the cost of mining a Bitcoin is close to $95,000.

The high cost of energy and the current Bitcoin price range put miners at a loss.

A sizeable number of mining companies are now transitioning to AI data centres

Bitcoin mining energy consumption data from the Cambridge Bitcoin Energy Consumption Index (CBECI) indicates that miners who pay $0.10 per kWh for energy will be at a loss for every Bitcoin mined. The CBECI data shows that some have already faced this price as far back as October 2025, when the average commercial energy cost moved to $0.14 per kWh. At this rate, the cost of mining a Bitcoin is around $94,000, while the Bitcoin price is around $88,000 at press time.

With the rise in energy costs and declining Bitcoin price, Bitcoin mining is now unprofitable and perhaps unsustainable for miners across the United States. Present market conditions do not suggest any upswing for BTC anytime soon. After losing momentum and plummeting from an all-time peak of $126,000 over three months ago, it has struggled and has been unable to stage a comeback. Miners in the United States are feeling the heat with no relief in sight. However, it’s not just in the U.S.; Chinese miners are also struggling with energy costs, paying $0.11 per kWh to mine BTC, a rate that also puts many of them at a loss.

Meanwhile, miners in Paraguay are still very much in business since the energy cost is significantly cheaper at $0.05 per kWh. The mining cost of a Bitcoin for Paraguay-based miners is about $60,000, showing their healthy profit margin.

US miners switch to AI

In an unsurprising turn of events, numerous prominent miners such as TeraWulf, CleanSpark, IREN, Core Scientific, and Bit Digital, among many others, are focusing infrastructure on AI data center services and switching from crypto mining.

For those still mining, a positive shift in macroeconomic factors to trigger a rebound for Bitcoin would restore normalcy and stop debt accumulation. However, fingers remain crossed as the market action unfolds.

This article was originally published as Declining Bitcoin price continues to expose miners to loss on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Across the Ethereum ecosystem, activity is proving persistent as scaling tools mature and investor interest cycles through cautious optimism and measured risk. In the latest weekly snapshot, the network logged 16.4 million on-chain transactions, while base-layer fees managed to stay sub-$0.20 during periods of peak demand. DEX trading activity across the ecosystem approached the mid-30s in billions of dollars, with a notable share of liquidity funneling through layer 2 networks that continue to improve throughput and user experience. Amid this activity, Ether faced a 15.9% price correction over the seven days ending Sunday, triggering sizable liquidations for bullish leveraged bets and stoking questions about whether a firm support around $2,800, tested in recent months, would hold. Yet the data also points to a potential near-term rebound, with on-chain metrics and derivatives positioning suggesting room for a move higher toward the $3,300 zone.

Key takeaways

Ethereum recorded 16.4 million weekly transactions, while base-layer fees remained under $0.20 during high-demand periods.

DEX activity spanning the Ethereum ecosystem reached about $26.8 billion in weekly volume, signaling renewed appetite for on-chain trading.

Aggregate activity on Ethereum layer-2s surged, with total transactions across L2s reaching 128 million, outpacing totals on rival chains such as BNB Chain and Tron.

Weekly DEX volumes on Ethereum hit $13 billion, up from roughly $8.15 billion four weeks prior, as the Fusaka upgrade boosted data capacity and introduced batch processing workflows.

Market dynamics showed a shift from heavy put hedging to a more neutral stance among professional traders, even as price volatility persisted and risk sentiment evolved.

Ether (CRYPTO: ETH) experienced a 15.9% price correction during the seven days ending Sunday. This volatility triggered $910 million in liquidations for bullish leveraged ETH positions, fueling fears that the $2,800 support level—which has held firm for two months—might finally break. Despite this dip in trader confidence, several on-chain and derivatives metrics suggest a potential short-term rally back to $3,300, driven by a blend of higher network activity, improving fee structures, and renewed interest in decentralized trading.

Base layer fees remain a central determinant of demand for a native token, but the narrative is shifting as scaling layers prove capable of handling more load without compromising security. The Ethereum ecosystem has benefited from the momentum of several rollups and sidechains, notably Base, Polygon, Arbitrum, and Optimism, which have collectively expanded throughput and attracted new users. The result is a more resilient on-chain environment where users can execute cheaper, faster transactions even when overall activity spikes. This trend aligns with the broader industry push toward cost-efficient on-chain operations, a key factor in sustaining long-term network activity.

Ethereum 7-day DEX volumes, USD. Source: DefiLlama

Notably, Ethereum’s on-chain fees rose by 19% over the past week, while competitors such as Tron and Solana gave back some of their recent gains. More importantly, the total number of transactions on Ethereum layer-2 networks climbed to 128 million, surpassing the combined totals of BNB Chain and Tron. This pattern indicates the ecosystem’s capacity to scale in practice, supporting higher activity without sacrificing user experience or incurring prohibitive costs. The Fusaka upgrade, which went live in December 2025, played a pivotal role by increasing data capacity and introducing transaction batch workflows that streamline user interactions and reduce friction in crowded periods.

Ethereum dominance sticks even as professional traders turn neutral

Ethereum’s dominance in total value locked (TVL) remains a key indicator of investor preference for a decentralized settlement layer, even as other networks like BNB Chain and Solana contest for market share. A broad view of on-chain activity shows that ETH continues to command a strong base of liquidity and usage, underscored by the resilience of on-chain protocols and the growing adoption of layer-2 scaling. In the derivatives space, professional traders appear to be returning to a neutral stance between call and put options after a period of hedging against further losses. This shift suggests a more balanced risk appetite as traders reassess the likelihood of further downside versus upside potential, particularly in the wake of a price dip that tested major support levels.

The derivatives picture also reveals how market psychology shifted around option hedging. The put-to-call ratio on Deribit cooled after a stretch of rising puts, with a notable spike on Sunday after ETH moved through important price thresholds. This dynamic aligns with the view that the market’s risk premium is adjusting to a lower probability of rapid, one-way downside, even as headlines and macro data keep price action choppy.

Outside of price action, macro considerations remain a tailwind and a concern in equal measure. The traditional markets have hovered near major benchmarks, while inflation data and policy expectations continue to shape risk sentiment. The CME FedWatch tool shows the probability of the U.S. Federal Reserve cutting rates to 3.25% or lower by July has fluctuated, reflecting a market wrestling with growth, inflation, and the potential for further policy shifts. In this context, ETH’s role as a bridge between decentralized finance and traditional markets underscores the importance of liquidity and reliability in sustaining adoption.

Related: Bitmine’s staked Ether holdings point to $164M in annual staking revenue

Ultimately, the path toward higher prices for ETH will likely depend on sustained DEX activity, incremental increases in on-chain throughput, and clearer regulatory signals that shape ecosystem funding and user onboarding. If the current patterns hold—robust layer-2 adoption, attractive fee dynamics, and continued developer momentum—the market could see a renewed push toward the upper 3,000s in the weeks ahead, with liquidity and participation broadening across the ecosystem.

Ether’s price trajectory continues to be a barometer of overall market sentiment toward decentralized finance and the ongoing push to scale without sacrificing security or broad accessibility. While the week brought volatility, the underlying activity metrics suggest a baseline strength and an ecosystem capable of absorbing demand as users gravitate toward cheaper, faster, and more scalable options for on-chain interaction.

Market data and analysis referenced in this section include the following sources: on-chain transaction counts and fee data from network analytics, layer-2 activity metrics, DEX volume data, and derivatives positioning from Deribit and market data aggregators.

Why it matters

The signals from on-chain activity matter for users, builders, and investors because they illuminate how well Ethereum and its scaling infrastructure are delivering on the promise of a scalable, secure, and accessible decentralized ecosystem. Lower base-layer fees and growing L2 throughput reduce barriers to participation, enabling more users to transact, borrow, lend, and trade without prohibitive costs. For developers, the Fusaka upgrade’s data capacity and batch processing capabilities lower the friction of deploying and using advanced DApps, potentially accelerating product adoption. For traders, the evolving mix of DEX volumes, TVL dominance, and a shifting options landscape provides more nuanced risk signals and new liquidation dynamics to monitor. In short, the health of the Ethereum ecosystem is increasingly tied to both technical upgrades and the depth of liquid markets that can absorb demand in real time.

What to watch next

Monitor the continued impact of the Fusaka upgrade on network capacity and transaction batching, with updates expected in early 2026 as real-world usage increases.

Track weekly DEX volumes and layer-2 throughput over the next 4–6 weeks to assess whether the current rebound momentum persists beyond short-term swings.

Observe the price action near critical levels (e.g., $3,200–$3,300) in relation to changes in liquidity and volatility, as well as shifts in derivatives positioning.

Follow macro signals and policy discussions, particularly any developments around regulatory frameworks and funding gaps that could affect risk sentiment and market liquidity.

Sources & verification

Ethereum price data and market metrics: https://cointelegraph.com/ethereum-price

Fusaka upgrade details: https://cointelegraph.com/news/ethereum-fusaka-upgrade-goes-live-instant-feel-user-experiences

Nansen macro overview: https://app.nansen.ai/macro/overview

Laevitas data source: http://laevitas.ch

FedWatch tool: https://www.cmegroup.com/markets/interest-rates/cme-fedwatch-tool.html

What to watch next

3–5 forward-looking checks consistent with the source data (dates, filings, unlocks, governance votes, product launches, regulatory steps).

Why it matters

Overall, the dataset points to a maturing scaling narrative for Ethereum that blends cheaper fees, stronger on-chain throughput, and more active liquidity. This is a signal not just for traders but for developers building on-chain finance, wallets, and user-friendly interfaces that rely on robust transaction pipelines. The ongoing evolution of layer-2 scaling and the ecosystem’s response to price volatility will continue to shape investor confidence, capital allocation, and the pace of innovation in decentralized finance over the coming quarters.

This article was originally published as Rising ETH Fundamentals Hint at Ether Price Recovery on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Londýn se snaží o regulaci kryptoměn v jasnějším seniorním pruhu, přičemž Úřad pro finanční chování (FCA) se blíží k formálnímu režimu po několikaletém procesu tvorby pravidel. FCA zveřejnila svou konečnou konzultaci 23. ledna, ve které představila balíček 10 regulačních návrhů navržených tak, aby přivedly kryptoměnové aktiva a kryptobiznys pod jednotný rámec. Plán cílí na tříletý proces končící v březnu 2027, přičemž plná implementace se očekává do října 2027. Na rozdíl od Spojených států, kde se regulační snahy zastavily uprostřed stranických debat kolem zákona CLARITY, Spojené království zvolilo centralizovaný, regulátorově vedený přístup, jehož cílem je sladit digitální aktiva s širším finančním systémem. Pokud se to realizuje, rámec by mohl nabídnout jasnější cesty ke splnění předpisů pro firmy a silnější ochranu pro spotřebitele, zatímco by postavil UK jako obnovené centrum pro kryptoměnové aktivity.

For years, Bitcoin (BTC) traders have watched its price relative to gold (XAU) for clues on when BTC bottoms in US dollar terms. But in 2026, that BTC-to-gold signal is starting to look less dependable as macro dynamics shift and the ratio migrates away from previously established benchmarks. The latest turn comes as gold rallies and risk-off sentiment intensifies, pressing BTC/XAU toward levels that previously signaled a potential bottom. Market participants are weighing a mix of long-running trendlines, dynamic macro catalysts, and evolving appetite for defensive assets as they navigate a year that has already challenged conventional BTC–gold relationships.

Key takeaways:

Bitcoin remains undervalued versus gold and has slipped below its Power Law trend, a long-run model some analysts use to gauge BTC’s fair value over time.

BTC/XAU is already under the 200-2W EMA that historically lined up with bottoms in BTC/USD cycles.

Gold’s next move is likely to dictate whether BTC enjoys a relief rally or continues to trend lower in the near term.

Macro drivers—rising real yields, a firmer dollar, and risk-off inflows—could keep pressure on BTC in the absence of a decisive gold pullback.

Analysts remain split on the near-term trajectory, with some predicting a potential reversion if hedges unwind and risk appetite returns, while others caution that the 2026 setup could persist longer than anticipated.

Bitcoin keeps declining in gold terms

This week, the BTC/XAU ratio—the value of BTC relative to gold—drifted away from its long-running Power Law trend for the first time in history, marking a potential shift in the BTC–gold dynamic, as noted by observers such as Julius.

A Power Law serves as a probabilistic guide for Bitcoin’s growth path, with the curve sometimes signaling overvaluation when prices run above it and underscoring undervaluation when prices dip below. The current deviation has sparked renewed discussion about whether BTC’s discounted setups are as rare as they once seemed.

January observations showed BTC/XAU as particularly cheap in historical terms, a pattern that emerged as gold breached notable milestones and risk-off conditions intensified. The precious metal surged toward new levels, while broader markets absorbed shocks from macro forces and geopolitical prompts. In one backdrop, Bank of America’s private banking arm suggested gold could push above $6,000 by year-end, a call that would reinforce the relative bid for defensive assets even as BTC navigates a more uncertain macro landscape.

That tension sits against the backdrop of a broader debate about BTC’s four-year cycle. Some researchers have argued that BTC could linger below key psychological levels for longer than expected, challenging the idea that a rapid cyclical bottom would emerge. The juxtaposition of a potential BTC bottom against a surging gold market underscores the complexity of BTC’s price path in 2026, as macro catalysts add layers of nuance to the traditional BTC–gold narrative.

As of early 2026, BTC had already traced a path that diverged from the optimism that accompanied a run toward four-digit gold targets and the narrative of a swift BTC recovery. The market’s focus shifted toward how much of BTC’s downside might be mitigated by hedging demand, liquidity conditions, and the shifting calculus of risk-off positioning. The ratio’s move below critical levels has raised questions about whether BTC will encounter a sustained bottom in the near term or require a more prolonged phase of consolidation before any convincing rally materializes.

This divergence also reflects how traders and institutions are weighing alternative catalysts. If real US yields rise and the dollar steadies or strengthens, defensive assets like gold could maintain the upper hand, dampening the likelihood of a rapid BTC rebound. Conversely, if gold’s momentum wanes or risk appetite returns, BTC could still attempt a relief rally as market conditions stabilize. In either case, the relationship between BTC and XAU remains a focal point for traders assessing whether BTC can regain momentum without a parallel shift in gold’s trajectory.

In this context, some analysts point to possible scenarios where a retreat in gold’s rally could relieve pressure on BTC/XAU, potentially creating room for BTC to revisit price forecasts that place it near institutional targets—though those forecasts are conditional on macro variables and the resilience of risk-on trades. The narrative remains contingent on real-yield dynamics, dollar direction, and the pace at which the market prices in a return to risk-on behavior. As prominent institutions issue mixed outlooks for 2026, the BTC/XAU cross remains an essential barometer for assessing how crypto markets respond to shifts in traditional safe-haven demand and macro risk sentiment.

Related commentary has drawn parallels to past inflection points where BTC traded below or near key monitoring levels before a decisive move. While some analysts anticipate a potential reversion in the BTC/XAU ratio, others warn that the current regime could endure, with gold leading the narrative and BTC following as macro conditions evolve. The interaction between BTC’s price path and gold’s leadership remains a central element of the crypto macro story, particularly as flows into or out of risk assets influence both markets in tandem.

A gold pullback could relieve some pressure on BTC/XAU, potentially restoring Bitcoin’s odds of hitting higher price targets if macro conditions cooperate and risk sentiment improves. In that scenario, BTC could still find support near major trendlines or within institutional price bands that have historically shaped volatility and potential reversals. The evolving dynamic underscores that BTC’s fate in 2026 is closely tied to gold’s trajectory and the broader macro environment—a reminder that crypto markets do not operate in isolation from traditional asset classes.

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This article was originally published as Bitcoin-to-Gold Bottom Fractal Breaks as BTC Seeks Bottom on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Stabilní mince představují skutečné riziko pro bankovní vklady, a to jak na celosvětové úrovni, tak ve Spojených státech, podle čerstvé analýzy týmu pro digitální aktiva společnosti Standard Chartered. Analýza přichází v okamžiku, kdy je americký zákon CLARITY, návrh zákona cílený na výnosy ze stabilních mincí, stále zpožděn – což je známka toho, že tvůrci politiky stále zkoumají, jak stabilní mince interagují s tradičním bankovnictvím. Výzkumníci banky odhadují, že bankovní vklady v USA by mohly klesnout až o třetinu současné tržní hodnoty stabilních mincí, což je sektor měřený přibližně na 301,4 miliardy dolarů v mincích vázaných na dolar, podle CoinGecko. Kromě čísel zpráva mapuje, jak by regionální banky mohly nést větší podíl rizika odlivu vkladů ve srovnání s různorodějšími nebo investičně orientovanými institucemi. Zjištění přicházejí v okamžiku, kdy Coinbase stahuje podporu pro zákon CLARITY a generální ředitel Circle odmítá obavy z bankovních běhů jako nepodložené, což zdůrazňuje hluboce polarizovanou debatu o politice kolem stabilních mincí a stability bankovnictví.

Italy’s securities regulator has imposed a €200,000 administrative fine on Fabrizio Corona for promoting and offering a memecoin known as $CORONA without meeting the requirements set by European crypto-asset rules. The sanction, made public on 26 January 2026, follows an earlier intervention in March 2025 that halted the initiative and blocked related online platforms. Regulators concluded that the offer lacked the mandatory disclosures and legal structure required under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation, raising concerns about investor protection and transparency in the fast-moving memecoin market.

Key takeaways

Italy’s Consob fined Fabrizio Corona €200,000 for an unauthorised public offer of the memecoin $CORONA.

The offering was promoted via Telegram channels and a dedicated website without a compliant White Paper.

Authorities determined the initiative violated the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCAR).

The offer was active for at least nine days before being formally blocked on 4 March 2025.

Consumer group Codacons flagged alleged suspicious trading patterns linked to the token’s launch.

Tickers mentioned: $CORONA

Sentiment: Neutral

Market context: The case reflects a broader regulatory push across Europe to enforce MiCAR rules as retail participation in high-risk crypto assets remains elevated.

Why it matters

The decision underscores how European regulators are applying MiCAR to curb unauthorised crypto promotions, particularly those targeting retail investors through social media. Memecoins often rely on viral marketing rather than fundamentals, making disclosure and accountability especially relevant.

For investors, the ruling highlights the risks of participating in token launches that lack formal documentation or regulatory oversight. For promoters and influencers, it signals that personal branding and online reach do not exempt crypto offerings from compliance obligations.

More broadly, the case illustrates how consumer complaints and watchdog scrutiny can accelerate enforcement actions in the crypto sector.

What to watch next

Any follow-up investigations by Consob or other EU regulators into similar influencer-led token launches.

Responses from platforms hosting crypto promotions regarding MiCAR compliance.

Further actions stemming from Codacons’ additional complaints to Consob and the Bank of Italy.

Sources & verification

Consob administrative sanction published via Borsa Italiana / Teleborsa

Codacons official complaint and statement regarding the $CORONA memecoin

Adnkronos report on Consob’s €200,000 fine and MiCAR violations

Consob enforcement and the $CORONA memecoin case

Italy’s securities watchdog concluded that the public promotion of the memecoin known as $CORONA (CRYPTO: CORONA) breached European crypto-asset rules by failing to meet basic legal and disclosure standards. According to the regulator, the initiative was promoted directly by Fabrizio Corona through online channels, including a Telegram group and a dedicated website, without being structured through a legal entity as required under MiCAR.

Central to the decision was the absence of a compliant White Paper. Under the EU framework, issuers of crypto-assets that are neither asset-referenced tokens nor e-money tokens must prepare and notify regulators of a detailed document outlining the project, associated risks, and investor rights. Consob stated that no such document was drafted or submitted in connection with the $CORONA memecoin.

The regulator also noted that the offer continued despite an initial warning. Online checks conducted from 24 February 2025 identified active promotion and token availability, with trading reportedly accessible on the decentralised exchange Raydium. On 4 March 2025, Consob exercised its powers under MiCAR to order the immediate termination of the offer and block access to the associated platforms.

In parallel with the $CORONA action, Consob reported blocking several other websites providing crypto-related services without authorisation, as well as financial brokerage sites deemed abusive. The authority framed these measures as part of a broader effort to safeguard retail investors from unregulated initiatives.

The enforcement process was also shaped by complaints from Codacons, an Italian consumer advocacy group. Codacons had submitted a formal report in early 2025 alleging irregularities tied to the “Progetto Corona” and the memecoin launch. According to the complaint, promotional messaging promised durability and potential returns, setting expectations that were not supported by transparent disclosures.

Codacons further alleged that trading activity surrounding the launch displayed hallmarks of market manipulation. In its submission, the group pointed to blockchain data suggesting that at least one wallet acquired tokens before the official contract address was made public. This, it argued, implied access to non-public information and raised the possibility of insider trading.

The consumer group also highlighted rapid sell-offs in the initial minutes after trading began, which coincided with a sharp drop in token value. Such dynamics, Codacons claimed, are characteristic of so-called pump-and-dump schemes, where early participants exit at the expense of later buyers.

Consob’s final decision referenced these concerns but focused its legal assessment on regulatory compliance rather than on-chain trading behaviour alone. The watchdog determined that the violation lasted at least nine days, from the initial online findings through the formal blocking order. In setting the €200,000 fine, Consob cited the seriousness of the breach and the scale of the potential audience reached through social media.

The regulator also noted a lack of cooperation during the proceedings. According to the decision, Corona did not engage constructively after receiving an initial warning and did not submit defensive arguments during the sanctioning process. Consob stated that no remedial measures were identified that would prevent similar conduct in the future.

Beyond the memecoin case, Codacons has since filed an additional complaint highlighting other initiatives allegedly promoted through social media accounts linked to Corona, including a service described as “Corona AI” that purportedly promised easy profits. The group has asked Consob and the Bank of Italy to assess whether those activities also fall within the scope of financial or crypto-asset regulations.

The case illustrates how MiCAR is being enforced in practice less than two years after its adoption, particularly in scenarios involving high-profile individuals and retail-focused marketing. While the regulation was designed to harmonise rules across the EU, national authorities retain significant discretion in monitoring online activity and responding to consumer complaints.

For market participants, the outcome serves as a reminder that crypto promotions aimed at European investors must adhere to formal requirements regardless of scale or branding. As regulators continue to monitor the sector, similar actions are likely where offerings bypass disclosure obligations or rely solely on social media reach to attract participants.

This article was originally published as Italy’s Consob Fines Fabrizio Corona €200K Over Illegal $CORONA Memecoin Offer on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) traders were watching a confluence of momentum signals that historically foreshadow sizable moves, but on-chain data suggests a cautious path ahead as market participants lean defensive. A fresh cross between momentum indicators tied to major yield curves has rekindled optimism for a breakout, yet spot activity and fund flows point to lingering headwinds. The juxtaposition of bullish signals with a tepid immediate bid underscores a market that could take time to reassert upside momentum, even as investors weigh macro risks and policy posture.

Key takeaways

Bitcoin surged 600% in 2021 after a similar bullish cross was confirmed, a pattern observed by market observers and cited as an enduring bull-run signal.

Onchain data points to persistent sell-side pressure, suggesting that a price recovery could be slower than hoped as market participants adopt a risk-off stance.

Spot Bitcoin ETF weekly net flows flipped from a $1.6 billion inflow to a $1.7 billion outflow, signaling cooling institutional demand and added near-term downside pressure.

Gold rose above $5,000 per ounce, while BTC traded in a range, a divergence some analysts say is historically common before a disruptive breakout in crypto markets.

The most recent cross on the Stochastic RSI of the US 10-Year Treasury Yield and the China 10-Year Government Bond Yield against BTC’s chart last occurred in October 2020, preceding a major rally to new highs in 2021.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC

Sentiment: Neutral

Market context: The broader market is contending with mixed macro cues, with investors weighing yields, global growth signals and liquidity conditions against a backdrop of fluctuating ETF flows and hedging demand. The crypto complex remains sensitive to macro shifts, policy signals, and risk appetite, which can keep downside volatility elevated even when bullish markers flash.

Why it matters

The narrative around BTC’s near-term trajectory is a study in contrasts. On one hand, a notable bullish cross—where momentum indicators pick up in tandem with benchmark yields—has historically marked inflection points that precede significant upside. On the other hand, on-chain metrics have turned increasingly defensive. The spot cumulative volume delta (CVD), a gauge of the net difference between buying and selling pressure, has swung decisively negative, signaling that more traders are stepping back or hedging against further downside. This contraction in buying vigor underscores a market that could remain range-bound until buyers reappear with convincing momentum. Glassnode notes in its Weekly Market Impulse report that selling pressure has surged, and hedging demand is rising, a combination that tends to cap near-term upside unless new catalysts emerge.

Bitcoin: Spot CVD. Source: Glassnode

The swing in ETF dynamics compounds the complexity. Weekly net flows into spot BTC ETFs flipped from inflows of roughly $1.6 billion to outflows near $1.7 billion, illustrating a cooling in the institutional bid that has often helped stabilize prices during drawdowns. The shift suggests that traders are increasingly prioritizing hedges and capital preservation over aggressive long bets, at least in the near term. A broader context of macro uncertainty and higher macro hedging costs adds to the sense that a sustained bounce may require a fresh tranche of liquidity or a decisive risk-on turn in broader markets.

“Overall, market conditions have shifted more defensive, while persistent sell-side pressure and rising hedging demand suggest the market remains fragile.”

Despite these countervailing threads, the allure of a renewed BTC rally remains. The historical precedent—where a similar Stochastic RSI cross tied to major yields preceded a blistering rally—offers a blueprint for bulls. A key reference point is October 2020, when the last cross occurred and preceded a 600% ascent to BTC’s 2021 all-time high around $69,000. That context is part of the ongoing debate about whether current signals could repeat a similar script, or whether the intervening macro environment—ranging from tighter financial conditions to evolving regulatory pressure—will mute the effect.

BTC/USD weekly chart. Source: Coinvo Trading

As traders weigh these dynamics, some analysts point to the dollar’s behavior as an accelerant for BTC’s next move. Matthew Hyland argues that a break to the upside could hinge on the U.S. dollar index (DXY) weakening below 96, a pattern that historically coincided with tradable BTC upside in prior cycles. This line of thinking aligns with research linking dollar strength to risk-off conditions that suppress risk assets, including BTC, until the macro backdrop shifts. Hyland’s assessment mirrors a broader view that macro signals will play a decisive role in BTC’s trajectory over the coming weeks, alongside technical and on-chain data points.

Source: Matthew Hyland 

In parallel, the market’s risk-on/risk-off balance is reflected in cross-asset dynamics. The long-standing divergence between gold and BTC—gold climbing above $5,000 while BTC remains in a broad range—has drawn attention from traders who study cross-asset behavior for clues about crypto cycles. Some observers from Swan advocate patience, noting that gold tends to move first and that BTC often coalesces in a prolonged sideways phase before a decisive breakout, a pattern that has repeated across past cycles.

Source: X/Swan

Beyond the immediate price action, the market’s fragility is echoed in a steady drumbeat of caution from observers tracking on-chain behavior and ETF momentum. The convergence of negative CVD, waning institutional demand and macro uncertainty paints a cautious canvas for BTC over the near term. Yet history has shown that once buyers regain conviction—often triggered by a combination of favorable macro data, a reset in risk sentiment and a fresh stream of liquidity—the crypto market can snap back with the kind of velocity that leaves late-cycle skeptics catching up. In the current environment, that reset could hinge on a confluence of factors rather than a single catalyst, aligning with the nuanced reality that a rapid breakout remains plausible but not guaranteed without stronger on-chain demand and macro support.

What to watch next

Monitor BTC’s response to any renewed risk-on signals and changes in the DXY, particularly if the dollars begin to loosen in the coming weeks.

Track spot CVD momentum for signs of a shift back toward net buying and a potential breakout phase.

Watch ETF-related flows for any resumption of institutional demand or renewed outflows that could redefine the near-term path.

Assess cross-asset dynamics with gold and other macro assets to gauge evolving hedging behavior and contingency strategies.

Sources & verification

Glassnode, Weekly Market Impulse report (spot CVD and market resilience assessments).

Cointelegraph reports on Bitcoin ETFs net flows and market sentiment dynamics.

Gold divergence article: “Gold reaches all-time high 5k diverging Bitcoin.”

Swan analysis on cross-asset divergences and market implications.

Commentary on DXY strength and macro drivers, including traders’ perspectives on BTC’s price pathway.

Bitcoin’s market reaction and the road ahead

Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) stands at a crossroads where a confluence of historical signals collides with current macro realities. The bullish cross observed on momentum readings tied to major yield curves has historically been a prelude to substantial upside, and this time is no exception in the eyes of some analysts. Yet the on-chain narrative remains stubbornly mixed. The spot CVD has turned decisively negative, underscoring a shift toward selling and hedging that could suppress immediate upside unless buying interest strengthens. The flip in ETF flows from inflows to outflows further complicates the path, suggesting that institutions are recalibrating risk exposure in the face of macro uncertainty and policy ambiguity.

Bitcoin: Spot CVD. Source: Glassnode

On the upside, the historical record offers a note of optimism. The last time the Stochastic RSI cross involving US10Y and CN10Y occurred, BTC advanced into a sustained rally that culminated in a multi-year run to new highs. The comparison to the Oct 2020 cross remains a focal point for bulls who argue that big price moves often follow once the macro and technicals align. However, the present environment is not a direct replay of that period. The market’s defensive posture—evidenced by hedging demand and cautious positioning—could mean a slower burn before any decisive breakout materializes. The divergence between gold and BTC, while notable, has historically not been a standalone predictor; rather, it serves as one of many indicators traders watch as they calibrate risk appetite and positioning.

In this context, near-term watchfulness is prudent. The confluence of on-chain signals, ETF dynamics and macro cues suggests that BTC could remain in a broader range until a clear shift in liquidity or sentiment occurs. Participants should consider how a potential break above resistance zones could unfold in a low-liquidity environment and what that implies for risk management in trading and investment strategies. The coming weeks will be telling, with macro data, policy signals and evolving ETF flows likely to determine whether the next leg is a sustained rally or a renewed consolidation phase.

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This article was originally published as Most Reliable Bitcoin Price Signal Points to a 2026 Bull Run on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.