Morpho Borrowers Generate $170M in Interest as DeFi Lending Competition With Aave Heats Up
TLDR:
Morpho borrowers paid $170M in interest over the past year, reflecting strong borrower demand on the protocol.
At a 10% take rate, Morpho DAO earns roughly $17M annually against a $1.7B valuation, a 1:100 revenue multiple.
Aave generated $140M in annualized revenue against a $1.5B valuation, giving it a far stronger revenue-to-valuation ratio.
Morpho’s modular lending structure limits DAO revenue capture, making its take rate model a key factor for token pricing.
Morpho borrowers have paid approximately $170 million in interest over the past year, new data from Token Terminal shows.
This figure places the lending protocol in direct comparison with Aave, one of the longest-standing decentralized finance platforms.
The numbers have drawn attention from analysts tracking on-chain revenue metrics. Both protocols are now being evaluated side by side, giving investors a clearer picture of where value is being generated in DeFi lending.
Morpho’s Revenue Math at a 10% Take Rate
Token Terminal recently shared data showing Morpho’s borrower interest payments over a 12-month period. Based on a 10% take rate assumption, the Morpho DAO would have generated around $17 million in annualized revenue. That revenue figure sits against a current protocol valuation of approximately $1.7 billion.
Token Terminal posted on X, noting that “borrowers on Morpho have paid ~$170M in interest during the past year.”
The post further stated that at a 10% take rate, the DAO would have generated roughly $17M in annual revenue. That framing gave markets a concrete way to assess the protocol’s earnings relative to its size.
Borrowers on Morpho have paid ~$170M in interest during the past year.
Assuming a 10% take rate, the Morpho DAO would have generated ~$17M in annual revenue against a ~$1.7B valuation.
For comparison: Aave has generated ~$140M in annual revenue against a ~$1.5B valuation. pic.twitter.com/qSuq2pHK3a
— Token Terminal (@tokenterminal) April 11, 2026
The revenue-to-valuation ratio for Morpho currently stands at roughly 1:100. For context, that means the protocol is valued at about 100 times its estimated annual revenue.
This kind of multiple is common in early-stage crypto protocols but remains a key figure for fundamental investors watching the space.
How Aave Stacks Up Against Morpho
Aave, by contrast, has generated approximately $140 million in annualized revenue. Its current valuation sits at around $1.5 billion, which places it at a revenue-to-valuation ratio closer to 1:11.
That gap between the two protocols is notable for anyone comparing lending platforms on a fundamentals basis.
Token Terminal’s post drew a direct comparison between the two, stating that “Aave has generated ~$140M in annual revenue against a ~$1.5B valuation.”
The contrast makes clear that Aave is generating far more revenue relative to its market cap than Morpho. However, Morpho’s total interest paid by borrowers is higher at $170M, showing strong borrower activity on the platform.
The difference in take rates between the two protocols drives much of the revenue gap. Morpho’s modular lending structure means the DAO captures a smaller portion of total interest paid.
As the protocol matures, its revenue capture model will likely be a key factor in how the market continues to price MORPHO tokens going forward.
The post Morpho Borrowers Generate $170M in Interest as DeFi Lending Competition With Aave Heats Up appeared first on Blockonomi.
TAO Price at $261: Shakeout Before the Rally or the Start of a Deeper Decline?
TLDR:
TAO is trading at $261, below the critical 200-day moving average resistance level near $281.
A lower high at $390 after November’s $475 peak signals a potential bearish distribution phase.
The $143 Fibonacci support held earlier in 2025, producing a near tripling of TAO’s price value.
Real subnet usage and institutional interest in Bittensor keep the bullish fundamental case alive.
Bittensor’s TAO token is navigating a pivotal technical crossroads at $261, drawing sharp attention from traders and analysts.
The asset sits below its 200-day moving average while red volume spikes signal rising selling pressure. A lower high at $390 following November’s $475 peak adds to growing concern.
Yet strong subnet fundamentals continue to challenge the purely bearish reading of the chart.
TAO Bears Point to Distribution Pattern After Lower High
The March lower high has become the central talking point among TAO watchers. Price ran from the $143 Fibonacci floor to $390, a move that nearly tripled in value.
However, that rally failed to reclaim the 200-day moving average sitting near $281. That failure now stands as a textbook warning signal for trend traders.
Analyst @2xnmore laid out the concern plainly, stating that “a lower high after a failed 200 MA reclaim is one of the cleanest bearish signals in technical analysis.”
$TAO is at $261 right now.
Below the 200 day moving average. Fresh off a lower high at $390 after the November peak at $475. Volume spiking red today.
Two scenarios are playing out from here. Only one wins.
Scenario one: This is the shakeout before the move. The 0.618… pic.twitter.com/qfr7h6HC4r
— 2xnmore (@2xnmore) April 12, 2026
That pattern, combined with today’s volume spike to the downside, raises valid questions about who is actually selling. Distribution phases often look exactly like this before price rolls over completely.
Below the current $261 level, the next visible support sits between $200 and $220. A breakdown through that zone opens the door to a retest of the $143 lows.
That would represent a near 45% drop from current prices, a scenario that would reset the entire 2025 narrative around TAO.
Smart money often exits into retail momentum. The dTAO narrative and subnet expansion attracted fresh buyers in Q1.
If institutions used that interest to offload positions, the lower high becomes more than just a technical signal. It becomes evidence of a completed distribution cycle.
Fundamentals Offer a Counter Case for TAO Bulls
On the other side of the argument, TAO’s underlying ecosystem has not deteriorated. Real usage on Chutes, growing subnet activity, and institutional interest in Bittensor infrastructure remain active. These are not paper narratives. They reflect building utility across the network.
@2xnmore acknowledged this tension directly, noting that “the fundamentals on this subnet ecosystem are unlike anything else in crypto right now.”
That kind of divergence between price and utility has historically preceded strong recoveries in emerging crypto sectors. The 0.618 Fibonacci level at $143 held earlier in the year and produced a near tripling of price.
A clean reclaim of the $281 moving average, supported by above-average volume, would structurally shift the chart back to bullish.
That level now acts as both resistance and a defining line for trend direction. Bulls need that reclaim to invalidate the lower high pattern.
Until that happens, TAO trades in a zone where both outcomes remain technically valid. The chart and the fundamentals are currently pointing in opposite directions.
The post TAO Price at $261: Shakeout Before the Rally or the Start of a Deeper Decline? appeared first on Blockonomi.
Ethereum Faces Resistance Near $2,300 as Momentum Weakens Within Tight Trading Range
TLDR:
Ethereum posted a -3.19% daily move, rejecting near $2,300 and closing lower within the range
Price remains range-bound between $2,000 and $2,300 after exiting a prolonged downtrend phase
Momentum indicators show weakening strength as MACD histogram shrinks and lines converge
Key support at $2,110 faces pressure, while resistance near $2,300 continues limiting upside attempts
Ethereum began the second quarter with mild gains, yet recent price action shows hesitation near key resistance levels.
A daily chart shared by analyst Daan Crypto Trades points to weakening momentum, as ETH struggles to sustain upward movement within a defined consolidation range.
What Does Current Price Action Reveal About Ethereum’s Market Structure?
A tweet from Daan Crypto Trades outlines Ethereum’s current position on the ETH/USD 1D chart from Bitstamp. The latest candle opened at 2,285.1 and reached a high of 2,289.3.
The price later dropped to a low of 2,176.6 before closing at 2,212.8. This marks a decline of 72.8 points, representing a 3.19% loss on the day.
$ETH Starting off the quarter slightly in the green so far.
Q2 is generally the best quarter together with Q1 for Ethereum. It has also been green 8 out of 10 times so far.
But we've seen that historical price action has not really been in Crypto's favor the past year, so take… pic.twitter.com/zlsOMXO1dH
— Daan Crypto Trades (@DaanCrypto) April 11, 2026
This daily candle reflects a strong rejection near the upper boundary of the range. The close near the lower half of the candle suggests that sellers regained control during the session. As a result, upward attempts faced resistance, limiting further gains in the short term.
Looking at the broader structure, Ethereum remains in a recovery phase after a prolonged decline. From November to February, the market formed consistent lower highs and lower lows. During that period, price dropped from above 4,000 to around 1,700.
Since March, the structure has shifted into sideways movement. Price has been trading between 2,000 and 2,300, forming a consolidation range.
This range reflects a balance between buyers and sellers after the earlier decline. While higher lows have formed since February, resistance continues to cap upward movement near 2,300 to 2,400.
How Do Indicators and Key Levels Shape Ethereum’s Next Move?
Volatility bands on the chart provide further context for current price action. The upper band sits near 2,295.8, while the middle band stands at 2,112.8.
The lower band is positioned around 1,941.7. Price recently tested the upper band but failed to break above it. This rejection pushed the price back toward the mid-band level.
The mid-band near 2,110 now acts as a short-term pivot zone. Holding above this level may support continued consolidation.
However, a break below could expose the lower range near 2,000. The lower band at 1,940 remains a deeper support level if selling pressure increases.
Momentum indicators also show a shift in strength. The MACD-style oscillator remains positive, with the histogram reading at +0.86%.
The fast line stands near 1.71%, while the signal line is around 0.86%. Although momentum turned positive recently, the histogram is shrinking, and the lines are converging.
This pattern often signals slowing upward momentum. As a result, buying pressure appears to be fading near resistance levels. This aligns with the recent rejection near 2,300, where sellers stepped in again.Source: TradingView
Resistance remains clearly defined between 2,295 and 2,320. A break above this zone would open the path toward 2,400 and beyond.
On the downside, immediate support lies between 2,110 and 2,120. Below that, the 2,000 to 2,050 range continues to act as a strong floor.
Current conditions suggest a market still searching for direction. Short-term movement leans toward the downside following the recent rejection. However, the broader structure remains range-bound, with no confirmed breakout yet.
If price drops below 2,110, a move toward 2,000 becomes more likely. On the other hand, reclaiming 2,300 could shift momentum back toward higher targets between 2,500 and 2,700.
The post Ethereum Faces Resistance Near $2,300 as Momentum Weakens Within Tight Trading Range appeared first on Blockonomi.
WLFI Token Controversy: $5B Collateral Move, Withdrawal Crisis, and Justin Sun Blacklist Claim
TLDR:
WLFI deposited $5B of its own token on Dolomite, borrowing $75M and sending $40M to Coinbase Prime.
Dolomite’s utilization hit 100%, blocking ordinary depositors from withdrawing their stablecoins on the platform.
Justin Sun alleged WLFI used a smart contract backdoor to blacklist his wallet, freezing $107M of his funds.
Investor losses reached $3.87B across 600,000 wallets while related entities collected $350M in fees total.
World Liberty Financial (WLFI) is back at the center of crypto controversy following a series of financial moves that have raised serious questions about governance, transparency, and conflict of interest.
The token, currently trading at $0.07, has seen social activity surge sharply even as its price falls 18% this week and 67% from September highs.
With 600,000 wallets holding the token, losses now stand at $3.87B while related entities have collected $350M in fees.
Conflict of Interest Raises Questions Over WLFI’s Dolomite Transaction
WLFI deposited $5 billion worth of its own token as collateral on Dolomite, a DeFi lending protocol. Against that collateral, it borrowed $75 million in stablecoins. Shortly after, $40 million of those funds moved directly to Coinbase Prime.
The transaction structure drew immediate scrutiny due to the relationships involved. Dolomite was co-founded by Corey Caplan, who also holds an advisory role at World Liberty Financial. Essentially, the borrower had direct ties to the lender, the collateral, and the protocol itself.
When WLFI deposited the $5B in tokens, Dolomite’s utilization rate hit 100% almost immediately. That spike left ordinary depositors unable to withdraw their stablecoins, even though their balances appeared intact on paper.
This kind of arrangement has led many in the crypto community to question whether the transaction served the broader user base.
LunarCrush reported that social mentions, engagements, and crypto market share for WLFI are all climbing sharply, driven largely by these controversies.
Social activity on $WLFI is soaring higher today.
The mechanics of why is complicated but we'll try to summarize what the community is posting about…$WLFI deposited $5B of its own token as collateral on Dolomite.
They then borrowed $75M in stablecoins, and sent $40M… pic.twitter.com/KiO3mUbeYU
— LunarCrush (@LunarCrush) April 12, 2026
Justin Sun Blacklist Claim Adds Another Layer to WLFI’s Growing Troubles
Beyond the Dolomite situation, WLFI now faces a separate and equally serious allegation. Justin Sun, founder of TRON, publicly claimed that WLFI blacklisted his wallet using a backdoor function embedded in the project’s smart contract.
According to Sun, this action froze approximately $107 million of his holdings without notice or recourse. The claim raised immediate concerns about centralized control within what was marketed as a decentralized finance project.
A backdoor function capable of freezing wallets runs counter to core DeFi principles. It suggests that specific parties may hold override authority over the protocol, which is not a standard feature in genuinely decentralized systems.
Meanwhile, WLFI’s circulating supply has reached 31.7 billion tokens. That growth in supply, combined with a price drop of 67% from its September peak, points to ongoing pressure on token value.
The Trump family and associated business entities have reportedly collected $350M in fees throughout this period, while investor losses have reached $3.87 billion across 600,000 wallets.
The post WLFI Token Controversy: $5B Collateral Move, Withdrawal Crisis, and Justin Sun Blacklist Claim appeared first on Blockonomi.
Sei Network Enters Quiet Reset Phase as On-Chain Metrics Signal a Slowdown in 2026
TLDR:
Sei Network daily active users dropped from over 2M to between 1M and 1.2M in April 2026.
Sei Network TVL fell sharply to $41.6M from a peak of $626M recorded in July 2025.
Sei Network DEX and perpetuals volumes hit $6.55M and $12.25M respectively in 24 hours.
Sei Network FDV of $549M exceeds its $369M market cap, signaling more token supply ahead.
Sei Network is currently navigating a consolidation phase marked by steady user retention but softening capital inflows.
On-chain data from April 2026 shows the network maintaining a functional base of activity while key growth metrics trend downward.
Trading volumes remain active across decentralized exchanges and perpetuals markets. However, liquidity and new user acquisition have slowed, painting a picture of a network in pause rather than decline.
User Engagement Holds Steady as New Growth Loses Steam
Daily active users on Sei Network have pulled back from over 2 million earlier in April to between 1 million and 1.2 million. That decline, while notable, does not point to a collapse in network participation.
Returning users continue to make up the bulk of on-chain activity, which shows the existing community remains engaged.
New user growth, on the other hand, has softened considerably over the same period. This pattern often appears when a network exhausts its initial wave of adoption and enters a slower, more organic phase. It does not signal failure, but it does mean fresh momentum has cooled for now.
As noted by crypto analyst Kingjaz on X, Sei is “showing a mix of resilience and weakness,” with user activity holding but capital inflows clearly slowing.
BREAKING: Sei Network Enters a Quiet Reset Phase$Sei Network is showing a mix of resilience and weakness in today’s on-chain snapshot. While user activity is still holding, liquidity and capital inflows are clearly slowing pointing to a network that isn’t fading, but isn’t… pic.twitter.com/fTVzRpWstP
— Kingjaz (@Kingjaz1) April 11, 2026
That balance defines where the network stands today. The core community is present, but expansion is not happening at the pace seen earlier this year.
Trading activity across the network tells a similar story. DEX volume reached $6.55 million in 24 hours, while perpetuals volume hit $12.25 million over the same window.
App fees and revenue remain thin at $11,155 and $2,872 respectively, showing usage without meaningful protocol-level earnings.
TVL Decline and Capital Rotation Raise Questions for Sei
The sharper concern within current data is the drop in total value locked. TVL on Sei sits at roughly $41.6 million, down from a peak near $626 million recorded in July 2025. That gap represents a substantial outflow of capital from the ecosystem over a relatively short time.
Bridged liquidity remains higher at approximately $251 million, and stablecoin market cap stands near $179 million.
These figures suggest capital has not entirely exited the ecosystem. Rather, it may be waiting on clearer market conditions or rotating into other opportunities.
Sei’s current price ranges between $0.055 and $0.057, with a market cap of around $369 million. The fully diluted valuation sits at approximately $549 million, meaning a portion of the total token supply has yet to enter circulation. That gap could add selling pressure down the line.
The network, therefore, sits at a crossroads between holding its ground and rebuilding momentum. Consistent trading and a loyal user base offer a stable floor, while weak inflows and limited revenue remain the metrics to watch going forward.
The post Sei Network Enters Quiet Reset Phase as On-Chain Metrics Signal a Slowdown in 2026 appeared first on Blockonomi.
Bitcoin Nears Key Resistance as Bearish Flag Persists Within Rising Channel Structure
TLDR:
Bitcoin trades near $72K, approaching strong resistance within a well-defined ascending channel range.
Analysts warn a move toward $77K may trigger a liquidity grab before a possible bearish reversal.
Strong support remains at $60K–$62K, where buyers have repeatedly prevented deeper declines.
Market remains in a compression phase, with a breakout or rejection likely to define the next move.
Bitcoin continues to trade within a defined range after a sharp decline, with price action showing controlled recovery.
Market participants remain cautious as resistance nears, while analysts monitor whether the current structure leads to a breakout or renewed downside pressure.
Bitcoin Trades Within Ascending Channel as Resistance Nears
A recent tweet by Captain Faibik outlines a cautious outlook for Bitcoin despite short-term upward movement. He maintains that a bearish flag remains active on the daily timeframe, even as price attempts minor recoveries.
According to his view, brief rallies have repeatedly shifted sentiment, though broader control still leans toward sellers.
$BTC Bearish flag on the Daily timeframe is still in play..
Whenever #Bitcoin pumps a little, Market sentiment quickly shifts but I still Remain bearish.
Bitcoin could move up toward the 77–78k region to grab liquidity & then we may see a Bearish move toward the 54–56k area… pic.twitter.com/TAI59Vzo06
— Captain Faibik (@CryptoFaibik) April 12, 2026
The chart shared alongside the tweet shows Bitcoin recovering from a steep drop near the $95,000 to $100,000 range.
That decline extended toward the $58,000 to $60,000 zone, where strong buying interest emerged. Since then, price has formed a structured recovery, building higher lows and gradually moving within an ascending channel.
Currently, Bitcoin trades near the $71,000 to $72,000 level. This places it in the upper-middle section of the channel, where momentum appears stable but constrained.
The upper boundary between $74,500 and $77,000 has acted as resistance, rejecting multiple attempts to move higher.
At the same time, the lower boundary around $60,000 to $62,000 continues to serve as a demand zone. Buyers have consistently stepped in at this level, preventing deeper declines.
As price approaches resistance again, traders are watching closely for either a breakout or another rejection.
Bearish Bias Remains Despite Altcoin Activity
Captain Faibik noted in his tweet that a move toward the $77,000 to $78,000 region could occur before a potential decline.
He pointed to a possible liquidity grab followed by a drop toward the $54,000 to $56,000 range. However, he emphasized that confirmation is still required before taking positions.
He also explained his contrasting stance on Bitcoin and altcoins. While maintaining a bearish view on Bitcoin, he has remained active in select altcoins over recent months.
His allocation strategy reflects this approach, with roughly half of his funds held in stable assets and the rest split between midterm altcoin positions and swing trades.
Meanwhile, key levels continue to guide market behavior. Immediate support sits near $70,000, while a mid-channel range between $66,000 and $68,000 acts as a balance zone.
Resistance remains firm below $77,000, and a clear break above this area would shift focus toward the $80,000 to $85,000 region.
Price action within the channel suggests a period of compression. This type of structure often precedes a sharp move once resistance or support gives way.
Until then, Bitcoin remains range-bound, with both upward continuation and downside rotation still possible.
The tweet reflects a wait-and-see approach, with no active trades opened yet. Market participants continue to monitor price behavior near resistance, as confirmation will likely determine the next directional move.
The post Bitcoin Nears Key Resistance as Bearish Flag Persists Within Rising Channel Structure appeared first on Blockonomi.
JasmyCoin Signals Potential Breakout as Multi-Year Accumulation Nears Key Resistance
TLDR:
JasmyCoin shows repeated falling wedge patterns, often linked with weakening bearish momentum.
Multi-year consolidation reflects a balance between buyers and sellers before a possible trend shift.
Current price compression near wedge support suggests a potential buildup toward a breakout move.
A projected move toward $0.2785 depends on confirmed resistance breakout and sustained momentum.
JasmyCoin is drawing renewed attention after a technical analysis projected a potential long-term breakout toward higher price levels.
The outlook is based on multi-year chart structures that show extended consolidation, repeated falling wedge formations, and a possible transition from a prolonged downtrend into a bullish phase.
Multi-Year Structure Signals Gradual Market Shift
A recent tweet by Javon Marks outlined a macro view of JasmyCoin’s price action across several years. The analysis describes a clear transition from a sharp post-2021 decline into a more structured consolidation phase.
During the earlier cycle, the asset recorded consistent lower highs and lower lows, forming descending channels that reflected sustained selling pressure.
$JASMY's target remains at the $0.2785 level which is currently over which is currently over 4,800% away from current prices!
With a breakout and multiple bull patterns holding up here, all that looks to be in the way is a sustainable alt market/season to support this near 50X!… https://t.co/B8uoTA7ff7 pic.twitter.com/GTbAAJkRAn
— JAVONMARKS (@JavonTM1) April 12, 2026
As time progressed, the chart began to show signs of stabilization. A falling wedge pattern emerged during the mid-cycle phase, where price action tightened within converging trendlines.
This structure often reflects weakening bearish momentum. A breakout attempt followed, leading to a short-lived upward move, which suggested early accumulation behavior.
After that move, JasmyCoin entered a broader consolidation range marked by sideways price action. The chart indicates multiple swings within this zone, showing a balance between buyers and sellers.
This range also reflects improved structural stability compared to the earlier downtrend phase. Such conditions often precede larger directional moves once market pressure resolves.
Current Compression Points to Potential Breakout Setup
More recently, the chart shows another falling wedge formation developing on the right side. Price action continues to compress toward the apex of this pattern, indicating reduced volatility and tightening market conditions. This setup often attracts attention due to its association with breakout scenarios.
The current price position remains near the lower boundary of the wedge. This area is commonly viewed as a demand zone where buyers may step in.
At the same time, the upper trendline serves as a resistance level that traders monitor for confirmation of a breakout.
Javon Marks’ tweet also pointed to a projected move toward the $0.2785 level. This target represents a large percentage increase from current prices, contingent on a confirmed breakout and sustained market support.
The projection is illustrated by a curved upward path on the chart, suggesting a gradual expansion rather than an immediate surge.
The broader structure suggests a transition from accumulation into a potential markup phase. However, this depends on whether price action can move above resistance levels with consistent momentum. If the asset fails to break out, the chart suggests continued consolidation or further compression within the wedge.
Overall, the analysis presents a technical setup where JasmyCoin approaches a key decision point. The combination of repeated wedge formations and long-term consolidation continues to shape expectations around a possible trend reversal, depending on future price behavior and market conditions.
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XRP Tightens Near $1.33 as Market Builds Pressure Between Key Support and Resistance Levels
TLDR:
XRP remains in a tight consolidation range near $1.33 with reduced volatility and declining trading volume in sessions.
MACD shows a bullish crossover with the histogram turning positive, though the overall trend remains below the zero line.
RSI stays below 50 at mid-40 levels, signaling weak momentum and a continued market indecision phase.
Price action stays between $1.30 support and $1.50 resistance as traders wait for breakout confirmation signals.
XRP continues to trade within a tight range after months of decline, with recent data showing early signs of stabilization.
Market participants are closely watching resistance and support levels, as technical indicators signal a potential directional move.
XRP Consolidates After Downtrend as Key Levels Come Into Focus
XRP price action shows a clear shift from a prolonged decline into a consolidation phase. From November through early February, the asset recorded consistently lower highs and lower lows. A sharp drop in early February pushed prices toward the $1.20–$1.25 range.
Since that move, XRP has stabilized and now trades between defined levels. Immediate support sits near $1.30–$1.32, while resistance is seen between $1.45 and $1.50. At the time of analysis, XRP trades at $1.33168, reflecting a daily decline of 1.74%.
The narrowing price range suggests reduced volatility. Candles have become tighter, indicating a pause in aggressive selling.
Volume has also declined during this phase, pointing to reduced market participation. Traders often associate such conditions with a buildup before a larger move.
A recent post by analyst Ali Charts adds a broader perspective. The analyst notes that XRP has remained within a nine-year ascending triangle on the monthly chart. According to the post, repeated rejections at resistance have followed a consistent pattern since 2017.
The next $XRP bull market will be huge!
XRP is currently trading inside a giant 9-year ascending triangle on the monthly chart. Since 2017, the script has remained the same: XRP hits the upper resistance (X-axis), gets rejected, and retraces to find its floor at the rising… pic.twitter.com/bMJ7q582Id
— Ali Charts (@alicharts) April 12, 2026
The same analysis points to a potential retest of macro support between $0.75 and $0.80. This zone is described as a key level to watch if broader weakness returns. The long-term structure remains intact unless that rising trendline is broken.
Momentum Indicators Show Early Recovery but No Clear Trend Yet
Momentum indicators present a mixed picture, reflecting the ongoing consolidation. The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) shows early signs of recovery. The MACD line has crossed above the signal line, with a reading of -0.01580 against -0.01996.
The histogram has turned slightly positive at 0.00416. This shift indicates a mild increase in bullish momentum. However, both lines remain below the zero mark, which keeps the broader trend in a neutral to bearish zone.
At the same time, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains below the midpoint. Current readings show RSI at 43.98, with its moving average at 43.26. This level reflects weak momentum and no clear dominance by buyers or sellers.
The RSI has recovered from oversold conditions seen during February’s decline. Still, it remains below 50, suggesting that bullish strength has not fully developed. The indicator is flattening, which aligns with the ongoing sideways movement.
Market structure now depends on a breakout from the current range. A move above $1.45–$1.50 could open the path toward $1.60 and $1.70. Such a move would likely require stronger volume and confirmation from momentum indicators.
On the downside, a break below $1.30 could lead to a retest of $1.20–$1.25. If that level fails, attention may shift to lower support zones. For now, XRP continues to trade within a defined range as the market waits for clearer direction.
The post XRP Tightens Near $1.33 as Market Builds Pressure Between Key Support and Resistance Levels appeared first on Blockonomi.
Gold Overtakes US Treasuries as Top Central Bank Reserve Asset Since the 1990s
TLDR:
Gold now accounts for 24% of global central bank reserves, overtaking US Treasuries at just 21%.
Gold’s reserve share has nearly tripled since 2015, driven by central bank buying and rising prices.
The US seizure of Russia’s reserves in 2022 triggered a global shift away from dollar-denominated assets.
China and BRICS nations have led steady US Treasury sell-offs since 2022, accelerating de-dollarisation.
Gold surpasses US Treasuries in global central bank reserves for the first time since the mid-1990s, with gold now commanding 24% of reserves against Treasuries’ 21%, Bloomberg data confirms.
The shift, years in the making, reflects sustained central bank buying, soaring gold prices, and a deliberate move away from dollar dependency. geopolitical shocks, from the seizure of Russia’s reserves to escalating US tariffs.
All have accelerated a de-dollarisation trend that is now reshaping the foundation of the international monetary system.
Gold Overtakes US Treasuries in Reserve Composition
Gold now accounts for 24% of global central bank reserves, while US government debt sits at 21%, according to Bloomberg data.
This marks a sharp reversal from the final quarter of 2015, when Treasuries made up 33% of reserves and gold just 9%.
Gold’s share has nearly tripled over the last decade, driven by aggressive central bank purchases and a sustained rise in gold prices.
Emerging market central banks have led this accumulation. These institutions have steadily diversified away from dollar-denominated assets, accelerating purchases as part of broader reserve management strategies.
JUST IN: Gold reserves surpass USD reserves. Sign that confidence in US Treasuries weakens maybe? pic.twitter.com/f2tKLfQRH8
— DustyBC Crypto (@DustyBC) April 12, 2026
The trend gained momentum from around 2017, when USD reserve growth began to plateau, while gold continued rising in both price and share.
Gold now makes up 24% of global central bank reserves, surpassing US Treasuries at 21% for the first time since the mid-1990s.
The reallocation reflects a growing preference for assets that carry no counterparty risk. Unlike US Treasuries, gold cannot be frozen or devalued through a foreign government’s policy decisions, making it attractive to reserve managers navigating a more uncertain geopolitical environment.
Geopolitical Shocks Deepen the De-Dollarisation Trend
The pace of change accelerated sharply in 2022 when the US seized Russia’s central bank reserves following the conflict in Ukraine. The move alarmed reserve managers globally and prompted many to reassess their exposure to dollar-denominated assets.
China and the leading BRICS nations began selling US Treasury bills in earnest from that year. Selling intensified further in April 2024 after the Trump administration launched the Liberation Day tariff scheme.
Additional pressure came from Operation Epic Fury, which further undermined confidence in the US as a reliable financial partner. These events together have driven a sustained shift in reserve composition.
While the US dollar remains dominant in global trade and finance, central banks are now actively reducing its share in their reserve baskets. Gold is no longer viewed as a supplementary reserve asset.
It has moved to the center of reserve strategy, holding more weight in global central bank portfolios than US government debt for the first time in nearly three decades.
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Dogecoin Price Prediction: Analyst Eye a 2,700% Move to $2
TLDR:
Dogecoin completed two accumulation cycles, producing gains of 480% and 190% before each correction.
A third accumulation zone is forming inside a descending channel with multiple failed breakout attempts.
Analysts set upside targets at $0.50, $1, and $2, with a full cycle projection reaching near 2,700%.
A higher-timeframe close below $0.048 remains the critical invalidation level for the current bullish fractal.
A third accumulation zone is quietly taking shape on Dogecoin’s weekly chart, tucked inside a descending channel that few are paying attention to right now.
History, however, has a way of rewarding patience in crypto markets. Two prior cycles delivered gains of 480% and 190% respectively — and analysts tracking the current structure believe the next move could dwarf them both.
Dogecoin’s Fractal Cycles Point to a Familiar Setup
The Dogecoin weekly chart spanning 2021 to 2026 outlines a recurring market structure. Two completed cycles show distinct periods of price consolidation followed by sharp upward moves.
The first cycle produced a 480% gain after an extended accumulation phase. The second followed with a 190% move under a similar setup.
$DOGE MINI CYCLES & ACCUMULATION ZONES
Dogecoin has formed repeated mini cycles, with expansions following prior accumulation phases and the current range potentially acting as a third base of consolidation. #DOGE #Dogecoin #Crypto pic.twitter.com/w4xtwVY8mz
— Bitcoinsensus (@Bitcoinsensus) April 12, 2026
Chart analysts describe this behavior as fractal repetition, where market structure rhymes across different time periods. The sequence of accumulation, breakout, correction, and expansion remains consistent across both cycles.
A third accumulation zone now appears to be forming on the weekly timeframe. Price is currently consolidating inside a descending channel, with multiple failed breakout attempts already recorded.
Analysts note that price stability at this level reflects steady demand absorption from long-term holders. The longer the price remains at this range, the stronger the eventual breakout tends to be.
Resistance Targets, Corrections, and What Traders Are Watching
The chart identifies three major upside targets for the next potential expansion. The first resistance sits near $0.50, aligned with a prior structural supply zone. Beyond that, $1 carries psychological and technical weight.
This Chart Predicts One Day $DOGE Could Hit $2 And This Is All A Patience Game…
History Doesn't Repeat, But It Rhymes. Same Fractal. Same Accumulation. Same Disbelief.
Best Accumulation Zone: $0.09-$0.07 Target: $0.5 / $1 / $2 Stop Loss: HTF Close Below $0.048
Not Financial… pic.twitter.com/IJNtYL6HYd
— Crypto Patel (@CryptoPatel) April 11, 2026
A full cycle extension places the projected target near $2. A confirmed higher-timeframe close below $0.048 remains the key invalidation level.
Losing this threshold would break the existing market structure and signal that the fractal is no longer valid. The current corrective phase has already drawn down approximately 83% from the prior cycle peak.
Some analysts believe the correction could extend further before a recovery begins. One observer remarked: “Doge is only bought when it has big and medium climbs, but during -80% corrections, no one even writes anything about it anymore.”
Certain traders have outlined entry strategies near Fibonacci retracement zones, with one planning to accumulate 100,000 DOGE at the Fibonacci level 1 area. Speculation around
Elon Musk’s potential involvement with Dogecoin in the next cycle also continues to circulate among market participants.
The post Dogecoin Price Prediction: Analyst Eye a 2,700% Move to $2 appeared first on Blockonomi.
SUI Price Prediction: Bulls Eye $10 After Textbook Breakout Signal
TLDR:
SUI broke above the $0.89–$0.90 consolidation range on the one-hour chart, signaling a bullish trend shift.
Price pulled back to the $0.91–$0.905 demand zone, where analysts expect buyers to defend key support.
Wyckoff accumulation patterns and bullish order blocks on the weekly chart point to targets of $10–$20.
SUI’s market cap stabilized above $3.6B after spiking to $3.85B, reflecting long-term holder conviction.
SUI price prediction is flashing signals that seasoned traders rarely ignore. A textbook breakout above a weeks-long consolidation range, a controlled pullback into fresh demand, and a weekly chart carrying the fingerprints of prior 1,000% rallies, the setup is building quietly but deliberately.
Whether the next move targets $0.97 or something far more ambitious, the chart is making its case without apology.
SUI Breaks Out, Pulls Back, and Sets Up a Second Shot
SUI flashed a textbook breakout on the one-hour chart this week, clearing the $0.89–$0.90 consolidation range that had capped price for an extended period. The move was sharp and deliberate.
Bullish candles stacked above prior resistance, volume followed, and the chart shifted from a downtrend structure to a clear bullish bias in a matter of hours.
$SUI showed a strong bullish breakout after consolidation, but now it’s pulling back into a key demand zone.
This drop looks more like a healthy correction than weakness, and if buyers defend this area, another push toward the highs is likely.#SUI pic.twitter.com/qyGZwv6DE3
— BitGuru (@bitgu_ru) April 12, 2026
The rally did not hold its highs. SUI pulled back toward the $0.91–$0.905 area shortly after, a move that initially spooked short-term traders. However, analysts tracking the asset noted the correction lacked the hallmarks of a genuine reversal.
No heavy sell volume. No breakdown of structure. Just a measured retreat into what is now a recognized demand zone, where previous resistance has flipped into support.
That flip is the crux of the current setup. Traders are now watching for bullish confirmation at the $0.91–$0.905 zone before positioning for another push toward the $0.96–$0.97 resistance band.
Until that confirmation arrives, the market remains in a wait-and-see posture at a level that could determine SUI’s next directional move.
Weekly Structure Points to Targets Far Beyond Current Levels
Step back to the weekly chart and the short-term noise gives way to a much larger technical picture. SUI has printed this pattern before.
In mid-2024 and again in mid-2025, the price dipped toward a key trendline support, gathered liquidity at those lows, and then staged parabolic advances.
Once $SUI Starts Pumping, No One Stops It Until $10 To $20
Save This Tweet. Thank Me Later. pic.twitter.com/WcESmExQjO
— Crypto Patel (@CryptoPatel) April 10, 2026
Those rallies registered gains north of 500% and, in one instance, crossed 1,000% within a matter of months. Analysts point out that SUI is currently sitting at a structurally similar position.
Bullish order blocks are visible at the current support zone, consistent with what Wyckoff analysis describes as smart money accumulation — a phase where institutional-level buying absorbs retail selling before a major directional move develops.
Resistance between $3 and $5 is flagged as a potential speed bump on any extended advance. Even though historical precedent suggests momentum tends to build rather than stall once that band is cleared.
Market cap data from the past seven days adds a layer of confirmation to the broader thesis. SUI’s market cap spiked toward $3.85 billion on April 7 before pulling back and stabilizing above $3.6 billion through several corrective sessions.
The base is holding. Long-term participants appear to be absorbing the dips rather than exiting, a dynamic that analysts say keeps the structural case for $10–$20 price targets firmly on the table.
The post SUI Price Prediction: Bulls Eye $10 After Textbook Breakout Signal appeared first on Blockonomi.
Aave Will Win Proposal Passes: AAVE Token Now Controls Protocol Revenue, Brand, and Full Product ...
TLDR:
Aave Will Win proposal directs application revenue from Aave Pro, Aave App, and Horizon directly to the DAO treasury.
Aave’s protocol revenue reached $140 million in 2025, with 2026 tracking similarly despite market weakness.
Swaps on Aave.com and Aave Pro are generating $10–20 million in new revenue on top of existing protocol income.
Aave Labs commits to zero-bureaucracy governance, requiring measurable SP goals and full financial transparency.
Aave has passed what its community calls the most important proposal in the protocol’s history. The Aave Will Win (AWW) proposal secured a landslide governance vote, reshaping how the protocol generates revenue.
The new framework positions the AAVE token as the central asset across all products and brand assets. It also introduces new application revenue streams beyond the core protocol. These earnings are directed entirely to the DAO treasury for the first time.
Aave Moves Toward a Full-Stack Revenue Model
The AWW proposal creates a new revenue layer on top of existing Aave Protocol earnings. Application and product revenue from Aave Pro, Aave.com, Aave App, Horizon, and Aave Kit will now flow to the DAO.
This represents a clear expansion beyond the protocol-only revenue model that has existed since the project launched.
According to Aave Labs founder Stani Kulechov, the DAO accumulated $140 million in protocol revenue in 2025. Revenue for 2026 is tracking at a similar level despite broader market weakness.
That growth was achieved through protocol-only income alone, making the addition of application revenue a notable shift.
Kulechov noted on X that swaps on Aave.com and Aave Pro are already generating between $10 million and $20 million.
Aave Will Win, the most important proposal in Aave's history just passed with a landslide.
Here's the master plan going forward:
General Direction
– Aave becomes fully token-centric: one asset, one model: $AAVE
– To date, protocol revenue per AIP-1 has accumulated to the Aave…
— Stani (@StaniKulechov) April 12, 2026
This revenue is additive, sitting on top of what the protocol already generates. Together, the two streams begin building the full-stack revenue model the proposal envisions.
Aave V4’s reinvestment feature allows idle capital in pools to generate additional yield for the protocol. New V4 Spokes will also unlock further collateral and address the demand side of the DeFi liquidity market. These technical upgrades work in tandem with the revenue changes introduced under AWW.
Aave Labs has committed to working exclusively on the protocol’s own products going forward. This means AAVE token holders now own the protocol’s brand, users, and integrations through one unified asset.
Owning the full vertical stack is increasingly important as protocol competition intensifies across the DeFi space.
Governance Rules Tighten as Risk Management Expands
The governance model under AWW is shifting to a zero-bureaucracy structure focused on execution. Service providers will now be held to real, measurable goals rather than process-heavy deliverables.
The change reflects the DAO’s intent to compete with well-funded and efficient organizations in the broader financial sector.
Kulechov stated plainly on X: “Payments for posting governance proposals are over.” The DAO has already consolidated service providers to direct resources more effectively.
Going forward, SPs who align with token holder interests will receive budget support, provided their requests remain reasonable.
Under the new rules, full transparency from all service providers is a firm requirement. Relationship gating and value leakage away from the protocol will not be tolerated. Everything built with the DAO’s funds must benefit the protocol and remain owned by it.
On the risk side, Aave will maintain a dual-layer approach covering both economic and technical risk assessment. External managers such as Llama Risk and Token Logic will continue operating in their current roles. Their work will be supported and coordinated by a new internal team at Aave Labs.
Aave Labs will build a permanent internal risk management function to sit alongside external managers. This combined structure makes the overall risk framework more resilient.
Better coordination between layers is expected to strengthen the protocol’s response to market and technical risks ahead.
The post Aave Will Win Proposal Passes: AAVE Token Now Controls Protocol Revenue, Brand, and Full Product Stack appeared first on Blockonomi.
Token Launches in 2026 Face Systemic Value Destruction, Data Shows
TLDR:
Average ROI across 2026 token launches sits at -54%, with RNBW losing nearly 90% from its ICO price.
Attention and liquidity both peak at TGE and consistently fail to recover, trapping retail buyers at the top.
Projects like MegaETH and Polymarket are now delaying TGEs until real usage milestones and traction are confirmed.
Tokens with proven product-market fit like Pendle and Hyperliquid continue holding narrative ground above newer launches.
Token launches in 2026 are delivering deeply negative returns for early participants, according to recent on-chain data.
Average ROI across this year’s launches sits at approximately -54%, raising serious questions about the current fundraising model.
Projects like RNBW, ZAMA, and AZTEC have each lost between 43% and nearly 90% of their value after their token generation events.
Market analysts now point to structural flaws in how new tokens reach the market. The pattern is consistent, and it is hitting retail investors hardest.
The Data Behind the Decline
Recent figures paint a troubling picture for anyone entering early-stage token sales. RNBW dropped 89.87% from its ICO price, while ZAMA fell 43% after its TGE. AZTEC declined nearly 50% shortly after going live on exchanges.
These are not isolated cases. The -54% average ROI across 2026 launches points to a recurring structural problem with token distribution and pricing at launch.
Crypto researcher Nick Research flagged this pattern publicly, noting that both attention and liquidity peak at TGE and then never recover. That observation lines up with what data consistently shows across multiple project launches this cycle.
➥ Is launching tokens dead in 2026?
Honestly, I think the old meta is completely dead
I look at the data, average ROI of 2026 launches = around -54% for early participants – $RNBW: -89.87% from ICO – $ZAMA: -43% after TGE – $AZTEC: – 49.79 after TGE
This is systemic value… pic.twitter.com/gpaFqWNcnL
— Nick Research (@Nick_Researcher) April 12, 2026
The core issue is the low float, high fully diluted valuation model combined with heavy venture capital allocations. This structure creates what analysts describe as an exit liquidity machine, where early backers offload holdings onto retail buyers at peak hype.
A Market Pivoting Toward Usage and Revenue
Despite weak performance data, token launches are not disappearing entirely. However, the model is clearly evolving in response to consistent losses by retail participants.
MegaETH has chosen to delay its TGE until specific key performance milestones are met. Polymarket and OpenSea have also withheld firm launch dates, a move that signals growing caution among project teams about launching before real traction exists.
This shift reflects a broader recalibration in how investors assess new projects. The speculation-first approach that defined earlier cycles is giving way to a usage-first standard that the market now rewards more visibly.
Tokens with genuine product-market fit continue to hold narrative ground. Assets such as Pendle and Hyperliquid retain attention in ways newer launches simply cannot match.
BTC, ETH, SOL, TAO, and HYPE still dominate market conversation, crowding out newer entrants almost entirely within days of any new launch.
New experiments in attention markets and cashback incentive models are also emerging as alternative frameworks. These designs attempt to align token value with real platform usage rather than speculative demand.
For now, the market is sending a clear message: proof of traction before TGE is no longer optional for any project seeking long-term viability.
The post Token Launches in 2026 Face Systemic Value Destruction, Data Shows appeared first on Blockonomi.
Michael Saylor Hints at Buying More Bitcoin as BTC Slides to $71,500
TLDR:
Michael Saylor posted “Think ₿igger” on X, widely read as a signal of Strategy’s next Bitcoin purchase.
Bitcoin dropped to $71,500 after US-Iran peace talks in Islamabad collapsed without an agreement.
Strategy holds 766,970 BTC worth $54.47B, buying at 2.2x the rate of newly mined supply in 2025.
With $2.25B in reserves and a $42B ATM facility, Strategy has the firepower for continued buying.
Bitcoin watchers are on high alert. Michael Saylor, The Strategy executive chairman dropped two words on X — “Think ₿igger”.
With 766,970 BTC already on the books and geopolitical fires burning from the Strait of Hormuz to Islamabad, Saylor’s latest post is making markets wonder what comes next and how large the next purchase will be.
Saylor’s “Think ₿igger” Post Stops the Crypto World in Its Tracks
Two words. That is all it took. Michael Saylor posted “Think ₿igger” on X on April 12, attaching the Orange Dots chart that has become one of the most anticipated visuals in institutional crypto circles.
Think ₿igger. pic.twitter.com/L1yH3n0k7t
— Michael Saylor (@saylor) April 12, 2026
Each orange dot marks a Bitcoin purchase by Strategy. More dots have always followed.
The post landed at a moment when Bitcoin was already bleeding, sliding toward $71,500 as news broke that high-stakes US-Iran peace talks in Islamabad had collapsed without a deal.
The negotiations, the most direct diplomatic exchange between Washington and Tehran in decades, fell apart over nuclear commitments and control of the Strait of Hormuz. Markets did not take it well.
The Strait of Hormuz is no small flashpoint. Roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply moves through that narrow waterway daily.
When the US Navy began minesweeping operations in the region, risk sentiment cracked across equities, commodities, and crypto alike.
Bitcoin dropped approximately 2.5%, caught in the crossfire of a geopolitical standoff with no clear resolution in sight. Yet there was Saylor, unfazed, pointing toward something larger.
Last week, Strategy confirmed a $330 million Bitcoin purchase shortly after a similar Orange Dots post appeared. The pattern is well-established at this point. When Saylor posts the chart, a buy announcement tends to follow within days.
Strategy’s War Chest Positions the Firm for Another Major BTC Move
Strategy is not operating on hope. The numbers behind the firm’s Bitcoin ambitions are striking. The company currently holds 766,970 BTC, valued at approximately $54.47 billion, accumulated at a pace running 2.2 times faster than the newly mined supply entering the market.
That kind of buying velocity does not happen without serious financial infrastructure behind it. The balance sheet backs up the aggression.
Strategy carries $2.25 billion in USD reserves against $8.25 billion in total debt, with net leverage holding at a disciplined 11%. Enterprise value has climbed to $60.9 billion, comfortably ahead of its $44.6 billion market capitalization.
These are not the numbers of a firm about to slow down. The capital pipeline tells the same story.
A $42 billion at-the-market equity facility remains available, with additional runway coming through ongoing STRC fundraising. Strategy paused a 13-week consecutive buying streak in late March, but that pause now looks brief.
With Saylor’s post circulating and the financial machinery still running at full capacity, another major Bitcoin acquisition may already be in motion.
The post Michael Saylor Hints at Buying More Bitcoin as BTC Slides to $71,500 appeared first on Blockonomi.
Coinbase captured 58.21% of CEX flows, reflecting its custody role for eight U.S. Bitcoin ETFs.
Long-term holders deposited just 94.68 BTC to exchanges against 706,000 BTC moved on-chain in 24 hours.
Analysts warn futures traders against short positions as public sell-side liquidity hits critical lows.
Bitcoin institutional dominance hit a macro alert level in the past 24 hours. On-chain analyst GugaOnChain reported OTC trading captured 82.26% of total BTC settlement volume.
Coinbase led centralized exchange flows at 58.21% of residual CEX activity. With BTC at $73,337, up 9.02% over seven days, settlement reached 706,000 BTC, worth $51.5 billion. These figures point to coordinated institutional accumulation on a large scale.
OTC Markets Signal Structural Accumulation
Bitcoin’s OTC share crossing 80% places it inside what analysts call the Institutional Alert Zone. This range, between 80% and 90%, marks periods when public liquidity contracts sharply.
As a result, only 17.14% of total settlement activity reached centralized exchanges in this window. Open order books were, therefore, left with minimal sell-side depth.
When OTC activity reaches this level, smart money moves large BTC volumes off-exchange. GugaOnChain noted this pattern has been intensifying over recent weeks.
Institutional buyers are consistently opting for private transactions over exchange-based order flow. This behavior gradually removes available supply from retail-accessible trading venues.
GugaOnChain posted a direct warning to futures traders on social media. The analyst wrote that 82% off-exchange settlement leaves the spot market sell side near empty.
Any demand spike, the post stated, would trigger a supply shock. Violent upward repricing of Bitcoin, the analyst warned, would follow closely.
The broader takeaway for active traders centers on managing directional risk. GugaOnChain explicitly cautioned against short positions in the current market environment.
With minimal sell-side liquidity in public markets, any demand spike faces no resistance. This structural setup makes short positions particularly vulnerable to sudden, sharp reversals.
Coinbase Leads CEX Flows While Long-Term Holders Stay Inactive
Within the 17.14% of flow transacted on centralized exchanges, capital concentration was notable. Coinbase dominated at 58.21%, reflecting its role as custodian for eight of eleven U.S. Bitcoin ETFs.
Binance followed at 22.13%, functioning primarily as a retail entry point rather than an institutional hub. Kraken accounted for 6.44%, drawing compliance-focused institutional capital.
To confirm the accumulation thesis, GugaOnChain cross-referenced OTC data with exchange inflow metrics. The analyst applied the “Bitcoin: Exchange Inflow – Spent Output Age Bands” indicator across all major exchanges.
Coins older than six months deposited to exchanges totaled just 94.68 BTC in 24 hours. Against 706,000 BTC moved on-chain that day, this confirms near-total dormancy among long-term holders.
This data shows veteran holders are not distributing into the current price rise. Old coins stay locked away while fresh institutional accumulation continues off-exchange.
Low long-term holder selling combined with high OTC absorption tightens the available supply structure. These converging factors build a case for continued upward price movement in Bitcoin.
The supply picture, taken together, favors sustained buying pressure. Liquidity drains privately while public order books remain thin and underpopulated.
Any fresh wave of spot demand will encounter very little sell-side resistance. The data consistently supports the setup for a continued Bitcoin price advance.
The post Bitcoin Institutional Dominance Hits 82% Amid Surging OTC Activity appeared first on Blockonomi.
Bitcoin Drops 3% as Failed US-Iran Nuclear Talks Trigger Heavy Short Pressure
TLDR:
JD Vance confirmed US-Iran nuclear talks failed, triggering a 3% Bitcoin price drop overnight.
Bitcoin’s decline extended its drawdown to nearly 42% from its most recent all-time peak price.
Nearly $1 billion in sell volume hit Binance derivatives within one hour of the failed talk news.
Binance funding rates fell to -0.0065%, confirming short positions now dominate the derivatives market.
Bitcoin faced sharp selling pressure after US-Iran nuclear talks collapsed over the weekend. JD Vance confirmed no agreement was reached, sending BTC down 3% and back toward the $70,000 range.
Bitcoin Slides 3% After Diplomatic Breakdown
Bitcoin entered the weekend with cautious optimism, supported by improving geopolitical signals from the prior week. Traders had been watching the US-Iran negotiations closely for any sign of progress.
Instead, JD Vance announced overnight that talks had failed entirely. Disagreements over nuclear issues were cited as the main barrier to any deal.
The price quickly reflected the news, with Bitcoin dropping around 3%. That decline brought BTC back to the $70,000 area, a zone that had acted as support in recent sessions.
The move also extended Bitcoin’s drawdown to nearly 42% from its most recent peak. Despite the sustained decline, market participants continued to lean short.
Geopolitical tension has often added uncertainty to crypto markets, and this case was no different. The breakdown removed a layer of optimism that had been building throughout the week.
When that support gave way, the sell-off followed quickly and without hesitation. Bearish momentum took hold almost immediately after the announcement.
Trading volumes responded sharply as the news circulated. BTC price action was decisive, with sellers taking control during the session.
The broader crypto market also reflected the risk-off shift. Bitcoin, as the market’s lead asset, absorbed the brunt of the pressure.
Short Sellers Take Control of Binance Derivatives
Within one hour of the news breaking, nearly $1 billion in sell volume flooded Binance derivatives. Crypto analyst Darkfost noted in a post that this level of activity in such a short window pointed to heavy, coordinated short positioning.
The volume surge reinforced the already declining price trajectory. It was a clear signal that traders were reacting swiftly to the geopolitical news.
Funding rates on Binance moved further into negative territory, settling around -0.0065%. Binance incorporates an implicit interest rate of 0.01% into its funding rate calculations.
When the rate falls below that level, it confirms that short positions are already dominating. That threshold has now been crossed, placing control firmly with the bears.
This kind of short-side consensus has historically preceded counter-moves in the market. When most participants align on one side, price often moves in the opposite direction.
However, this dynamic tends to carry less force during bear market conditions. Any potential reaction is likely to remain limited in both scale and duration.
Traders watching this setup should remain measured in their expectations. The broader trend continues to favor the downside, even with crowded short positioning.
A reactive bounce is possible but not guaranteed under current conditions. BTC’s next move will likely depend on any fresh geopolitical or macro developments.
The post Bitcoin Drops 3% as Failed US-Iran Nuclear Talks Trigger Heavy Short Pressure appeared first on Blockonomi.
BlackRock Sees $20.47B Crypto Loss in Q1 2026 Despite Bitcoin Buildup
TLDR:
BlackRock’s combined BTC and ETH holdings dropped from $78.36B to $57.89B in Q1 2026.
Bitcoin holdings rose by 14,950 BTC despite a $16.24B fall in dollar value over the quarter.
Ethereum holdings fell 410,750 ETH, reflecting both price weakness and active net distribution.
Q1 2026 losses of $20.47B were $5.97B lower than the $26.44B decline recorded in Q4 2025.
BlackRock’s crypto portfolio recorded a sharp $20.47 billion decline in Q1 2026, as falling Bitcoin and Ethereum prices weighed heavily on the asset manager’s holdings.
Data from blockchain analytics platform Arkham shows combined BTC and ETH holdings dropped from $78.36 billion to $57.89 billion between January 1 and March 31.
While Bitcoin saw continued accumulation despite the price slump, Ethereum experienced both price-driven losses and reduced holdings, marking a clear shift in institutional positioning as market conditions remained under pressure throughout the quarter.
Bitcoin Accumulated as Ethereum Holdings Contracted
Bitcoin remained the largest component of BlackRock’s crypto allocation throughout Q1 2026. BTC prices fell from $88,341 to $65,982, a 25.31% decline, pushing the dollar value of holdings down by $16.24 billion.
The value dropped from $68.05 billion to $51.81 billion over the quarter. Despite the price weakness, BlackRock continued buying Bitcoin.
Holdings grew from approximately 770,290 BTC to 785,240 BTC, adding 14,950 BTC, or 1.94% growth. This pattern points to opportunistic accumulation rather than retreat from the asset class.
$14T BLACKROCK WIPED OUT OVER $20 BILLION IN Q1
World's largest asset manager's crypto portfolio fell $20.47B in Q1 2026, dropping 26% from $78.36B to $57.89B, per Arkham data.
Bitcoin fell from $88,341 → $65,982 (-25%), cutting holdings from $68.05B → $51.81B (-$16.24B),… pic.twitter.com/hUbzbjvbOh
— Coin Bureau (@coinbureau) April 12, 2026
Ethereum told a different story. ETH prices fell 33.12%, from $2,966 to $1,983, while ETH holdings also dropped from 3.47 million to 3.06 million.
That 410,750 ETH reduction pushed Ethereum exposure down from $10.31 billion to $6.08 billion, a $4.23 billion decrease. Unlike Bitcoin, Ethereum saw both price pressure and net distribution during the period.
Q1 2026 Losses Remain Below Q4 2025 Levels
The Q1 2026 decline, though steep, was smaller than the previous quarter’s drawdown. In Q4 2025, BlackRock’s crypto portfolio fell by $26.44 billion, with Bitcoin dropping $20.74 billion and Ethereum falling $5.71 billion.
Quarter-over-quarter, the pace of losses eased by approximately $5.97 billion. The comparison to Q1 2025 shows how much conditions have shifted.
A year earlier, the portfolio declined by only $4.95 billion, with both assets still in accumulation phases. Bitcoin rose by 23,300 BTC, and Ethereum increased by 120,350 ETH during that earlier period.
By Q1 2026, Ethereum had clearly shifted from accumulation to net outflows. Bitcoin accumulation persisted, but falling prices kept overall portfolio value under pressure.
The holdings tracked here reflect client capital flowing through BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust and iShares Ethereum Trust, not proprietary positions held by the firm.
The post BlackRock Sees $20.47B Crypto Loss in Q1 2026 Despite Bitcoin Buildup appeared first on Blockonomi.
XRP Open Interest Falls Across Major Exchanges as Futures Activity Weakens
TLDR:
Binance recorded the largest XRP open interest decline, dropping by approximately 721.49 million XRP in recent periods.
Bybit posted a fall of around 132.10 million XRP in open interest, reflecting weakened speculative momentum across the platform.
Bitfinex added to the downtrend with a decline of roughly 10.96 million XRP, completing a consistent drop across all three major exchanges.
Falling XRP open interest may reduce liquidation risks and set early conditions for a potential recovery once liquidity returns.
XRP open interest has fallen sharply across major futures trading platforms in recent periods. Binance, Bybit, and Bitfinex each recorded a drop in open positions, pointing to reduced speculative activity.
Traders appear to be pulling back from leveraged exposure in the XRP market. Position closures have outnumbered new entries across all three platforms.
The data reflects a broader shift in market sentiment as liquidity exits XRP futures at a steady pace.
Binance Leads Drop as Bybit and Bitfinex Also Record Declines
Binance recorded the steepest fall, with XRP open interest declining by roughly 721.49 million XRP. As one of the largest futures exchanges globally, its movements tend to mirror broader market behavior. The sharp drop points to substantial position closures, possibly tied to recent price volatility in XRP.
Bybit ranked second, posting a decline of approximately 132.10 million XRP in open interest. While smaller than Binance’s figure, the drop still reflects reduced speculative momentum in the market. Traders on Bybit also appear to have pulled back from active positioning in XRP futures.
Source: Cryptoquant
Bitfinex came in third with a decline of around 10.96 million XRP in open interest. The figure, though smaller, adds to the consistent downward pattern seen across the other platforms. Three major exchanges declining together builds a coherent picture of retreating market liquidity.
Across all three platforms, position closures have dominated trading activity in this period. The combined exit of open interest reflects a measurable weakening of futures participation in XRP. This type of retreat often follows price instability or a wave of forced liquidations across the market.
Lower Liquidity Could Create Conditions for a Market Recovery
A decline in XRP open interest does not necessarily point to a permanent bearish trend. In many cases, falling open interest reflects a temporary pause as traders reassess their exposure.
When liquidity exits a market, the resulting calm can precede a stronger directional price move. Analysts typically monitor these conditions for early signs of a potential trend reversal.
The exit of liquidity from XRP futures also lowers the risk of cascading liquidations going forward. With fewer open positions on record, sudden price swings are less likely to trigger large sell-offs. This dynamic can help form a more stable foundation for price recovery over time.
The current pullback in XRP open interest also takes place amid wider turbulence in crypto derivatives. XRP futures are particularly sensitive to sentiment shifts given the asset’s trading volume.
Monitoring these data points will remain important for traders tracking directional movement in XRP.
Once liquidity returns and new positions begin to form, market activity in XRP may pick up again. Open interest recovery, particularly on Binance, would serve as an early indicator of renewed demand. The sessions ahead will likely determine whether this retreat marks a floor or a deeper exit.
The post XRP Open Interest Falls Across Major Exchanges as Futures Activity Weakens appeared first on Blockonomi.
Banking Sector Earnings and Crude Oil Trends Dominate This Week’s Market Watch
Key Takeaways
Major indices secured back-to-back weekly gains: S&P 500 advanced 3.5%, Dow Jones climbed 3%, Nasdaq jumped 4.7%
Financial sector heavyweights including JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, and Bank of America release quarterly results this week
Consumer prices posted their steepest monthly jump in nearly two years during March, primarily fueled by energy costs
WTI crude trading around $98 per barrel, though forward contracts point to potential decline toward $85 by summer
Technology sector shows dramatic split: software names plunge 30% while chip manufacturers soar over 20% year-to-date
Equity markets concluded their second straight positive week as Wall Street shifts focus toward quarterly corporate reports. The benchmark S&P 500 index rose 3.5%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 3% and the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite surged 4.7% over the five-day period. Despite remaining in negative territory for 2026, all three major gauges now sit less than 1% away from returning to breakeven.
E-Mini S&P 500 Jun 26 (ES=F)
The coming days feature a packed calendar of corporate announcements. Goldman Sachs kicks things off Monday. JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, and Wells Fargo deliver their numbers Tuesday. Bank of America and Morgan Stanley are scheduled for Wednesday, while Netflix and Taiwan Semiconductor round out the week with Thursday releases.
Investors remain attentive to international developments as well. Diplomatic negotiations between the United States and Iran conducted in Pakistan throughout the weekend concluded without breakthrough, as Tehran declined commitments regarding nuclear weapons development, Vice President JD Vance disclosed Saturday evening.
America is waking up to some major news.
Peace talks between the US and Iran have failed and both sides have returned home.
As a result, Iran is refusing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz without a permanent peace agreement and the US has called it "bad news" for Iran.
Now, we…
— The Kobeissi Letter (@KobeissiLetter) April 12, 2026
Crude Oil Remains Central Market Driver
Since hostilities between the United States and Iran commenced, petroleum prices have emerged as the primary metric capturing trader attention. West Texas Intermediate crude finished Friday’s session near $98 per barrel, representing a significant jump from approximately $68 before conflict erupted.
Yet forward contracts for July settlement are pricing oil substantially lower around $85. Evercore ISI’s Julian Emanuel suggested that WTI settling in the “low-to-mid $80s” range would sufficiently eliminate downward pressure on equities.
The temporary 14-day truce involving the United States, Israel, and Iran provided market participants with renewed confidence during the previous week. The sustainability of this ceasefire will largely determine petroleum pricing and, consequently, broader equity market trajectory.
Friday’s inflation data revealed consumer prices climbed 0.9% during March, marking the steepest one-month advance since June 2022. Economic analysts attributed the bulk of this surge to energy-related increases stemming from geopolitical tensions.
The University of Michigan’s consumer sentiment gauge dropped to an all-time low in April, though researchers noted 98% of survey responses were gathered prior to the ceasefire announcement.
Source: Forex Factory
Diverging Fortunes Within Technology Sector
The performance gap among technology stocks has expanded dramatically. The iShares Software Sector ETF tumbled more than 7% during the past week and now shows a 30% decline year-to-date.
Salesforce represents the category’s weakest performer, sliding over 35% in 2026. AppLovin, Intuit, and ServiceNow have each retreated more than 40%. Microsoft, Palantir, and Oracle have all declined more than 25%.
Chip manufacturers present a contrasting picture. The VanEck Semiconductor ETF has gained over 20% during the current year. Intel, Applied Materials, Lam Research, and Marvell Technologies have each surged more than 50%.
ASML unveils results Wednesday, followed by Taiwan Semiconductor on Thursday. Taiwan Semiconductor’s preliminary March revenue figures released last week indicated robust ongoing demand for artificial intelligence processors.
Netflix also joins the reporting schedule Thursday, capping an action-packed week for corporate earnings.
The post Banking Sector Earnings and Crude Oil Trends Dominate This Week’s Market Watch appeared first on Blockonomi.
Three AI Chip Stocks Trading Below Their Potential: Micron (MU), AMD, and TSMC (TSM)
Key Highlights
Micron’s Q2 fiscal 2026 quarterly sales surged nearly 200% compared to the prior year, with records set in all divisions
AMD delivered $10.3 billion in Q4 2025 sales, marking a 34% jump year-over-year alongside a 57% non-GAAP gross margin
TSMC forecasts approximately 30% revenue expansion in 2026 when measured in U.S. dollars
Despite strong AI exposure, these three companies maintain more modest price-to-earnings multiples than leading AI chipmakers
TSMC anticipates its AI accelerator division will expand at a compound annual rate in the mid-40 percent range through 2029
Three semiconductor powerhouses—Micron, AMD, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing—are riding the artificial intelligence wave with impressive momentum. Yet despite robust financial performance and accelerating growth trajectories, market analysts suggest these stocks may be undervalued relative to their sector peers.
The ongoing buildout of AI infrastructure has created surging demand across the semiconductor supply chain, from specialized memory modules to cutting-edge processors and advanced fabrication services. While these companies occupy distinct positions within this ecosystem, they share a compelling characteristic: substantial revenue acceleration without the elevated valuation multiples commanded by other AI-focused names.
Micron: Transforming from Commodity Memory to Critical AI Component
Micron has undergone a remarkable repositioning in investor perception, evolving from a cyclical commodity producer into an essential AI infrastructure provider.
During the company’s fiscal second quarter of 2026, revenues expanded almost threefold versus the same period twelve months prior. The semiconductor manufacturer achieved unprecedented performance levels across its entire product portfolio, including DRAM, NAND flash, high-bandwidth memory, and all operating segments.
Profitability metrics showed equally dramatic improvement. The company’s fiscal third-quarter outlook alone is projected to surpass total annual revenue figures from any fiscal year ending through 2024.
Artificial intelligence servers demand massive quantities of specialized high-bandwidth memory, and Micron has positioned itself as a primary supplier for this critical component. Company leadership indicated that robust demand coupled with constrained supply conditions will likely persist well into 2027.
The manufacturer is also negotiating extended, multi-year supply agreements with major customers, potentially transforming the business model toward greater predictability and reducing the historical boom-bust patterns that characterized the memory industry.
Despite these fundamental improvements, Micron continues trading at a valuation discount compared to AI chip designers, even as memory has become indispensable to the AI computing architecture.
AMD: Impressive Performance in Nvidia’s Shadow
AMD announced record quarterly sales of $10.3 billion for Q4 2025, representing a 34% year-over-year increase. The company achieved a non-GAAP gross margin of 57%.
Chief Executive Lisa Su characterized 2025 as a transformational year and emphasized that the company began 2026 with substantial forward momentum. She highlighted the EPYC processor family and expanding data center AI operations as primary growth engines.
AMD is constructing a comprehensive AI ecosystem that encompasses data center graphics processors, server central processing units, and strategic system-level collaborations.
Market participants frequently position AMD as a direct competitor to Nvidia and sometimes dismiss it as the inferior alternative. However, AMD’s investment thesis doesn’t require outperforming Nvidia entirely. The company simply needs to capture increasing market share within a rapidly expanding addressable market while maintaining healthy profit margins.
If AMD sustains its AI accelerator growth trajectory while preserving margin discipline, several analysts believe current valuations may prove significantly discounted when viewed retrospectively.
TSMC: The Essential Manufacturing Infrastructure Powering AI Innovation
TSMC produces the sophisticated semiconductor chips that power much of today’s AI economy. The foundry giant projects 2026 revenues will expand by nearly 30% when denominated in U.S. currency.
AI accelerator production represented a high-teens percentage of total 2025 revenue. Management forecasts this segment will grow at a compound annual growth rate in the mid-40 percent range during the five-year period beginning in 2024.
TSMC’s strategic position differs fundamentally from Micron or AMD. The company maintains diversification across products and customers rather than depending on any single offering or client relationship. As long as demand for leading-edge semiconductor manufacturing remains robust, TSMC occupies an irreplaceable position within the global supply chain.
The manufacturer operates production facilities throughout Taiwan, Japan, and the United States, with additional American expansion projects currently in development.
Final Thoughts
Micron, AMD, and TSMC have all delivered compelling financial results in their latest reporting periods. Each company maintains substantial exposure to AI hardware demand while demonstrating expanding revenues and improving profitability. The sustainability of these growth trends will largely depend on whether AI infrastructure investment maintains its current pace throughout the remainder of 2026 and beyond.
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