Blockonomi

TLDR:

ECB targets mid-2029 for digital euro issuance pending legislative approval with pilot launch in 2027. 

Nearly 70% of European card transactions rely on non-European processors raising sovereignty concerns. 

Digital euro will use encrypted codes ensuring ECB cannot identify individual payers or transaction recipients. 

Waterfall mechanism and holding limits designed to prevent bank deposit outflows and maintain stability.

 

The European Central Bank continues development of the digital euro despite other central banks pausing similar projects.

Piero Cipollone, ECB Executive Board member, explained the currency’s purpose and timeline in a recent interview.

The digital euro aims to provide a pan-European payment solution while reducing reliance on non-European payment processors. Cipollone emphasized that legislation must be completed before any issuance occurs.

Timeline and Legislative Progress Move Forward

The digital euro project has reached critical legislative stages. Cipollone clarified the current status: “We have not yet issued a digital euro and we will not do so until we have the legislation in place.”

The European Commission issued its original proposal in June 2023. The Council of the European Union reached agreement in December 2025.

The European Parliament is expected to vote on its position in May 2026. Negotiations between institutions should conclude by year-end.

The ECB targets mid-2029 for potential issuance if legislation passes. “We are already working to be prepared to be able to issue the digital euro, if the legislation is in place, by mid-2029,” Cipollone stated.

A pilot program will begin in 2027 to test payment functionality. The infrastructure development timeline matches the legislative process duration.

The ECB is preparing internal systems simultaneously. This parallel approach ensures readiness when legal frameworks are established.

The legislative process involves multiple stakeholders. The European Parliament is currently reviewing amendments. The Council and Commission have aligned their positions. All parties must reach consensus before implementation proceeds.

Addressing Banking Concerns and Privacy Protections

Financial institutions have raised liquidity concerns about potential deposit outflows. The ECB designed safeguards to maintain banking stability. Cipollone explained: “The stability of banks is a major concern for the ECB, as our monetary policy transmits via banks.” The digital euro will not pay interest, removing incentives for large-scale transfers.

A waterfall mechanism will automatically draw funds from bank accounts during transactions. Users won’t need to prefund their digital euro wallets for online payments.

Offline payments require pre-loaded funds in the wallet. Holding limits will further restrict the maximum balance per user.

The specific holding limit remains under discussion. The ECB, European Commission, and Council will determine this jointly.

The process ensures no sudden changes can occur. “Even for relatively high holding limits, we don’t see any financial instability,” Cipollone noted.

Privacy protections form a core design principle. “We have built the whole project around privacy,” Cipollone stated. The ECB will only see encrypted codes, not personal identities.

“All the ECB will see is encrypted codes that represent the payer and the payee, but we will not be able to identify the individuals behind these codes,” he explained.

European payment systems currently rely heavily on non-European processors. “Almost 70% of card-initiated transactions are processed by non-European companies,” Cipollone revealed.

The digital euro addresses this dependency. Merchants, especially small businesses, face high costs from international card schemes. The ECB will not charge scheme fees, reducing transaction costs substantially.

The post ECB Sets 2029 Target for Digital Euro Launch as Legislative Process Advances appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Copy-trading high-probability outcome traders and supposed insiders led to consistent losses 

Two specialized traders focusing on MicroStrategy and geopolitics generated bulk of profits 

Manual copy-trading proved unsustainable requiring automation for 24/7 market monitoring 

Traders with fewer than 100 bets and 80-90% win rates in single niches proved most profitable

 

Copy-trading on Polymarket generated approximately $650,000 in profits for one crypto trader over seven months.

The trader, posting under the handle @crptAtlas, shared detailed insights into a strategy that focused on following specialized market participants rather than bots or supposed insiders.

The approach centered on identifying traders with deep knowledge in specific niches like corporate actions and geopolitical events. This method contrasts sharply with common copy-trading tactics that often result in losses.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Prediction Market Copy-Trading

Atlas detailed three critical mistakes that initially led to losses before the profitable strategy emerged. The first involved copying traders who purchased extremely high-probability outcomes at 99.5 cents.

These positions offered minimal edge and suffered from execution timing issues and slippage problems. Manual copying could not match the speed required for such narrow-margin trades.

The second mistake centered on chasing accounts claiming insider knowledge. Most insider screenshots circulating on crypto Twitter proved to be fabricated or exaggerated.

Atlas noted that real insiders “start from empty wallets” and “stay invisible” without attracting public attention. Every attempt to follow these supposed insider accounts resulted in zero advantage.

The third error was attempting to replicate high-frequency traders and scalpers. These accounts executed dozens of trades per minute across multiple markets.

Atlas explained that “by the time your trade executes, price already moved” and spreads disappeared. The structural design of these strategies made them impossible to copy effectively.

After these failures, Atlas asked a pivotal question: “If bots, insiders, and scalpers don’t work – who does?” The answer proved straightforward: “Normal traders with asymmetric knowledge in one narrow niche.”

The new filtering criteria included fewer than 100 total bets and win rates between 80-90 percent. Medium position sizes of $40,000-$50,000 per bet proved more reliable than million-dollar wagers.

Targeting Specialized Knowledge Over Market Noise

Two specific traders drove the bulk of the reported profits. The first specialized in MicroStrategy-related predictions with eight trades and a 100 percent win rate.

Each position tied to company announcements or Bitcoin purchases. Atlas attributed success to “deep understanding of MSTR behavior” and “pattern recognition around timing and disclosures.” This trader alone generated approximately $140,000 in profits.

The second trader focused exclusively on global politics and international relations. With 43 predictions and 42 wins, this account demonstrated consistent accuracy in geopolitical outcomes.

Atlas noted that one single trade produced roughly $211,000 in profit. The trader referenced a Foresight News interview where similar strategies were publicly discussed.

Atlas initially copied trades manually but found the approach unsustainable for 24/7 market monitoring. A Telegram-based automation tool handled execution while human judgment guided wallet selection and position sizing. Starting with small positions allowed pattern validation before scaling to $10,000-$30,000 per trade.

The trader emphasized that prediction markets represent structural inefficiencies not yet fully professionalized. Atlas stated that “prediction markets are not just crypto gambling” but rather unexploited opportunities. The trader believes Polymarket will expand in 2026 regardless of broader crypto market conditions.

Probabilistic betting on real-world outcomes offers opportunities distinct from traditional cryptocurrency trading dynamics.

The post Crypto Trader Reports $650,000 Profit Through Polymarket Copy-Trading Strategy appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

MegaETH launched with Chainlink integration, enabling immediate access to $14B in DeFi assets and protocols. 

Chainlink’s oracle infrastructure powers 70% of DeFi markets with over $27 trillion in transaction value. 

CCIP enables cross-chain liquidity for Lombard and Lido assets across MegaETH and other blockchain networks. 

Aave and GMX protocols are now available on MegaETH through Chainlink’s data and interoperability standards.

 

MegaETH has joined the Chainlink Scale program and integrated Chainlink’s data and interoperability infrastructure at launch.

The collaboration provides immediate access to leading DeFi protocols, including Aave and GMX. Users can now interact with nearly $14 billion in flagship assets such as Lido’s wstETH and Lombard’s BTC.b and LBTC.

The integration went live on Monday, marking a strategic partnership between the real-time blockchain platform and the oracle network.

Chainlink Infrastructure Powers MegaETH’s DeFi Ecosystem

The integration brings Chainlink Data Feeds, Data Streams, and Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP) to MegaETH. These services enable developers to build high-performance decentralized applications on the platform.

The oracle infrastructure has facilitated over $27 trillion in onchain transaction value across the industry. Currently, Chainlink powers approximately 70% of existing DeFi markets globally.

MegaETH users gain access to multiple DeFi protocols through this partnership. Aave and GMX are among the prominent platforms now available on the network.

Additionally, HelloTrade and Avon have joined the ecosystem at launch. The integration creates opportunities for lending protocols, derivatives markets, and decentralized exchanges to operate efficiently.

The platform features a custom integration designed to deliver fast market data. This setup supports MegaETH’s objective of becoming the first real-time blockchain.

Developers can now build applications requiring accurate price feeds and reliable data sources. The infrastructure ensures consistency across various financial products and services.

CCIP enables secure cross-chain asset transfers for MegaETH users. Asset issuers like Lombard and Lido can provide liquidity across multiple blockchain networks.

The protocol offers compliance-enabled interoperability for developers building composable applications. This functionality extends MegaETH’s reach beyond its native ecosystem into broader multi-chain environments.

Scale Program Benefits and Industry Adoption

The Chainlink Scale program provides MegaETH developers with low-cost oracle services. Institutions building on the platform receive access to secure data infrastructure from day one.

Oracle nodes supply trusted information to support both traditional and decentralized finance applications. The program reduces barriers for teams developing on MegaETH.

Johann Eid, Chief Business Officer at Chainlink Labs, commented on the partnership’s scope. “MegaETH joining Chainlink Scale and adopting the Chainlink data and interoperability standards is a major moment for our ecosystem,” Eid stated.

He added that the infrastructure has enabled tens of trillions in onchain transaction value. The integration brings users access to protocols like Aave and GMX alongside key DeFi assets.

Stani Kulechov, Founder of Aave Labs, addressed the upcoming Aave launch on MegaETH. “The upcoming Aave launch on MegaETH with Chainlink live from day one will give users access to the high-quality data,” Kulechov explained.

He noted that Chainlink’s standards have been foundational to Aave’s multi-ecosystem growth. The integration enables seamless extension onto MegaETH’s next-generation blockchain platform.

Lei Yang, Co-Founder and CTO of MegaETH, outlined the strategic rationale behind joining Chainlink Scale. “Joining Chainlink Scale ensures that our developers have access to high-quality data and secure interoperability,” Yang said.

He emphasized the importance of providing developers with necessary tools from day one. The partnership supports MegaETH’s goal of becoming the leading blockchain platform in the industry.

The post MegaETH Joins Chainlink Scale Program With $14B in DeFi Assets at Launch appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Breaking Bitcoin encryption requires quantum computers 100,000 times more powerful than today’s technology

Only 10,200 BTC in legacy addresses could cause market disruption if suddenly compromised by quantum attack

Cryptographically relevant quantum computers unlikely to emerge before 2030s, according to CoinShares analysis

Bitcoin can adopt post-quantum signatures through soft forks while maintaining defensive adaptability

 

Quantum computing poses no immediate threat to Bitcoin’s security infrastructure, according to digital asset manager CoinShares.

The firm’s latest analysis dismisses concerns about near-term vulnerabilities in the cryptocurrency’s cryptographic foundation.

Current quantum technology remains decades away from breaking Bitcoin’s encryption protocols. CoinShares estimates only 1.7 million BTC faces potential exposure, representing 8% of total supply.

The research suggests institutional investors should view quantum risks as manageable engineering considerations rather than existential crises.

Technology Requires Decades Before Becoming Cryptographically Relevant

CoinShares’ analysis reveals breaking Bitcoin’s secp256k1 encryption demands quantum systems with millions of logical qubits.

Current quantum computers operate at approximately 105 qubits, falling dramatically short of required thresholds.

Source: CoinShares

Researchers estimate attackers would need machines 100,000 times more powerful than today’s largest quantum systems.

Reversing a public key within one day requires 13 million physical qubits and fault tolerance levels not yet achieved.

Breaking encryption within one hour would demand quantum computers 3 million times more advanced than current capabilities.

Each additional qubit makes maintaining system coherence exponentially more difficult, according to technical experts.

Cybersecurity firm Ledger’s Chief Technology Officer Charles Guillemet provided expert perspective on the technical challenges facing quantum development.

Speaking to CoinShares, Guillemet emphasized the massive scale required for cryptographic attacks. “To break current asymmetric cryptography, one would need something in the order of millions of qubits. Willow, Google’s current computer, is 105 qubits. And as soon as you add one more qubit, it becomes exponentially more difficult to maintain the coherence system,” Guillemet confirmed.

CoinShares projects cryptographically relevant quantum computers may not emerge until the 2030s or beyond. Long-term attacks on vulnerable addresses could take years to complete even after technology matures.

Short-term mempool attacks would require computations finishing in under 10 minutes, remaining infeasible for decades ahead.

Limited Vulnerability Concentrates in Legacy Address Formats

The digital asset manager’s research identifies exposure primarily in legacy Pay-to-Public-Key addresses holding roughly 1.6 million BTC.

Modern address formats including Pay-to-Public-Key-Hash and Pay-to-Script-Hash conceal public keys behind cryptographic hashes. These contemporary formats maintain security until owners actively spend their funds.

CoinShares determined only 10,200 BTC sit in outputs potentially causing market disruption if compromised suddenly.

Source: CoinShares

The remaining vulnerable coins distribute across 32,607 individual outputs of approximately 50 BTC each. Breaking into these addresses would require millennia even under optimistic quantum advancement scenarios.

Bitcoin’s security framework relies on elliptic curve algorithms for authorization and SHA-256 hashing for protection.

Quantum algorithms cannot alter Bitcoin’s fixed 21 million supply cap or bypass proof-of-work validation requirements.

Grover’s algorithm reduces SHA-256 security effectively but brute-force attacks remain computationally impractical.

Renowned cryptographer Dr. Adam Back addressed Bitcoin’s capacity for defensive evolution in response to future quantum threats.

The Blockstream CEO and Bitcoin contributor explained the network’s adaptability to CoinShares. “Bitcoin can adopt post-quantum signatures. Schnorr signatures paved the way for more upgrades, and Bitcoin can continue evolving defensively,” Back told CoinShares.

Users retain sufficient time to migrate funds voluntarily to quantum-resistant addresses. Market impact appears minimal, with vulnerable coins likely resembling routine transactions rather than systemic shocks.

 

The post Quantum Computers Need Millions More Qubits to Break Bitcoin, CoinShares Reports appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Staking entry queue reaches 4.05M ETH, exit queue only 38K ETH, showing overwhelming demand. 

ETH price remains under $2,000 despite record network activity and staking growth. 

Large holders and ETFs increase selling pressure, adding short-term market volatility. 

Selective accumulation occurs during dips, supporting medium-term stabilization in ETH supply.

 

Ethereum staking demand is reaching unprecedented levels, with over 4 million ETH waiting to enter while exit orders remain minimal.

This surge reflects strong long-term conviction, structural scarcity, and growing network participation despite recent price declines below $2,000.

Staking and Network Activity

Ethereum’s staking queue shows a clear imbalance between entries and exits. The entry queue holds 4.05 million ETH, while exit requests total only 38,000 ETH. 

This demonstrates overwhelming demand. Validators choose long-term yield and network alignment over liquidity. 

The 70-day wait to stake confirms that protocol limits cannot match current demand. Meanwhile, exit orders clear in hours, showing no panic.

This situation reduces circulating ETH and limits immediate sell pressure. When combined with Ethereum’s burn mechanism, structural scarcity increases. 

BULLISH: $ETH STAKING ENTRY QUEUE NOW 105X BIGGER THAN EXIT QUEUE

This might be the most underrated @Ethereum signal.

The amount of $ETH waiting to be staked on the network has surged to more than 4 million $ETH, worth more than $8 billion.

At the same time, the exit queue… https://t.co/iEefqPVQQq pic.twitter.com/UrpjsxVQ8Y

— BSCN (@BSCNews) February 8, 2026

Therefore, staked ETH effectively leaves the liquid supply, supporting potential upward movement.

Ethereum network usage remains strong. Transfer counts reached 1.1 million on a 14-day average, demonstrating active token movement. 

However, network activity alone cannot reverse recent price declines or short-term selling.

Retail participation is declining. Futures open interest dropped from $26.3 billion to $25.4 billion in one day. 

As a result, network activity contrasts with weak capital flows, causing temporary price compression despite higher usage.

Large Holders, ETFs, and Price Dynamics

Large holders have added to short-term selling pressure. Trend Research sold 170,033 ETH, while Vitalik Buterin and Stani Kulechov sold smaller amounts. 

Consequently, supply increased amid weaker market demand. BitMine Immersion Technologies holds 4.28 million ETH, of which 2.9 million is staked. 

This generates an estimated $188 million annualized revenue. Therefore, staking reduces liquid supply while maintaining long-term treasury support.

Spot ETH ETFs experienced outflows totaling $80.79 million on February 5, with Fidelity’s FETH accounting for $55.78 million. Consequently, passive selling continues steadily, adding supply pressure without quick reversals.

Derivatives data show liquidation risk between $1,509 and $1,800. Leveraged positions could trigger forced selling if prices drop further. 

Meanwhile, selective accumulation occurs as long-term investors buy during dips. ETH may test $1,500–$1,800 if selling persists. 

Simultaneously, staking reduces liquid supply, and high network activity provides gradual stabilization. Thus, structural scarcity continues even while short-term volatility remains.

The post Ethereum Staking Demand Hits Record Levels as Exit Queue Remains Minimal appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Truflation shows US inflation near 0.68% while Federal Reserve maintains restrictive policy stance 

Credit card delinquencies and auto loan defaults rise, signaling late-cycle economic stress levels 

Labor market weakening faster than Fed acknowledges with rising layoffs and hiring slowdowns across sectors 

Monetary policy lag means economic damage may occur before Fed reacts to confirmed weakness in data

 

Is the Fed already too late for rate cuts? This question dominates market discussions as economic indicators increasingly diverge from official central bank messaging.

Real-time inflation data shows rapid cooling while credit stress and labor weakness accelerate across sectors. The Federal Reserve maintains rates at restrictive levels despite mounting evidence of economic deceleration.

Policy timing has become critical as analysts debate whether preventive cuts or reactive measures will shape the next cycle.

Policy Lag Creates Timing Dilemma for Rate Adjustments

Monetary policy operates with substantial delays between action and economic impact. Rate changes require months to fully influence business investment and consumer spending patterns.

By the time official statistics confirm weakness, underlying conditions may have deteriorated significantly. This lag effect raises concerns about the Fed’s current positioning.

Real-time inflation tracking suggests price pressures have cooled dramatically from previous peaks. According to Bull Theory, “Truflation is showing US inflation near 0.68%” while the Fed maintains its cautious stance on price stability.

This reading contradicts central bank statements emphasizing sticky inflation and persistent concerns. The gap between alternative metrics and policy rhetoric continues widening.

Bull Theory highlighted this disconnect in recent market commentary, noting that “the Fed keeps repeating that the job market is still strong” despite contradictory signals.

The analysis emphasized that layoffs, credit defaults, and bankruptcies are rising simultaneously. These developments typically emerge when restrictive policy begins damaging weaker economic participants.

Yet official communications continue to characterize the economy as fundamentally resilient.

IS THE FED ALREADY TOO LATE FOR RATE CUTS?

Truflation is showing US inflation near 0.68% while layoffs, credit defaults, and bankruptcies are all rising, yet the Fed still says the economy is strong.

If you look at the economy right now and compare it with what the Fed is… pic.twitter.com/OHCTpkTRYl

— Bull Theory (@BullTheoryio) February 8, 2026

Credit markets flash late-cycle warning signals across consumer and corporate segments. Credit card delinquencies have increased alongside auto loan default rates.

Corporate bankruptcy filings are accelerating as higher borrowing costs strain over-leveraged balance sheets. Small businesses face particular vulnerability when capital costs remain elevated for extended periods.

Economic Deterioration Outpaces Fed Recognition Timeline

Labor market conditions show progressive weakening despite central bank assertions of continued strength. Hiring slowdowns and increased layoff announcements paint a different picture than official statements suggest.

Wage trend data indicate a moderating demand for workers across industries. The employment situation is degrading faster than policy rhetoric acknowledges.

The risk equation has shifted from inflation concerns toward deflation threats. Bull Theory warned that “inflation slows spending, but deflation stops spending,” highlighting the danger of delayed policy response.

When consumers expect falling prices, purchasing decisions shift toward delay rather than immediate action. Businesses respond by reducing production and cutting workforce expenses.

Credit stress serves as an early indicator of policy overtightening relative to economic capacity. Rising delinquencies across credit categories demonstrate that households and corporations struggle under current rate levels.

These pressures typically spread from weaker participants to broader segments if conditions remain restrictive. The damage compounds as financial stress feeds back into reduced spending and investment.

The analyst posed a critical question: “If inflation is already cooling, if the labor market is already weakening, if credit stress is already rising, then holding rates restrictive for too long can amplify the slowdown instead of stabilizing it.”

Markets have begun pricing expectations for policy reversal driven by growth fears rather than inflation control. The next phase may hinge on whether rate cuts arrive soon enough to stabilize conditions or merely react to confirmed recession.

 

The post Is the Fed Already Too Late for Rate Cuts? Warning Signs Suggest Policy Overtightening appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

All 200 top insider transactions were sales, marking unusual broad risk reduction among insiders. 

Bitcoin ETFs saw significant outflows as the price dipped below key technical support levels. 

ETF flows have fluctuated widely, signaling shifting institutional sentiment toward crypto exposure. 

Concurrent declines in BTC, ETH, and ETFs indicate heightened market correlation and risk aversion.

 

The Insider Selling Storm 2026 narrative emerges amid real market stress and mixed institutional flows. Bitcoin recently traded near $63,000–$74,000 after a multi‑month selloff that erased much of 2025’s gains. 

Major Bitcoin ETFs like iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) and Fidelity’s FBTC saw outflows and deep losses as prices fell below support levels. 

Despite near‑term weakness, Bitcoin ETF flows have swung between record inflows and heavy redemptions in recent months. This points to a volatile institutional interest as macro risks rise.

Insider Activity Signals Market Caution

High-volume insider trades last week show that all 200 meaningful transactions were sales. No significant purchases occurred, highlighting informed caution across sectors.

Public messaging remains optimistic, but insider behavior diverges sharply. Confidence is high in narratives, yet top-level actors systematically reduce exposure. 

Market participants respond to risk rather than headline sentiment. Structured risk management drives uniform selling patterns. 

WARNING: A BIG STORM IS COMING NEXT WEEK!!!

No rage bait or clickbait listen..

I track high-volume insider flow every single day.

Insider selling is getting worse.

The divergence is extreme:

Out of the top 200 significant insider transactions this past week, all 200 were… pic.twitter.com/GgwOfwgdwZ

— DANNY (@Danny_Crypton) February 8, 2026

Insiders offload overvalued and liquid assets while preserving scarce, durable holdings. Their actions align with simultaneous declines across multiple markets globally.

Trading volume provides further clarity. While prices stabilized temporarily, reduced liquidity suggests relief rallies are absorption events. 

Participants are used strategically as exit points rather than accumulation opportunities. This behavior demonstrates that the market is in a late-cycle phase. 

Distribution occurs quietly as informed sellers convert exposure into liquidity, leaving fewer active buyers for high-risk assets.

Synchronized Declines and Defensive Positioning

Bitcoin fell to $60,000 while silver dipped to $64, and major tech stocks weakened sharply during the same period. Housing shows early signs of reduced activity.

Short-term price recovery is evident but weak. Lower trading volumes indicate the bounce is temporary and driven by selective buyers.

Stablecoins, including USDT and USDC, exhibit steady inflows, signaling defensive capital allocation. Long-duration assets such as Bitcoin, metals, and select real estate remain largely held. 

These assets retain value when financial markets rely on confidence rather than scarcity, emphasizing durability and risk protection.

Relief rallies are distribution phases. Informed participants sell methodically while weaker buyers absorb inventory. 

Market breadth remains thin, and recovery depends on volume expansion, not temporary price movements.

Capital allocation is increasingly selective. Participants seek optionality through liquid assets and avoid overvalued securities. 

Market structure shows calm superficially, but underlying depth reflects cautious positioning and preparation for volatility.

The post The Insiders Know Something: 200 Consecutive Sales as Markets Crumble appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Canton Network processes $350 billion in daily repo transactions across over 600 validator nodes globally 

DTCC tokenizing U.S. Treasuries on Canton with SEC approval, targeting MVP launch in first half of 2026 

JPMorgan’s Kinexys announced plans to issue JPM Coin deposit token natively on Canton Network in January 

Platform carries over $6 trillion in tokenized real-world assets with privacy features for regulated firms

 

Canton Network has emerged as a major institutional blockchain infrastructure, processing $350 billion in daily repo transactions.

The Layer 1 blockchain carries over $6 trillion in tokenized real-world assets across more than 600 validator nodes.

Major financial institutions, including JPMorgan, DTCC, Goldman Sachs, and Franklin Templeton, have deployed production systems on the network.

The platform handles over 700,000 daily transactions while maintaining privacy requirements for regulated financial institutions.

Privacy-First Architecture for Regulated Finance

Canton Network operates as a Layer 1 blockchain designed specifically for financial institutions moving real-world assets on-chain.

Digital Asset built the platform around privacy between counterparties, rapid settlement, and native compliance features.

Traditional public blockchains display every transaction to all network participants, creating legal obstacles for banks required to maintain client confidentiality.

Delphi Digital noted that “$350 billion a day settles on a blockchain many people have never heard of.” The network solves privacy challenges through DAML smart contracts that embed access and authorization rules directly into assets and transactions.

https://t.co/OpdiBVQdc0

— Delphi Digital (@Delphi_Digital) February 8, 2026

Two firms can complete trades without exposing details to outside parties. Regulators maintain necessary access while other network participants cannot view unrelated activity.

Settlement happens atomically, eliminating the multi-day clearing processes common on traditional financial rails. Both sides of trades execute simultaneously, removing windows where one party has delivered while the other has not.

According to the analysis, “there is no window where one party has delivered, and the other hasn’t,” eliminating risk categories in repo markets where hundreds of billions move daily.

The platform enables different financial applications to interact natively across the network. A tokenized treasury on one platform can serve as collateral on another platform within a single transaction.

Cross-application settlement between regulated institutions occurs without central intermediaries, a capability not previously demonstrated at this scale.

Production Deployments from Major Institutions

Daily repo volumes reached $350 billion in recent months, up from $280 billion in August 2025. Broadridge operates its entire Distributed Ledger Repo platform on the network as the first major live deployment. Banks and institutions use repo markets to borrow short-term against Treasury collateral.

DTCC is tokenizing U.S. Treasury securities on Canton Network, backed by SEC No-Action Letter approval. The project targets an MVP release in the first half of 2026 with broader rollout planned for later that year.

DTCC joined the Canton Foundation as co-chair alongside Euroclear. As observers emphasized, this is “not a test. Not a pilot.”

Franklin Templeton expanded its tokenized fund platform to the network, joining Goldman Sachs, BNP Paribas, and Deutsche Börse.

JPMorgan’s blockchain unit Kinexys announced plans to issue JPM Coin, its USD deposit token, natively on Canton Network in January.

Fireblocks subsequently integrated the platform and became a Super Validator, providing regulated custody for institutional clients.

The validator network includes HexTrust and Tharimmune, the first NASDAQ-listed company operating as a super validator. These regulated firms run production systems processing real transactions under regulatory oversight.

The network lacks public block explorers, reflecting its institutional focus. As noted, “Canton was not built for retail. It was built for the firms that move your money.”

 

The post Canton Network: Wall Street’s Hidden Blockchain Settles $350 Billion in Daily Repo Trades appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Bitcoin struggles at $70K, revealing weak buyer power amid high trading activity. 

BTC trades at $71,098 with $44.95B in 24-hour volume, showing strong market participation. 

Reclaiming $70K could trigger 8–10% rally toward $75K–$77K resistance zones. 

Failing $70K increases risk of testing mid-$60K support in the short term.

 

The price of Bitcoin (BTC) is $71,098.81 today, gaining 2.65% over the past 24 hours. However, BTC has fallen 9.04% in the last seven days, reflecting short-term volatility and resistance near the $70K level. 

Trading activity remains high, with a 24-hour volume of $44.95 billion, signaling strong market engagement. Bitcoin is balancing upward momentum against broader weekly losses while determining the next potential market direction.

$70K: Key Resistance and Market Response

Bitcoin recently attempted to reclaim $70K, but the price faced rejection and could not sustain above this critical level. This shows that buyers were insufficient to absorb the supply concentrated in this zone. 

Historically, decisive upward moves require serious, aggressive attempts. Weak responses often lead to temporary consolidation or minor pullbacks in the short term.

$BTC tried to reclaim the $70,000 level but failed.

A reclaim of the $70,000 level is needed for another 8%-10% upward move.

A failure to reclaim the $70,000 zone could push Bitcoin towards this week's low. pic.twitter.com/LiSGH4dXGi

— Ted (@TedPillows) February 7, 2026

Below $70K, Bitcoin is trading in a low-liquidity area, where support remains limited until mid-$60K levels. Markets often retest recently broken levels after sharp impulse moves downward. 

The failure to reclaim $70K increases the likelihood of revisiting this zone before any sustained upward attempt. Traders and analysts monitor these zones closely for structural signals rather than relying on emotional reactions.

If Bitcoin reclaims $70K with real acceptance, meaning sustained closes above the level, momentum continuation becomes clearer. Technical projections suggest an 8–10% move, targeting $75K–$77K. 

This potential upward path would likely involve short covering and new buyers entering positions. Observing acceptance above $70K, rather than temporary wicks, is crucial for short-term direction.

Monthly Chart Structure and Conditional Paths

Monthly charts show Bitcoin losing key support after a parabolic advance. Historical cycles indicate hesitation below critical levels before accelerated downward moves. 

Such pauses trap long-term investors and erode confidence gradually among market participants.

Did someone hit copy and paste with $BTC chart?

The similarities between this cycle and the last one are insane. pic.twitter.com/OJkpauahqk

— Ted (@TedPillows) February 8, 2026

From 2021 to 2022, Bitcoin followed a similar pattern: strong uptrend, loss of key support, brief consolidation, then accelerated decline into demand zones. 

Current action mirrors this structure, with low-$80K support broken and a potential downside expansion zone forming near historical demand areas.

Bitcoin’s short-term path depends on interaction with $70K. A decisive reclaim could trigger bullish continuation, while sustained rejection increases the likelihood of testing mid-$60K support. 

Minor retracements allow accumulation for the next leg higher. Traders are advised to respect high-timeframe levels and focus on market structure rather than reacting to short-term volatility.

The post BTC Tests $70K Resistance: Could Bulls Rally to $75K or Drop Toward $65K? appeared first on Blockonomi.

Traders are now starting to look beyond single-chain markets, using more flexible on-chain derivatives products. With increasing speed in the Solana ecosystem, there is a growing need for perpetual futures products that can efficiently track price movements without compromising on non-custodial, transparent, and on-chain qualities.

These developments are taking place alongside other shifts in DeFi trading dynamics, where traders are now looking for leverage but are also requiring capital efficiency, reliability, and risk parameters.

Platforms such as HFDX are benefiting from this evolution by offering on-chain perpetual futures and structured liquidity strategies designed for cross-chain participation rather than siloed liquidity.

SOL Ecosystem Growth Fuels Spike In Cross-Chain Perp Trading On HFDX

Solana is currently trading at $92.25, down 4.82% in the last 24 hours, but trading volumes are still high. With a market cap of $52.32 billion and daily trading volumes of $8.13 billion, up over 32%, it is clear that engagement is increasing, not decreasing.

For traders, the current state of the market is conducive to derivatives trading as opposed to spot trading.

Cross-chain perps enable traders to engage, hedge, and short without leaving their ecosystems. As Solana liquidity within its ecosystem continues to increase, traders are increasingly turning to cross-chain perps for risk management and efficient leverage utilization.

This is a reality of the market that traders must understand. Liquidity does not remain on one chain, nor does demand for derivatives.

How Cross-Chain Demand Is Reshaping Perp Markets

Traders are showing a clear preference for platforms that can aggregate liquidity across ecosystems. Cross-chain perp trading allows participants to express views on assets like SOL while accessing deeper, more stable liquidity pools.

This matters during volatile conditions. When activity spikes on one chain, isolated markets can experience slippage and funding instability. Cross-chain models help smooth these effects by distributing risk and liquidity more efficiently.

For advanced traders, this also unlocks new strategies. Basis trading, hedging correlated assets, and managing multi-chain portfolios all benefit from unified, on-chain perpetual infrastructure.

HFDX Positioned For Cross-Chain Perp Growth

HFDX is designed with this exact purpose in mind. It’s a non-custodial perpetual futures protocol that allows users to trade major digital assets with leverage while keeping their funds fully on-chain. Trades occur through shared liquidity pools instead of traditional order books.

Execution is an important aspect. HFDX has executed over 500,000 trades with execution speeds of less than 2 milliseconds. For traders looking to participate in cross-chain perps, execution speed is critical during periods of volatility.

Additionally, HFDX has integrated advanced charting with TradingView. Users can view real-time price information, technical indicators, macroeconomic information, and broader market information. This combination supports informed decision-making across chains.

Alongside trading, HFDX offers Liquidity Loan Note (LLN) strategies. These allow capital to be allocated to protocol liquidity for fixed terms, with returns generated from actual trading and borrowing fees.

Why HFDX Stands Out In Cross-Chain Perp Trading

Non-custodial, on-chain perpetual futures architecture

Cross-chain-friendly liquidity model designed for scale

Ultra-fast execution for volatile market conditions

Transparent oracle-based pricing and automated risk controls

Structured liquidity strategies backed by real protocol revenue

Professional-grade analytics and trading tools

These features support consistent performance as cross-chain leverage demand grows.

Cross-Chain Perps And HFDX’s Early Positioning

As DeFi matures, traders are seeking leverage, but they also want flexibility, transparency, and infrastructure that works across ecosystems.

HFDX sits at the center of this shift. By combining on-chain perpetual futures, structured liquidity models, and execution built for scale, the protocol is positioning itself as a long-term derivatives infrastructure rather than speculative tooling. While all participation involves risk, HFDX offers a framework designed for disciplined trading in a multi-chain world.

For traders and liquidity participants looking to engage early with cross-chain perpetual markets, HFDX represents an opportunity to explore as on-chain derivatives adoption continues to accelerate.

Make Your Money Work Smarter And Unlock A Wealth Of Opportunities With HFDX Today!

Website: https://hfdx.xyz/

Telegram: https://t.me/HFDXTrading

X: https://x.com/HfdxProtocol

The post SOL Ecosystem Growth Fuels Spike In Cross-Chain Perp Trading On HFDX appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Two California teenagers posed as delivery drivers to execute a $66 million cryptocurrency heist.

Suspects were allegedly extorted by individuals known as ‘Red’ and ‘8’ to carry out the robbery.

Police arrested both teens in a shopping center parking lot shortly after the violent incident.

A 3D-printed gun was found in suspects’ possession, though it contained no ammunition at all.

 

Two California teenagers face multiple felony charges after a targeted home invasion in Scottsdale that authorities say was motivated by cryptocurrency theft.

Jackson Sullivan and Skylar Lapaille allegedly posed as delivery drivers to gain entry into a residence near Cactus Road and Loop 101 on January 31.

The suspects restrained two adults with duct tape and assaulted them while searching for $66 million in digital assets. Police arrested both individuals shortly after they fled the scene.

Delivery Disguise Used in Violent Break-In

The teenagers arrived at the Scottsdale home dressed as package delivery workers Saturday morning. Court documents reveal they forced their way inside after gaining initial access through the disguise.

Once inside, Sullivan and Lapaille used duct tape to restrain two adult victims. The pair then assaulted the homeowners during their search for cryptocurrency holdings.

Investigators believe the suspects were extorted into carrying out the crime. Two individuals known only as “Red” and “8” allegedly orchestrated the plot from a distance.

The teenagers had reportedly met recently before traveling from California with $1,000. Those funds were intended for purchasing supplies including disguises and restraining devices.

One victim denied possessing the cryptocurrency, which led to further violence. An adult son present in another room managed to contact authorities during the incident. Officers responded quickly to the emergency call and arrived while the suspects were still in the area.

The teenagers attempted to flee when police arrived at the scene. However, law enforcement successfully tracked and apprehended both suspects in a nearby shopping center parking lot.

Officers found them in possession of a blue Subaru vehicle that matched witness descriptions.

Swift Police Response Brings Community Relief

Authorities discovered a 3D-printed gun during the arrest, though it contained no ammunition. Police have not yet determined whether the weapon was functional.

The suspects now face charges including burglary, aggravated assault, and kidnapping. All charges carry felony-level penalties under Arizona law.

Local resident Ari Parker witnessed part of the police operation without initially understanding the connection. He had noticed a blue vehicle driving through the neighborhood earlier that morning.

Parker later saw what he thought was a drug-related arrest at a shopping center. “The trunk was open, there were supervisory police vehicles there, and I thought, ‘Oh wow, that person’s screwed,'” Parker said. “I had no idea that they were connected to the crime that happened here.”

Police confirmed the vehicle captured on Parker’s Ring camera matched the one used in the crime. “The police work was really impressive,” Parker said.

“They were pounding the pavement, doing real gumshoe police detective work, knocking on doors, letting neighbors know what was happening.” He noted the incident was eye-opening given how evidence was pieced together.

Neighbors expressed shock at the incident but relief over the quick resolution. “Many of them have lived here for 15, 20 years and mentioned this is the first time they remember something like this happening,” Parker said.

“So it actually brought the neighborhood together in a way.” The case demonstrates a growing trend of criminals targeting individuals for cryptocurrency holdings.

The post California Teens Arrested in Scottsdale Home Invasion Over $66M Cryptocurrency Holdings appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Bitcoin historical halving cycles show 363-406 day pattern from ATH to bottom across 2012, 2016, and 2020 

October-November 2026 identified as highest probability window for cycle bottom based on time analysis 

Ultimate price target ranges between $45,000-$50,000 with current accumulation starting at $60,000 zone 

NUPL on-chain indicator has not yet reached capitulation levels seen in previous 2018 and 2022 bottoms 

 

A cryptocurrency analyst has shared a detailed thesis suggesting Bitcoin could continue declining throughout 2026.

The prediction relies on historical halving cycle data spanning over a decade. Analyst, Wimar. X tracks both temporal and price-based metrics.

This approach differs from the conventional price-only analysis that many traders employ. The forecast anticipates a cycle bottom occurring between October and November 2026.

Time-Based Analysis Points to Late 2026 Bottom

The analyst’s methodology centers on measuring days from all-time highs to cycle lows following Bitcoin halvings. Historical data shows the 2012 cycle took 406 days to reach bottom.

The 2016 cycle required 363 days for the same journey. Meanwhile, the 2020 cycle saw 376 days pass before hitting its lowest point. These numbers cluster within a narrow range, creating a predictable pattern.

Building on this consistency, the current cycle projects a similar timeline. The analyst calculates October through November 2026 as the highest probability window for the next major bottom.

This time-focused strategy removes emotional decision-making from the equation. According to the post, buying during this window will occur regardless of price levels.

The analyst emphasizes that most market participants miss optimal entry points. They focus exclusively on price action while ignoring temporal patterns.

This narrow view leads to missed opportunities when historical windows align. The time-based approach aims to prevent getting “front run” by market movements.

Wimar.X stated that execution of daily purchases worth $500,000 begins when either time or price conditions trigger.

BITCOIN WILL KEEP DUMPING IN 2026

Here's my thesis on the next cycle bottom timing.

And it's not just about price.

I track BTC on 2 axes.

TIME + PRICE.

Most people only watch price.
That's why they every time MISS the best entries.

First, the TIME axis.

Days from ATH to… pic.twitter.com/99oAiveoEJ

— Wimar.X (@DefiWimar) February 8, 2026

The commitment to this strategy remains firm despite market volatility. Past predictions have already materialized, including the recent drop into the $60,000 range.

Price Targets and On-Chain Indicators Signal Further Downside

The price component of the analysis sets $60,000 as an initial accumulation zone. The analyst began purchasing Bitcoin after prices entered this territory.

However, waiting for perfect price levels can result in missing entire market moves. This pragmatic approach balances patience with opportunistic buying.

A lower price target sits between $45,000 and $50,000 by year-end 2026. This range represents the analyst’s “ultimate bottom target” for aggressive accumulation.

The prediction acknowledges the current risk of lower lows materializing. Market conditions remain uncertain, but historical precedent guides the strategy.

Net Unrealized Profit/Loss serves as the third analytical pillar. This on-chain metric successfully identified cycle bottoms in 2018, during the COVID crash, and in 2022.

Current readings show the market has not yet reached the capitulation zone. The NUPL indicator historically appears in a specific blue zone during major bottoms.

The analyst’s experience dates back to 2016, providing perspective through multiple market cycles. Prior predictions, including calls made when Bitcoin traded near $114,000, have proven accurate.

The framework combines quantitative analysis with disciplined execution across both time and price dimensions.

 

The post Bitcoin Could Drop to $45K by Late 2026, Analyst Warns Using Historical Halving Cycle Data appeared first on Blockonomi.

SOL perp traders are increasing leverage as execution quality improves across decentralized perpetual markets, with HFDX emerging as a key venue for on-chain activity. The current price of Solana is $92.25, having declined by 4.82% over the last 24 hours, but its derivatives volume is still increasing.

With a $52.32 billion market capitalization and a daily volume of $8.13 billion, which has grown by over 32%, it is clear that capital is not leaving but rather rotating. For SOL perp traders, this environment favors speed, liquidity depth, and reliable execution.

As centralized exchanges remain a point of concern for many market participants, on-chain perpetual futures are becoming the preferred tool for managing volatility. This shift is helping platforms like HFDX gain traction as execution infrastructure improves and liquidity scales.

Market Volatility Puts SOL Perp Traders Back in Control

For SOL perp traders, short-term drawdowns often unlock opportunity. Rather than selling spot positions, traders are increasingly using perpetual futures to hedge exposure, deploy short strategies, or trade momentum using leverage. This approach allows capital efficiency while keeping assets on-chain and fully self-custodied.

Solana’s high-throughput ecosystem continues to attract active traders, arbitrageurs, and DeFi-native funds. As volatility expands, perpetual markets typically see higher open interest and funding activity. That pattern is already playing out as SOL perp traders seek platforms that can handle rapid execution without slippage or opaque pricing.

The broader shift toward decentralized derivatives also reflects changing risk preferences. Traders want transparency, predictable liquidation logic, and verifiable smart contract execution, especially during fast market moves.

Liquidity Rotation Across DeFi Strengthens On-Chain Perps

Outside of Solana, DeFi liquidity is shifting towards protocols that can generate actual revenue from trading fees and borrowing demand. This is changing the nature of leverage markets across a variety of assets, including SOL perpetual futures.

For SOL perp traders, more liquidity will mean tighter spreads, more stable funding, and fewer liquidations during volatility events. When passive capital can generate revenue from actual use cases, leverage markets are more stable.

Structured DeFi strategies are also playing a growing role. Rather than chasing emissions, liquidity providers are increasingly allocating capital to systems where returns are tied to actual trading activity. This alignment between traders and liquidity is becoming a defining feature of next-generation perpetual DEXs.

HFDX Execution Gains Draw Attention From SOL Perp Traders

HFDX is benefiting directly from these shifts. Built as a non-custodial, on-chain perpetual futures protocol, HFDX is designed to support active trading without relying on centralized order books or market makers. Trades are executed against shared liquidity pools using decentralized price oracles, improving transparency and fairness.

Execution has become a key differentiator. HFDX has already processed more than 500,000 trades, delivering execution speeds under 2 milliseconds. For SOL perp traders operating in fast-moving markets, this performance reduces latency risk and improves entry and exit precision.

HFDX also integrates advanced charting and analytics powered by TradingView. This gives traders access to real-time price data, technical indicators, economic calendars, and broader market context—all within a decentralized trading environment.

In addition to perpetual futures, HFDX offers Liquidity Loan Note (LLN) strategies. These allow participants to allocate capital to protocol liquidity for fixed terms, with returns sourced from real trading and borrowing fees. This model supports execution quality while maintaining a risk-aware framework.

Why HFDX Is Resonating With SOL Perp Traders

Ultra-fast on-chain execution built for volatile markets

Non-custodial leverage with transparent smart contract settlement

Shared liquidity pools that deepen SOL perpetual markets

Oracle-based pricing without centralized intermediaries

Structured liquidity strategies backed by real protocol activity

Professional-grade charting and market analysis tools

These factors collectively make HFDX a compelling option for SOL perp traders seeking reliable decentralized infrastructure.

Where SOL Perp Traders and HFDX Align

As Solana derivatives markets grow further, SOL perp traders are increasingly discerning about their leverage allocations. Speed, liquidity, and transparency are no longer nice-to-haves – they are essential.

HFDX is capitalizing on this trend with its focus on infrastructure over speculation. With improving execution, sustainable liquidity, and full on-chain nature, HFDX is an embodiment of what decentralized perpetuals are becoming. All forms of levered derivatives carry risks, but HFDX provides an environment designed for serious players.

For traders and liquidity participants looking to engage early with next-generation DeFi derivatives infrastructure, HFDX represents a platform worth exploring as on-chain perpetual markets continue to mature.

Make Your Money Work Smarter And Unlock A Wealth Of Opportunities With HFDX Today!

Website: https://hfdx.xyz/

Telegram: https://t.me/HFDXTrading

X: https://x.com/HfdxProtocol

The post SOL Perp Traders Increase Leverage As HFDX Execution Improves appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Office CMBS delinquency rate reached 11.7%, surpassing all prior records, including the Financial Crisis. 

Higher interest rates and weak office demand have disrupted refinancing across U.S. office markets. 

Large office defaults in major cities accelerated the rise in CMBS delinquencies. 

Losses are spreading across global investors as distressed office debt exits bank balance sheets.

 

Office CMBS delinquency rate climbed sharply in early 2026, hitting a record 11.7% for office properties. This number has surpassed the 2008 Financial Crisis peak by roughly 1.6 percentage points, according to Trepp data tracking CMBS defaults. 

Office delinquencies outpace other sectors. On the other hand, multifamily rates have also risen, reflecting continued distress in U.S. commercial real estate markets.

Rising Office CMBS Delinquencies

The Office CMBS Delinquency Rate reached 11.7%, exceeding levels seen during the 2008 Financial Crisis. Historically, office delinquencies remained low before the crisis. 

Even during market stress, rates rarely surpassed 10%. The sharp increase reflects structural market changes rather than temporary disruptions.

From 2000 to 2007, delinquencies were minimal, showing stability in office lending. During the Financial Crisis, rates spiked as refinancing froze and tenant demand collapsed. 

After 2010, rates declined steadily, reaching 1–2% by 2021–2022, which created a false sense of security.

BREAKING : Commercial Real Estate

Office CMBS Delinquency Rate hits 11.7%, the highest level in history pic.twitter.com/UVEePMDvwF

— Barchart (@Barchart) February 8, 2026

Since 2023, delinquencies accelerated due to higher interest rates, remote work, and expanding cap rates. Refinancing became increasingly difficult. 

The surge is driven by real cash flow problems rather than temporary market panic. Many loans remain in “extend and pretend” mode, masking the underlying stress.

Manhattan Office Defaults and Market Effects

Two Manhattan towers triggered the January 2026 spike. One Worldwide Plaza, with $1.2 billion in debt, failed to cover its tax bill and debt service. 

Extell Development is positioned to foreclose through a mezzanine loan, following a court ruling allowing the auction to proceed. Vacancy rose from 10% in 2024 to 37% in 2025 as major tenants downsized or left. 

The building’s value fell from $1.7 billion in 2017 to $390 million. Similarly, One New York Plaza entered maturity default in January. 

Morgan Stanley occupies 44% of the space and is subleasing part of it. Vacancy reached 35%, worsening debt repayment challenges. 

Brookfield Properties sought extensions, but cash flow remained insufficient. These defaults illustrate the shift in office market conditions.

CMBS delinquencies affect investors globally, including REITs, bond funds, and private equity firms. Banks sold troubled loans to reduce risk exposure. 

Other regions also report delinquencies, such as a $211 million office loan in Plainsboro, New Jersey, delayed due to insurance disputes. Special servicers funded shortfalls and settlements are in progress.

The current 12.3% rate may not be the peak. Rising vacancies and refinancing challenges continue to pressure loans. 

Office CMBS delinquencies are now a measure of actual market conditions, reflecting a broad repricing in the commercial office sector. Cash flow realities are reshaping the landscape of office real estate.

The post Commercial Real Estate Shock as Office CMBS Defaults Hit 11.7% appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Tether now manages 140 investments, actively moving beyond stablecoin operations worldwide.

The company hires 150 staff, boosting engineering, finance, and regulatory teams globally. 

CFO Simon McWilliams centralizes London operations to strengthen governance and reporting.

Tether scales down $20B fundraising plan to $5B, focusing on investors and profitability.

 

Tether, issuer of the dominant stablecoin USDT with about $187 billion in circulation, is diversifying beyond crypto payments. 

It is moving into a global investment group as investors pushback trim a planned $15–$20 billion capital raise to around $5 billion.

CEO Paolo Ardoino says the firm remains profitable and strategically aligned, while expanding hires, investments, and governance under new CFO Simon McWilliams. 

Tether Expands Beyond Stablecoins into a Global Investment Group

Tether, the issuer of the widely used stablecoin USDT, is accelerating its transformation from a crypto infrastructure provider into a diversified global investment group. 

According to the Financial Times, the company now manages around 140 investments spanning artificial intelligence, commodities, sports equity, and other sectors. 

 This strategic shift aims to reduce reliance on stablecoin operations while broadening revenue streams and market influence

According to FT, Tether is accelerating its expansion, seeking to evolve from a crypto infrastructure provider into a diversified group. Its portfolio now includes about 140 investments, headcount is around 300, and it plans to hire 150 more staff. Sources say new CFO Simon…

— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) February 8, 2026

To support this growth, Tether’s workforce is scaling. The company currently employs roughly 300 staff and plans to hire 150 more. 

These new roles focus on engineering, regulatory compliance, finance, and venture investments. Offices in London, the UAE, Brazil, and Ghana indicate a deliberate push toward global reach and regulatory alignment.

Leadership changes are central to the expansion. New CFO Simon McWilliams is centralizing finance and operations in London. 

Sources say he is enhancing governance, streamlining reporting, and improving operational discipline. Centralizing key functions in a major financial hub positions Tether closer to traditional markets, signaling its intent to bridge crypto and conventional finance.

Despite growth, regulatory scrutiny remains. Market participants and regulators continue to request independent audits of Tether’s reserves, even though the company issues quarterly attestations.

Executives argue that strong profitability and transparent reserve management provide flexibility to pursue long-term growth while maintaining market confidence.

Capital Strategy, Investor Response, and Market Position

Tether is simultaneously managing its capital strategy amid investor scrutiny. FT and Reuters report that the company considered a $15–20 billion fundraising scenario, potentially valuing it near $500 billion. 

Following investor feedback, the company is considering a smaller raise, possibly around $5 billion, emphasizing strategic alignment rather than headline figures. CEO Paolo Ardoino clarified that the higher amounts were hypothetical, used for planning, and not formal targets.

Profitability underpins this approach. Tether projects continued earnings growth in 2026, reducing reliance on external capital. 

Internal reinvestment allows the company to fund expansion into diversified sectors while maintaining operational control.

Investor sentiment is mixed. Some remain cautious due to valuation and transparency concerns. 

Nevertheless, Tether’s market dominance is a stabilizing factor. With USDT circulation exceeding $185 billion, the company maintains a strong revenue base and liquidity position.

This allows it to pursue investments across multiple sectors while mitigating crypto-specific risks. In conclusion, Tether is evolving from a stablecoin issuer into a diversified investment and technology platform. 

Through strategic hiring, governance enhancements, portfolio expansion, and disciplined capital management, the company balances ambition with prudence, positioning itself for sustainable long-term growth across digital and traditional financial markets.

The post Tether Scales Operations Globally as CFO McWilliams Strengthens Governance appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Strategy requires only 1.5% annual Bitcoin appreciation to sustain $888 million dividend obligations 

The company maintains a $2.25 billion cash reserve, providing 30 months of dividend coverage independently 

Strategy holds 713,502 Bitcoin, representing 3.4% of total supply at $76,052 average purchase price 

The firm operates with 13% leverage versus 23% for investment-grade companies, with 42 basis point debt

 

Michael Saylor unveiled a dividend sustainability model that requires Bitcoin to appreciate just 1.25% annually for perpetual payments.

The Strategy Inc. Executive Chairman made this revelation during the company’s Q4 2025 earnings call on February 6, 2026.

The announcement came as Bitcoin plunged to $63,596.56, marking a 13% single-day decline. Strategy reported a $12.4 billion net loss, yet Saylor defended the treasury strategy with confidence.

Minimal Bitcoin Growth Sustains Perpetual Dividend Model

Saylor’s dividend framework centers on an exceptionally low appreciation threshold for long-term sustainability. CEO Phong Le explained that the company needs Bitcoin to increase by only 1.5% annually to maintain payments indefinitely.

The model functions by selling incremental Bitcoin holdings to cover dividend obligations while preserving the core treasury position.

Strategy holds approximately $45 billion in Bitcoin reserves against annual dividend commitments of $888 million across preferred equity instruments.

This ratio provides 67 years of dividend coverage based solely on current holdings without any price appreciation. The mathematical simplicity of the model demonstrates the company’s confidence in Bitcoin’s long-term value trajectory.

Saylor extended the scenario even further during the earnings call, addressing the possibility of zero Bitcoin appreciation.

He stated that even if Bitcoin stopped appreciating entirely, Strategy would have “80 years to figure out what to do about that.”

This timeline provides substantial flexibility for strategic pivots while maintaining current dividend commitments to shareholders.

Cash Reserves and Financial Buffers Strengthen Payment Certainty

Strategy established a $2.25 billion USD cash reserve in Q4 2025 specifically to address dividend reliability concerns.

CFO Andrew Kang noted this reserve provides 30 months of coverage without requiring any Bitcoin sales. The cash buffer insulates dividend payments from short-term Bitcoin price volatility and market downturns.

Michael Saylor’s post on X highlighted the multi-layered approach to dividend security that Strategy has implemented.

The company designed this structure to weather extended bear markets while maintaining shareholder distributions. The combination of cash reserves and Bitcoin holdings creates redundant payment mechanisms across different time horizons.

The dividend adjustment framework recently shifted to monthly volume-weighted average price calculations instead of five-day periods.

This change addresses trading patterns around record dates and payment dates. Strategy’s Stretch digital credit product trades near its $100 stated amount with an 11.25% annualized dividend rate.

Bitcoin Holdings Position Company for Long-Term Execution

Strategy held 713,502 Bitcoin as of February 1, 2026, with total acquisition costs reaching $54.26 billion. The average purchase price stands at $76,052 per coin, representing roughly 3.4% of Bitcoin’s total supply.

The company maintains its position as the world’s largest corporate Bitcoin holder despite recent price declines.

The company achieved a 22.8% BTC yield for 2025, exceeding the lower end of its target range. This metric measures the percentage increase in Bitcoin per share, demonstrating acquisition rates faster than shareholder dilution. The strategy’s accumulation strategy continues regardless of short-term price movements or accounting losses.

The Q4 2025 net loss of $12.6 billion stemmed primarily from mark-to-market accounting on Bitcoin holdings. Operating losses reached $17.4 billion, while earnings per share came in at negative $42.93 versus forecasts of positive $2.97. However, the software business generated $123 million in revenue, exceeding expectations by 3.53%.

Market Volatility Tests Dividend Thesis Amid Capital Raising Success

Strategy’s stock closed at $119.74 in aftermarket trading, down 17.12% following the earnings announcement on February 6, 2026.

Bitcoin’s simultaneous decline to $63,596.56 intensified selling pressure across cryptocurrency-related equities. The company’s Bitcoin holdings fell below their cumulative cost basis for the first time since 2023.

Saylor appeared undaunted during the conference call, emphasizing that the company’s Bitcoin treasury strategy was built to withstand volatility.

He noted that Bitcoin’s 45% drawdown from its all-time high four months earlier was consistent with the asset’s 45% volatility profile. This perspective frames current losses as expected fluctuations rather than fundamental flaws.

Strategy raised $25.3 billion in capital during 2025, becoming the largest U.S. equity issuer for two consecutive years. The company raised an additional $3.9 billion in January 2026 and acquired 41,002 Bitcoin during challenging conditions.

Strategy operates with 13% leverage compared to 23% for investment-grade companies, with convertible debt carrying a 42 basis point average interest rate.

The post Michael Saylor Reveals Strategy Can Pay Dividends ‘Forever’ With 1.25% Bitcoin Growth appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Bitso reduces cross-border transfer times from multiple days to near-instant using blockchain technology 

RLUSD provides regulated dollar-denominated stability for volatile Latin American payment corridors 

Platform positions as U.S.-LATAM payout partner as demand for compliant stablecoin solutions expands 

Ripple Payments eliminates multi-hop banking processes, reducing costs and increasing transparency

 

Bitso accelerates cross-border payments through its deployment of Ripple Payments, XRP and RLUSD across Latin American markets.

The digital asset platform reduces international transfer times from days to near-instant settlement for business clients.

Traditional banking systems previously required multiple intermediaries and extended processing periods. Bitso now delivers faster money movement by leveraging blockchain rails and regulated stablecoin infrastructure for regional payment corridors.

Speed Improvements Replace Multi-Day Settlement Processes

Bitso has transformed its platform to prioritize transaction velocity for cross-border transfers. The company shifted from crypto exchange operations to B2B payment infrastructure.

Legacy payment systems in Latin America typically process international transfers through several correspondent banks. Each intermediary adds processing time and reduces transparency throughout the settlement chain.

Ripple Payments enables Bitso to bypass traditional multi-hop routing entirely. Blockchain technology settles transactions in minutes rather than the standard two-to-five business days.

XRP serves as a bridge currency to accelerate conversions between different fiat denominations. RLUSD provides dollar-denominated stability without requiring traditional banking infrastructure.

The acceleration benefits both remittance flows and commercial payment operations. Businesses previously waited days to receive international payments from partners or customers.

Bitso now completes these same transfers within minutes using distributed ledger technology. Recipients access funds almost immediately after transaction initiation.

Gabriele Zuliani, Head of Growth at Bitso, spoke about the transformation this technology brings. “RLUSD and Ripple Payments let us reinvent how money moves globally: faster, at lower cost, and with far greater transparency,” Zuliani said.

He added that as demand grows in the U.S., Bitso stands ready to serve that demand. The platform aims to become the rail and payout partner for LATAM.

Rapid Blockchain Settlement Powers Regional Payment Distribution

The acceleration strategy addresses specific pain points within Latin American financial markets. Local currency volatility creates urgency around fast, stable settlement options.

Businesses cannot afford to wait days while exchange rates fluctuate during transfer processing. RLUSD enables rapid conversion to dollar-denominated value.

Bitso positions itself as a payout partner capable of distributing funds throughout the region quickly. The platform maintains local market presence across multiple Latin American countries.

This regional footprint combines with blockchain speed to deliver comprehensive payment solutions. Companies can now send payments that reach recipients the same day.

Regulated stablecoin infrastructure supports the acceleration without sacrificing compliance requirements. RLUSD operates within established financial oversight frameworks while maintaining transaction speed.

Traditional compliance processes often slow down international transfers through extended verification periods. Bitso balances regulatory adherence with operational efficiency.

Growing demand from U.S. businesses requires scalable, rapid payment infrastructure for Latin American operations.

Bitso’s blockchain-based approach handles increasing transaction volumes without proportional slowdowns. As cross-border payment needs expand, the platform scales its acceleration capabilities accordingly.

The combination of Ripple Payments, XRP and RLUSD creates infrastructure for next-generation regional money movement.

The post Bitso Deploys Ripple Payments and RLUSD to Speed Up Latin American Transfers appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

ASTER holds above $0.45–$0.50, forming a controlled accumulation zone in the descending channel. 

Liquidity sweeps below support indicate seller exhaustion, not renewed bearish pressure. 

Price compression signals a potential high-volatility breakout phase in the near term. 

Market cap rebound shows capital rotation, suggesting renewed confidence and participant engagement.

 

 ASTER is holding above the $0.45–$0.50 accumulation zone, showing structured buying within its long-term descending channel. Bulls could be positioning for a potential breakout.

ASTER is trading at $0.6069 as of writing, after a 12.81% gain in 24 hours and an 8.34% rise over the past week.

Price Structure Signals Stabilization Within a Bearish Framework

The ASTER daily chart remains anchored to a long-standing descending channel that has guided price action since the cycle high.

Each historical rally has stalled at channel resistance, confirming persistent seller control and the broader bearish trend.

Recent price action, however, introduces a shift in behavior. ASTER swept liquidity below the lower channel boundary, briefly trading into the $0.45–$0.48 region. 

$ASTER Recovered Quickly but not out of Woods yet..

I’ve been accumulating since December..

This is my biggest bag of the cycle.

Patience will pay off.. #Crypto #ASTER #ASTERUSDT pic.twitter.com/eGoUA7CXGa

— Captain Faibik (@CryptoFaibik) February 8, 2026

The move produced a downside wick and was followed by a swift return inside the channel. This sequence carries technical importance. 

Liquidity sweeps below established support often reflect seller exhaustion rather than trend continuation. The absence of follow-through selling reframes the move as a deviation instead of a breakdown.

Although ASTER continues to print lower highs, the slope of decline has moderated. Price is now spending more time in the upper half of the channel instead of reverting quickly to the lows. That change suggests dip-buying behavior is replacing reactive selling.

This pattern often emerges when positioning shifts from distribution toward longer-term accumulation. From a structural perspective, the market now sits at a decision point. 

A confirmed daily close above channel resistance would invalidate the prevailing bearish structure. Until then, the trend remains intact, though increasingly fragile.

Accumulation and Market Cap Recovery Reinforce the Setup

The $0.40–$0.50 zone remains central to ASTER price analysis. Price spent weeks consolidating and forming repeated wicks below support, causing a steady decline. 

During this phase, price action discouraged momentum traders while allowing larger participants to build positions quietly. The result was a stable base rather than a sharp reversal, which often leads to more sustainable advances.

$ASTER – Long Term Accumulation Setup (2600% Potential)#ASTER Is Now Trading ~80% Below Its ATH. This Could Be A Strong Discount Zone For Long-Term Holders.

ATH: $2.43
Current Price: ~$0.50

My Accumulation Zone: $0.35 – $0.50 (Slow And Steady Accumulation. Not Buying All At… pic.twitter.com/dd2j39p5pF

— Crypto Patel (@CryptoPatel) February 5, 2026

From that foundation, ASTER has moved approximately 40% higher. The advance has remained orderly, with higher participation in green candles. Volume trends suggest engagement beyond short-covering activity.

Over the past seven days, ASTER’s valuation initially ranged between $1.30 and $1.35 billion. This sideways movement reflected short-term uncertainty rather than directional conviction.

A sudden mid-week drop toward $1.15 billion followed. The decline was fast and brief, resembling a liquidity flush. Importantly, valuation did not stagnate near the lows.

As valuation pushed toward $1.48–$1.50 billion, the structure shifted again. The market did not merely recover losses but expanded beyond previous resistance, signaling net inflows.

ASTER price analysis now reflects convergence between price structure and valuation behavior. Both suggest accumulation remains active while risk is clearly defined. 

The next series of daily closes will determine whether consolidation resolves into continuation or renewed downside pressure.

The post ASTER Price Analysis: $0.45–$0.50 Accumulation Signals Potential Breakout appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

ETH failed three times at the 200-day EMA, confirming weakening momentum and sustained selling pressure. 

Over $1.3B in long liquidations shows derivatives activity dominated price action, not spot demand. 

The $2.7K level flipped from support to resistance, redefining near-term market structure. 

Focus now shifts to $2.3K and $1.8K as the next zones of potential buyer interest.

 

ETH 200-day EMA rejection shows repeated failures near resistance aligned with a wave of forced liquidations. Price action now reflects leverage-driven volatility instead of organic trend recovery.

Distribution Behavior Emerges at Key Technical Resistance

ETH price moved higher, yet the advance lacked sustained demand. Instead, it appeared driven by short covering into a known supply zone.

Momentum weakened with every approach to the moving average. Candle bodies narrowed, and upper wicks became more frequent. At the same time, volume failed to expand. 

Furthermore, the repeated rejection pattern reinforced technical exhaustion. Three attempts at the same resistance level produced lower follow-through each time. This suggested that sellers maintained control despite temporary upside pressure.

On social media, several analysts shared charts showing price stalling exactly at the 200-day EMA. Therefore, upside strength functioned mainly as liquidity for larger participants.

If you’re buying every $ETH pump into $2.7K after this 200day EMA rejection, you’re exit liquidity.

You can ignore 1 rejection at the 200-day EMA, but you can’t ignore 3.

That $ETH 200-day EMA was the big make or break level, and we just got a clean rejection off it (red… https://t.co/hnTVoMBAq7 pic.twitter.com/otk7f6dUFL

— Dami-Defi (@DamiDefi) February 8, 2026

Soon after, ETH slipped back below $2.7K. That level had served as short-term support during the rebound phase. Once breached, it transitioned into resistance, and market bias tilted downward.

This pivot divided two narratives. Above $2.7K, traders could argue for base formation. Below it, the structure favored continued probing lower. As a result, each rally into that zone now attracts selling interest.

Moreover, price behavior showed hesitation rather than conviction. Buyers failed to defend higher levels with sustained closes. Sellers, in contrast, reacted quickly at technical boundaries.

Thus, the pattern reflected strategic positioning rather than emotional panic. Distribution unfolded gradually, supported by visible rejection zones and fading momentum. The chart no longer communicated recovery. Instead, it communicated controlled exits into strength.

Liquidation Cascades Replace Organic Market Flow

ETH 200-day EMA rejection coincided with violent intraday swings driven by derivatives activity. Price repeatedly moved from $80 to $100 within minutes. Such behavior is not typical of spot-led markets.

Approximately $1.3 billion in long liquidations occurred during the session. These events represented forced closures of leveraged positions, not discretionary selling. Therefore, the tape reflected margin mechanics rather than investor sentiment.

As the price crossed clustered liquidation levels, automated orders accelerated the decline. Each wave triggered the next. Consequently, volatility expanded in both directions.

Total liquidations surpassed $7 billion across the broader market. This scale revealed how one-sided positioning had become before the breakdown. When exposure concentrates, even small price shifts can ignite chain reactions.

MULTI-BILLION CRIME JUST HAPPENED ON BINANCE!!

THE $ETH/USDT PAIR HAD EXTREMELY HIGH VOLATILITY.
IN JUST SECONDS, $ETH PUMPED AND DUMPED FOR $100 AT LEAST 40 TIMES.

SOMEONE OPENED A $1.3 BILLION LONG AND GOT FULLY LIQUIDATED.

IT LOOKS LIKE $ETH WAS PUSHED SPECIFICALLY TO… pic.twitter.com/s5vqSyWN6v

— Wimar.X (@DefiWimar) February 7, 2026

Meanwhile, ETH failed to stabilize above reclaimed levels. The $2.7K zone remained overhead resistance. This reinforced the idea that rebounds were corrective, not impulsive.

Attention has now shifted to the $2.3K region. That area previously hosted strong demand. If the price reaches it, buyers may attempt to stabilize conditions. However, failure there would expose the $1.8K support band.

Traders continue to frame current rallies as liquidity events. Strength is treated cautiously, while resistance zones receive priority.

The post Ethereum Faces 200-Day EMA Rejection Amid $7B Liquidation Cascade appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Forward Industries holds nearly 7 million SOL tokens, more than its next three competitors combined. 

FWDI’s average SOL acquisition cost of $232 creates $1 billion unrealized loss at current $85 price. 

The company’s debt-free balance sheet enables offensive consolidation while rivals face selling pressure. 

Forward raised $1.65 billion in 2025 from Galaxy Digital, Jump Crypto, and Multicoin Capital backing.

 

Forward Industries controls nearly 7 million SOL tokens as the largest publicly traded Solana treasury company. The firm’s holdings face substantial unrealized losses amid current market conditions.

Unlevered Balance Sheet Provides Strategic Advantage

FWDI purchased its SOL holdings at an average price of $232 per token. Current valuations place SOL near $85, creating a paper loss approaching $1 billion. The company’s share price has declined from $40 to approximately $5.

Chief Investment Officer Ryan Navi maintains the firm can consolidate weaker competitors during this downturn. “Scale plus an unlevered balance sheet is a real advantage in this market,” Navi told CoinDesk. “We can play offense when others are playing defense,” he added.

Forward Industries operates without corporate debt or leverage on its balance sheet. “Forward Industries has strategically avoided leverage and debt by design,” Navi explained. This structure provides flexibility to deploy capital when market opportunities emerge.

The firm raised $1.65 billion through a private investment in public equity during 2025. Galaxy Digital, Jump Crypto and Multicoin Capital led the funding round. Forward Industries now holds more SOL than its next three public competitors combined.

Staking Strategy and Permanent Capital Model

Forward Industries stakes its SOL holdings to generate yields between 6% and 7%. The staking rate will decrease over time as Solana’s programmed issuance declines. This creates an increasingly disinflationary supply environment for the network.

The company partnered with Sanctum to launch fwdSOL, a liquid staking token. This instrument earns staking rewards while functioning as collateral in decentralized finance protocols. Forward can borrow against this collateral at rates below the staking yield on platforms like Kamino.

Navi positions Forward Industries as a permanent capital vehicle rather than a short-term trading operation. “We’re not running a trading book, we’re building a long-term Solana treasury,” Navi stated. The company plans to underwrite real-world assets and tokenized royalties that exceed its cost of capital.

Kyle Samani announced his departure as managing director of Multicoin Capital on Wednesday. He retains his position as chairman of Forward Industries. Samani is receiving his exit from the Multicoin Master Fund in FWDI shares and warrants instead of cash redemption.

“What differentiates Forward is discipline: no leverage, no debt,” Navi said. The firm maintains a long-term view on Solana as strategic infrastructure rather than a speculative bet. Management believes its debt-free structure positions it to lead sector consolidation during this challenging period.

The post Forward Industries Maintains $600M Solana Position Despite $1B Unrealized Loss appeared first on Blockonomi.