SK Hynix Outperforms Samsung in Annual Profit for the First Time
TLDR
SK Hynix surpassed Samsung Electronics in operating profit for the first time in 2025.
The company posted a record operating profit of 47.2 trillion won, exceeding Samsung’s 43.6 trillion won in 2025.
SK Hynix maintains leadership in high-bandwidth memory (HBM), a critical chip for AI processors and servers.
Despite competition from Samsung and Micron, SK Hynix retains its dominant position in the HBM market.
Analysts predict SK Hynix’s leadership in HBM will continue, driven by high demand for AI-related memory solutions.
SK Hynix has surpassed Samsung Electronics in operating profit for the first time in 2025, marking a key milestone in its growth. This achievement highlights SK Hynix’s dominance in the high-bandwidth memory (HBM) market, crucial for AI chipsets.
SK Hynix’s Strategic Lead in High-Bandwidth Memory
According to a report by CNBC, SK Hynix’s success is largely attributed to its leadership in HBM, a specialized chip vital for AI processors and servers. The company posted a record operating profit of 47.2 trillion won in 2025, surpassing Samsung’s 43.6 trillion won. HBM is in high demand due to its use in advanced AI applications, including those by Nvidia.
According to MS Hwang from Counterpoint Research, SK Hynix’s “quality and supply of HBMs” have been pivotal in supporting the AI infrastructure boom. Despite competition from Samsung and Micron, SK Hynix has retained its market lead in this area.
While Samsung has recently regained the top spot in memory revenue rankings, SK Hynix remains a dominant force in HBM production. Analysts expect this leadership to continue, especially with the growing demand for memory chips in AI servers. Despite this, Samsung is catching up with the launch of its HBM4 chips, which analysts predict will increase its competitiveness in the AI market.
Will SK Hynix’s $10B Investment in AI Add More Pressure to Samsung?
As we had reported earlier, SK Hynix has also announced plans to launch a new U.S.-based company focused on AI solutions, committing $10 billion to the venture. This new entity, tentatively called the “AI Company,” will focus on accelerating AI development and forming strategic partnerships with U.S. investors.
SK Hynix plans to restructure its California-based subsidiary, Solidigm, to separate its AI business from its SSD operations. The U.S. move signals SK Hynix’s ambition to strengthen its AI presence globally, as it expands its footprint beyond memory solutions.
The new AI-focused company will play a central role in advancing SK Hynix’s global push into AI, aligning with the growing demand for AI-driven memory technologies. SK Hynix’s expertise in HBM and other AI technologies positions the company as a key player in this rapidly expanding market.
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Nvidia CEO Reveals Final Step for H200 AI Chip License Approval in China
TLDR
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang is waiting for China’s approval to sell the H200 AI chip in the country.
Huang remains optimistic about the approval process, citing strong demand for the H200 in China.
The Chinese government has already approved ByteDance, Alibaba, and Tencent to purchase over 400,000 H200 chips.
Despite approvals, restrictions have been placed on the purchase process, with some companies awaiting further clarification.
Nvidia’s H200 chip is expected to strengthen both American leadership in AI and China’s AI development.
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang confirmed that the company is waiting for final approval from China to sell its H200 AI chip. During his recent visit to Taipei, Huang discussed Nvidia’s efforts to expand its presence in China. He expressed hope that the Chinese government would grant permission for the sale of the powerful chip, which is designed to support AI applications.
Nvidia’s Efforts to Expand in China
Huang mentioned that the licensing process for the H200 chip is nearly complete. He emphasized that the H200 would benefit both American technological leadership and the Chinese market. “The customers would very much like to have H200,” Huang stated, highlighting strong demand from local businesses.
Despite the uncertainty of the approval process, he remains optimistic and looks forward to a favorable decision from the Chinese government. He also noted that the H200 chip could help solidify Nvidia’s global role in AI development.
“This is very good for American technology leadership. It’s also very good for the Chinese market,” Huang said. As China remains a key player in the global technology space, Nvidia is keen to establish a stronger foothold in the country, especially with its cutting-edge AI solutions.
Huang’s Remarks Align with China’s Shifting Approach to AI Chip Investments
Huang’s comments come in light of new developments reported by Blockonomi this week, which detail China’s shift in its stance towards Nvidia’s AI chips. The Chinese government has approved three of China’s largest tech companies, ByteDance, Alibaba, and Tencent, to purchase Nvidia’s H200 chips.
The approval of over 400,000 H200 chips to these firms marks a step in China’s AI investments. However, the Chinese government has placed certain restrictions on the purchase process. Some companies are still awaiting further clarification on the terms before placing orders, suggesting that the full rollout of Nvidia’s H200 chips in China may take time.
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SEC Clarifies Tokenized Securities Framework: Issuer and Third-Party Models Explained
TLDR:
Format does not alter securities law application; tokenized assets face same registration requirements.
Issuers can maintain master securityholder files onchain or use crypto assets as transfer notification tools.
Third-party custodial models create security entitlements while synthetic models provide exposure only.
Security-based swaps require registration and exchange execution for sales to non-eligible participants.
The Securities and Exchange Commission’s divisions have issued a comprehensive statement clarifying how federal securities laws apply to tokenized securities.
The Division of Corporation Finance, Division of Investment Management, and Division of Trading and Markets outline two primary categories: issuer-sponsored and third party-sponsored tokenized securities.
This framework addresses the growing need for regulatory clarity as blockchain technology becomes more prevalent in capital markets. The statement emphasizes that format does not alter securities law application.
Issuer-Sponsored Models Define Direct Tokenization Approaches
Issuers can tokenize securities by formatting them as crypto assets while maintaining master securityholder files on blockchain networks.
The integration of distributed ledger technology allows onchain transfers to reflect ownership changes in the official records. This approach differs from traditional securities only in recordkeeping methods, not legal status.
The same class of securities may exist in multiple formats simultaneously. Holders can convert between tokenized and traditional formats based on their preferences.
Securities Act registration requirements remain unchanged regardless of whether securities use onchain or offchain recordkeeping systems.
Another model separates the crypto asset from the master securityholder file entirely. The issuer maintains ownership records offchain while using crypto assets as transfer notification mechanisms.
Security holders receive crypto assets that trigger ownership updates rather than directly representing the securities themselves.
These arrangements allow transfers to occur through blockchain transactions that prompt issuers to update official records.
The crypto asset serves as a signaling device rather than the actual security representation. Offchain databases remain the authoritative source for ownership information in this structure.
Custodial tokenized securities represent one third-party approach where crypto assets evidence ownership interests in underlying securities held in custody.
These tokenized security entitlements function similarly to traditional custody arrangements but use blockchain technology for record maintenance. The underlying securities remain separate from the crypto asset representation.
Transfer of these crypto assets triggers updates to entitlement holder records maintained by the custodian. Some implementations integrate blockchain directly into recordkeeping systems while others use onchain transfers to update offchain records. Both approaches create indirect ownership structures through security entitlements.
Synthetic tokenized securities provide exposure without conveying actual ownership rights in referenced securities. Linked securities and security-based swaps fall into this category. These instruments are obligations of the third party rather than the underlying security issuer.
Security-based swaps face additional restrictions under federal law. Sales to non-eligible contract participants require effective registration statements and execution on national securities exchanges.
The classification depends on whether the instrument meets swap definition requirements and satisfies one of three specified prongs related to security indices, individual securities, or issuer-specific events. Economic reality rather than naming conventions determines proper classification.
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Instrumen Dukung Bitcoin STRC Strategi Tantang Pasar Pendapatan Tetap Tradisional
TLDR:
STRC menyediakan pendapatan tahunan yang dinyatakan dalam fiat sebesar 11% dengan status klaim senior atas kepemilikan Bitcoin Strategi.
Instrumen ini melewati infrastruktur perbankan tradisional dengan mengarahkan modal langsung melalui pembelian Bitcoin.
Investor institusi memandang STRC sebagai pesaing untuk dana kredit, obligasi daerah, dan dana pasar uang.
Produk menciptakan umpan balik di mana peningkatan permintaan mendorong pembelian Bitcoin dan memperkuat basis jaminan.
STRC yang baru diperkenalkan oleh Strategi mewakili instrumen keuangan senior yang didukung Bitcoin yang menawarkan imbal hasil dua digit kepada investor.
Powell Menyatakan Kenaikan Suku Bunga Dihentikan Saat Fed Mengonfirmasi Akhir Siklus Pengetatan
TLDR:
Powell secara eksplisit menyatakan “kenaikan suku bunga bukanlah skenario dasar siapa pun” menandai akhir definitif dari pengetatan
Inflasi PCE inti sedikit di atas 2% ketika efek tarif dikecualikan, memberi Fed ruang untuk pelonggaran di masa depan
Suara FOMC adalah 10-2 dengan dua anggota mendukung pemotongan dan tidak ada yang mendorong kenaikan selama pertemuan kebijakan terbaru
Fed mengharapkan inflasi yang didorong tarif mencapai puncaknya pada pertengahan 2026 kemudian menurun, mengalihkan fokus pada waktu pemotongan suku bunga
Federal Reserve mempertahankan suku bunga di 3.5% hingga 3.75% selama pertemuan terbarunya, dengan Ketua Jerome Powell secara eksplisit menyatakan bahwa kenaikan suku bunga tidak lagi dipertimbangkan.
SEC Clarifies Rules for Tokenized Securities Under Federal Law
TLDR
The SEC has clarified that tokenized securities are considered “securities” under U.S. federal law.
Tokenized securities must comply with the same registration, disclosure, and compliance rules as traditional securities.
The SEC is working to provide a legal framework as tokenized securities grow in the digital asset market.
Tokenized securities are divided into two categories: issuer-sponsored and third-party sponsored, both subject to federal laws.
SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce reiterated that “tokenized securities are still securities,” emphasizing regulatory consistency.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued new guidelines clarifying the status of tokenized securities. According to the SEC, these digital assets will be subject to federal securities laws. This move aims to provide clearer regulation for tokenized securities as the industry continues to grow.
Tokenized Securities Under SEC Regulation
The SEC confirmed that tokenized securities are financial instruments defined as “securities” under federal law. These assets will be subject to similar registration, disclosure, and compliance requirements as traditional securities.
The agency stated that, despite the digital format, tokenized securities will maintain the same legal obligations. The SEC’s position on tokenized securities emphasizes the importance of compliance with federal regulations.
These securities, despite being represented as crypto assets, will require issuers to adhere to similar transparency and regulatory standards as traditional securities. The agency has worked to create clarity for the growing market of digital asset securities.
SEC’s Ongoing Efforts for Regulatory Clarity
The SEC’s guidance reflects its ongoing efforts to define the legal framework for tokenized securities. In previous statements, SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce has reaffirmed that “tokenized securities are still securities.”
The SEC aims to provide clarity as U.S. legislators work to pass a market structure bill, which will further define the roles of the SEC and other regulatory bodies. The agency’s latest guidance also divides tokenized securities into two main categories: issuer-sponsored and third-party sponsored.
Issuer-sponsored tokens directly integrate blockchain into ownership records, while third-party-sponsored tokens represent an indirect claim on a security. Both categories are subject to federal securities laws, ensuring that the same legal standards apply across these tokenized assets.
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Securitize Files Public S-4 Registration for Cantor Equity Partners II SPAC Merger
TLDR:
Securitize filed public Form S-4 registration statement advancing its business combination with CEPT toward completion.
Revenue reached $55.6 million for nine months ending September 2025, marking an 841% increase from prior year period.
Full-year 2024 revenue totaled $18.8 million, representing a 129% increase compared to $8.2 million in 2023.
Transaction completion requires CEPT shareholder approval and SEC effectiveness before public listing can proceed.
Securitize has publicly filed a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission for its proposed business combination with Cantor Equity Partners II.
The Form S-4 filing marks a significant step toward the tokenization platform becoming a publicly listed company.
The registration statement includes updated financial data showing substantial revenue growth through September 2025. This development follows the company’s confidential draft submission in November 2025.
Financial Performance Shows Strong Revenue Growth
The registration statement reveals Securitize achieved total revenue of $55.6 million for the nine months ending September 30, 2025.
According to the filing, this figure represents “an 841% increase compared to $5.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024.” The company’s revenue streams span tokenized securities, fund administration, and digital-asset infrastructure businesses.
For the full year 2024, Securitize reported total revenue of $18.8 million. As disclosed in the registration statement, this amount marked “a 129% increase compared to $8.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.” The financial data demonstrates consistent growth across the company’s operating segments.
The registration statement contains historical financial information that provides transparency for potential investors.
These figures offer insight into the company’s business trajectory and market position in the tokenization sector.
Transaction Progress and Regulatory Review
Securitize Holdings Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Securitize, submitted the public filing as part of the business combination process.
The registration statement includes a combined proxy statement and prospectus for shareholders to review.
Cantor Equity Partners II, trading on Nasdaq under the ticker CEPT, is a special purpose acquisition company.
The proposed transaction requires approval from CEPT shareholders before completion. Additionally, the Securities and Exchange Commission must declare the registration statement effective. The filing remains under SEC review as part of the standard regulatory process.
Upon closing, Securitize Holdings Inc. is expected to become a publicly traded entity. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions beyond shareholder approval and regulatory clearance.
Securitize describes itself as “the world’s leading platform for tokenizing real-world assets.” The company positions its technology to serve the growing demand for asset tokenization.
Cantor Equity Partners II is sponsored by an affiliate of Cantor Fitzgerald. The partnership aims to bring Securitize’s tokenization technology to public markets.
The transaction timeline depends on completing the SEC review process and obtaining necessary approvals.
The post Securitize Files Public S-4 Registration for Cantor Equity Partners II SPAC Merger appeared first on Blockonomi.
Stablecoin Yields Challenge Traditional Banking as White House Brokers Industry Talks
TLDR;
Stablecoin platforms offer yields near 4.9% while major banks provide near-zero interest on deposits.
White House facilitates meetings between crypto executives and traditional banking leaders on regulation.
Crypto firms operate with minimal staff and overhead, passing Treasury bill yields directly to users.
Banks seek regulatory requirements forcing stablecoin issuers to obtain banking licenses before offering yield.
Traditional banking institutions are confronting a new competitive threat as cryptocurrency startups offer substantially higher yields on stablecoin deposits compared to conventional savings accounts.
The emerging conflict has prompted discussions at the highest levels of government, with industry leaders from both sectors invited to address concerns about the shifting financial landscape and its potential impact on the established banking system.
Regulatory Tensions Mount Over Yield Disparities
The stark contrast in returns has become a central point of contention. Stablecoin platforms are providing yields approaching 4.9 percent on dollar-denominated digital assets, while major banks offer near-zero interest rates on traditional deposit accounts.
This gap has created pressure on established financial institutions that maintain extensive physical infrastructure and legacy systems dating back decades.
Industry observer Adam Livingston highlighted the situation on X, noting that crypto firms operate with minimal overhead while backing their stablecoins with Treasury bills.
These companies employ small teams and modern technology stacks, enabling them to pass more yield directly to users.
The banks are PISSING THEMSELVES.
They’ve just realized that some autistic crypto startup in a WeWork with $20 million in T‑Bills and a React front-end is about to nuke the entire $17 trillion U.S. deposit base…
…by offering 4.9% yield on a stablecoin while JPMorgan gives you…
— Adam Livingston (@AdamBLiv) January 28, 2026
Meanwhile, traditional banks support thousands of branches and employees while generating revenue through credit products and various fees.
The operational differences extend beyond simple cost structures. Stablecoin providers offer continuous redemptions and on-chain transactions that settle within seconds, whereas traditional banking systems rely on older infrastructure.
This technological advantage allows newer entrants to provide services without the regulatory burden and compliance costs that established institutions face daily.
Banking representatives have expressed concerns about financial stability to regulators and lawmakers. However, critics argue these objections primarily protect existing business models rather than address genuine systemic risks.
The debate centers on whether regulatory frameworks should require stablecoin issuers to obtain banking licenses before offering yield products.
White House Engagement Signals Policy Crossroads
Recent developments indicate the administration is taking an active role in mediating between traditional finance and cryptocurrency sectors.
Representatives from Circle and Coinbase have been invited to meet with major banking executives to discuss the future of dollar-based financial products.
These conversations represent a significant shift in how policymakers approach the integration of blockchain technology into mainstream finance.
The discussions carry substantial implications for how Americans interact with their savings. Proponents of stablecoin yields argue that technology should enable better returns for depositors, particularly when underlying assets consist of government securities.
Traditional banks counter that their services provide deposit insurance and consumer protections that justify lower returns.
Some observers view stablecoins as merely an intermediate step toward broader adoption of decentralized assets.
The argument suggests that once users become comfortable with digital currencies earning modest yields, they may explore alternative assets offering different risk-return profiles.
This progression could fundamentally alter how individuals store and grow their wealth outside conventional banking channels.
The outcome of these regulatory deliberations will likely determine whether competition drives innovation or whether established players secure protective measures.
Market participants across both sectors await clarity on rules governing yield-bearing digital dollar products and their place within the financial system.
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South Korea’s FSC Pushes 20% Ownership Cap on Crypto Exchanges Despite Industry Opposition
TLDR:
FSC proposes 15-20% ownership cap on crypto exchange major shareholders under Digital Asset Basic Act framework.
Upbit operator Dunamu and Coinone would face forced divestment as current stakes exceed proposed limits.
New authorization system would grant exchanges permanent status, elevating them to public infrastructure level.
Ruling Democratic Party raises concerns that ownership caps are uncommon internationally, creating divergence.
Financial Services Commission Chairman Lee Eog-weon has doubled down on plans to limit major shareholder stakes in cryptocurrency exchanges, despite opposition from industry operators and the ruling Democratic Party.
The regulator argues ownership restrictions are necessary as exchanges transition from private enterprises to entities with broader public responsibilities under proposed comprehensive digital asset legislation.
Regulatory Shift From Notification to Authorization System
The South Korean financial regulator is considering caps between 15 and 20 percent on controlling shareholder stakes in virtual asset exchanges according to The Korea Times.
This provision is expected to feature prominently in the Digital Asset Basic Act, representing the second phase of the country’s cryptocurrency legislation.
Lee explained that current regulations primarily address anti-money laundering requirements and investor protection through existing frameworks.
The proposed legislation marks a fundamental change in how exchanges operate within the regulatory landscape. “Under the current system, virtual asset exchanges operate under a notification system that requires renewal every three years,” Lee stated during a media conference.
The new authorization framework would grant exchanges permanent operating status, elevating their position within the financial ecosystem. “This higher status means exchanges need governance rules that match their larger role and greater responsibilities,” he added.
Lee emphasized that licensed exchanges would no longer be treated simply as private businesses. “Once licensed, exchanges would no longer be treated simply as private enterprises but would assume characteristics akin to public infrastructure,” he explained.
This transformation necessitates governance mechanisms that align with their expanded role and responsibilities.
The chairman drew parallels with existing financial market structures to justify the proposed measures. “Excessive concentration of ownership could increase the risk of conflicts of interest and undermine market integrity,” Lee warned.
“Securities exchanges and alternative trading systems are already subject to ownership limits, making it reasonable to apply similar standards to virtual asset platforms,” he noted.
Industry Opposition and Enforcement Challenges
Major domestic exchanges have voiced strong opposition following reports about the ownership cap proposal. The joint council representing platforms including Upbit, Bithumb and Coinone warned the restrictions could hamper development of Korea’s digital asset sector.
Industry stakeholders argue the measures may place Korean operators at a competitive disadvantage compared to international counterparts.
The proposed limits would force substantial changes at leading exchanges if enacted as currently outlined. At Dunamu, which operates Upbit, Chair Song Chi-hyung and associated parties control more than 28 percent of company shares.
Coinone founder Cha Myung-hoon holds approximately 53 percent of his platform, meaning both would need to divest significant portions under the proposed framework.
The ruling Democratic Party has raised concerns about the policy’s alignment with international regulatory approaches.
Party representatives noted that similar ownership restrictions remain uncommon in other jurisdictions, potentially creating regulatory divergence.
This position adds political complexity to the legislative process as the government seeks to balance innovation with oversight.
Lee acknowledged ongoing discussions with the ruling party while maintaining the policy’s fundamental necessity. “While there is broad agreement on the policy’s necessity, discussions are ongoing over its scope and timing,” he confirmed.
“The Digital Asset Basic Act is a major legislative undertaking,” Lee stated. “Consultations with the National Assembly and relevant ministries will continue to ensure the bill moves forward without unnecessary delays,” he added.
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Tesla’s adjusted earnings per share of $0.50 surpassed analysts’ forecast of $0.45.
Despite the decline in Bitcoin’s value, Tesla made no changes to its Bitcoin position.
Tesla’s Bitcoin holdings remained unchanged during the fourth quarter of 2025, holding at 11,509 coins. The value of these holdings decreased sharply as bitcoin’s price fell from approximately $114,000 to $88,000. As a result, Tesla recorded a $239 million after-tax impairment loss on its digital assets.
Tesla’s Bitcoin Holdings Unchanged
Tesla made no changes to its Bitcoin holdings in the fourth quarter of 2025, keeping its position at 11,509 coins. The company did not buy or sell any bitcoin during the period, according to its latest earnings report. Despite the decline in Bitcoin’s value, Tesla opted to maintain its digital asset position, leaving its holdings flat.
The price of Bitcoin experienced a significant drop during the last three months of 2025, falling from about $114,000 to $88,000. This decline led Tesla to report an after-tax impairment loss of $239 million on its Bitcoin holdings. Even with this loss, Tesla chose to hold steady and make no changes to its Bitcoin position during the quarter.
Impairment Loss Impact on Q4 Earnings
Tesla’s Q4 earnings report showed that the drop in Bitcoin’s value negatively impacted the company’s digital asset portfolio. Despite the impairment loss, Tesla’s overall earnings remained stable. The company reported revenue of $24.9 billion for the quarter, slightly below the expected $25.1 billion.
The impairment loss of $239 million did affect Tesla’s overall results, reflecting the volatility of digital assets on its balance sheet. However, Tesla’s adjusted earnings per share of $0.50 exceeded analyst expectations of $0.45. In after-hours trading, Tesla’s stock rose by 3.4%, reflecting investor optimism despite the challenges with digital assets.
Tesla has held Bitcoin since 2021, initially acquiring 43,200 coins worth approximately $1.7 billion. After selling 75% of its Bitcoin holdings in 2022 near the market’s bottom, the company has kept its holdings relatively stable. With the recent impairment, Tesla’s strategy appears unchanged, continuing to hold 11,509 Bitcoin despite the recent price decline.
In its Q4 report, Tesla emphasized that it had not made any purchases or sales of Bitcoin in the last quarter. The decision to keep the same number of Bitcoin coins aligns with its approach to digital assets, which has remained consistent since the 2022 sale.
The post Tesla Reports $239 Million Loss on Bitcoin Holdings in Q4 2025 appeared first on Blockonomi.
Cipollone dari ECB Membela Euro Digital Di Tengah Meningkatnya Ketegangan Geopolitik dan Fragmentasi Pembayaran
TLDR:
Penggunaan uang tunai dalam transaksi zona euro jatuh dari 40% pada tahun 2019 menjadi hanya 24% pada tahun 2024 seiring dengan meningkatnya pembayaran digital
Euro digital akan berfungsi sebagai alat pembayaran yang sah yang mengharuskan semua pedagang yang menerima pembayaran digital untuk mengadopsi sistem ini
E-commerce kini mewakili lebih dari sepertiga dari nilai transaksi, menciptakan kebutuhan mendesak untuk solusi pembayaran digital
Pejabat ECB menolak proposal euro digital yang hanya offline, mempertanyakan kelayakannya untuk memenuhi kebutuhan e-commerce
Anggota Dewan Eksekutif Bank Sentral Eropa Piero Cipollone telah memperkuat komitmen lembaga untuk mengembangkan euro digital, menganggap inisiatif ini sebagai infrastruktur penting daripada langkah defensif.
XRP Price Prediction for 2026: Bull and Bear Scenarios Explained
TLDR
21Shares predicts XRP could reach $2.45 in a base case scenario by the end of 2026.
The firm forecasts a potential price rise to $2.69 in the bull case scenario due to increased institutional adoption.
In the bear case scenario, XRP’s price may drop to $1.60 if adoption stagnates and market conditions worsen.
21Shares highlights that XRP has entered a phase of market-driven price discovery after the Ripple-SEC lawsuit resolution.
The firm’s analysis compares XRP’s potential to Ethereum’s 2017-2018 trajectory, suggesting a possible breakout in 2026.
Asset manager 21Shares has released its XRP price predictions for 2026, highlighting the cryptocurrency’s potential for both growth and decline. The firm has provided three possible scenarios for the token’s price, based on different market conditions. In a detailed forecast, 21Shares presents a base case, a bull case, and a bear case scenario for XRP’s future value.
Base Case: XRP Price Predicted to Reach $2.45
In the base case scenario, 21Shares analysts predict that XRP will reach $2.45 by the end of 2026. This represents a nearly 30% increase from its current price. The firm attributes this price prediction to regulatory stability, which should help support steady ETF flows and incremental utility for the cryptocurrency.
According to 21Shares, the market environment in this scenario will see XRP benefiting from regulatory clarity. The removal of legal uncertainties, especially following the Ripple-SEC lawsuit’s resolution, will allow XRP to emerge from its historical struggles. This stability is expected to provide a solid foundation for continued price growth, despite ongoing market fluctuations.
In the bull case scenario, 21Shares expects XRP’s price to rise to $2.69. This would mark a 40% increase from its current level. The analysts predict that the increase will be driven by the scaling of institutional real-world asset (RWA) adoption and potential repricing due to supply exhaustion.
The firm suggests that as institutional investors show more interest in XRP, demand could push the price higher. Moreover, the increase in XRP’s utility within financial services may contribute to its broader adoption. This scenario is fueled by rising institutional interest, which could lead to stronger price momentum over time.
On the other hand, the bear case scenario presents a possible price drop to $1.60, representing a 16% decline. 21Shares suggests that stagnant adoption and capital rotation could offset the benefits of XRP’s legal victory. While the Ripple-SEC lawsuit’s conclusion has cleared some hurdles, the market may not fully embrace XRP if adoption slows down.
This scenario assumes that broader market factors, such as shifting investor sentiment or market-wide downturns, would outweigh any positive developments for XRP. The analysts warn that without significant adoption drivers, XRP could face downward pressure despite the legal clarity surrounding the asset. This outcome would result in a decline in price as XRP struggles to gain traction in a competitive market.
Here our own XRP predictions for 2026:
Base case – $2.45 (50%) Bull case – $2.69 (30%) Bear case – $1.60 (-16%)
XRP Enters 2026 with Market-driven Price Discovery
Looking ahead to 2026, XRP finds itself at a crucial turning point. The cryptocurrency has entered a phase of market-driven price discovery, having shed the legal overhang that previously weighed on its value. According to 21Shares, XRP’s price is now determined by institutional fundamentals rather than speculative hype or regulatory uncertainty.
With legal clarity now achieved, XRP can focus on its true utility within the cryptocurrency ecosystem. The firm compares the token’s potential to Ethereum‘s trajectory between 2017 and 2018, when DeFi projects propelled its price due to proven use cases. This shift from speculative volatility to practical value could lay the groundwork for XRP’s breakout in 2026.
The post XRP Price Prediction for 2026: Bull and Bear Scenarios Explained appeared first on Blockonomi.
Coinbase plans to participate in the Trump Accounts program by matching the $1,000 government contribution for eligible children of its employees.
The company aims to make its contribution in Bitcoin, marking a shift from traditional financial assets.
Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong highlighted the importance of early investment and financial literacy for children.
Other major financial institutions, including Bank of America and JPMorgan Chase, have also pledged to match the $1,000 deposit.
Trump Accounts will launch in July 2026, with sign-ups and documentation processes starting in the spring of that year.
Coinbase announced its plans to participate in President Donald Trump’s newly launched Trump Accounts program, a new initiative designed to provide U.S. children with financial support. The company intends to match the federal government’s $1,000 deposit for eligible children of its employees, but with a twist. Coinbase plans to deliver its contribution in Bitcoin, instead of traditional financial assets.
Coinbase Supports Trump Accounts Initiative
Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong shared the company’s intentions to support the Trump Accounts initiative, a new financial program for children. The initiative offers a $1,000 deposit from the federal government to U.S. citizens born between 2025 and 2028. Armstrong stated that Coinbase is committed to matching the $1,000 for eligible children of its employees, in line with the government’s plan.
“We’re proud to join @POTUS’s initiative by matching the $1,000 from the U.S. Treasury for all eligible children of Coinbase employees,” Armstrong posted on social media. He emphasized the importance of early investment, pointing out that “starting to invest early is more important than ever” for financial security and literacy.
Starting to invest early is more important than ever. @TrumpAccounts is a great move to kick-start financial security + literacy for children.
We're proud to join @POTUS's initiative by matching the $1k from the U.S. Treasury for all eligible children of Coinbase employees.… https://t.co/TSXOhTMHXc
— Brian Armstrong (@brian_armstrong) January 28, 2026
Coinbase’s move marks a new approach, as it considers delivering its $1,000 matching contribution in Bitcoin. Armstrong expressed his hope that the company could pay the $1,000 in cryptocurrency, pushing further into the financial mainstream.
Private Sector Joins Trump Accounts Movement
Coinbase joins several large financial institutions in supporting the Trump Accounts program. Both Bank of America and JPMorgan Chase have already committed to matching the government’s $1,000 contribution for eligible children. These institutions are also offering additional perks, such as pretax payroll deductions, to encourage employee participation.
The Trump Accounts program, part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, qualifies U.S. citizen babies born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028, for an automatic $1,000 government deposit into a tax-advantaged account. These accounts must be invested in low-fee, diversified U.S. stock index funds and are locked until the child reaches the age of 18. At that point, the funds can be used for education, home purchases, or starting a business.
Philanthropists, such as rapper Nicki Minaj, have also pledged support for Trump Accounts. Minaj specifically promised to contribute to children in underserved communities, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy for future generations.
Parents will be able to open Trump Accounts starting in July 2026. Sign-ups and documentation processes for the program are expected to begin in the spring of 2026. With participation from major financial players like Coinbase and traditional banks, the private sector is preparing to integrate this initiative into their employee benefits programs.
The post Coinbase Joins Trump Accounts Program, Plans Bitcoin Contributions appeared first on Blockonomi.
South Korea Sets 5 Billion KRW Capital Requirement for Stablecoin Issuers Under New Digital Asset...
TLDR:
South Korea’s Democratic Party will submit the Digital Asset Basic Law before Lunar New Year holiday begins.
Stablecoin issuers must maintain minimum statutory capital of 5 billion KRW, mirroring electronic money rules.
New Virtual Asset Committee will be chaired by Financial Services Commission with inter-ministerial members.
Committee will provide rapid response mechanism for market disruptions including hacks and system failures.
South Korea’s Democratic Party has completed preparations for comprehensive cryptocurrency legislation ahead of the Lunar New Year.
The Digital Asset Basic Law establishes clear requirements for stablecoin issuers, including a minimum capital of 5 billion KRW.
A new Virtual Asset Committee will oversee market operations and emergency responses. The legislative push represents a significant step toward the formal integration of digital assets into the country’s financial system.
Stablecoin Issuers Face Capital Requirements
The Democratic Party’s Digital Asset Task Force convened its second plenary session on January 28 at the National Assembly Hall. Representative Lee Jung-moon chairs the task force responsible for finalizing the legislative framework.
The group reached consensus on establishing 5 billion won as the minimum statutory capital for entities seeking to issue stablecoins.
Representative Ahn Do-geol confirmed the capital requirement decision during a briefing following the meeting. “We agreed to set the legal capital requirement for stablecoin issuers at least 5 billion won,” Ahn stated.
The 5 billion won threshold mirrors existing regulations under the Electronic Financial Transactions Act. Electronic money businesses currently operate under this same capital standard.
Lawmakers justified the requirement by citing functional similarities between stablecoins and electronic money products. The task force plans to submit the bill for deliberation before the Lunar New Year holiday begins.
Party policy committees and government authorities will conduct final coordination on outstanding issues. The legislative timeline reflects urgency in establishing regulatory clarity for the virtual asset market.
Some elements remain unresolved pending further discussion. The Bank of Korea’s jurisdictional scope requires additional deliberation among stakeholders.
Restrictions on major shareholder ownership in stablecoin issuers also need policy committee review. These sensitive matters will be addressed through subsequent coordination efforts.
Virtual Asset Committee to Manage Market Risks
The legislation creates a new inter-ministerial body called the Virtual Asset Committee. The Financial Services Commission chairman will lead this consultative organization.
The Bank of Korea deputy governor will serve on the committee. The vice minister of the Ministry of Economy and Finance will also participate in committee operations.
The committee structure enables coordinated responses to market disruptions. Hacking incidents and system failures fall under the committee’s purview.
Members can convene quickly to address emerging threats to market stability. The arrangement facilitates communication between regulatory agencies and financial authorities.
The Digital Asset Basic Law represents the formal title for the comprehensive legislation. Previous discussions referred to the measure using various working titles.
The Democratic Party settled on this designation to reflect the law’s foundational nature. The name emphasizes the bill’s role in establishing basic principles for digital asset governance.
Market participants have awaited regulatory clarity on stablecoin operations. The legislation addresses issuance requirements and supervisory frameworks systematically.
The 5 billion won capital standard provides concrete guidance for prospective issuers. The Virtual Asset Committee offers institutional infrastructure for ongoing market oversight and risk management.
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WisdomTree Brings Complete Tokenized Funds Portfolio to Solana
TLDR
WisdomTree has expanded its tokenized funds offering to the Solana network, providing access to a full range of financial products.
Both institutional and retail investors can now mint, trade, and hold tokenized funds directly on Solana.
The tokenized products available include money market funds, equities, fixed income, and asset allocation strategies.
Users can access the funds through WisdomTree Connect and WisdomTree Prime platforms, with USDC on-ramp options.
Solana’s high transaction speed and low fees played a key role in WisdomTree’s decision to deploy on the network.
WisdomTree has expanded its tokenized funds offering to the Solana network, moving beyond Ethereum and other major chains. This development enables both institutional and retail investors to mint, trade, and hold WisdomTree’s entire range of tokenized products. These include money market products, equities, fixed income, and more, all structured as regulated exchange-traded offerings.
Expansion to Solana Provides More Access Points for Users
WisdomTree’s decision to bring its full suite of tokenized funds to Solana reflects a growing demand for accessible blockchain-based financial products. By deploying these funds across multiple blockchains, the firm aims to reach a broader audience while maintaining compliance standards. Users can now access these funds through WisdomTree Connect and WisdomTree Prime platforms, offering seamless on-chain participation.
For investors, the integration with Solana provides a unique advantage. It allows users to mint and trade tokenized products directly on Solana, a blockchain known for its high throughput and low transaction costs. As part of the expansion, users can also on-ramp USDC directly from Solana into these platforms, enabling stablecoin-based subscriptions to regulated products. This setup aligns with the broader trend of allowing crypto-native users to access regulated assets without relying on traditional cash systems.
WisdomTree Leverages Solana’s High Throughput and Low Fees
Solana’s infrastructure was a key factor in WisdomTree’s choice to expand onto the network. The blockchain’s high transaction speed and cost-effectiveness were critical in scaling the tokenized fund products. Nick Ducoff, head of institutional growth at the Solana Foundation, emphasized that the network’s ability to support growing demand at scale made it an attractive option for WisdomTree.
Solana now ranks as the fourth-largest network for distributed tokenized assets. According to RWA.xyz data, it holds around $1.3 billion in on-chain RWA value, accounting for roughly 5.6% of the total distributed asset market share. While Ethereum still dominates this space with over 60% market share, Solana’s increasing adoption for tokenized products reflects its competitive edge in transaction speed and cost efficiency.
WisdomTree has been a leader in tokenizing traditional assets, using blockchain technology to extend existing financial products. The move to Solana builds on this model, making the entire range of tokenized funds available rather than creating separate crypto-only offerings. This approach contrasts with the traditional method of issuing isolated pilot programs, positioning WisdomTree as a forward-thinking player in the financial blockchain ecosystem.
The post WisdomTree Brings Complete Tokenized Funds Portfolio to Solana appeared first on Blockonomi.
Coinbase Membentuk Dewan Penasihat untuk Mengatasi Ancaman Komputasi Kuantum terhadap Keamanan Blockchain
TLDR:
Coinbase mengundang enam ahli terkenal dunia untuk menilai risiko komputasi kuantum terhadap sistem kriptografi blockchain.
Dewan penasihat akan menerbitkan makalah posisi dan memberikan analisis waktu nyata tentang terobosan komputasi kuantum.
Kriptografi kurva eliptik Bitcoin dan Ethereum dapat menghadapi tantangan dari komputer kuantum skala besar di masa depan.
Coinbase memperbarui penanganan alamat Bitcoin dan mengembangkan skema tanda tangan pasca-kuantum seperti ML-DSA untuk perlindungan.
Coinbase telah membentuk dewan penasihat independen yang terdiri dari para ahli terkemuka dalam komputasi kuantum dan kriptografi untuk mengevaluasi potensi risiko keamanan pada sistem blockchain.