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Fed Plans Dollar-Yen Moves: What It Means for Crypto
TLDR:
Fed may sell dollars and buy yen, a rare move not seen this century.
Coordinated U.S.-Japan interventions historically boost global liquidity and assets.
Bitcoin has strong inverse correlation with the dollar and may benefit long-term.
Yen strength poses short-term risk, but dollar weakness favors crypto growth.
The U.S. Federal Reserve is reportedly preparing to sell dollars and buy Japanese yen, marking a rare move not seen this century. The New York Fed has conducted rate checks, a key step that typically precedes currency intervention.
This coordinated action could affect global markets, as Japan has faced persistent pressure on its currency.
Analysts note that historical instances of joint interventions often lead to a surge in global asset prices, including cryptocurrencies.
Coordinated Intervention and Historical Precedents
Japan has attempted to stabilize its currency independently in recent years, with limited success. Previous solo interventions in 2022 and 2024 failed to maintain long-term yen strength.
A July 2024 intervention provided only temporary support, demonstrating the challenges of acting alone.
Historical examples, including the 1998 Asian Financial Crisis, show that when the U.S. and Japan act together, the yen stabilizes more effectively.
The 1985 Plaza Accord provides another reference point. Coordinated action between major economies reduced the dollar nearly 50% over two years.
This shift influenced multiple markets, strengthening commodities, gold, and non-U.S. assets. Such coordinated measures show that joint interventions can create liquidity and drive asset performance.
Current conditions place Japan under pressure due to weak yen levels and multi-decade high Japanese bond yields.
The Bank of Japan continues with hawkish policies, adding stress to markets. The potential for U.S. intervention increases global attention, with central banks monitoring the situation closely.
Reports from Bull Theory suggest that U.S. and Japanese coordination could mirror past patterns. The Fed would create dollars, sell them, and purchase yen, weakening the dollar.
THE FED IS PREPARING TO SELL U.S. DOLLARS AND BUY JAPANESE YEN FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS CENTURY.
The New York Fed has already done rate checks, which is the exact step taken before real currency intervention. That means the U.S. is preparing to sell dollars and buy yen.
This… pic.twitter.com/7xFReOFoDo
— Bull Theory (@BullTheoryio) January 25, 2026
This strategy historically increases global liquidity, creating opportunities for asset appreciation.
Potential Effects on Crypto Markets
Cryptocurrencies could experience both short-term risks and long-term gains from such interventions.
Bitcoin, for example, has a strong inverse correlation with the dollar and a positive relationship with the yen. Bull Theory notes that BTC/yen correlation is near record highs, which could affect trading dynamics.
Carry trades using yen represent another factor. Investors borrow yen to invest in stocks and crypto. If the yen strengthens suddenly, these positions could face forced liquidation.
August 2024 provides an example, when a small BOJ rate hike pushed the yen higher, causing Bitcoin to drop from $64,000 to $49,000 in six days.
Dollar weakness, however, creates a favorable environment for assets undervalued relative to macroeconomic shifts. Bitcoin remains below its 2025 peak and could attract capital seeking protection from dollar depreciation.
Historical patterns suggest that assets such as crypto respond positively when liquidity rises after currency interventions.
If the Fed and Japan proceed with coordinated intervention, markets may enter a period of higher volatility followed by increased asset flows.
Traders and investors are advised to monitor yen strength and global liquidity conditions. The combination of short-term adjustments and long-term dollar weakening could support crypto appreciation over time.
The post Fed Plans Dollar-Yen Moves: What It Means for Crypto appeared first on Blockonomi.
Fed may sell dollars and buy yen, a rare move not seen this century.
Coordinated U.S.-Japan interventions historically boost global liquidity and assets.
Bitcoin has strong inverse correlation with the dollar and may benefit long-term.
Yen strength poses short-term risk, but dollar weakness favors crypto growth.
The U.S. Federal Reserve is reportedly preparing to sell dollars and buy Japanese yen, marking a rare move not seen this century. The New York Fed has conducted rate checks, a key step that typically precedes currency intervention.
This coordinated action could affect global markets, as Japan has faced persistent pressure on its currency.
Analysts note that historical instances of joint interventions often lead to a surge in global asset prices, including cryptocurrencies.
Coordinated Intervention and Historical Precedents
Japan has attempted to stabilize its currency independently in recent years, with limited success. Previous solo interventions in 2022 and 2024 failed to maintain long-term yen strength.
A July 2024 intervention provided only temporary support, demonstrating the challenges of acting alone.
Historical examples, including the 1998 Asian Financial Crisis, show that when the U.S. and Japan act together, the yen stabilizes more effectively.
The 1985 Plaza Accord provides another reference point. Coordinated action between major economies reduced the dollar nearly 50% over two years.
This shift influenced multiple markets, strengthening commodities, gold, and non-U.S. assets. Such coordinated measures show that joint interventions can create liquidity and drive asset performance.
Current conditions place Japan under pressure due to weak yen levels and multi-decade high Japanese bond yields.
The Bank of Japan continues with hawkish policies, adding stress to markets. The potential for U.S. intervention increases global attention, with central banks monitoring the situation closely.
Reports from Bull Theory suggest that U.S. and Japanese coordination could mirror past patterns. The Fed would create dollars, sell them, and purchase yen, weakening the dollar.
THE FED IS PREPARING TO SELL U.S. DOLLARS AND BUY JAPANESE YEN FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS CENTURY.
The New York Fed has already done rate checks, which is the exact step taken before real currency intervention. That means the U.S. is preparing to sell dollars and buy yen.
This… pic.twitter.com/7xFReOFoDo
— Bull Theory (@BullTheoryio) January 25, 2026
This strategy historically increases global liquidity, creating opportunities for asset appreciation.
Potential Effects on Crypto Markets
Cryptocurrencies could experience both short-term risks and long-term gains from such interventions.
Bitcoin, for example, has a strong inverse correlation with the dollar and a positive relationship with the yen. Bull Theory notes that BTC/yen correlation is near record highs, which could affect trading dynamics.
Carry trades using yen represent another factor. Investors borrow yen to invest in stocks and crypto. If the yen strengthens suddenly, these positions could face forced liquidation.
August 2024 provides an example, when a small BOJ rate hike pushed the yen higher, causing Bitcoin to drop from $64,000 to $49,000 in six days.
Dollar weakness, however, creates a favorable environment for assets undervalued relative to macroeconomic shifts. Bitcoin remains below its 2025 peak and could attract capital seeking protection from dollar depreciation.
Historical patterns suggest that assets such as crypto respond positively when liquidity rises after currency interventions.
If the Fed and Japan proceed with coordinated intervention, markets may enter a period of higher volatility followed by increased asset flows.
Traders and investors are advised to monitor yen strength and global liquidity conditions. The combination of short-term adjustments and long-term dollar weakening could support crypto appreciation over time.
The post Fed Plans Dollar-Yen Moves: What It Means for Crypto appeared first on Blockonomi.
Ripple and Ondo Partnership Speculation Fuels Institutional Yield Narrative on XRP Ledger
TLDR:
Commentary suggests RLUSD and Ondo’s USDY could integrate to provide yield utility on the XRP Ledger.
Ripple Custody via Metaco is viewed as a potential trust layer for Ondo’s tokenized treasury assets.
Native deployment of Ondo products on XRPL could enable continuous minting and redemption cycles.
Technical market analysis links XRP price structure narratives with expanding ecosystem expectations.
Ripple and Ondo partnership discussions are gaining attention as market participants assess potential developments tied to the upcoming Ondo Summit.
Recent commentary suggests that Ripple and Ondo Finance may be aligning strategies around institutional yield, tokenized treasuries, and stablecoin infrastructure.
While no formal announcement has been made, the scenario reflects broader trends in digital asset markets.
These trends include regulated yield products, on-chain settlement efficiency, and institutional-grade custody frameworks.
Observers are closely monitoring signals from both ecosystems as expectations build.
Institutional Yield Pathways on the XRP Ledger
Ripple and Ondo partnership speculation intensified following commentary shared by market analyst Paul Barron on X.
His assessment outlined a potential integration between Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin and Ondo’s yield-bearing USDY product.
Such a structure would position RLUSD as a transactional asset, with USDY providing yield access when capital is idle.
https://t.co/mwjcjD31ir
— PaulBarron (@paulbarron) January 24, 2026
This configuration aligns with Ripple’s stated objective of expanding utility for RLUSD beyond payments alone.
Yield functionality remains a key adoption driver among institutional users seeking capital efficiency.
Ondo, in parallel, continues to prioritize distribution for its regulated yield products across established blockchain networks.
Within this framework, the XRP Ledger would function as the settlement layer supporting instant swaps between RLUSD and USDY.
The structure relies on existing XRPL liquidity mechanics rather than experimental tooling. As a result, the proposal fits within current infrastructure constraints while targeting institutional use cases.
Custody and Native Asset Deployment Signals
Ripple and Ondo partnership narratives also reference Ripple Custody, formerly known as Metaco, as a possible integration layer.
Barron suggested that Ondo could custody a portion of its tokenized treasury reserves through Ripple’s institutional custody platform. This approach would mirror custody models already familiar to global banking participants.
The use of a shared custody provider would address operational risk considerations for institutions evaluating tokenized treasuries.
Banks currently using Metaco infrastructure may view such alignment as operationally consistent. This creates continuity rather than introducing new custodial dependencies.
Further speculation centers on a native deployment of Ondo’s OUSG and USDY on the XRP Ledger. Such a deployment would enable continuous minting and redemption using XRP or RLUSD.
The structure would also demonstrate real-time settlement advantages compared with legacy treasury settlement cycles.
Market Structure Narratives and Price Expectations
Separate commentary from EGRAG CRYPTO introduced a technical perspective focused on XRP price structure.
The analyst referenced recurring macro formations that historically resolved through measured moves. According to the post, a fourth structural pattern is currently forming within similar parameters.
#XRP – $42 Target Isn’t Hopium. It’s Structure:
Everyone in the #XRPFamily needs to see this setup.
Why 42?
Because in some philosophy and culture, 42 represents the answer to life, truth, and meaning.
In markets? It becomes a symbol of convergence between math, structure,… pic.twitter.com/wbTWHCSrGU
— EGRAG CRYPTO (@egragcrypto) January 24, 2026
The analysis framed a long-term price pathway toward a $42 level based on symmetry and duration patterns.
The commentary emphasized that the projection was structural rather than guaranteed. This distinction positioned the analysis within technical modeling rather than price promotion.
While speculative, such narratives often gain traction alongside ecosystem expansion themes. Ripple and Ondo partnership discussions contribute to broader attention on XRP Ledger utility.
Market participants continue to weigh structural analysis alongside fundamental developments as expectations evolve.
The post Ripple and Ondo Partnership Speculation Fuels Institutional Yield Narrative on XRP Ledger appeared first on Blockonomi.
Commentary suggests RLUSD and Ondo’s USDY could integrate to provide yield utility on the XRP Ledger.
Ripple Custody via Metaco is viewed as a potential trust layer for Ondo’s tokenized treasury assets.
Native deployment of Ondo products on XRPL could enable continuous minting and redemption cycles.
Technical market analysis links XRP price structure narratives with expanding ecosystem expectations.
Ripple and Ondo partnership discussions are gaining attention as market participants assess potential developments tied to the upcoming Ondo Summit.
Recent commentary suggests that Ripple and Ondo Finance may be aligning strategies around institutional yield, tokenized treasuries, and stablecoin infrastructure.
While no formal announcement has been made, the scenario reflects broader trends in digital asset markets.
These trends include regulated yield products, on-chain settlement efficiency, and institutional-grade custody frameworks.
Observers are closely monitoring signals from both ecosystems as expectations build.
Institutional Yield Pathways on the XRP Ledger
Ripple and Ondo partnership speculation intensified following commentary shared by market analyst Paul Barron on X.
His assessment outlined a potential integration between Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin and Ondo’s yield-bearing USDY product.
Such a structure would position RLUSD as a transactional asset, with USDY providing yield access when capital is idle.
https://t.co/mwjcjD31ir
— PaulBarron (@paulbarron) January 24, 2026
This configuration aligns with Ripple’s stated objective of expanding utility for RLUSD beyond payments alone.
Yield functionality remains a key adoption driver among institutional users seeking capital efficiency.
Ondo, in parallel, continues to prioritize distribution for its regulated yield products across established blockchain networks.
Within this framework, the XRP Ledger would function as the settlement layer supporting instant swaps between RLUSD and USDY.
The structure relies on existing XRPL liquidity mechanics rather than experimental tooling. As a result, the proposal fits within current infrastructure constraints while targeting institutional use cases.
Custody and Native Asset Deployment Signals
Ripple and Ondo partnership narratives also reference Ripple Custody, formerly known as Metaco, as a possible integration layer.
Barron suggested that Ondo could custody a portion of its tokenized treasury reserves through Ripple’s institutional custody platform. This approach would mirror custody models already familiar to global banking participants.
The use of a shared custody provider would address operational risk considerations for institutions evaluating tokenized treasuries.
Banks currently using Metaco infrastructure may view such alignment as operationally consistent. This creates continuity rather than introducing new custodial dependencies.
Further speculation centers on a native deployment of Ondo’s OUSG and USDY on the XRP Ledger. Such a deployment would enable continuous minting and redemption using XRP or RLUSD.
The structure would also demonstrate real-time settlement advantages compared with legacy treasury settlement cycles.
Market Structure Narratives and Price Expectations
Separate commentary from EGRAG CRYPTO introduced a technical perspective focused on XRP price structure.
The analyst referenced recurring macro formations that historically resolved through measured moves. According to the post, a fourth structural pattern is currently forming within similar parameters.
#XRP – $42 Target Isn’t Hopium. It’s Structure:
Everyone in the #XRPFamily needs to see this setup.
Why 42?
Because in some philosophy and culture, 42 represents the answer to life, truth, and meaning.
In markets? It becomes a symbol of convergence between math, structure,… pic.twitter.com/wbTWHCSrGU
— EGRAG CRYPTO (@egragcrypto) January 24, 2026
The analysis framed a long-term price pathway toward a $42 level based on symmetry and duration patterns.
The commentary emphasized that the projection was structural rather than guaranteed. This distinction positioned the analysis within technical modeling rather than price promotion.
While speculative, such narratives often gain traction alongside ecosystem expansion themes. Ripple and Ondo partnership discussions contribute to broader attention on XRP Ledger utility.
Market participants continue to weigh structural analysis alongside fundamental developments as expectations evolve.
The post Ripple and Ondo Partnership Speculation Fuels Institutional Yield Narrative on XRP Ledger appeared first on Blockonomi.
Ethereum Holds $3,000 as Derivatives Liquidity Concentrates on Binance, Signaling Strategic Accum...
TLDR:
Ethereum’s stability near $3,000 shows the market absorbed deleveraging without forced liquidations.
Total ETH derivatives open interest fell to $16.9B, reflecting reduced leverage across exchanges.
Binance open interest remains elevated, indicating liquidity concentration on the deepest venue.
Analysts view the consolidation phase as long-term accumulation ahead of a major expansion move.
Ethereum has maintained stability around the $3,000 level while open interest across derivatives platforms undergoes a significant redistribution, revealing shifting trader behavior in the current market environment.
Market Positioning Reflects Strategic Accumulation Phase
Veteran analyst Scient from Crypto_Scient has identified Ethereum as presenting one of the strongest technical setups in the cryptocurrency sector.
The analyst outlined a long-term accumulation strategy targeting price levels between $1,900 and $2,000.
This approach centers on building positions during the current consolidation phase rather than pursuing short-term leveraged trades.
According to Scient’s assessment, the market appears to be experiencing a period of reduced liquidity and sideways movement.
$ETH
Arguably the best chart in the crypto market.
This year, my focus is on accumulating ETH on dips, ideally all the way down into the $1900–$2000 zone if the market gives the opportunity.
Markets might feel boring and illiquid right now, but once this phase ends, the next… pic.twitter.com/BTkgqUOego
— Scient (@Crypto_Scient) January 24, 2026
However, this phase typically precedes stronger expansionary moves. The timeframe for this thesis extends 12 to 18 months into the future.
Market participants should prepare for substantial upward momentum once the consolidation period concludes.
The analyst emphasized that current market conditions may feel uneventful to traders accustomed to high volatility. Yet the foundation being built during this time could support a rally surpassing previous cycles.
The comparison to traditional assets like metals suggests the anticipated move could exceed conventional market expectations.
Whether the current choppy trading environment persists for another month or extends six months remains uncertain.
Nonetheless, the technical structure supports an eventual bullish phase of considerable magnitude.
Derivatives Data Reveals Concentrated Liquidity on Binance
Recent analysis from Arab Chain highlights a notable divergence in Ethereum derivatives markets across different trading platforms.
Total open interest has declined to approximately $16.9 billion, marking the lowest reading since mid-December.
This reduction indicates traders have been unwinding leveraged positions across the broader derivatives ecosystem.
Binance data presents a contrasting picture with current open interest hovering around $7.5 billion. This figure exceeds the December average range of $6.8 to $7.4 billion.
The discrepancy between overall market trends and Binance-specific metrics points to a consolidation of trading activity.
Liquidity has not exited the derivatives market entirely but has migrated toward the exchange offering deeper order books.
Large traders appear to have reduced aggregate exposure while maintaining concentrated positions on the platform with superior pricing efficiency.
This behavior indicates sophisticated risk management rather than wholesale market abandonment.
Ethereum’s price stability near $3,000 throughout this deleveraging process demonstrates the market absorbed position closures without triggering cascading liquidations.
The absence of forced selling pressure suggests underlying demand remains robust. With Binance maintaining elevated open interest relative to December levels, an active derivatives base continues supporting potential directional moves.
The current market structure combines reduced overall leverage with concentrated liquidity on the primary exchange.
This configuration typically precedes periods of increased volatility once directional conviction returns to market participants.
The post Ethereum Holds $3,000 as Derivatives Liquidity Concentrates on Binance, Signaling Strategic Accumulation appeared first on Blockonomi.
Ethereum’s stability near $3,000 shows the market absorbed deleveraging without forced liquidations.
Total ETH derivatives open interest fell to $16.9B, reflecting reduced leverage across exchanges.
Binance open interest remains elevated, indicating liquidity concentration on the deepest venue.
Analysts view the consolidation phase as long-term accumulation ahead of a major expansion move.
Ethereum has maintained stability around the $3,000 level while open interest across derivatives platforms undergoes a significant redistribution, revealing shifting trader behavior in the current market environment.
Market Positioning Reflects Strategic Accumulation Phase
Veteran analyst Scient from Crypto_Scient has identified Ethereum as presenting one of the strongest technical setups in the cryptocurrency sector.
The analyst outlined a long-term accumulation strategy targeting price levels between $1,900 and $2,000.
This approach centers on building positions during the current consolidation phase rather than pursuing short-term leveraged trades.
According to Scient’s assessment, the market appears to be experiencing a period of reduced liquidity and sideways movement.
$ETH
Arguably the best chart in the crypto market.
This year, my focus is on accumulating ETH on dips, ideally all the way down into the $1900–$2000 zone if the market gives the opportunity.
Markets might feel boring and illiquid right now, but once this phase ends, the next… pic.twitter.com/BTkgqUOego
— Scient (@Crypto_Scient) January 24, 2026
However, this phase typically precedes stronger expansionary moves. The timeframe for this thesis extends 12 to 18 months into the future.
Market participants should prepare for substantial upward momentum once the consolidation period concludes.
The analyst emphasized that current market conditions may feel uneventful to traders accustomed to high volatility. Yet the foundation being built during this time could support a rally surpassing previous cycles.
The comparison to traditional assets like metals suggests the anticipated move could exceed conventional market expectations.
Whether the current choppy trading environment persists for another month or extends six months remains uncertain.
Nonetheless, the technical structure supports an eventual bullish phase of considerable magnitude.
Derivatives Data Reveals Concentrated Liquidity on Binance
Recent analysis from Arab Chain highlights a notable divergence in Ethereum derivatives markets across different trading platforms.
Total open interest has declined to approximately $16.9 billion, marking the lowest reading since mid-December.
This reduction indicates traders have been unwinding leveraged positions across the broader derivatives ecosystem.
Binance data presents a contrasting picture with current open interest hovering around $7.5 billion. This figure exceeds the December average range of $6.8 to $7.4 billion.
The discrepancy between overall market trends and Binance-specific metrics points to a consolidation of trading activity.
Liquidity has not exited the derivatives market entirely but has migrated toward the exchange offering deeper order books.
Large traders appear to have reduced aggregate exposure while maintaining concentrated positions on the platform with superior pricing efficiency.
This behavior indicates sophisticated risk management rather than wholesale market abandonment.
Ethereum’s price stability near $3,000 throughout this deleveraging process demonstrates the market absorbed position closures without triggering cascading liquidations.
The absence of forced selling pressure suggests underlying demand remains robust. With Binance maintaining elevated open interest relative to December levels, an active derivatives base continues supporting potential directional moves.
The current market structure combines reduced overall leverage with concentrated liquidity on the primary exchange.
This configuration typically precedes periods of increased volatility once directional conviction returns to market participants.
The post Ethereum Holds $3,000 as Derivatives Liquidity Concentrates on Binance, Signaling Strategic Accumulation appeared first on Blockonomi.
Analyst Debunks Gold-Bitcoin Correlation Myth, Explains Why Rotation Theory Fails
TLDR:
Gold and Bitcoin show no stable correlation across market cycles, often moving independently.
Gold functions as risk-off asset while Bitcoin operates as risk-on, driven by different factors.
Capital doesn’t rotate mechanically from gold to Bitcoin when precious metals peak, data shows.
Bitcoin rallies require liquidity expansion, not just rotation away from gold or other assets.
The relationship between gold and Bitcoin continues to spark debate among investors seeking clarity on how these assets interact.
Market analyst Washigorira recently challenged common assumptions about their correlation, arguing that many widely held beliefs about capital rotation between the two assets lack empirical foundation.
The analysis examines how gold and Bitcoin respond to different market conditions despite sharing a role as alternatives to traditional fiat currencies.
Understanding these dynamics becomes crucial as investors navigate increasingly complex macroeconomic environments where both assets coexist.
Different Risk Profiles Drive Asset Performance
Gold and Bitcoin operate on opposite ends of the risk spectrum, according to the analysis shared by Washigorira on social media.
“Gold is primarily a risk-off asset” that “reacts to uncertainty and loss of confidence,” while “Bitcoin is primarily a risk-on asset” that remains “highly sensitive to liquidity conditions,” the analyst noted.
https://t.co/37p2caJaxz
— Titan of Crypto (@Washigorira) January 24, 2026
The precious metal benefits from falling real interest rates and attracts capital seeking preservation during turbulent periods. Bitcoin, conversely, exhibits characteristics that thrive when financial conditions ease and liquidity expands.
The correlation between these assets varies significantly across different market regimes. Washigorira observed that “sometimes they move together, sometimes they diverge, and sometimes they even move in opposite directions.”
Historical data confirms that no stable relationship consistently holds across various market conditions. This variability undermines simplistic comparisons that treat gold and Bitcoin as interchangeable hedges against fiat currency devaluation.
Investors often assume that shared macro characteristics automatically create correlated price movements. “The usual shortcut goes like this: Gold is a hedge against fiat, Bitcoin is a hedge against fiat.
Therefore, capital should rotate from one to the other,” Washigorira explained. This reasoning ignores fundamental differences in how capital actually flows through markets. While both assets may coexist in the same economic environment, they respond to distinct incentives and catalysts.
The distinction between these drivers explains why rotation theories fail to materialize consistently. Markets do not operate through mechanical transfers of capital from one asset class to another.
Instead, investor behavior reflects complex decision-making processes influenced by multiple factors beyond simple hedging considerations. The analyst emphasized that “sharing a broad macro backdrop does not mean reacting to the same incentives.”
Liquidity Conditions Matter More Than Rotation Theories
The popular narrative suggesting that Bitcoin rallies automatically follow gold peaks oversimplifies actual market dynamics. Washigorira points out that after gold reaches a top, “capital often moves first into cash, bonds, or equities” rather than directly into Bitcoin.
The cryptocurrency requires liquidity expansion to generate sustained rallies, not merely rotation away from precious metals. “Bitcoin does not benefit mechanically from a gold top,” the analyst stated, adding that a gold peak alone does not provide sufficient conditions for Bitcoin price appreciation.
Understanding the indirect relationship between these assets offers a more reliable analytical framework. “Gold strength usually reflects stress and uncertainty,” while “Bitcoin strength usually reflects easing conditions and rising risk appetite,” according to the analysis. While they occasionally move together, timing differences frequently emerge between the two assets.
“Gold leads during stress phases when investors seek safety and capital preservation,” Washigorira explained. Bitcoin responds later when liquidity returns to financial markets and speculative appetite increases.
These different timelines result from fundamentally different macro engines driving each asset’s performance. The relationship proves indirect rather than rotational in nature.
The analysis emphasizes that lack of correlation does not equal inverse correlation. “A common misconception is that if two assets are not correlated, they must be inversely correlated. That is not how correlations work,” Washigorira clarified.
Periods where gold outperforms while Bitcoin underperforms occur regularly, but these episodes reflect conditional rather than structural relationships.
Investors who expect mechanical inverse movements misunderstand how asset correlations function in practice. Both assets deserve monitoring, but only when analysts correctly identify what economic forces each one actually responds to in real market conditions.
The post Analyst Debunks Gold-Bitcoin Correlation Myth, Explains Why Rotation Theory Fails appeared first on Blockonomi.
Gold and Bitcoin show no stable correlation across market cycles, often moving independently.
Gold functions as risk-off asset while Bitcoin operates as risk-on, driven by different factors.
Capital doesn’t rotate mechanically from gold to Bitcoin when precious metals peak, data shows.
Bitcoin rallies require liquidity expansion, not just rotation away from gold or other assets.
The relationship between gold and Bitcoin continues to spark debate among investors seeking clarity on how these assets interact.
Market analyst Washigorira recently challenged common assumptions about their correlation, arguing that many widely held beliefs about capital rotation between the two assets lack empirical foundation.
The analysis examines how gold and Bitcoin respond to different market conditions despite sharing a role as alternatives to traditional fiat currencies.
Understanding these dynamics becomes crucial as investors navigate increasingly complex macroeconomic environments where both assets coexist.
Different Risk Profiles Drive Asset Performance
Gold and Bitcoin operate on opposite ends of the risk spectrum, according to the analysis shared by Washigorira on social media.
“Gold is primarily a risk-off asset” that “reacts to uncertainty and loss of confidence,” while “Bitcoin is primarily a risk-on asset” that remains “highly sensitive to liquidity conditions,” the analyst noted.
https://t.co/37p2caJaxz
— Titan of Crypto (@Washigorira) January 24, 2026
The precious metal benefits from falling real interest rates and attracts capital seeking preservation during turbulent periods. Bitcoin, conversely, exhibits characteristics that thrive when financial conditions ease and liquidity expands.
The correlation between these assets varies significantly across different market regimes. Washigorira observed that “sometimes they move together, sometimes they diverge, and sometimes they even move in opposite directions.”
Historical data confirms that no stable relationship consistently holds across various market conditions. This variability undermines simplistic comparisons that treat gold and Bitcoin as interchangeable hedges against fiat currency devaluation.
Investors often assume that shared macro characteristics automatically create correlated price movements. “The usual shortcut goes like this: Gold is a hedge against fiat, Bitcoin is a hedge against fiat.
Therefore, capital should rotate from one to the other,” Washigorira explained. This reasoning ignores fundamental differences in how capital actually flows through markets. While both assets may coexist in the same economic environment, they respond to distinct incentives and catalysts.
The distinction between these drivers explains why rotation theories fail to materialize consistently. Markets do not operate through mechanical transfers of capital from one asset class to another.
Instead, investor behavior reflects complex decision-making processes influenced by multiple factors beyond simple hedging considerations. The analyst emphasized that “sharing a broad macro backdrop does not mean reacting to the same incentives.”
Liquidity Conditions Matter More Than Rotation Theories
The popular narrative suggesting that Bitcoin rallies automatically follow gold peaks oversimplifies actual market dynamics. Washigorira points out that after gold reaches a top, “capital often moves first into cash, bonds, or equities” rather than directly into Bitcoin.
The cryptocurrency requires liquidity expansion to generate sustained rallies, not merely rotation away from precious metals. “Bitcoin does not benefit mechanically from a gold top,” the analyst stated, adding that a gold peak alone does not provide sufficient conditions for Bitcoin price appreciation.
Understanding the indirect relationship between these assets offers a more reliable analytical framework. “Gold strength usually reflects stress and uncertainty,” while “Bitcoin strength usually reflects easing conditions and rising risk appetite,” according to the analysis. While they occasionally move together, timing differences frequently emerge between the two assets.
“Gold leads during stress phases when investors seek safety and capital preservation,” Washigorira explained. Bitcoin responds later when liquidity returns to financial markets and speculative appetite increases.
These different timelines result from fundamentally different macro engines driving each asset’s performance. The relationship proves indirect rather than rotational in nature.
The analysis emphasizes that lack of correlation does not equal inverse correlation. “A common misconception is that if two assets are not correlated, they must be inversely correlated. That is not how correlations work,” Washigorira clarified.
Periods where gold outperforms while Bitcoin underperforms occur regularly, but these episodes reflect conditional rather than structural relationships.
Investors who expect mechanical inverse movements misunderstand how asset correlations function in practice. Both assets deserve monitoring, but only when analysts correctly identify what economic forces each one actually responds to in real market conditions.
The post Analyst Debunks Gold-Bitcoin Correlation Myth, Explains Why Rotation Theory Fails appeared first on Blockonomi.
Colombia’s AFP Protección Launches Bitcoin Fund for Qualified Pension Investors
TLDR:
AFP Protección manages $55 billion across 8.5 million customers in Colombia’s pension market
Bitcoin fund requires personalized advisory and targets long-term diversification, not speculation
Colombia’s mandatory pension market reached 527.3 trillion pesos with 48.8% invested abroad
Protección follows Skandia as second major administrator offering Bitcoin pension exposure
Colombia’s second-largest pension fund manager AFP Protección plans to launch a Bitcoin exposure fund focused on long-term diversification.
The fund will be available to risk-qualified investors via personalized advisory, allowing limited BTC allocation. Protección manages about $55 billion in assets.
The company becomes the second major administrator in Colombia to offer such products, following Skandia’s September 2025 initiative.
Colombia’s second-largest pension fund manager AFP Protección plans to launch a Bitcoin (BTC) exposure fund focused on long-term diversification. The fund will be available to risk-qualified investors via personalized advisory, allowing limited BTC allocation. Protección manages…
— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) January 25, 2026
Strategic Approach to Digital Asset Integration
AFP Protección has designed its Bitcoin fund with a controlled and measured framework. Juan David Correa, president of the company, confirmed the initiative during a recent interview with Valora Analitik.
Access requires personalized advisory sessions to evaluate each investor’s risk tolerance and financial objectives. Only those meeting specific criteria can allocate portfolio percentages to Bitcoin.
The fund targets long-term diversification rather than short-term speculation or quick profits. Correa emphasized that “the most important element is diversification” when discussing the initiative.
Qualified participants will have the option to expose portions of their portfolios to digital assets. The approach reflects careful consideration of market volatility and regulatory requirements within Colombia’s financial system.
Protección manages approximately 8.5 million customers across mandatory pensions, voluntary pensions, and severance payments.
The company’s total assets under management exceed 220 trillion pesos. These figures position Protección as a major player in Colombia’s pension industry.
The new Bitcoin fund initially serves voluntary participants and customized allocations.
The mandatory pension market in Colombia reached 527.3 trillion pesos in November 2025. Nearly 48.8% of these funds are invested internationally.
Protección’s Bitcoin offering does not target mandatory savings at this stage. The company maintains focus on qualified investors with appropriate risk profiles.
Limited Scope Within Traditional Investment Framework
The new fund represents measured progress in Colombia’s financial sector evolution. Skandia Administradora de Fondos de Pensiones y Cesantías launched similar Bitcoin exposure options in September 2025.
Protección’s entry confirms growing institutional interest in digital assets among pension managers. The trend suggests gradual acceptance within private pension management.
Colombian pension funds continue investing predominantly in traditional assets. Fixed income securities and equities remain the core holdings.
Bitcoin exposure accounts for a small fraction of overall portfolio allocations. This conservative approach balances innovation with fiduciary responsibility.
The personalized advisory requirement ensures investor protection. Each participant undergoes risk assessment before accessing Bitcoin exposure.
The process aligns with regulatory expectations and industry best practices. Correa stated that “those people who can participate will find a space for a percentage of their portfolio, if they wish, to be exposed to this type of asset.”
The initiative expands options for qualified Colombian investors seeking exposure to digital assets. It does not indicate wholesale transformation of pension savings strategies in the country.
Traditional asset classes maintain their dominant position in portfolio construction and allocation. Bitcoin serves as an additional diversification tool for appropriate investor segments who meet risk criteria.
The post Colombia’s AFP Protección Launches Bitcoin Fund for Qualified Pension Investors appeared first on Blockonomi.
AFP Protección manages $55 billion across 8.5 million customers in Colombia’s pension market
Bitcoin fund requires personalized advisory and targets long-term diversification, not speculation
Colombia’s mandatory pension market reached 527.3 trillion pesos with 48.8% invested abroad
Protección follows Skandia as second major administrator offering Bitcoin pension exposure
Colombia’s second-largest pension fund manager AFP Protección plans to launch a Bitcoin exposure fund focused on long-term diversification.
The fund will be available to risk-qualified investors via personalized advisory, allowing limited BTC allocation. Protección manages about $55 billion in assets.
The company becomes the second major administrator in Colombia to offer such products, following Skandia’s September 2025 initiative.
Colombia’s second-largest pension fund manager AFP Protección plans to launch a Bitcoin (BTC) exposure fund focused on long-term diversification. The fund will be available to risk-qualified investors via personalized advisory, allowing limited BTC allocation. Protección manages…
— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) January 25, 2026
Strategic Approach to Digital Asset Integration
AFP Protección has designed its Bitcoin fund with a controlled and measured framework. Juan David Correa, president of the company, confirmed the initiative during a recent interview with Valora Analitik.
Access requires personalized advisory sessions to evaluate each investor’s risk tolerance and financial objectives. Only those meeting specific criteria can allocate portfolio percentages to Bitcoin.
The fund targets long-term diversification rather than short-term speculation or quick profits. Correa emphasized that “the most important element is diversification” when discussing the initiative.
Qualified participants will have the option to expose portions of their portfolios to digital assets. The approach reflects careful consideration of market volatility and regulatory requirements within Colombia’s financial system.
Protección manages approximately 8.5 million customers across mandatory pensions, voluntary pensions, and severance payments.
The company’s total assets under management exceed 220 trillion pesos. These figures position Protección as a major player in Colombia’s pension industry.
The new Bitcoin fund initially serves voluntary participants and customized allocations.
The mandatory pension market in Colombia reached 527.3 trillion pesos in November 2025. Nearly 48.8% of these funds are invested internationally.
Protección’s Bitcoin offering does not target mandatory savings at this stage. The company maintains focus on qualified investors with appropriate risk profiles.
Limited Scope Within Traditional Investment Framework
The new fund represents measured progress in Colombia’s financial sector evolution. Skandia Administradora de Fondos de Pensiones y Cesantías launched similar Bitcoin exposure options in September 2025.
Protección’s entry confirms growing institutional interest in digital assets among pension managers. The trend suggests gradual acceptance within private pension management.
Colombian pension funds continue investing predominantly in traditional assets. Fixed income securities and equities remain the core holdings.
Bitcoin exposure accounts for a small fraction of overall portfolio allocations. This conservative approach balances innovation with fiduciary responsibility.
The personalized advisory requirement ensures investor protection. Each participant undergoes risk assessment before accessing Bitcoin exposure.
The process aligns with regulatory expectations and industry best practices. Correa stated that “those people who can participate will find a space for a percentage of their portfolio, if they wish, to be exposed to this type of asset.”
The initiative expands options for qualified Colombian investors seeking exposure to digital assets. It does not indicate wholesale transformation of pension savings strategies in the country.
Traditional asset classes maintain their dominant position in portfolio construction and allocation. Bitcoin serves as an additional diversification tool for appropriate investor segments who meet risk criteria.
The post Colombia’s AFP Protección Launches Bitcoin Fund for Qualified Pension Investors appeared first on Blockonomi.
Russia Bans WhiteBit Crypto Exchange Over Alleged $11M Ukraine Military Funding
TLDR:
Russia designated WhiteBit and parent company W Group as undesirable organizations under new ruling.
Exchange management allegedly transferred $11 million to Ukraine’s armed forces, including $0.9M for drone purchases.
WhiteBit accused of running gray schemes that enabled illegal withdrawal of funds from Russia’s borders.
Platform reportedly provides technical infrastructure support to United24’s cryptocurrency donation system.
WhiteBit, a prominent Ukrainian cryptocurrency exchange, has been classified as an undesirable organization by Russia’s Prosecutor General.
The designation extends to W Group, the exchange’s parent company, and all associated affiliates.
Russian authorities allege the platform facilitated illegal fund transfers from Russia and provided financial support to Ukraine’s military operations. The action represents another escalation in the ongoing tension between the two nations.
Exchange Accused of Facilitating Illegal Fund Transfers
Russia’s Prosecutor General’s Office claims WhiteBit enabled various unauthorized transactions through its platform. These activities allegedly included gray schemes designed to move money out of Russian territory.
The supervisory authority maintains that such operations violated current regulations governing financial transactions.
The designation affects not only WhiteBit but also encompasses W Group and its subsidiaries. Russian law enforcement believes the group’s websites served as channels for questionable financial activities.
Russia’s Prosecutor General has designated Ukrainian crypto exchange WhiteBit as an “undesirable organization,” alleging it was used to illegally move funds out of Russia and to finance Ukraine’s armed forces. The designation also covers WhiteBit’s parent company W Group and its…
— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) January 25, 2026
The platforms allegedly processed transactions that circumvented established legal frameworks. Such accusations form the basis of the undesirable organization classification.
WhiteBit began operations in 2018 under the leadership of Ukrainian entrepreneurs. The exchange has grown substantially since its inception.
Platform operators claim their user base exceeds 8 million individuals across various markets. Daily trading volumes reportedly reach $11 billion on spot markets and $40 billion on futures markets.
The exchange operates without registration in Russia under current cryptocurrency regulations. Russian authorities maintain that no crypto exchanges hold proper registration within their jurisdiction.
The Bank of Russia continues working on legislative amendments to regulate exchanges and crypto exchangers. These regulatory changes are expected to be finalized by July 1.
Alleged Military Support and Donation Platform Cooperation
Russian authorities assert WhiteBit’s management transferred approximately $11 million to Ukraine since 2022. The funds allegedly supported various military initiatives undertaken by Ukrainian forces.
Among these transfers, roughly $0.9 million reportedly went toward drone procurement. These claims form a central component of the Prosecutor General’s justification for the designation.
The Russian agency also highlighted WhiteBit’s partnership with Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This cooperation allegedly involved technical assistance to the United24 fundraising platform.
United24 operates as a donation channel accepting cryptocurrency contributions for Ukrainian needs. The platform collects digital assets to support various national initiatives.
Law enforcement officials believe WhiteBit provides ongoing technical infrastructure support to United24. This arrangement enables the fundraising platform to process cryptocurrency donations efficiently.
The collaboration between the exchange and government-affiliated entities raised concerns among Russian authorities. Such connections contributed to the decision to label the organization as undesirable.
Starting July 1, 2027, the Central Bank of the Russian Federation plans to implement penalties for unauthorized cryptocurrency intermediary activities.
These measures aim to establish accountability for platforms operating outside regulatory frameworks.
The initiative reflects broader efforts to control cryptocurrency-related operations within Russian borders. Authorities continue developing comprehensive oversight mechanisms for the digital asset sector.
The post Russia Bans WhiteBit Crypto Exchange Over Alleged $11M Ukraine Military Funding appeared first on Blockonomi.
Russia designated WhiteBit and parent company W Group as undesirable organizations under new ruling.
Exchange management allegedly transferred $11 million to Ukraine’s armed forces, including $0.9M for drone purchases.
WhiteBit accused of running gray schemes that enabled illegal withdrawal of funds from Russia’s borders.
Platform reportedly provides technical infrastructure support to United24’s cryptocurrency donation system.
WhiteBit, a prominent Ukrainian cryptocurrency exchange, has been classified as an undesirable organization by Russia’s Prosecutor General.
The designation extends to W Group, the exchange’s parent company, and all associated affiliates.
Russian authorities allege the platform facilitated illegal fund transfers from Russia and provided financial support to Ukraine’s military operations. The action represents another escalation in the ongoing tension between the two nations.
Exchange Accused of Facilitating Illegal Fund Transfers
Russia’s Prosecutor General’s Office claims WhiteBit enabled various unauthorized transactions through its platform. These activities allegedly included gray schemes designed to move money out of Russian territory.
The supervisory authority maintains that such operations violated current regulations governing financial transactions.
The designation affects not only WhiteBit but also encompasses W Group and its subsidiaries. Russian law enforcement believes the group’s websites served as channels for questionable financial activities.
Russia’s Prosecutor General has designated Ukrainian crypto exchange WhiteBit as an “undesirable organization,” alleging it was used to illegally move funds out of Russia and to finance Ukraine’s armed forces. The designation also covers WhiteBit’s parent company W Group and its…
— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) January 25, 2026
The platforms allegedly processed transactions that circumvented established legal frameworks. Such accusations form the basis of the undesirable organization classification.
WhiteBit began operations in 2018 under the leadership of Ukrainian entrepreneurs. The exchange has grown substantially since its inception.
Platform operators claim their user base exceeds 8 million individuals across various markets. Daily trading volumes reportedly reach $11 billion on spot markets and $40 billion on futures markets.
The exchange operates without registration in Russia under current cryptocurrency regulations. Russian authorities maintain that no crypto exchanges hold proper registration within their jurisdiction.
The Bank of Russia continues working on legislative amendments to regulate exchanges and crypto exchangers. These regulatory changes are expected to be finalized by July 1.
Alleged Military Support and Donation Platform Cooperation
Russian authorities assert WhiteBit’s management transferred approximately $11 million to Ukraine since 2022. The funds allegedly supported various military initiatives undertaken by Ukrainian forces.
Among these transfers, roughly $0.9 million reportedly went toward drone procurement. These claims form a central component of the Prosecutor General’s justification for the designation.
The Russian agency also highlighted WhiteBit’s partnership with Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This cooperation allegedly involved technical assistance to the United24 fundraising platform.
United24 operates as a donation channel accepting cryptocurrency contributions for Ukrainian needs. The platform collects digital assets to support various national initiatives.
Law enforcement officials believe WhiteBit provides ongoing technical infrastructure support to United24. This arrangement enables the fundraising platform to process cryptocurrency donations efficiently.
The collaboration between the exchange and government-affiliated entities raised concerns among Russian authorities. Such connections contributed to the decision to label the organization as undesirable.
Starting July 1, 2027, the Central Bank of the Russian Federation plans to implement penalties for unauthorized cryptocurrency intermediary activities.
These measures aim to establish accountability for platforms operating outside regulatory frameworks.
The initiative reflects broader efforts to control cryptocurrency-related operations within Russian borders. Authorities continue developing comprehensive oversight mechanisms for the digital asset sector.
The post Russia Bans WhiteBit Crypto Exchange Over Alleged $11M Ukraine Military Funding appeared first on Blockonomi.
Bitcoin Whales Scoop Up 104,000 BTC: What This Means for Price Action Ahead
TLDR:
Bitcoin whales holding 1,000+ BTC accumulated 104,340 coins, marking a 1.5% increase in whale holdings total.
Daily transactions exceeding $1 million reached two-month highs, signaling active whale repositioning.
Analysis shows Bitcoin performs independently from gold with no clear evidence of sustained rotation.
Whale accumulation during consolidation historically precedes volatility as supply tightens on exchanges.
Bitcoin’s largest holders have executed a significant accumulation spree, adding over 104,000 coins to their wallets in recent activity.
This strategic positioning by whales holding at least 1,000 BTC comes amid renewed debate about the cryptocurrency’s relationship with traditional assets like gold.
The accumulation represents a 1.5% increase in holdings among this influential cohort, raising questions about potential market movements ahead.
Major Holders Execute Strategic Accumulation
Wallets containing a minimum of 1,000 BTC have collectively accumulated 104,340 coins according to data from market intelligence platform Santiment.
This represents a notable shift in distribution as the largest holders increase their control over the circulating supply.
The accumulation pattern suggests coordinated confidence among institutional investors and high-net-worth participants who possess substantial market knowledge.
Large Bitcoin whales are accumulating at an encouraging pace, wallets with at least 1K $BTC have collectively accumulated 104,340 more coins (a +1.5% rise). Additionally, the amount of $1M+ daily transfers is back up to 2-month high levels.
Chart: https://t.co/CJOfiOBbWU pic.twitter.com/4loxDFtUdb
— Santiment (@santimentfeed) January 25, 2026
Transaction activity among major holders has surged to levels not witnessed in the past two months. Daily transfers exceeding $1 million have climbed back to these elevated thresholds, indicating active repositioning within the whale community.
This uptick in large-value movements typically signals preparation for potential volatility or strategic entries ahead of anticipated price action.
The timing of this accumulation phase deserves attention given current market conditions. Bitcoin has entered a consolidation period following recent price fluctuations, creating an environment where sophisticated investors often build positions with minimal market impact.
Whales have historically leveraged these quieter periods to accumulate without driving premiums.
What makes this accumulation particularly noteworthy is its scale and concentration. A 1.5% increase across the whale cohort translates to meaningful changes in available supply for other market participants.
Reduced liquidity on exchanges combined with growing whale holdings could amplify price movements when demand catalysts emerge.
Market Independence Challenges Rotation Theory
While whales accumulate Bitcoin aggressively, new research from analyst Darkfost challenges prevailing narratives about capital flowing from gold into digital assets.
Using 180-day moving averages as benchmarks, the analysis examined periods when Bitcoin outperformed gold and vice versa.
The results showed nearly equal distribution between positive and negative signals, contradicting expectations of sustained rotation.
Throughout this cycle, many have talked about a rotation of capital from gold into Bitcoin.
Well, those people are still waiting…
This chart illustrates periods where BTC outperforms or underperforms depending on gold’s trend.
It provides two signals :
Positive = BTC >… pic.twitter.com/nKWKUry9F7
— Darkfost (@Darkfost_Coc) January 24, 2026
The study reveals that Bitcoin continues evolving independently without clear evidence of systematic capital migration from precious metals.
Market participants anticipating a definitive shift from gold to Bitcoin have found limited support in the data. This independence suggests both assets serve distinct purposes within investment portfolios rather than competing directly for the same capital.
Even during periods when Bitcoin trades above its 180-day moving average while gold trades below, establishing causation remains problematic.
Multiple macroeconomic factors influence both assets simultaneously through different transmission mechanisms. Interest rate policies, currency fluctuations, and risk sentiment affect gold and Bitcoin via separate channels that rarely align perfectly.
The absence of clear correlation carries implications for understanding current whale accumulation. If Bitcoin operates independently from gold, the recent buying activity likely responds to cryptocurrency-specific catalysts rather than broader safe-haven rotation dynamics.
This could include anticipated regulatory developments, institutional adoption trends, or technical setup expectations unique to digital asset markets.
Looking ahead, the combination of whale accumulation and asset independence creates an uncertain outlook. On one hand, concentrated buying by informed participants historically precedes upward price pressure as supply tightens.
On the other hand, the lack of supportive rotation from traditional assets means Bitcoin must generate its own demand catalysts to justify higher valuations.
Market observers will monitor whether this accumulation represents conviction in near-term appreciation or simply opportunistic positioning during consolidation.
The post Bitcoin Whales Scoop Up 104,000 BTC: What This Means for Price Action Ahead appeared first on Blockonomi.
Bitcoin whales holding 1,000+ BTC accumulated 104,340 coins, marking a 1.5% increase in whale holdings total.
Daily transactions exceeding $1 million reached two-month highs, signaling active whale repositioning.
Analysis shows Bitcoin performs independently from gold with no clear evidence of sustained rotation.
Whale accumulation during consolidation historically precedes volatility as supply tightens on exchanges.
Bitcoin’s largest holders have executed a significant accumulation spree, adding over 104,000 coins to their wallets in recent activity.
This strategic positioning by whales holding at least 1,000 BTC comes amid renewed debate about the cryptocurrency’s relationship with traditional assets like gold.
The accumulation represents a 1.5% increase in holdings among this influential cohort, raising questions about potential market movements ahead.
Major Holders Execute Strategic Accumulation
Wallets containing a minimum of 1,000 BTC have collectively accumulated 104,340 coins according to data from market intelligence platform Santiment.
This represents a notable shift in distribution as the largest holders increase their control over the circulating supply.
The accumulation pattern suggests coordinated confidence among institutional investors and high-net-worth participants who possess substantial market knowledge.
Large Bitcoin whales are accumulating at an encouraging pace, wallets with at least 1K $BTC have collectively accumulated 104,340 more coins (a +1.5% rise). Additionally, the amount of $1M+ daily transfers is back up to 2-month high levels.
Chart: https://t.co/CJOfiOBbWU pic.twitter.com/4loxDFtUdb
— Santiment (@santimentfeed) January 25, 2026
Transaction activity among major holders has surged to levels not witnessed in the past two months. Daily transfers exceeding $1 million have climbed back to these elevated thresholds, indicating active repositioning within the whale community.
This uptick in large-value movements typically signals preparation for potential volatility or strategic entries ahead of anticipated price action.
The timing of this accumulation phase deserves attention given current market conditions. Bitcoin has entered a consolidation period following recent price fluctuations, creating an environment where sophisticated investors often build positions with minimal market impact.
Whales have historically leveraged these quieter periods to accumulate without driving premiums.
What makes this accumulation particularly noteworthy is its scale and concentration. A 1.5% increase across the whale cohort translates to meaningful changes in available supply for other market participants.
Reduced liquidity on exchanges combined with growing whale holdings could amplify price movements when demand catalysts emerge.
Market Independence Challenges Rotation Theory
While whales accumulate Bitcoin aggressively, new research from analyst Darkfost challenges prevailing narratives about capital flowing from gold into digital assets.
Using 180-day moving averages as benchmarks, the analysis examined periods when Bitcoin outperformed gold and vice versa.
The results showed nearly equal distribution between positive and negative signals, contradicting expectations of sustained rotation.
Throughout this cycle, many have talked about a rotation of capital from gold into Bitcoin.
Well, those people are still waiting…
This chart illustrates periods where BTC outperforms or underperforms depending on gold’s trend.
It provides two signals :
Positive = BTC >… pic.twitter.com/nKWKUry9F7
— Darkfost (@Darkfost_Coc) January 24, 2026
The study reveals that Bitcoin continues evolving independently without clear evidence of systematic capital migration from precious metals.
Market participants anticipating a definitive shift from gold to Bitcoin have found limited support in the data. This independence suggests both assets serve distinct purposes within investment portfolios rather than competing directly for the same capital.
Even during periods when Bitcoin trades above its 180-day moving average while gold trades below, establishing causation remains problematic.
Multiple macroeconomic factors influence both assets simultaneously through different transmission mechanisms. Interest rate policies, currency fluctuations, and risk sentiment affect gold and Bitcoin via separate channels that rarely align perfectly.
The absence of clear correlation carries implications for understanding current whale accumulation. If Bitcoin operates independently from gold, the recent buying activity likely responds to cryptocurrency-specific catalysts rather than broader safe-haven rotation dynamics.
This could include anticipated regulatory developments, institutional adoption trends, or technical setup expectations unique to digital asset markets.
Looking ahead, the combination of whale accumulation and asset independence creates an uncertain outlook. On one hand, concentrated buying by informed participants historically precedes upward price pressure as supply tightens.
On the other hand, the lack of supportive rotation from traditional assets means Bitcoin must generate its own demand catalysts to justify higher valuations.
Market observers will monitor whether this accumulation represents conviction in near-term appreciation or simply opportunistic positioning during consolidation.
The post Bitcoin Whales Scoop Up 104,000 BTC: What This Means for Price Action Ahead appeared first on Blockonomi.
BlackRock’s RWA Push Signals US Equity Tokenization Strategy Amid $36T Debt Crisis
TLDR:
Tokenizing $68 trillion in US equities could boost stablecoin demand and absorb federal debt pressures.
Mar-a-Lago Accord failed as Sweden, Denmark, and India cut Treasury holdings amid global changes.
BlackRock’s RWA expansion aligns with strategic US interests beyond economic considerations.
Ethereum positioned as global capital settlement layer driven by balance-sheet geopolitical needs.
Tokenizing US equities through real-world assets has become the most viable strategy for addressing America’s mounting debt crisis. Market observers point to BlackRock’s aggressive push into RWA as evidence of this strategic shift.
The approach aims to boost stablecoin demand and indirectly absorb pressure from the $36 trillion federal debt load. Traditional refinancing methods face challenges as de-dollarization trends accelerate globally.
Mar-a-Lago Accord Concept Loses Traction
The rumored Mar-a-Lago Accord never materialized into formal policy. Market speculation in 2025 suggested foreign investors would roll short-term Treasuries into ultra-long-dated bonds.
The strategy intended to push out principal repayments and ease debt burdens. However, the concept failed to align with evolving global conditions.
De-dollarization accelerated following the Ukraine conflict and has not slowed despite de-escalation. Recent geopolitical events involving Venezuela and Greenland intensified the trend.
Sweden and Denmark reduced their Treasury holdings in response. India also cut its Treasury positions while increasing gold reserves.
Traditional debt refinancing through foreign investment no longer appears practical. The global environment shifted away from willing participation in extended US debt instruments.
Central banks and sovereign funds demonstrate decreasing appetite for long-term Treasury commitments. This reality forced policymakers to consider alternative financing mechanisms.
According to analyst Garrett, issuing more stablecoins represents the only realistic path forward. The strategy would potentially bypass foreign regulations and attract new global capital into Treasuries.
This approach requires substantial infrastructure changes in how assets are held and traded. The solution centers on blockchain technology and tokenization.
1/15
In the context of de-dollarization, extending the debt cycle to help the US resolve its debt seems unrealistic.
Tokenizing US equities to drive stablecoin demand is the primary feasible path for the US to refinance its mounting debt. BlackRock’s RWA push tells the story pic.twitter.com/1Yp6nE3njw
— Garrett (@GarrettBullish) January 24, 2026
RWA Tokenization as Strategic Solution
Putting US equities on-chain offers a mechanism to dramatically increase stablecoin demand. The American stock market holds approximately $68 trillion in value available for tokenization.
BlackRock’s position as the world’s largest asset manager gives it unique influence in this transformation. The firm’s deep connections to US power centers align with national strategic interests.
Historical precedent exists for financial institutions serving geopolitical objectives. George Soros attacked the British pound to weaken the Eurozone’s unified strength.
His short positions on the Japanese yen supported Abenomics and policies aimed at containing China. Warren Buffett’s substantial Japanese investments align with America’s current de-risking strategy from China.
The push to bring US equities on-chain carries both economic and strategic dimensions. Observers note the timing coincides with broader geopolitical realignments and trade policy shifts.
Ethereum could become the settlement layer for global capital markets under this framework. The transition would be driven by balance-sheet requirements rather than ideological preferences.
Market participants expect 2026 to mark a pivotal year for RWA adoption. The convergence of debt pressures, de-dollarization trends, and technological capabilities creates unique conditions.
Tokenization offers a path to maintain dollar dominance through digital infrastructure. The strategy represents a fundamental shift in how America finances its operations and manages global capital flows.
The post BlackRock’s RWA Push Signals US Equity Tokenization Strategy Amid $36T Debt Crisis appeared first on Blockonomi.
Tokenizing $68 trillion in US equities could boost stablecoin demand and absorb federal debt pressures.
Mar-a-Lago Accord failed as Sweden, Denmark, and India cut Treasury holdings amid global changes.
BlackRock’s RWA expansion aligns with strategic US interests beyond economic considerations.
Ethereum positioned as global capital settlement layer driven by balance-sheet geopolitical needs.
Tokenizing US equities through real-world assets has become the most viable strategy for addressing America’s mounting debt crisis. Market observers point to BlackRock’s aggressive push into RWA as evidence of this strategic shift.
The approach aims to boost stablecoin demand and indirectly absorb pressure from the $36 trillion federal debt load. Traditional refinancing methods face challenges as de-dollarization trends accelerate globally.
Mar-a-Lago Accord Concept Loses Traction
The rumored Mar-a-Lago Accord never materialized into formal policy. Market speculation in 2025 suggested foreign investors would roll short-term Treasuries into ultra-long-dated bonds.
The strategy intended to push out principal repayments and ease debt burdens. However, the concept failed to align with evolving global conditions.
De-dollarization accelerated following the Ukraine conflict and has not slowed despite de-escalation. Recent geopolitical events involving Venezuela and Greenland intensified the trend.
Sweden and Denmark reduced their Treasury holdings in response. India also cut its Treasury positions while increasing gold reserves.
Traditional debt refinancing through foreign investment no longer appears practical. The global environment shifted away from willing participation in extended US debt instruments.
Central banks and sovereign funds demonstrate decreasing appetite for long-term Treasury commitments. This reality forced policymakers to consider alternative financing mechanisms.
According to analyst Garrett, issuing more stablecoins represents the only realistic path forward. The strategy would potentially bypass foreign regulations and attract new global capital into Treasuries.
This approach requires substantial infrastructure changes in how assets are held and traded. The solution centers on blockchain technology and tokenization.
1/15
In the context of de-dollarization, extending the debt cycle to help the US resolve its debt seems unrealistic.
Tokenizing US equities to drive stablecoin demand is the primary feasible path for the US to refinance its mounting debt. BlackRock’s RWA push tells the story pic.twitter.com/1Yp6nE3njw
— Garrett (@GarrettBullish) January 24, 2026
RWA Tokenization as Strategic Solution
Putting US equities on-chain offers a mechanism to dramatically increase stablecoin demand. The American stock market holds approximately $68 trillion in value available for tokenization.
BlackRock’s position as the world’s largest asset manager gives it unique influence in this transformation. The firm’s deep connections to US power centers align with national strategic interests.
Historical precedent exists for financial institutions serving geopolitical objectives. George Soros attacked the British pound to weaken the Eurozone’s unified strength.
His short positions on the Japanese yen supported Abenomics and policies aimed at containing China. Warren Buffett’s substantial Japanese investments align with America’s current de-risking strategy from China.
The push to bring US equities on-chain carries both economic and strategic dimensions. Observers note the timing coincides with broader geopolitical realignments and trade policy shifts.
Ethereum could become the settlement layer for global capital markets under this framework. The transition would be driven by balance-sheet requirements rather than ideological preferences.
Market participants expect 2026 to mark a pivotal year for RWA adoption. The convergence of debt pressures, de-dollarization trends, and technological capabilities creates unique conditions.
Tokenization offers a path to maintain dollar dominance through digital infrastructure. The strategy represents a fundamental shift in how America finances its operations and manages global capital flows.
The post BlackRock’s RWA Push Signals US Equity Tokenization Strategy Amid $36T Debt Crisis appeared first on Blockonomi.
Quantum Computing Timeline Misconceptions Drive Premature Blockchain Security Response, Says A16z...
TLDR:
Cryptographically relevant quantum computers are unlikely before 2030 despite corporate claims of imminent breakthroughs.
Harvest-now-decrypt-later attacks demand immediate post-quantum encryption deployment for long-term confidentiality.
Digital signatures and zkSNARKs lack the harvest-now-decrypt-later vulnerability, allowing deliberate migration timelines.
Bitcoin faces unique governance and abandoned coin challenges requiring early planning independent of the quantum timeline.
Quantum computing poses distinct risks to different cryptographic systems with varying urgency levels, according to recent analysis from a16z crypto.
Encryption faces immediate harvest-now-decrypt-later attacks requiring swift post-quantum deployment despite performance costs.
Digital signatures and zero-knowledge proofs lack this vulnerability, allowing deliberate migration timelines. Misconceptions about quantum threat proximity distort security priorities across blockchain networks.
Cryptographically Relevant Quantum Computers Remain a Distant Reality
Public progress toward cryptographically relevant quantum computers contradicts claims of imminent arrival before 2030.
No current platform across trapped ions, superconducting qubits, or neutral atom systems approaches the hundreds of thousands of physical qubits required for running Shor’s algorithm against RSA-2048 or secp256k1.
Systems exceeding 1,000 physical qubits lack the gate fidelities and qubit connectivity necessary for cryptographically relevant computation.
A16z Crypto’s analysis addresses widespread confusion stemming from corporate announcements and media coverage. The firm noted that “timelines to a cryptographically relevant quantum computer are frequently overstated—leading to calls for urgent, wholesale transitions to post-quantum cryptography.”
https://t.co/Xb0vvVVUvm
— a16z crypto (@a16zcrypto) January 24, 2026
Quantum error correction demonstrations remain limited to a handful of logical qubits. Cryptanalysis requires thousands of high-fidelity, fault-tolerant logical qubits with sustained error-corrected circuit depth.
Companies stretching terminology around logical qubits create false perceptions of advancement. Recent claims of 48 logical qubits using distance-2 codes with only two physical qubits per logical qubit misrepresent capabilities.
Distance-2 codes detect errors without correcting them. Real fault-tolerant logical qubits demand hundreds to thousands of physical qubits each.
Many roadmaps reference logical qubits supporting only Clifford operations, which classical computers can efficiently simulate and cannot run Shor’s algorithm.
Harvest-Now-Decrypt-Later Attacks Drive Encryption Migration Urgency
Nation-state adversaries currently archive encrypted communications for future decryption when quantum computers exist.
This reality necessitates immediate post-quantum encryption deployment for data requiring long-term confidentiality spanning 10 to 50 years.
Chrome, Cloudflare, Apple’s iMessage, and Signal have deployed hybrid post-quantum encryption combining ML-KEM with classical schemes like X25519.
The analysis distinguished between encryption and signature vulnerabilities. A16z crypto explained that “post-quantum encryption demands immediate deployment despite its costs: harvest-now-decrypt-later attacks are already underway.”
Digital signatures operate under different threat parameters than encryption systems. Past signatures generated before a quantum computer cannot be forged, regardless of future cryptanalysis capabilities.
Zero-knowledge proofs maintain post-quantum security for their zero-knowledge property even when using elliptic curve cryptography. No confidential information exists to harvest for later decryption.
Any zkSNARK proof generated before cryptographically relevant quantum computer emergence remains trustworthy. Only after quantum computer arrival can attackers construct convincing proofs of false statements. This timeline removes the harvest-now-decrypt-later vulnerability from zkSNARK systems.
Bitcoin Faces Unique Migration Challenges Beyond Quantum Timeline
Bitcoin’s governance speed and abandoned coin problem create urgency independent of quantum computing progress. Protocol changes proceed slowly with contentious issues risking damaging hard forks.
Active migration requirements mean abandoned quantum-vulnerable coins cannot receive protection. Estimates place potentially abandoned quantum-vulnerable BTC in the millions worth hundreds of billions at current prices.
The research emphasized Bitcoin’s special circumstances requiring early planning. A16z crypto stated that “the real challenge in navigating a successful migration to post-quantum cryptography is matching urgency to actual threats.”
Quantum attacks will target individual public keys sequentially rather than breaking all encryption simultaneously. Early quantum attacks will be expensive and slow.
Low transaction throughput compounds Bitcoin’s migration challenges. Migrating all quantum-vulnerable funds to post-quantum addresses requires months at current transaction rates.
The community must resolve governance, coordination, and technical logistics before a quantum computers. Other blockchains face quantum-vulnerable fund challenges, but Bitcoin’s earliest transactions using pay-to-public-key outputs create exceptional exposure combined with age, value concentration, and governance rigidity.
The post Quantum Computing Timeline Misconceptions Drive Premature Blockchain Security Response, Says A16z Crypto appeared first on Blockonomi.
Cryptographically relevant quantum computers are unlikely before 2030 despite corporate claims of imminent breakthroughs.
Harvest-now-decrypt-later attacks demand immediate post-quantum encryption deployment for long-term confidentiality.
Digital signatures and zkSNARKs lack the harvest-now-decrypt-later vulnerability, allowing deliberate migration timelines.
Bitcoin faces unique governance and abandoned coin challenges requiring early planning independent of the quantum timeline.
Quantum computing poses distinct risks to different cryptographic systems with varying urgency levels, according to recent analysis from a16z crypto.
Encryption faces immediate harvest-now-decrypt-later attacks requiring swift post-quantum deployment despite performance costs.
Digital signatures and zero-knowledge proofs lack this vulnerability, allowing deliberate migration timelines. Misconceptions about quantum threat proximity distort security priorities across blockchain networks.
Cryptographically Relevant Quantum Computers Remain a Distant Reality
Public progress toward cryptographically relevant quantum computers contradicts claims of imminent arrival before 2030.
No current platform across trapped ions, superconducting qubits, or neutral atom systems approaches the hundreds of thousands of physical qubits required for running Shor’s algorithm against RSA-2048 or secp256k1.
Systems exceeding 1,000 physical qubits lack the gate fidelities and qubit connectivity necessary for cryptographically relevant computation.
A16z Crypto’s analysis addresses widespread confusion stemming from corporate announcements and media coverage. The firm noted that “timelines to a cryptographically relevant quantum computer are frequently overstated—leading to calls for urgent, wholesale transitions to post-quantum cryptography.”
https://t.co/Xb0vvVVUvm
— a16z crypto (@a16zcrypto) January 24, 2026
Quantum error correction demonstrations remain limited to a handful of logical qubits. Cryptanalysis requires thousands of high-fidelity, fault-tolerant logical qubits with sustained error-corrected circuit depth.
Companies stretching terminology around logical qubits create false perceptions of advancement. Recent claims of 48 logical qubits using distance-2 codes with only two physical qubits per logical qubit misrepresent capabilities.
Distance-2 codes detect errors without correcting them. Real fault-tolerant logical qubits demand hundreds to thousands of physical qubits each.
Many roadmaps reference logical qubits supporting only Clifford operations, which classical computers can efficiently simulate and cannot run Shor’s algorithm.
Harvest-Now-Decrypt-Later Attacks Drive Encryption Migration Urgency
Nation-state adversaries currently archive encrypted communications for future decryption when quantum computers exist.
This reality necessitates immediate post-quantum encryption deployment for data requiring long-term confidentiality spanning 10 to 50 years.
Chrome, Cloudflare, Apple’s iMessage, and Signal have deployed hybrid post-quantum encryption combining ML-KEM with classical schemes like X25519.
The analysis distinguished between encryption and signature vulnerabilities. A16z crypto explained that “post-quantum encryption demands immediate deployment despite its costs: harvest-now-decrypt-later attacks are already underway.”
Digital signatures operate under different threat parameters than encryption systems. Past signatures generated before a quantum computer cannot be forged, regardless of future cryptanalysis capabilities.
Zero-knowledge proofs maintain post-quantum security for their zero-knowledge property even when using elliptic curve cryptography. No confidential information exists to harvest for later decryption.
Any zkSNARK proof generated before cryptographically relevant quantum computer emergence remains trustworthy. Only after quantum computer arrival can attackers construct convincing proofs of false statements. This timeline removes the harvest-now-decrypt-later vulnerability from zkSNARK systems.
Bitcoin Faces Unique Migration Challenges Beyond Quantum Timeline
Bitcoin’s governance speed and abandoned coin problem create urgency independent of quantum computing progress. Protocol changes proceed slowly with contentious issues risking damaging hard forks.
Active migration requirements mean abandoned quantum-vulnerable coins cannot receive protection. Estimates place potentially abandoned quantum-vulnerable BTC in the millions worth hundreds of billions at current prices.
The research emphasized Bitcoin’s special circumstances requiring early planning. A16z crypto stated that “the real challenge in navigating a successful migration to post-quantum cryptography is matching urgency to actual threats.”
Quantum attacks will target individual public keys sequentially rather than breaking all encryption simultaneously. Early quantum attacks will be expensive and slow.
Low transaction throughput compounds Bitcoin’s migration challenges. Migrating all quantum-vulnerable funds to post-quantum addresses requires months at current transaction rates.
The community must resolve governance, coordination, and technical logistics before a quantum computers. Other blockchains face quantum-vulnerable fund challenges, but Bitcoin’s earliest transactions using pay-to-public-key outputs create exceptional exposure combined with age, value concentration, and governance rigidity.
The post Quantum Computing Timeline Misconceptions Drive Premature Blockchain Security Response, Says A16z Crypto appeared first on Blockonomi.
Russia’s Gold Reserve Depletion Signals Mid-2026 Financial Crisis as War Costs Surpass Oil Revenue
TLDR:
Russia’s National Wealth Fund has contracted from $113 billion to $50 billion, with liquid reserves projected to deplete by mid-2026.
Military expenditures now exceed total oil and gas revenue as energy income dropped 22% annually and 34% in November alone.
The budget deficit was revised from 1.2 trillion rubles to 5.7 trillion rubles, representing a fivefold increase within one year.
Russia controls 40% of uranium enrichment, 24% of wheat exports, and 18% of fertilizers, creating supply shock risks.
Russia has liquidated over 71% of its gold holdings within its National Wealth Fund to sustain military operations, according to recent market analysis.
The sovereign wealth fund, designed as an emergency financial buffer, has contracted from $113 billion in liquid assets before the conflict to approximately $50 billion currently.
This depletion occurs as military expenditures surpass total oil and gas income for the first time in decades.
National Wealth Fund Faces Critical Drawdown Timeline
The National Wealth Fund traditionally covered budget shortfalls when energy revenues declined or government spending spiked. More than half of Russia’s financial cushion has vanished since military operations began.
Market observers project the liquid portion could be exhausted by mid-2026 at present consumption rates. This timeline represents a concrete fiscal boundary rather than speculative analysis.
Budget deficit projections have expanded dramatically from initial estimates. Planned deficit targets stood at 1.2 trillion rubles for the fiscal period. Revised figures now reach 5.7 trillion rubles, marking a fivefold increase within twelve months.
The gap between planned and actual deficits reflects the mounting costs of sustained military engagement.
Gold sales from the National Wealth Fund directly finance this widening budget gap. Russia maintains limited access to international capital markets due to sanctions.
BREAKING : Russia has sold over 71% of its gold reserves inside the National Wealth Fund to finance its war spending.
The National Wealth Fund is Russia’s emergency cash reserve. It is the pool used to cover budget gaps when oil revenues fall or spending explodes. Before the… pic.twitter.com/Dw1MhxqAxP
— Bull Theory (@BullTheoryio) January 24, 2026
The fund’s depletion leaves few conventional options for budget stabilization. Each percentage point of reserve reduction narrows the government’s fiscal maneuverability.
Economic planners face four potential responses when liquid reserves approach depletion. Cutting military spending conflicts with current policy priorities.
Money printing accelerates inflation pressures already affecting the domestic economy. Tax increases carry recession risks in a contracting economy. Expanding domestic debt raises interest costs in a high-rate environment.
Energy Revenue Collapse Reshapes Fiscal Foundation
Oil and gas revenue historically funded Russia’s entire budget structure. Military spending now exceeds total hydrocarbon income, inverting this traditional model.
Energy revenues dropped 22% year-over-year in 2025. November recorded a sharper 34% monthly decline compared to the previous year.
Discounts on Russian crude oil have widened as sanctions complicate logistics and payment systems. Tightening restrictions affect both transportation routes and financial settlement mechanisms.
These operational constraints reduce net revenue even when production volumes remain stable. The revenue base that sustained decades of government operations no longer covers current expenditures.
Russia controls substantial shares of global commodity supplies despite financial isolation. The nation holds 40% of the world’s uranium enrichment capacity.
Wheat exports account for 24% of international trade. Fertilizer production represents 18% of global output. Palladium supply reaches 40% of world markets.
Financial contagion poses minimal direct threat given Russia’s market isolation. Supply chain disruptions present the primary economic risk.
Commodity markets face potential volatility if fiscal pressures affect production or export volumes. Critical resource concentration amplifies any operational changes into global market movements.
The post Russia’s Gold Reserve Depletion Signals Mid-2026 Financial Crisis as War Costs Surpass Oil Revenue appeared first on Blockonomi.
Russia’s National Wealth Fund has contracted from $113 billion to $50 billion, with liquid reserves projected to deplete by mid-2026.
Military expenditures now exceed total oil and gas revenue as energy income dropped 22% annually and 34% in November alone.
The budget deficit was revised from 1.2 trillion rubles to 5.7 trillion rubles, representing a fivefold increase within one year.
Russia controls 40% of uranium enrichment, 24% of wheat exports, and 18% of fertilizers, creating supply shock risks.
Russia has liquidated over 71% of its gold holdings within its National Wealth Fund to sustain military operations, according to recent market analysis.
The sovereign wealth fund, designed as an emergency financial buffer, has contracted from $113 billion in liquid assets before the conflict to approximately $50 billion currently.
This depletion occurs as military expenditures surpass total oil and gas income for the first time in decades.
National Wealth Fund Faces Critical Drawdown Timeline
The National Wealth Fund traditionally covered budget shortfalls when energy revenues declined or government spending spiked. More than half of Russia’s financial cushion has vanished since military operations began.
Market observers project the liquid portion could be exhausted by mid-2026 at present consumption rates. This timeline represents a concrete fiscal boundary rather than speculative analysis.
Budget deficit projections have expanded dramatically from initial estimates. Planned deficit targets stood at 1.2 trillion rubles for the fiscal period. Revised figures now reach 5.7 trillion rubles, marking a fivefold increase within twelve months.
The gap between planned and actual deficits reflects the mounting costs of sustained military engagement.
Gold sales from the National Wealth Fund directly finance this widening budget gap. Russia maintains limited access to international capital markets due to sanctions.
BREAKING : Russia has sold over 71% of its gold reserves inside the National Wealth Fund to finance its war spending.
The National Wealth Fund is Russia’s emergency cash reserve. It is the pool used to cover budget gaps when oil revenues fall or spending explodes. Before the… pic.twitter.com/Dw1MhxqAxP
— Bull Theory (@BullTheoryio) January 24, 2026
The fund’s depletion leaves few conventional options for budget stabilization. Each percentage point of reserve reduction narrows the government’s fiscal maneuverability.
Economic planners face four potential responses when liquid reserves approach depletion. Cutting military spending conflicts with current policy priorities.
Money printing accelerates inflation pressures already affecting the domestic economy. Tax increases carry recession risks in a contracting economy. Expanding domestic debt raises interest costs in a high-rate environment.
Energy Revenue Collapse Reshapes Fiscal Foundation
Oil and gas revenue historically funded Russia’s entire budget structure. Military spending now exceeds total hydrocarbon income, inverting this traditional model.
Energy revenues dropped 22% year-over-year in 2025. November recorded a sharper 34% monthly decline compared to the previous year.
Discounts on Russian crude oil have widened as sanctions complicate logistics and payment systems. Tightening restrictions affect both transportation routes and financial settlement mechanisms.
These operational constraints reduce net revenue even when production volumes remain stable. The revenue base that sustained decades of government operations no longer covers current expenditures.
Russia controls substantial shares of global commodity supplies despite financial isolation. The nation holds 40% of the world’s uranium enrichment capacity.
Wheat exports account for 24% of international trade. Fertilizer production represents 18% of global output. Palladium supply reaches 40% of world markets.
Financial contagion poses minimal direct threat given Russia’s market isolation. Supply chain disruptions present the primary economic risk.
Commodity markets face potential volatility if fiscal pressures affect production or export volumes. Critical resource concentration amplifies any operational changes into global market movements.
The post Russia’s Gold Reserve Depletion Signals Mid-2026 Financial Crisis as War Costs Surpass Oil Revenue appeared first on Blockonomi.
Davos 2026: Financial Institutions Embrace Tokenisation as Core Infrastructure
TLDR:
BlackRock’s Larry Fink emphasizes tokenisation necessity as markets accelerate blockchain adoption for funds.
Central banks prioritize wholesale CBDCs and regulated stablecoins to enhance settlement and cross-border payments.
Bank of America and BNY Mellon prepare for transactional blockchain integration once regulatory clarity arrives.
Bitcoin’s fixed supply positions it as potential reserve asset with sovereign allocations driving higher valuations.
The World Economic Forum in Davos 2026 witnessed financial institutions shifting from questioning cryptocurrency’s validity to implementing tokenisation and blockchain technology across their operations.
Institutional Adoption Moves from Pilot to Production
The financial sector has reached an inflection point where digital assets transition from experimental projects to regulated deployment.
Wholesale applications in settlements, collateral management, and securities markets are advancing first, with retail adoption expected to follow.
Major institutions plan to activate blockchain networks, treating tokenised funds and real-world assets as programmable alternatives to traditional ETFs operating continuously.
BlackRock’s Larry Fink addressed this transformation during the forum. According to André Casterman’s analysis, Fink stated that “tokenisation is necessary” and emphasized that “markets need to move very rapidly with tokenisation.”
https://t.co/E641iwuOOL
— André Casterman (@AndreCasterman) January 24, 2026
Fink described on-chain products such as tokenised money-market and bond funds as next-generation instruments for established financial exposures. Blockchain technology provides the foundational record-keeping and settlement infrastructure for these products.
Central banks and financial institutions converged on wholesale-first strategies for central bank digital currencies, tokenised deposits, and regulated stablecoins including USDC and RLUSD.
These mechanisms aim to reduce settlement cycles, improve cross-border payment efficiency, and increase intraday liquidity. The approach contrasts sharply with volatile, unbacked cryptocurrencies that dominated earlier market cycles.
Bank of America’s Brian Moynihan predicted banks will “come in hard on the transactional side” once regulatory frameworks solidify. He views public and permissioned blockchains as interconnected payment layers where traditional banks maintain intermediary roles.
BNY Mellon CEO Robin Vince characterized digital assets as a “new interesting, innovative technology” that will reshape custody and settlement operations over the coming decades.
Blockchain Infrastructure and Regulatory Frameworks Take Shape
Changpeng Zhao of Binance identified three areas showing promise: tokenisation for operational efficiency, payments for accelerated cross-border transfers, and artificial intelligence integration for automation.
Circle’s Jeremy Allaire positioned stablecoins as a “neutral layer” that complements rather than competes with traditional banking infrastructure.
Blockchain’s technical capabilities drove discussion at the forum. Shared ledgers enable simultaneous verification, programmable smart contracts automate processes, and composable architecture allows seamless system interconnections.
A panel featuring the Bank of France governor and Coinbase’s Brian Armstrong debated Bitcoin’s role as a scarce, decentralised alternative to fiat currencies, potentially countering inflation and monetary debasement.
Major fiat currencies abandoned gold standards during the twentieth century and currently lack hard asset backing.
Bitcoin’s fixed supply cap of 21 million units offers deflationary characteristics, operational transparency, and protection against debasement.
These attributes position Bitcoin as a potential reserve asset, with sovereign allocations possibly driving valuations to $500,000-$700,000 according to Fink’s projections.
United States regulatory developments include the forthcoming Digital Asset Market CLARITY Act, which divides oversight responsibilities between the SEC and CFTC.
White House Crypto Czar David Sacks commented on institutional participation, noting that “after market structure passes, banks are going to get fully into the crypto industry” and predicted “it’s going to be one digital assets industry.”
The framework enables traditional institutions to engage with digital assets under defined parameters.
XDC Network represents enterprise-grade blockchain infrastructure supporting this evolution. The platform’s hybrid protocol accommodates tokenised real-world assets, rapid settlements, and ISO 20022-compliant payments suited for wholesale finance.
The network targets dozens of new masternodes in 2026, scaling toward thousands by 2035 to support expanding institutional adoption.
The post Davos 2026: Financial Institutions Embrace Tokenisation as Core Infrastructure appeared first on Blockonomi.
BlackRock’s Larry Fink emphasizes tokenisation necessity as markets accelerate blockchain adoption for funds.
Central banks prioritize wholesale CBDCs and regulated stablecoins to enhance settlement and cross-border payments.
Bank of America and BNY Mellon prepare for transactional blockchain integration once regulatory clarity arrives.
Bitcoin’s fixed supply positions it as potential reserve asset with sovereign allocations driving higher valuations.
The World Economic Forum in Davos 2026 witnessed financial institutions shifting from questioning cryptocurrency’s validity to implementing tokenisation and blockchain technology across their operations.
Institutional Adoption Moves from Pilot to Production
The financial sector has reached an inflection point where digital assets transition from experimental projects to regulated deployment.
Wholesale applications in settlements, collateral management, and securities markets are advancing first, with retail adoption expected to follow.
Major institutions plan to activate blockchain networks, treating tokenised funds and real-world assets as programmable alternatives to traditional ETFs operating continuously.
BlackRock’s Larry Fink addressed this transformation during the forum. According to André Casterman’s analysis, Fink stated that “tokenisation is necessary” and emphasized that “markets need to move very rapidly with tokenisation.”
https://t.co/E641iwuOOL
— André Casterman (@AndreCasterman) January 24, 2026
Fink described on-chain products such as tokenised money-market and bond funds as next-generation instruments for established financial exposures. Blockchain technology provides the foundational record-keeping and settlement infrastructure for these products.
Central banks and financial institutions converged on wholesale-first strategies for central bank digital currencies, tokenised deposits, and regulated stablecoins including USDC and RLUSD.
These mechanisms aim to reduce settlement cycles, improve cross-border payment efficiency, and increase intraday liquidity. The approach contrasts sharply with volatile, unbacked cryptocurrencies that dominated earlier market cycles.
Bank of America’s Brian Moynihan predicted banks will “come in hard on the transactional side” once regulatory frameworks solidify. He views public and permissioned blockchains as interconnected payment layers where traditional banks maintain intermediary roles.
BNY Mellon CEO Robin Vince characterized digital assets as a “new interesting, innovative technology” that will reshape custody and settlement operations over the coming decades.
Blockchain Infrastructure and Regulatory Frameworks Take Shape
Changpeng Zhao of Binance identified three areas showing promise: tokenisation for operational efficiency, payments for accelerated cross-border transfers, and artificial intelligence integration for automation.
Circle’s Jeremy Allaire positioned stablecoins as a “neutral layer” that complements rather than competes with traditional banking infrastructure.
Blockchain’s technical capabilities drove discussion at the forum. Shared ledgers enable simultaneous verification, programmable smart contracts automate processes, and composable architecture allows seamless system interconnections.
A panel featuring the Bank of France governor and Coinbase’s Brian Armstrong debated Bitcoin’s role as a scarce, decentralised alternative to fiat currencies, potentially countering inflation and monetary debasement.
Major fiat currencies abandoned gold standards during the twentieth century and currently lack hard asset backing.
Bitcoin’s fixed supply cap of 21 million units offers deflationary characteristics, operational transparency, and protection against debasement.
These attributes position Bitcoin as a potential reserve asset, with sovereign allocations possibly driving valuations to $500,000-$700,000 according to Fink’s projections.
United States regulatory developments include the forthcoming Digital Asset Market CLARITY Act, which divides oversight responsibilities between the SEC and CFTC.
White House Crypto Czar David Sacks commented on institutional participation, noting that “after market structure passes, banks are going to get fully into the crypto industry” and predicted “it’s going to be one digital assets industry.”
The framework enables traditional institutions to engage with digital assets under defined parameters.
XDC Network represents enterprise-grade blockchain infrastructure supporting this evolution. The platform’s hybrid protocol accommodates tokenised real-world assets, rapid settlements, and ISO 20022-compliant payments suited for wholesale finance.
The network targets dozens of new masternodes in 2026, scaling toward thousands by 2035 to support expanding institutional adoption.
The post Davos 2026: Financial Institutions Embrace Tokenisation as Core Infrastructure appeared first on Blockonomi.
Hedera Expands U.S. Government Blockchain Integration Through FedNow and Defense Applications
TLDR;
Dropp from Hedera ecosystem becomes one of the few blockchain integrations in the Federal Reserve’s FedNow system
The Taekion platform receives funding from the Department of Energy and usage from the Department of Defense
White House Digital Asset Report references Hedera among only four distributed ledger networks
Hedera transitions Taekion operations to HashSphere private ledger for enhanced security standards
Hedera’s role in U.S. government blockchain infrastructure continues to expand through practical implementations rather than promotional narratives.
The network has established operational integrations with federal payment systems and defense applications. Recent developments demonstrate a methodical approach to institutional adoption.
These implementations span payment processing, data integrity platforms, and formal recognition in government reports. The progression reflects a calculated shift from experimental projects to functional infrastructure.
Federal Payment Infrastructure and FedNow Integration
The Federal Reserve’s FedNow service represents a substantial upgrade to U.S. payment infrastructure. This system enables instant payment settlement across all hours and days.
Traditional banking systems typically require one to three business days for transaction completion. FedNow eliminates these delays through real-time processing capabilities.
FedNow incorporates ISO20022 payment messaging standards that financial institutions have pursued for several years. Hedera’s ecosystem includes Dropp, a micropayment solution integrated into this federal system.
This integration marks one of the limited blockchain implementations within FedNow’s operational framework. Such developments indicate deliberate selection of compatible networks.
Industry observers have taken note of these developments. Web3Alert, a cryptocurrency-focused account on platform X, highlighted the payment infrastructure advancement. The account stated, “The U.S. Federal Reserve’s FedNow system enables instant payments, 24/7, with immediate settlement.”
Web3Alert emphasized that Dropp represents one of the few official blockchain implementations for FedNow. This connection shows measured deployment strategies between federal and distributed systems.
The progress of $HBAR x US Government isn't hype
It's gradual implementation of infrastructure.
There's been a lot of noise lately around US crypto adoption from GENIUS to CLARITY to US White House's reports on digital assets.
But what's changing isn't direction, it's posture.… pic.twitter.com/YWER1sNjab
— Web3Alert (@theweb3alert) January 24, 2026
The payment integration demonstrates technical compatibility between government systems and blockchain networks. Rather than replacing existing frameworks, the implementation adds capabilities to the current infrastructure.
Financial institutions can leverage both traditional and distributed technologies. This approach maintains continuity while introducing enhanced functionality.
Defense Applications and Global Government Engagement
Taekion operates as a secure file storage platform with connections to U.S. defense agencies. The Department of Defense has utilized this service, while the Department of Energy has provided funding support.
The platform focuses on tamper-proof storage and verification protocols for sensitive government data. These applications require immutable record-keeping capabilities.
Initially, Taekion combined Hedera Consensus Service with Hyperledger Sawtooth for its operations. The company recently announced a transition toward Hedera HashSphere, a private permissioned distributed ledger.
Consolidating operations within a single technology stack reduces integration complexity. This architectural decision maintains security standards while streamlining operations.
The United States White House Digital Asset Report included Hedera among four distributed ledger networks referenced in the document. This inclusion does not constitute an endorsement but indicates relevance within policy discussions.
Projects appearing in official government reports typically undergo legal and technical review processes. Such recognition places Hedera within formal consideration frameworks.
Beyond U.S. borders, Hedera has engaged with public institutions across multiple continents. Central banks and government agencies in Asia, Europe, Africa, and Australia have explored the network.
Hedera’s operational headquarters in the United States provides geographic proximity to federal agencies. Therefore, continued alignment with U.S. institutions represents an expected development pattern.
The post Hedera Expands U.S. Government Blockchain Integration Through FedNow and Defense Applications appeared first on Blockonomi.
Dropp from Hedera ecosystem becomes one of the few blockchain integrations in the Federal Reserve’s FedNow system
The Taekion platform receives funding from the Department of Energy and usage from the Department of Defense
White House Digital Asset Report references Hedera among only four distributed ledger networks
Hedera transitions Taekion operations to HashSphere private ledger for enhanced security standards
Hedera’s role in U.S. government blockchain infrastructure continues to expand through practical implementations rather than promotional narratives.
The network has established operational integrations with federal payment systems and defense applications. Recent developments demonstrate a methodical approach to institutional adoption.
These implementations span payment processing, data integrity platforms, and formal recognition in government reports. The progression reflects a calculated shift from experimental projects to functional infrastructure.
Federal Payment Infrastructure and FedNow Integration
The Federal Reserve’s FedNow service represents a substantial upgrade to U.S. payment infrastructure. This system enables instant payment settlement across all hours and days.
Traditional banking systems typically require one to three business days for transaction completion. FedNow eliminates these delays through real-time processing capabilities.
FedNow incorporates ISO20022 payment messaging standards that financial institutions have pursued for several years. Hedera’s ecosystem includes Dropp, a micropayment solution integrated into this federal system.
This integration marks one of the limited blockchain implementations within FedNow’s operational framework. Such developments indicate deliberate selection of compatible networks.
Industry observers have taken note of these developments. Web3Alert, a cryptocurrency-focused account on platform X, highlighted the payment infrastructure advancement. The account stated, “The U.S. Federal Reserve’s FedNow system enables instant payments, 24/7, with immediate settlement.”
Web3Alert emphasized that Dropp represents one of the few official blockchain implementations for FedNow. This connection shows measured deployment strategies between federal and distributed systems.
The progress of $HBAR x US Government isn't hype
It's gradual implementation of infrastructure.
There's been a lot of noise lately around US crypto adoption from GENIUS to CLARITY to US White House's reports on digital assets.
But what's changing isn't direction, it's posture.… pic.twitter.com/YWER1sNjab
— Web3Alert (@theweb3alert) January 24, 2026
The payment integration demonstrates technical compatibility between government systems and blockchain networks. Rather than replacing existing frameworks, the implementation adds capabilities to the current infrastructure.
Financial institutions can leverage both traditional and distributed technologies. This approach maintains continuity while introducing enhanced functionality.
Defense Applications and Global Government Engagement
Taekion operates as a secure file storage platform with connections to U.S. defense agencies. The Department of Defense has utilized this service, while the Department of Energy has provided funding support.
The platform focuses on tamper-proof storage and verification protocols for sensitive government data. These applications require immutable record-keeping capabilities.
Initially, Taekion combined Hedera Consensus Service with Hyperledger Sawtooth for its operations. The company recently announced a transition toward Hedera HashSphere, a private permissioned distributed ledger.
Consolidating operations within a single technology stack reduces integration complexity. This architectural decision maintains security standards while streamlining operations.
The United States White House Digital Asset Report included Hedera among four distributed ledger networks referenced in the document. This inclusion does not constitute an endorsement but indicates relevance within policy discussions.
Projects appearing in official government reports typically undergo legal and technical review processes. Such recognition places Hedera within formal consideration frameworks.
Beyond U.S. borders, Hedera has engaged with public institutions across multiple continents. Central banks and government agencies in Asia, Europe, Africa, and Australia have explored the network.
Hedera’s operational headquarters in the United States provides geographic proximity to federal agencies. Therefore, continued alignment with U.S. institutions represents an expected development pattern.
The post Hedera Expands U.S. Government Blockchain Integration Through FedNow and Defense Applications appeared first on Blockonomi.
Trump Threatens Canada With 100% Tariffs If China Trade Deal Proceeds
TLDR:
Trump threatens 100% tariffs on Canada’s $450B annual exports if China trade agreements are signed
Previous 10-25% tariffs caused 41% drop in steel exports and 19% decline in aluminum shipments
Canada sends 75-76% of exports to U.S., representing two-thirds of GDP with direct exposure
Trade routing concerns drive policy as China could use Canada as drop-off port to bypass tariffs
The United States faces a trade crossroads as President Trump threatens Canada with 100% tariffs if it pursues trade agreements with China. This warning targets approximately $450 billion in annual Canadian exports to America.
The potential action represents the largest trade disruption between the two nations in modern history. Canada currently sends roughly 75-76% of its total exports south of the border.
Trade Routing Concerns Drive Policy Response
Trump’s primary concern centers on trade routing mechanisms that could undermine existing U.S.-China trade barriers.
Chinese companies might use Canada as an intermediate destination for goods before shipping them into American markets.
This strategy would effectively bypass tariffs already imposed on Chinese products. According to Bull Theory, Trump “calls this using Canada as a drop off port.”
The threat builds on historical precedent from previous trade actions between both countries. Between 2018 and 2019, the U.S. placed 25% tariffs on Canadian steel and 10% on aluminum products.
Bull Theory noted that “Canadian steel exports to the U.S. fell by 41% and Aluminum exports fell by 19%.” The trade measures disrupted approximately $16.6 billion CAD worth of commerce.
WHY IS TRUMP THREATING CANADA WITH 100% IF THEY SIGN A TRADE DEAL WITH CHINA ?
Canada sends about 75%-76% of all its exports to the U.S. That is over $450 billion per year. A 100% tariff would make most Canadian exports uncompetitive overnight.
His core concern is trade… pic.twitter.com/n3Cv9Ee96z
— Bull Theory (@BullTheoryio) January 24, 2026
Those previous tariffs operated at modest levels compared to current proposals. The 100% rate would affect multiple critical sectors across the Canadian economy. Automotive manufacturing and parts production face particular vulnerability given integrated supply chains.
Energy exports represent another major category at risk from new trade barriers. Both aluminum and steel industries would encounter renewed pressure after previous disruptions.
Canadian manufacturing operations experienced production cuts and workforce reductions during earlier tariff periods. Supply chains became costlier and less efficient across North American operations.
The new threat carries higher stakes given the proposed rate increase. Bull Theory emphasized that “a 100% tariff would make most Canadian exports uncompetitive overnight.”
Canada Caught Between Economic Powers
Canada maintains deep economic integration with its southern neighbor through decades of free trade. Bull Theory observed that “trade with the U.S. equals roughly two thirds of Canada’s GDP when you include direct and indirect exposure.”
This dependency creates vulnerability to sudden policy shifts from Washington. Canadian policymakers have explored diversification strategies to reduce concentration risk.
China offers an alternative market for Canadian agriculture and natural resources. Canadian canola and seafood producers rely on Chinese buyers for substantial revenue.
The Chinese electric vehicle and battery supply chains present new opportunities for Canadian firms. Canadian officials view trade expansion as necessary for long-term economic stability.
The geopolitical reality places Canada in an uncomfortable position between two economic giants. Bull Theory highlighted that “Canada has been trying to rebuild trade with China“ while maintaining its relationship with America.
Canadian businesses must balance access to American markets against opportunities in Asia. The federal government faces pressure to maintain relationships with both trading partners.
Markets anticipate potential economic shocks if Trump implements threatened measures. Canadian companies dependent on U.S. exports have limited options for quick market pivots.
The timeline for any actual tariff implementation remains unclear at this stage. Trade negotiations typically involve extended discussions before final policy decisions.
The post Trump Threatens Canada With 100% Tariffs If China Trade Deal Proceeds appeared first on Blockonomi.
Trump threatens 100% tariffs on Canada’s $450B annual exports if China trade agreements are signed
Previous 10-25% tariffs caused 41% drop in steel exports and 19% decline in aluminum shipments
Canada sends 75-76% of exports to U.S., representing two-thirds of GDP with direct exposure
Trade routing concerns drive policy as China could use Canada as drop-off port to bypass tariffs
The United States faces a trade crossroads as President Trump threatens Canada with 100% tariffs if it pursues trade agreements with China. This warning targets approximately $450 billion in annual Canadian exports to America.
The potential action represents the largest trade disruption between the two nations in modern history. Canada currently sends roughly 75-76% of its total exports south of the border.
Trade Routing Concerns Drive Policy Response
Trump’s primary concern centers on trade routing mechanisms that could undermine existing U.S.-China trade barriers.
Chinese companies might use Canada as an intermediate destination for goods before shipping them into American markets.
This strategy would effectively bypass tariffs already imposed on Chinese products. According to Bull Theory, Trump “calls this using Canada as a drop off port.”
The threat builds on historical precedent from previous trade actions between both countries. Between 2018 and 2019, the U.S. placed 25% tariffs on Canadian steel and 10% on aluminum products.
Bull Theory noted that “Canadian steel exports to the U.S. fell by 41% and Aluminum exports fell by 19%.” The trade measures disrupted approximately $16.6 billion CAD worth of commerce.
WHY IS TRUMP THREATING CANADA WITH 100% IF THEY SIGN A TRADE DEAL WITH CHINA ?
Canada sends about 75%-76% of all its exports to the U.S. That is over $450 billion per year. A 100% tariff would make most Canadian exports uncompetitive overnight.
His core concern is trade… pic.twitter.com/n3Cv9Ee96z
— Bull Theory (@BullTheoryio) January 24, 2026
Those previous tariffs operated at modest levels compared to current proposals. The 100% rate would affect multiple critical sectors across the Canadian economy. Automotive manufacturing and parts production face particular vulnerability given integrated supply chains.
Energy exports represent another major category at risk from new trade barriers. Both aluminum and steel industries would encounter renewed pressure after previous disruptions.
Canadian manufacturing operations experienced production cuts and workforce reductions during earlier tariff periods. Supply chains became costlier and less efficient across North American operations.
The new threat carries higher stakes given the proposed rate increase. Bull Theory emphasized that “a 100% tariff would make most Canadian exports uncompetitive overnight.”
Canada Caught Between Economic Powers
Canada maintains deep economic integration with its southern neighbor through decades of free trade. Bull Theory observed that “trade with the U.S. equals roughly two thirds of Canada’s GDP when you include direct and indirect exposure.”
This dependency creates vulnerability to sudden policy shifts from Washington. Canadian policymakers have explored diversification strategies to reduce concentration risk.
China offers an alternative market for Canadian agriculture and natural resources. Canadian canola and seafood producers rely on Chinese buyers for substantial revenue.
The Chinese electric vehicle and battery supply chains present new opportunities for Canadian firms. Canadian officials view trade expansion as necessary for long-term economic stability.
The geopolitical reality places Canada in an uncomfortable position between two economic giants. Bull Theory highlighted that “Canada has been trying to rebuild trade with China“ while maintaining its relationship with America.
Canadian businesses must balance access to American markets against opportunities in Asia. The federal government faces pressure to maintain relationships with both trading partners.
Markets anticipate potential economic shocks if Trump implements threatened measures. Canadian companies dependent on U.S. exports have limited options for quick market pivots.
The timeline for any actual tariff implementation remains unclear at this stage. Trade negotiations typically involve extended discussions before final policy decisions.
The post Trump Threatens Canada With 100% Tariffs If China Trade Deal Proceeds appeared first on Blockonomi.
Rick Rieder Emerges as Leading Contender for Federal Reserve Chair Position
TLDR:
Rick Rieder’s Fed chair odds skyrocketed from 3% to 50% on Polymarket within 10 days of meeting Trump.
Trump described Rieder as “very impressive” and hinted the final Fed chair decision may already be made.
Kevin Hassett’s odds collapsed from 85% in December to just 6% as Trump reportedly wants him at NEC.
Rieder manages $3 trillion at BlackRock but lacks political experience compared to traditional Fed candidates.
BlackRock executive Rick Rieder has surged ahead in prediction markets as the favored candidate to lead the Federal Reserve.
The chief investment officer of global fixed income met with President Trump last week, prompting a dramatic shift in betting odds.
Rieder now commands 50% probability on Polymarket, overtaking previous frontrunner Kevin Warsh.
Trump described the BlackRock executive as “very impressive” during a Wednesday interview with CNBC.
Trump Signals Imminent Decision on Fed Leadership
Rieder’s odds on Polymarket jumped from 3% to 30% within 10 days, eventually reaching 50%. Former Fed governor Kevin Warsh previously held 45% odds but has since fallen behind.
White House economist Kevin Hassett experienced the steepest decline, dropping from 85% on December 2 to just 6% currently.
President Trump suggested the selection process has narrowed significantly. During his CNBC interview Wednesday, Trump stated, “I’d say we’re down to three, but we’re down to two, and I can probably tell you, we’re down to maybe one, in my mind.”
The president has signaled an announcement could arrive well before Jerome Powell’s term expires in May.
Market observers noted Trump’s preference for practical experience over academic credentials. Rieder manages approximately $3 trillion in assets at BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager.
His background differs markedly from traditional Fed chair candidates who typically come from academic or government positions.
Reports indicate Trump wants Hassett to remain at the National Economic Council. This development appears to have cleared the path for alternative candidates.
Traders on prediction markets responded swiftly to these signals, repricing their bets accordingly.
Wall Street Experience Versus Political Background
Rieder brings extensive macroeconomic and monetary policy expertise from his role at BlackRock.
He has served on advisory committees for both the Treasury Department and Federal Reserve. However, his political experience remains limited compared to other top candidates.
The BlackRock executive has never worked within a presidential administration. He lacks direct experience within the Federal Reserve system itself. Additionally, Rieder has no background serving on Capitol Hill in any capacity.
Crypto trader BuBBliK analyzed the market shift on social media, stating that “Rick Rieder has surged to a 50% probability to become the next Fed Chair.”
FED CHAIR FLIPPENING ON POLYMARKET
Rick Rieder just went vertical from single digits to leading the race for Fed Chair
The markets are pricing in a BlackRock takeover of the Federal Reserve after Trump's latest signal.
Rick Rieder has surged to a 50% probability to become the… pic.twitter.com/z3s2E2eJRS
— BuBBliK (@k1rallik) January 24, 2026
The trader identified three key factors driving the surge. President Trump called the BlackRock CIO “very impressive” in Davos, providing the initial catalyst.
BuBBliK noted that Rieder “is not an academic. He is a market mechanic,” aligning with Trump’s stated preferences for practical experience.
The shift represents a potential departure from conventional Fed chair selections. Markets are now pricing in what some call a “BlackRock takeover” of monetary policy leadership.
Prediction market volume has increased substantially as traders adjust positions based on Trump’s latest comments. BuBBliK observed, “We are watching the world’s most important financial appointment change direction in real time.”
Powell’s chairmanship ends in May, though Trump has maintained a contentious relationship with the current Fed leader.
The president has enjoyed what observers describe as a reality-show-like selection process. Financial markets will likely remain sensitive to any further signals about the appointment.
The post Rick Rieder Emerges as Leading Contender for Federal Reserve Chair Position appeared first on Blockonomi.
Rick Rieder’s Fed chair odds skyrocketed from 3% to 50% on Polymarket within 10 days of meeting Trump.
Trump described Rieder as “very impressive” and hinted the final Fed chair decision may already be made.
Kevin Hassett’s odds collapsed from 85% in December to just 6% as Trump reportedly wants him at NEC.
Rieder manages $3 trillion at BlackRock but lacks political experience compared to traditional Fed candidates.
BlackRock executive Rick Rieder has surged ahead in prediction markets as the favored candidate to lead the Federal Reserve.
The chief investment officer of global fixed income met with President Trump last week, prompting a dramatic shift in betting odds.
Rieder now commands 50% probability on Polymarket, overtaking previous frontrunner Kevin Warsh.
Trump described the BlackRock executive as “very impressive” during a Wednesday interview with CNBC.
Trump Signals Imminent Decision on Fed Leadership
Rieder’s odds on Polymarket jumped from 3% to 30% within 10 days, eventually reaching 50%. Former Fed governor Kevin Warsh previously held 45% odds but has since fallen behind.
White House economist Kevin Hassett experienced the steepest decline, dropping from 85% on December 2 to just 6% currently.
President Trump suggested the selection process has narrowed significantly. During his CNBC interview Wednesday, Trump stated, “I’d say we’re down to three, but we’re down to two, and I can probably tell you, we’re down to maybe one, in my mind.”
The president has signaled an announcement could arrive well before Jerome Powell’s term expires in May.
Market observers noted Trump’s preference for practical experience over academic credentials. Rieder manages approximately $3 trillion in assets at BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager.
His background differs markedly from traditional Fed chair candidates who typically come from academic or government positions.
Reports indicate Trump wants Hassett to remain at the National Economic Council. This development appears to have cleared the path for alternative candidates.
Traders on prediction markets responded swiftly to these signals, repricing their bets accordingly.
Wall Street Experience Versus Political Background
Rieder brings extensive macroeconomic and monetary policy expertise from his role at BlackRock.
He has served on advisory committees for both the Treasury Department and Federal Reserve. However, his political experience remains limited compared to other top candidates.
The BlackRock executive has never worked within a presidential administration. He lacks direct experience within the Federal Reserve system itself. Additionally, Rieder has no background serving on Capitol Hill in any capacity.
Crypto trader BuBBliK analyzed the market shift on social media, stating that “Rick Rieder has surged to a 50% probability to become the next Fed Chair.”
FED CHAIR FLIPPENING ON POLYMARKET
Rick Rieder just went vertical from single digits to leading the race for Fed Chair
The markets are pricing in a BlackRock takeover of the Federal Reserve after Trump's latest signal.
Rick Rieder has surged to a 50% probability to become the… pic.twitter.com/z3s2E2eJRS
— BuBBliK (@k1rallik) January 24, 2026
The trader identified three key factors driving the surge. President Trump called the BlackRock CIO “very impressive” in Davos, providing the initial catalyst.
BuBBliK noted that Rieder “is not an academic. He is a market mechanic,” aligning with Trump’s stated preferences for practical experience.
The shift represents a potential departure from conventional Fed chair selections. Markets are now pricing in what some call a “BlackRock takeover” of monetary policy leadership.
Prediction market volume has increased substantially as traders adjust positions based on Trump’s latest comments. BuBBliK observed, “We are watching the world’s most important financial appointment change direction in real time.”
Powell’s chairmanship ends in May, though Trump has maintained a contentious relationship with the current Fed leader.
The president has enjoyed what observers describe as a reality-show-like selection process. Financial markets will likely remain sensitive to any further signals about the appointment.
The post Rick Rieder Emerges as Leading Contender for Federal Reserve Chair Position appeared first on Blockonomi.
Stellar CEO Denelle Dixon Unveils XLM-SWIFT Interoperability Plan for Global Payments
TLDR:
Stellar proposes ISO 20022 alignment to connect XLM with SWIFT’s global banking messaging infrastructure.
The integration aims to reduce cross-border payment costs and delays through blockchain settlement layers.
XLM could serve as a bridge asset between traditional finance and decentralized networks for institutions.
Regulatory approval in 2026 remains a critical milestone for successful XLM-SWIFT integration implementation.
Stellar Development Foundation CEO Denelle Dixon has published a comprehensive article detailing plans to integrate blockchain protocols with traditional payment networks.
The proposal focuses on connecting legacy systems like SWIFT with open blockchain infrastructure, positioning XLM as a central interoperability and settlement layer.
Published on January 23, 2026, the initiative aims to transform cross-border payments through ISO 20022 alignment.
ISO 20022 Standard Integration Creates Bridge Between Traditional Finance and Blockchain
Dixon’s article, titled “The interoperability imperative: how traditional payment networks and open protocols will (finally) work together,” outlines a strategic approach to financial infrastructure modernization.
The plan centers on aligning Stellar and XLM with SWIFT’s ISO 20022 standard, which serves as the messaging backbone for banks worldwide.
This technical alignment could enable financial institutions to access blockchain-based settlement paths while maintaining their existing operational frameworks.
The proposed integration aims to address long-standing inefficiencies in cross-border payments. Currently, international transfers often involve multiple intermediaries, resulting in delays and higher costs.
By introducing blockchain rails alongside traditional systems, the initiative seeks to reduce transaction times and fees while increasing transparency.
Banks operating on SWIFT could potentially route payments through XLM as a bridge asset between conventional finance and decentralized networks.
Dixon has led the Stellar Development Foundation since 2017, consistently advocating for collaboration rather than replacement of existing financial systems.
Her vision emphasizes building connections between established institutions and emerging blockchain technology.
The approach differs from other cryptocurrency projects that position themselves as alternatives to traditional banking infrastructure. Instead, Stellar positions itself as a complementary infrastructure that enhances existing systems.
Stellar CEO Unveils $XLM –SWIFT Interoperability Vision for Global Payments
On January 23, 2026, Denelle Dixon, CEO of the Stellar Development Foundation, published a landmark article outlining how traditional payment networks and blockchain protocols can finally work… pic.twitter.com/qckRrn6x2O
— Scopuly – Stellar Wallet (@scopuly) January 24, 2026
Interoperability extends beyond SWIFT integration. Other ISO 20022-compatible digital assets include XRP, ADA, and ALGO, which could potentially participate in multi-network payment flows.
This compatibility opens possibilities for expanded liquidity routes across different blockchain protocols. However, regulatory approval remains a critical factor for implementation throughout 2026.
Historical Context and Future Implications for Global Financial Infrastructure
Stellar has previous experience bridging traditional finance and blockchain technology. The IBM World Wire project demonstrated both the potential and challenges of such integration.
That initiative showcased how blockchain could facilitate cross-border payments through major financial institutions. The lessons learned from past efforts inform the current interoperability proposal.
Regulatory frameworks will play a decisive role in determining the success of XLM-SWIFT integration. Financial authorities across different jurisdictions must approve new settlement mechanisms before widespread adoption can occur.
The timeline for regulatory clarity remains uncertain as different regions maintain varying approaches to cryptocurrency oversight. Institutional adoption will depend heavily on regulatory decisions made throughout 2026.
The proposal reflects a long-term strategy rather than short-term market positioning. Dixon’s article emphasizes sustainable infrastructure development over speculative growth.
This approach aligns with Stellar’s historical focus on practical applications in remittances and micropayments. The network has maintained partnerships with financial institutions in emerging markets where traditional banking infrastructure faces significant challenges.
Technical implementation details and funding mechanisms for the integration project remain under development. The Stellar Development Foundation has not disclosed specific timelines for pilot programs or full-scale deployment.
Financial institutions interested in participating will require adequate preparation time to modify existing systems.
Nevertheless, the proposal represents a concrete step toward blockchain-traditional finance convergence that could reshape global payment systems if successfully executed.
The post Stellar CEO Denelle Dixon Unveils XLM-SWIFT Interoperability Plan for Global Payments appeared first on Blockonomi.
Stellar proposes ISO 20022 alignment to connect XLM with SWIFT’s global banking messaging infrastructure.
The integration aims to reduce cross-border payment costs and delays through blockchain settlement layers.
XLM could serve as a bridge asset between traditional finance and decentralized networks for institutions.
Regulatory approval in 2026 remains a critical milestone for successful XLM-SWIFT integration implementation.
Stellar Development Foundation CEO Denelle Dixon has published a comprehensive article detailing plans to integrate blockchain protocols with traditional payment networks.
The proposal focuses on connecting legacy systems like SWIFT with open blockchain infrastructure, positioning XLM as a central interoperability and settlement layer.
Published on January 23, 2026, the initiative aims to transform cross-border payments through ISO 20022 alignment.
ISO 20022 Standard Integration Creates Bridge Between Traditional Finance and Blockchain
Dixon’s article, titled “The interoperability imperative: how traditional payment networks and open protocols will (finally) work together,” outlines a strategic approach to financial infrastructure modernization.
The plan centers on aligning Stellar and XLM with SWIFT’s ISO 20022 standard, which serves as the messaging backbone for banks worldwide.
This technical alignment could enable financial institutions to access blockchain-based settlement paths while maintaining their existing operational frameworks.
The proposed integration aims to address long-standing inefficiencies in cross-border payments. Currently, international transfers often involve multiple intermediaries, resulting in delays and higher costs.
By introducing blockchain rails alongside traditional systems, the initiative seeks to reduce transaction times and fees while increasing transparency.
Banks operating on SWIFT could potentially route payments through XLM as a bridge asset between conventional finance and decentralized networks.
Dixon has led the Stellar Development Foundation since 2017, consistently advocating for collaboration rather than replacement of existing financial systems.
Her vision emphasizes building connections between established institutions and emerging blockchain technology.
The approach differs from other cryptocurrency projects that position themselves as alternatives to traditional banking infrastructure. Instead, Stellar positions itself as a complementary infrastructure that enhances existing systems.
Stellar CEO Unveils $XLM –SWIFT Interoperability Vision for Global Payments
On January 23, 2026, Denelle Dixon, CEO of the Stellar Development Foundation, published a landmark article outlining how traditional payment networks and blockchain protocols can finally work… pic.twitter.com/qckRrn6x2O
— Scopuly – Stellar Wallet (@scopuly) January 24, 2026
Interoperability extends beyond SWIFT integration. Other ISO 20022-compatible digital assets include XRP, ADA, and ALGO, which could potentially participate in multi-network payment flows.
This compatibility opens possibilities for expanded liquidity routes across different blockchain protocols. However, regulatory approval remains a critical factor for implementation throughout 2026.
Historical Context and Future Implications for Global Financial Infrastructure
Stellar has previous experience bridging traditional finance and blockchain technology. The IBM World Wire project demonstrated both the potential and challenges of such integration.
That initiative showcased how blockchain could facilitate cross-border payments through major financial institutions. The lessons learned from past efforts inform the current interoperability proposal.
Regulatory frameworks will play a decisive role in determining the success of XLM-SWIFT integration. Financial authorities across different jurisdictions must approve new settlement mechanisms before widespread adoption can occur.
The timeline for regulatory clarity remains uncertain as different regions maintain varying approaches to cryptocurrency oversight. Institutional adoption will depend heavily on regulatory decisions made throughout 2026.
The proposal reflects a long-term strategy rather than short-term market positioning. Dixon’s article emphasizes sustainable infrastructure development over speculative growth.
This approach aligns with Stellar’s historical focus on practical applications in remittances and micropayments. The network has maintained partnerships with financial institutions in emerging markets where traditional banking infrastructure faces significant challenges.
Technical implementation details and funding mechanisms for the integration project remain under development. The Stellar Development Foundation has not disclosed specific timelines for pilot programs or full-scale deployment.
Financial institutions interested in participating will require adequate preparation time to modify existing systems.
Nevertheless, the proposal represents a concrete step toward blockchain-traditional finance convergence that could reshape global payment systems if successfully executed.
The post Stellar CEO Denelle Dixon Unveils XLM-SWIFT Interoperability Plan for Global Payments appeared first on Blockonomi.
$23M Crypto Flex Exposes Hacker as Funds Link to US Seizure
TLDR:
Hacker “John” exposed $23M in stolen crypto during a public “band-for-band” dispute with another hacker.
ZachXBT traced the wallet to a $90M illicit pool tied to US government seizures from Bitfinex hack.
Recorded screen-shared wallet movements provided crucial evidence linking multiple hacker addresses.
John’s wallet received $63M in 2025 from addresses connected to government-controlled seizure funds
Infamous hacker, alias “John” or “Lick,” found themselves in hot water after flaunting $23 million in stolen cryptos. Blockchain investigator ZachXBT traced these funds back to U.S. government seizure addresses.
The hacker’s public display of wealth during an online dispute led to the discovery of these illicit links. This incident began when “John” participated in a “band for band” (b4b) contest with another threat actor.
The entire exchange, which included screen-shared wallet movements, was recorded and later analyzed by ZachXBT. Through this, millions in stolen cryptos were linked back to a $90 million pool of suspected illicit funds.
These include assets tied to the Bitfinex hack, which the U.S. government had previously seized. ZachXBT’s tracing efforts revealed John’s past cases of cybercriminals by exposing all stolen cryptocurrency.
This development provides law enforcement with valuable evidence for potential future actions.
The Band-for-Band Dispute and the Exposure of Funds
The recorded online dispute became the key to tracing illicit funds. John and another hacker, known as Dritan Kapplani Jr., engaged in a high-stakes “band for band” exchange.
Each participant tried to show they had control over the most significant crypto assets. In one segment of the recording, John revealed control of a Tron wallet with around $2.3 million.
Later, another $6.7 million in ETH was transferred into a specific wallet. By the end of the session, approximately $23 million in cryptocurrency had been consolidated into John’s wallet address, 0xd8bc.
1/ Meet the threat actor John (Lick), who was caught flexing $23M in a wallet address directly tied to $90M+ in suspected thefts from the US Government in 2024 and multiple other unidentified victims from Nov 2025 to Dec 2025. pic.twitter.com/SBAFU5hTnE
— ZachXBT (@zachxbt) January 23, 2026
The recording clearly demonstrated John’s control over multiple addresses and provided a rare look into the operations of cybercriminals. For blockchain investigator ZachXBT, this was an opportunity to trace the funds further back.
Through tracing the wallet’s transaction history, ZachXBT linked 0xd8bc to a series of other addresses. Including 0x8924, which John reportedly confirmed owning.
One particular transaction in November 2025 stood out, where 1,066 wrapped ether (WETH) was transferred from wallet 0xc7a2. Interestingly, this wallet had previously received funds linked to the U.S. government’s Bitfinex hack seizure.
Tracing the Funds to U.S. Government Seizures
ZachXBT’s investigation revealed that the funds in John’s wallet were not just from random victims. They were connected to government-controlled seizure addresses.
A wallet linked to John had received $24.9 million tied to the Bitfinex hack seizure in March 2024. There was a direct link between the hacker’s funds and one of the largest government seizures related to crypto theft.
Despite the hacker’s attempt to hide their tracks, blockchain tracing exposed the full scope of their illicit activities. The U.S. government address, which had received the stolen funds, still holds approximately $18.5 million as of the latest transaction.
ZachXBT also found that John’s wallet received additional significant transfers, including more than $63 million in 2025. When tracked this funds came from addresses connected to government-controlled addresses.
This pattern demonstrated that John had a wide network of stolen assets. When investigated, most traced back to high-profile crypto hacks and government seizures.
In 2024, a group who flaunted a $243 million fraud in the same way was arrested prematurely. In many instances, displaying stolen property in public has proven to be quite harmful.
This is because it creates opportunities for law enforcement to track, document activities in, and build criminal cases.
The post $23M Crypto Flex Exposes Hacker as Funds Link to US Seizure appeared first on Blockonomi.
Hacker “John” exposed $23M in stolen crypto during a public “band-for-band” dispute with another hacker.
ZachXBT traced the wallet to a $90M illicit pool tied to US government seizures from Bitfinex hack.
Recorded screen-shared wallet movements provided crucial evidence linking multiple hacker addresses.
John’s wallet received $63M in 2025 from addresses connected to government-controlled seizure funds
Infamous hacker, alias “John” or “Lick,” found themselves in hot water after flaunting $23 million in stolen cryptos. Blockchain investigator ZachXBT traced these funds back to U.S. government seizure addresses.
The hacker’s public display of wealth during an online dispute led to the discovery of these illicit links. This incident began when “John” participated in a “band for band” (b4b) contest with another threat actor.
The entire exchange, which included screen-shared wallet movements, was recorded and later analyzed by ZachXBT. Through this, millions in stolen cryptos were linked back to a $90 million pool of suspected illicit funds.
These include assets tied to the Bitfinex hack, which the U.S. government had previously seized. ZachXBT’s tracing efforts revealed John’s past cases of cybercriminals by exposing all stolen cryptocurrency.
This development provides law enforcement with valuable evidence for potential future actions.
The Band-for-Band Dispute and the Exposure of Funds
The recorded online dispute became the key to tracing illicit funds. John and another hacker, known as Dritan Kapplani Jr., engaged in a high-stakes “band for band” exchange.
Each participant tried to show they had control over the most significant crypto assets. In one segment of the recording, John revealed control of a Tron wallet with around $2.3 million.
Later, another $6.7 million in ETH was transferred into a specific wallet. By the end of the session, approximately $23 million in cryptocurrency had been consolidated into John’s wallet address, 0xd8bc.
1/ Meet the threat actor John (Lick), who was caught flexing $23M in a wallet address directly tied to $90M+ in suspected thefts from the US Government in 2024 and multiple other unidentified victims from Nov 2025 to Dec 2025. pic.twitter.com/SBAFU5hTnE
— ZachXBT (@zachxbt) January 23, 2026
The recording clearly demonstrated John’s control over multiple addresses and provided a rare look into the operations of cybercriminals. For blockchain investigator ZachXBT, this was an opportunity to trace the funds further back.
Through tracing the wallet’s transaction history, ZachXBT linked 0xd8bc to a series of other addresses. Including 0x8924, which John reportedly confirmed owning.
One particular transaction in November 2025 stood out, where 1,066 wrapped ether (WETH) was transferred from wallet 0xc7a2. Interestingly, this wallet had previously received funds linked to the U.S. government’s Bitfinex hack seizure.
Tracing the Funds to U.S. Government Seizures
ZachXBT’s investigation revealed that the funds in John’s wallet were not just from random victims. They were connected to government-controlled seizure addresses.
A wallet linked to John had received $24.9 million tied to the Bitfinex hack seizure in March 2024. There was a direct link between the hacker’s funds and one of the largest government seizures related to crypto theft.
Despite the hacker’s attempt to hide their tracks, blockchain tracing exposed the full scope of their illicit activities. The U.S. government address, which had received the stolen funds, still holds approximately $18.5 million as of the latest transaction.
ZachXBT also found that John’s wallet received additional significant transfers, including more than $63 million in 2025. When tracked this funds came from addresses connected to government-controlled addresses.
This pattern demonstrated that John had a wide network of stolen assets. When investigated, most traced back to high-profile crypto hacks and government seizures.
In 2024, a group who flaunted a $243 million fraud in the same way was arrested prematurely. In many instances, displaying stolen property in public has proven to be quite harmful.
This is because it creates opportunities for law enforcement to track, document activities in, and build criminal cases.
The post $23M Crypto Flex Exposes Hacker as Funds Link to US Seizure appeared first on Blockonomi.
Netherlands to Tax Unrealized Bitcoin and Stock Gains Starting 2028
TLDR:
Dutch parliament will tax unrealized gains on stocks, bonds, and Bitcoin annually starting 2028.
Treasury loses €2.3 billion yearly under current system, forcing lawmakers to support the reform.
Real estate investors benefit with expense deductions and taxation only on realized profits.
MPs criticize the system’s complexity despite annual promises to simplify tax regulations.
The Dutch parliament is moving forward with controversial tax reforms that will require investors to pay annual taxes on both realized and unrealized capital gains starting in 2028.
The proposed changes to the Box 3 asset tax system have sparked concerns among cryptocurrency and stock market investors.
Despite widespread criticism, a majority of parliamentarians appear ready to support the legislation due to mounting fiscal pressures.
Parliamentary Support Despite Reservations
The Tweede Kamer debated the Box 3 tax modifications on Monday, with members submitting over 130 questions to caretaker State Secretary Eugène Heijen for Taxation.
Most parliamentarians expressed doubts about the proposal’s framework. However, several major parties indicated they would vote in favor of the changes. The decision stems primarily from financial necessity rather than enthusiasm for the policy.
The Netherlands has gone insane.
The government wants to tax unrealized gains on #Bitcoin from 2028 onwards.
I simply don't understand why people are blindly accepting this and not going all-in to demonstrate against this particular law.
The amount of tax being paid each… pic.twitter.com/HIJhLl6qHq
— Michaël van de Poppe (@CryptoMichNL) January 23, 2026
The current delay in implementing a new system costs the treasury approximately €2.3 billion annually. This budget shortfall has created urgency among lawmakers to pass reforms quickly.
Political parties including VVD, CDA, JA21, BBB, and PVV have reluctantly agreed to support the bill. Their backing ensures the legislation will likely pass despite concerns about its practical implementation.
D66 and GroenLinks-PvdA offered more enthusiastic support for the measure. These parties favor taxing unrealized gains as a matter of principle.
GroenLinks-PvdA MP Luc Stultiens explained the rationale, stating the approach “won’t lead to billions in budget losses and is easier to implement.”
The left-wing coalition also advocated for higher tax rates on individuals with substantial capital gains.
The proposed system emerged after court rulings deemed the previous Box 3 framework unlawful. Judges determined the government incorrectly based taxes on fictitious returns rather than actual gains.
This legal challenge forced policymakers to redesign the entire structure. The 2028 deadline represents the earliest feasible date for launching the revised system.
Real Estate Benefits and System Complexity
Real estate investors will see advantages under the new framework compared to current rules. Property owners can deduct expenses from their taxable profits moving forward.
Additionally, they face taxation only when profits are realized through sales or other transactions. The government will impose an extra levy on personal use of second homes.
Stock, bond, and cryptocurrency investors face less favorable treatment under the changes. These investors must pay annual taxes on paper gains even without selling their holdings.
The requirement to tax unrealized returns represents the most contentious aspect of the proposal. State Secretary Heijnen acknowledged the government prefers taxing only realized gains but cannot achieve this by 2028.
ChristenUnie MP Peter Grinwis criticized the reform’s administrative burden during parliamentary discussions.
He questioned the policy direction, asking, “We say every year that it should be simpler, but we do the opposite. So much complexity, are we really going to inflict this on our country?” His remarks captured widespread concerns about the system’s practical implementation.
The debate has intensified among cryptocurrency advocates who view the policy as particularly burdensome. One critic noted that “the government wants to tax unrealized gains on Bitcoin from 2028 onwards,” expressing disbelief at public acceptance.
Social media discussions reflect frustration with the government’s approach to digital asset taxation. Critics argue the system punishes long-term investors and may drive capital out of the Netherlands.
The post Netherlands to Tax Unrealized Bitcoin and Stock Gains Starting 2028 appeared first on Blockonomi.
Dutch parliament will tax unrealized gains on stocks, bonds, and Bitcoin annually starting 2028.
Treasury loses €2.3 billion yearly under current system, forcing lawmakers to support the reform.
Real estate investors benefit with expense deductions and taxation only on realized profits.
MPs criticize the system’s complexity despite annual promises to simplify tax regulations.
The Dutch parliament is moving forward with controversial tax reforms that will require investors to pay annual taxes on both realized and unrealized capital gains starting in 2028.
The proposed changes to the Box 3 asset tax system have sparked concerns among cryptocurrency and stock market investors.
Despite widespread criticism, a majority of parliamentarians appear ready to support the legislation due to mounting fiscal pressures.
Parliamentary Support Despite Reservations
The Tweede Kamer debated the Box 3 tax modifications on Monday, with members submitting over 130 questions to caretaker State Secretary Eugène Heijen for Taxation.
Most parliamentarians expressed doubts about the proposal’s framework. However, several major parties indicated they would vote in favor of the changes. The decision stems primarily from financial necessity rather than enthusiasm for the policy.
The Netherlands has gone insane.
The government wants to tax unrealized gains on #Bitcoin from 2028 onwards.
I simply don't understand why people are blindly accepting this and not going all-in to demonstrate against this particular law.
The amount of tax being paid each… pic.twitter.com/HIJhLl6qHq
— Michaël van de Poppe (@CryptoMichNL) January 23, 2026
The current delay in implementing a new system costs the treasury approximately €2.3 billion annually. This budget shortfall has created urgency among lawmakers to pass reforms quickly.
Political parties including VVD, CDA, JA21, BBB, and PVV have reluctantly agreed to support the bill. Their backing ensures the legislation will likely pass despite concerns about its practical implementation.
D66 and GroenLinks-PvdA offered more enthusiastic support for the measure. These parties favor taxing unrealized gains as a matter of principle.
GroenLinks-PvdA MP Luc Stultiens explained the rationale, stating the approach “won’t lead to billions in budget losses and is easier to implement.”
The left-wing coalition also advocated for higher tax rates on individuals with substantial capital gains.
The proposed system emerged after court rulings deemed the previous Box 3 framework unlawful. Judges determined the government incorrectly based taxes on fictitious returns rather than actual gains.
This legal challenge forced policymakers to redesign the entire structure. The 2028 deadline represents the earliest feasible date for launching the revised system.
Real Estate Benefits and System Complexity
Real estate investors will see advantages under the new framework compared to current rules. Property owners can deduct expenses from their taxable profits moving forward.
Additionally, they face taxation only when profits are realized through sales or other transactions. The government will impose an extra levy on personal use of second homes.
Stock, bond, and cryptocurrency investors face less favorable treatment under the changes. These investors must pay annual taxes on paper gains even without selling their holdings.
The requirement to tax unrealized returns represents the most contentious aspect of the proposal. State Secretary Heijnen acknowledged the government prefers taxing only realized gains but cannot achieve this by 2028.
ChristenUnie MP Peter Grinwis criticized the reform’s administrative burden during parliamentary discussions.
He questioned the policy direction, asking, “We say every year that it should be simpler, but we do the opposite. So much complexity, are we really going to inflict this on our country?” His remarks captured widespread concerns about the system’s practical implementation.
The debate has intensified among cryptocurrency advocates who view the policy as particularly burdensome. One critic noted that “the government wants to tax unrealized gains on Bitcoin from 2028 onwards,” expressing disbelief at public acceptance.
Social media discussions reflect frustration with the government’s approach to digital asset taxation. Critics argue the system punishes long-term investors and may drive capital out of the Netherlands.
The post Netherlands to Tax Unrealized Bitcoin and Stock Gains Starting 2028 appeared first on Blockonomi.
Ethereum Foundation Launches Post-Quantum Security Team With $2M Prize Fund
TLDR:
Ethereum Foundation established a dedicated Post-Quantum team led by Thomas Coratger and Emile from leanVM.
Foundation announced $2M in prizes targeting Poseidon hash function and post-quantum cryptographic research.
Multi-client PQ consensus devnets are live with participation from pioneering and established teams.
AI-powered mathematics completed complex cryptographic proof in eight hours at $200 cost for the project.
The Ethereum Foundation has designated post-quantum security as a top strategic priority, announcing the formation of a dedicated team led by Thomas Coratger.
The initiative builds on research dating back to 2019 and includes multiple engineering breakthroughs achieved since 2024.
The foundation outlined comprehensive plans spanning developer coordination, cryptographic research, and network implementation through various programs and incentives.
New Team Spearheads Multi-Faceted Implementation Strategy
The newly formed Post Quantum team operates under Thomas Coratger’s leadership, with Emile joining from the leanVM project. LeanVM serves as the cryptographic foundation for the entire post-quantum strategy.
Justin Drake announced the development, stating the initiative marks “an inflection in the Ethereum Foundation’s long-term quantum strategy.” The foundation’s management formally elevated PQ security after years of quiet research and development.
Today marks an inflection in the Ethereum Foundation's long-term quantum strategy.
We've formed a new Post Quantum (PQ) team, led by the brilliant Thomas Coratger (@tcoratger). Joining him is Emile, one of the world-class talents behind leanVM. leanVM is the cryptographic…
— Justin Drake (@drakefjustin) January 23, 2026
The initiative traces its origins to 2019 with the “Eth3.0 Quantum Security” presentation at StarkWare Sessions. Post-quantum considerations became central to the lean Ethereum vision starting in 2024.
Engineering breakthroughs have accelerated significantly since that time. Drake emphasized the urgency, noting, “it’s now 2026; timelines are accelerating.”
Antonio Sanso will lead bi-weekly All Core Devs PQ transaction breakout calls beginning next month. These sessions address user-facing security concerns and technical implementations.
Topics include dedicated precompiles, account abstraction, and transaction signature aggregation. The coordination represents a systematic approach to integrating post-quantum protections.
Multi-client PQ consensus devnets have already gone live with participation from several teams. Zeam, Ream Labs, PierTwo, Gean Client, and Ethlambda Lean are pioneering the effort.
Established consensus teams, Lighthouse and Grandine have joined, with Prysm expected soon. Weekly PQ interop calls coordinated by Corcoran Will facilitate teamwork among implementations.
Research Incentives and Educational Programs Support Transition
The foundation announced a $1M Poseidon Prize targeting the hardening of the Poseidon hash function. This investment reflects a strategic bet on hash-based cryptography for cryptographic foundations.
The initiative complements another $1M program called the Proximity Prize. Both prizes aim to strengthen the mathematical underpinnings of post-quantum security.
Artificial intelligence has already demonstrated value in advancing cryptographic research. Alex Hicks ran a specialized mathematics AI for eight hours at a $200 cost.
The system completed a formal proof for one of the hardest lemmas. Describing the achievement, Drake stated that “applied cryptography will never be the same.”
The foundation plans to host a three-day PQ workshop in October. This follows a previous workshop in Cambridge last year.
An additional PQ day is scheduled for March 29 in Cannes ahead of EthCC. These gatherings facilitate knowledge sharing among researchers and developers.
A comprehensive roadmap will be published on pq.ethereum.org detailing the proposed strategy. The plan targets a complete transition in the coming years with zero loss of funds.
The ZKPodcast is producing a six-part video series on Ethereum’s PQ strategy. Ethereum has secured representation on Coinbase’s PQ advisory board.
The post Ethereum Foundation Launches Post-Quantum Security Team With $2M Prize Fund appeared first on Blockonomi.
Ethereum Foundation established a dedicated Post-Quantum team led by Thomas Coratger and Emile from leanVM.
Foundation announced $2M in prizes targeting Poseidon hash function and post-quantum cryptographic research.
Multi-client PQ consensus devnets are live with participation from pioneering and established teams.
AI-powered mathematics completed complex cryptographic proof in eight hours at $200 cost for the project.
The Ethereum Foundation has designated post-quantum security as a top strategic priority, announcing the formation of a dedicated team led by Thomas Coratger.
The initiative builds on research dating back to 2019 and includes multiple engineering breakthroughs achieved since 2024.
The foundation outlined comprehensive plans spanning developer coordination, cryptographic research, and network implementation through various programs and incentives.
New Team Spearheads Multi-Faceted Implementation Strategy
The newly formed Post Quantum team operates under Thomas Coratger’s leadership, with Emile joining from the leanVM project. LeanVM serves as the cryptographic foundation for the entire post-quantum strategy.
Justin Drake announced the development, stating the initiative marks “an inflection in the Ethereum Foundation’s long-term quantum strategy.” The foundation’s management formally elevated PQ security after years of quiet research and development.
Today marks an inflection in the Ethereum Foundation's long-term quantum strategy.
We've formed a new Post Quantum (PQ) team, led by the brilliant Thomas Coratger (@tcoratger). Joining him is Emile, one of the world-class talents behind leanVM. leanVM is the cryptographic…
— Justin Drake (@drakefjustin) January 23, 2026
The initiative traces its origins to 2019 with the “Eth3.0 Quantum Security” presentation at StarkWare Sessions. Post-quantum considerations became central to the lean Ethereum vision starting in 2024.
Engineering breakthroughs have accelerated significantly since that time. Drake emphasized the urgency, noting, “it’s now 2026; timelines are accelerating.”
Antonio Sanso will lead bi-weekly All Core Devs PQ transaction breakout calls beginning next month. These sessions address user-facing security concerns and technical implementations.
Topics include dedicated precompiles, account abstraction, and transaction signature aggregation. The coordination represents a systematic approach to integrating post-quantum protections.
Multi-client PQ consensus devnets have already gone live with participation from several teams. Zeam, Ream Labs, PierTwo, Gean Client, and Ethlambda Lean are pioneering the effort.
Established consensus teams, Lighthouse and Grandine have joined, with Prysm expected soon. Weekly PQ interop calls coordinated by Corcoran Will facilitate teamwork among implementations.
Research Incentives and Educational Programs Support Transition
The foundation announced a $1M Poseidon Prize targeting the hardening of the Poseidon hash function. This investment reflects a strategic bet on hash-based cryptography for cryptographic foundations.
The initiative complements another $1M program called the Proximity Prize. Both prizes aim to strengthen the mathematical underpinnings of post-quantum security.
Artificial intelligence has already demonstrated value in advancing cryptographic research. Alex Hicks ran a specialized mathematics AI for eight hours at a $200 cost.
The system completed a formal proof for one of the hardest lemmas. Describing the achievement, Drake stated that “applied cryptography will never be the same.”
The foundation plans to host a three-day PQ workshop in October. This follows a previous workshop in Cambridge last year.
An additional PQ day is scheduled for March 29 in Cannes ahead of EthCC. These gatherings facilitate knowledge sharing among researchers and developers.
A comprehensive roadmap will be published on pq.ethereum.org detailing the proposed strategy. The plan targets a complete transition in the coming years with zero loss of funds.
The ZKPodcast is producing a six-part video series on Ethereum’s PQ strategy. Ethereum has secured representation on Coinbase’s PQ advisory board.
The post Ethereum Foundation Launches Post-Quantum Security Team With $2M Prize Fund appeared first on Blockonomi.
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand Optimistic Senate Agriculture Committee Will Advance Crypto Bill Despite ...
TLDR:
Senate Agriculture Committee scheduled Jan. 27 markup despite lacking bipartisan agreement on bill.
Coinbase CEO criticized Banking Committee draft, claiming it would be worse than current regulations.
Dual regulatory approach needed as digital assets have both commodity and security characteristics.
Sen. Lummis retirement creates leadership gap but Gillibrand remains committed to crypto advocacy.
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand said she is “very optimistic” the Senate Agriculture Committee will advance cryptocurrency legislation despite ongoing partisan divisions.
The New York Democrat shared her views in an exclusive CNBC interview, emphasizing continued bipartisan efforts.
The Senate Agriculture Committee has scheduled a markup session for January 27 to review legislation regulating digital commodities.
Meanwhile, the Senate Banking Committee postponed its own crypto bill markup after facing opposition from major industry players, including Coinbase.
Dual-Track Approach to Cryptocurrency Regulation
The legislative strategy involves two separate bills addressing different aspects of digital asset regulation. “Senators have been working on a bipartisan basis for the last six months pretty intensely, and we have two different bills,” Gillibrand told CNBC.
The Agriculture Committee oversees the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, while the Banking Committee handles Securities and Exchange Commission matters.
She explained that digital assets possess characteristics of both commodities and securities, requiring dual regulatory oversight.
The Agriculture Committee released updated legislative text Wednesday night, building on a previous bipartisan discussion draft. Chairman John Boozman acknowledged that “differences remain on fundamental policy issues” in a statement.
However, the Arkansas Republican emphasized that the bill incorporates stakeholder feedback and represents months of collaborative work. Boozman added that “it’s time we move this bill” despite the lack of agreement.
Gillibrand, though not an Agriculture Committee member, has actively participated in negotiations on crypto market structure. “I think both senators on the Banking and Ag committee are working in a bipartisan way and in good faith,” she said.
The senator expressed hope that lawmakers will amend the current draft to strengthen its provisions.
She specifically mentioned that earlier bipartisan compromises were omitted from the latest version and should be reconsidered.
The scheduled markup hearing represents a critical step toward establishing comprehensive crypto regulations.
Gillibrand noted that the Senate Agriculture Committee’s draft is still in review. She expressed hope that “the senators will work on a bipartisan basis to amend that draft to make it stronger.”
The senator acknowledged areas still requiring bipartisan resolution but maintained an optimistic outlook.
Banking Committee Faces Industry Pushback
The Senate Banking Committee encountered significant resistance from cryptocurrency companies regarding its draft legislation. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong publicly criticized the Banking Committee’s proposal during the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Armstrong stated that his company’s legal team started to notice “some pretty serious issues in the draft text.” He claimed the legislation would create worse conditions than the current regulatory environment.
Armstrong outlined specific concerns in a post on X, writing that the bill “would be materially worse than the current status quo.”
He particularly criticized draft amendments that would kill rewards on stablecoins, allowing banks to ban their competition.
The draft would prohibit stablecoin issuers from offering direct holding rewards, requiring instead transaction-based or program-based incentives.
Armstrong said Coinbase felt like they “had an obligation to go out and defend our customers’ rights.”
Chairman Tim Scott confirmed that bipartisan negotiations continue despite the postponement. The South Carolina Republican stated that “everyone remains at the table working in good faith” in his discussions with industry leaders.
However, no new date has been set for the Banking Committee’s markup hearing. The delay reflects the complexity of balancing traditional banking interests with cryptocurrency innovation.
Gillibrand addressed concerns about potential loopholes in the GENIUS Act, which President Trump signed in July.
She said she is “optimistic that we can find some common-sense bipartisan language that satisfies everyone’s concerns on this issue.”
The senator emphasized the importance of distinguishing stablecoins from FDIC-insured bank deposits to protect consumers.
She added that “we wanted to make sure that no consumer was confused about what a stablecoin is versus what a dollar sitting in a bank account is.”
Continued Commitment Despite Leadership Changes
Sen. Cynthia Lummis announced her retirement in December, creating uncertainty about future crypto advocacy.
The Wyoming Republican partnered with Gillibrand on the Lummis-Gillibrand Responsible Financial Innovation Act in 2022. Lummis chaired the Banking Committee’s crypto subcommittee and helped guide the GENIUS Act through Congress.
Gillibrand described Lummis’ expected retirement as “a huge loss to the U.S. Senate and a personal loss to me.”
Despite this setback, Gillibrand affirmed her unwavering commitment to digital asset regulation. She views cryptocurrency as essential for maintaining American competitiveness in global innovation.
“I don’t want China or Asia or other parts of the world to have the benefit of these industries,” she said. The senator warned that American reluctance or inability to regulate would hand advantages to foreign competitors.
Gillibrand argued that proper regulation enables domestic companies to compete effectively while protecting consumers and traditional financial institutions.
“If we want to protect consumers and we want to protect the traditional financial services, the best way to do that is to regulate it,” she explained.
She maintained that regulation represents the one thing that actually makes worldwide competition possible. Her advocacy stems from believing crypto provides opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation.
Gillibrand stressed that comprehensive regulatory frameworks remain achievable through continued bipartisan cooperation.
She called on lawmakers to remain engaged in negotiations regardless of political pressures. The senator emphasized that people want to get crypto legislation done now.
Her message stressed that establishing clear rules benefits all stakeholders in the digital asset ecosystem.
The post Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand Optimistic Senate Agriculture Committee Will Advance Crypto Bill Despite Partisan Divide appeared first on Blockonomi.
Senate Agriculture Committee scheduled Jan. 27 markup despite lacking bipartisan agreement on bill.
Coinbase CEO criticized Banking Committee draft, claiming it would be worse than current regulations.
Dual regulatory approach needed as digital assets have both commodity and security characteristics.
Sen. Lummis retirement creates leadership gap but Gillibrand remains committed to crypto advocacy.
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand said she is “very optimistic” the Senate Agriculture Committee will advance cryptocurrency legislation despite ongoing partisan divisions.
The New York Democrat shared her views in an exclusive CNBC interview, emphasizing continued bipartisan efforts.
The Senate Agriculture Committee has scheduled a markup session for January 27 to review legislation regulating digital commodities.
Meanwhile, the Senate Banking Committee postponed its own crypto bill markup after facing opposition from major industry players, including Coinbase.
Dual-Track Approach to Cryptocurrency Regulation
The legislative strategy involves two separate bills addressing different aspects of digital asset regulation. “Senators have been working on a bipartisan basis for the last six months pretty intensely, and we have two different bills,” Gillibrand told CNBC.
The Agriculture Committee oversees the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, while the Banking Committee handles Securities and Exchange Commission matters.
She explained that digital assets possess characteristics of both commodities and securities, requiring dual regulatory oversight.
The Agriculture Committee released updated legislative text Wednesday night, building on a previous bipartisan discussion draft. Chairman John Boozman acknowledged that “differences remain on fundamental policy issues” in a statement.
However, the Arkansas Republican emphasized that the bill incorporates stakeholder feedback and represents months of collaborative work. Boozman added that “it’s time we move this bill” despite the lack of agreement.
Gillibrand, though not an Agriculture Committee member, has actively participated in negotiations on crypto market structure. “I think both senators on the Banking and Ag committee are working in a bipartisan way and in good faith,” she said.
The senator expressed hope that lawmakers will amend the current draft to strengthen its provisions.
She specifically mentioned that earlier bipartisan compromises were omitted from the latest version and should be reconsidered.
The scheduled markup hearing represents a critical step toward establishing comprehensive crypto regulations.
Gillibrand noted that the Senate Agriculture Committee’s draft is still in review. She expressed hope that “the senators will work on a bipartisan basis to amend that draft to make it stronger.”
The senator acknowledged areas still requiring bipartisan resolution but maintained an optimistic outlook.
Banking Committee Faces Industry Pushback
The Senate Banking Committee encountered significant resistance from cryptocurrency companies regarding its draft legislation. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong publicly criticized the Banking Committee’s proposal during the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Armstrong stated that his company’s legal team started to notice “some pretty serious issues in the draft text.” He claimed the legislation would create worse conditions than the current regulatory environment.
Armstrong outlined specific concerns in a post on X, writing that the bill “would be materially worse than the current status quo.”
He particularly criticized draft amendments that would kill rewards on stablecoins, allowing banks to ban their competition.
The draft would prohibit stablecoin issuers from offering direct holding rewards, requiring instead transaction-based or program-based incentives.
Armstrong said Coinbase felt like they “had an obligation to go out and defend our customers’ rights.”
Chairman Tim Scott confirmed that bipartisan negotiations continue despite the postponement. The South Carolina Republican stated that “everyone remains at the table working in good faith” in his discussions with industry leaders.
However, no new date has been set for the Banking Committee’s markup hearing. The delay reflects the complexity of balancing traditional banking interests with cryptocurrency innovation.
Gillibrand addressed concerns about potential loopholes in the GENIUS Act, which President Trump signed in July.
She said she is “optimistic that we can find some common-sense bipartisan language that satisfies everyone’s concerns on this issue.”
The senator emphasized the importance of distinguishing stablecoins from FDIC-insured bank deposits to protect consumers.
She added that “we wanted to make sure that no consumer was confused about what a stablecoin is versus what a dollar sitting in a bank account is.”
Continued Commitment Despite Leadership Changes
Sen. Cynthia Lummis announced her retirement in December, creating uncertainty about future crypto advocacy.
The Wyoming Republican partnered with Gillibrand on the Lummis-Gillibrand Responsible Financial Innovation Act in 2022. Lummis chaired the Banking Committee’s crypto subcommittee and helped guide the GENIUS Act through Congress.
Gillibrand described Lummis’ expected retirement as “a huge loss to the U.S. Senate and a personal loss to me.”
Despite this setback, Gillibrand affirmed her unwavering commitment to digital asset regulation. She views cryptocurrency as essential for maintaining American competitiveness in global innovation.
“I don’t want China or Asia or other parts of the world to have the benefit of these industries,” she said. The senator warned that American reluctance or inability to regulate would hand advantages to foreign competitors.
Gillibrand argued that proper regulation enables domestic companies to compete effectively while protecting consumers and traditional financial institutions.
“If we want to protect consumers and we want to protect the traditional financial services, the best way to do that is to regulate it,” she explained.
She maintained that regulation represents the one thing that actually makes worldwide competition possible. Her advocacy stems from believing crypto provides opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation.
Gillibrand stressed that comprehensive regulatory frameworks remain achievable through continued bipartisan cooperation.
She called on lawmakers to remain engaged in negotiations regardless of political pressures. The senator emphasized that people want to get crypto legislation done now.
Her message stressed that establishing clear rules benefits all stakeholders in the digital asset ecosystem.
The post Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand Optimistic Senate Agriculture Committee Will Advance Crypto Bill Despite Partisan Divide appeared first on Blockonomi.
Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong Reveals Major Bank Partnerships and Crypto Adoption Strategy at Davos
TLDR:
Coinbase partners with JP Morgan and PNC Bank to integrate crypto infrastructure into banking products
BlackRock shows interest in tokenizing funds as financial institutions move operations onto blockchain
Genius Act requires US-regulated stablecoins to hold 100% assets in short-term US treasury securities
Armstrong identifies on-chain asset trading and B2B stablecoin payments as key industry growth trends
Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong outlined the growing institutional adoption of cryptocurrency during a recent All-In podcast interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
Armstrong discussed ongoing partnerships with major financial institutions, including JPMorgan and PNC Bank, to integrate crypto infrastructure into traditional banking products.
The executive addressed regulatory developments and market structure legislation while noting BlackRock’s interest in tokenizing investment funds.
Traditional Finance Embraces Blockchain Infrastructure
Armstrong revealed that Coinbase has established partnerships with several global banking giants to bring crypto capabilities to their platforms.
“JP Morgan and PNC Bank are working with Coinbase to integrate blockchain technology into their existing product offerings.”
Armstrong stated during the interview. This collaboration marks a shift in how traditional financial institutions view digital assets.
BlackRock has expressed interest in tokenizing its funds, according to Armstrong’s statements at the forum. The move by one of the world’s largest asset managers demonstrates the growing acceptance of blockchain technology in mainstream finance.
Armstrong observed that more financial institutions are moving their operations onto the blockchain, creating new opportunities for the industry.
Bank CEOs have shown increased interest in cryptocurrency, Armstrong noted during the interview.
The executive discussed how the relationship between Coinbase and traditional banks involves both competition and collaboration. Many banking leaders now recognize the potential of digital assets in their business models.
Armstrong emphasized that 52 million Americans have used crypto, making it politically relevant for policymakers. He contrasted the Biden administration’s regulatory approach with Donald Trump’s efforts to establish clear rules for the industry.
The CEO praised Trump’s understanding of crypto’s political importance and regulatory clarity initiatives that could benefit the sector.
Stablecoin Regulations and Market Infrastructure Developments
The Genius Act requires US-regulated stablecoins to hold 100% of their assets in short-term US treasuries. Armstrong explained the distinction between interest and rewards programs for stablecoin holders during the interview.
“Rewards must be tied to customer activity beyond simply maintaining a balance,” he clarified regarding the regulatory framework.
Armstrong discussed the importance of minimum listing standards for crypto assets on Coinbase’s platform.
These standards function similarly to app store policies, requiring proper disclosures before assets can be listed. The approach aims to protect users while maintaining market integrity across the exchange.
The CEO identified several key trends shaping the crypto industry’s future development moving forward. He highlighted the movement toward an “everything exchange,” where all assets trade on-chain as a major industry shift.
Prediction markets are experiencing growth as another emerging trend in the digital asset space.
Stablecoin payments are gaining traction, particularly for B2B cross-border transactions, Armstrong noted during his appearance. Coinbase is working on tokenizing real-world assets as part of its broader strategy for expansion.
The company sees these developments as crucial for expanding crypto’s utility beyond speculative trading activities.
The post Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong Reveals Major Bank Partnerships and Crypto Adoption Strategy at Davos appeared first on Blockonomi.
Coinbase partners with JP Morgan and PNC Bank to integrate crypto infrastructure into banking products
BlackRock shows interest in tokenizing funds as financial institutions move operations onto blockchain
Genius Act requires US-regulated stablecoins to hold 100% assets in short-term US treasury securities
Armstrong identifies on-chain asset trading and B2B stablecoin payments as key industry growth trends
Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong outlined the growing institutional adoption of cryptocurrency during a recent All-In podcast interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
Armstrong discussed ongoing partnerships with major financial institutions, including JPMorgan and PNC Bank, to integrate crypto infrastructure into traditional banking products.
The executive addressed regulatory developments and market structure legislation while noting BlackRock’s interest in tokenizing investment funds.
Traditional Finance Embraces Blockchain Infrastructure
Armstrong revealed that Coinbase has established partnerships with several global banking giants to bring crypto capabilities to their platforms.
“JP Morgan and PNC Bank are working with Coinbase to integrate blockchain technology into their existing product offerings.”
Armstrong stated during the interview. This collaboration marks a shift in how traditional financial institutions view digital assets.
BlackRock has expressed interest in tokenizing its funds, according to Armstrong’s statements at the forum. The move by one of the world’s largest asset managers demonstrates the growing acceptance of blockchain technology in mainstream finance.
Armstrong observed that more financial institutions are moving their operations onto the blockchain, creating new opportunities for the industry.
Bank CEOs have shown increased interest in cryptocurrency, Armstrong noted during the interview.
The executive discussed how the relationship between Coinbase and traditional banks involves both competition and collaboration. Many banking leaders now recognize the potential of digital assets in their business models.
Armstrong emphasized that 52 million Americans have used crypto, making it politically relevant for policymakers. He contrasted the Biden administration’s regulatory approach with Donald Trump’s efforts to establish clear rules for the industry.
The CEO praised Trump’s understanding of crypto’s political importance and regulatory clarity initiatives that could benefit the sector.
Stablecoin Regulations and Market Infrastructure Developments
The Genius Act requires US-regulated stablecoins to hold 100% of their assets in short-term US treasuries. Armstrong explained the distinction between interest and rewards programs for stablecoin holders during the interview.
“Rewards must be tied to customer activity beyond simply maintaining a balance,” he clarified regarding the regulatory framework.
Armstrong discussed the importance of minimum listing standards for crypto assets on Coinbase’s platform.
These standards function similarly to app store policies, requiring proper disclosures before assets can be listed. The approach aims to protect users while maintaining market integrity across the exchange.
The CEO identified several key trends shaping the crypto industry’s future development moving forward. He highlighted the movement toward an “everything exchange,” where all assets trade on-chain as a major industry shift.
Prediction markets are experiencing growth as another emerging trend in the digital asset space.
Stablecoin payments are gaining traction, particularly for B2B cross-border transactions, Armstrong noted during his appearance. Coinbase is working on tokenizing real-world assets as part of its broader strategy for expansion.
The company sees these developments as crucial for expanding crypto’s utility beyond speculative trading activities.
The post Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong Reveals Major Bank Partnerships and Crypto Adoption Strategy at Davos appeared first on Blockonomi.
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