Crypto World
Bitcoin (BTC) Faces Fresh Headwinds as ETF Outflows Hit $277M Near $80K Mark
Key Takeaways
- On May 7, U.S. Bitcoin spot ETFs experienced $277 million in net withdrawals, breaking a five-consecutive-day accumulation pattern
- IBIT from BlackRock recorded a single-day withdrawal of $98 million; Fidelity’s FBTC experienced consecutive outflow days
- Bitcoin retreated from $80,000 following rejection at the $82,000–$82,500 resistance level
- Coinbase and Robinhood reported revenue declines of 31% and 47% respectively in crypto operations, signaling diminished retail participation
- Dollar weakness and speculation surrounding a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve maintain long-term bullish sentiment
The streak of capital flowing into U.S. Bitcoin exchange-traded funds came to an abrupt halt on May 7, with institutional investors pulling $277.5 million from spot products. This reversal ended a remarkable accumulation phase that had attracted more than $1.6 billion since the beginning of May.

The iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) from BlackRock experienced its largest single-day redemption, with $98 million exiting the fund. This marked a sharp contrast to the preceding five trading sessions, during which IBIT accumulated more than $1 billion in Bitcoin exposure. Despite the outflow, the fund maintains approximately $75.8 billion in total holdings.
Fidelity’s Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC) witnessed outflows for the second consecutive session, with combined withdrawals reaching $167.94 million over the two-day period. The fund currently manages $15.24 billion in assets.

Collectively, the universe of U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs maintains approximately $106.77 billion in Bitcoin holdings.
Bitcoin’s price action on Friday showed consolidation in the $79,700–$80,180 range, following a rejection at the $82,000–$82,500 resistance zone earlier in the week. The pullback triggered liquidations of leveraged long positions totaling approximately $270 million in a 24-hour window.
Weakening Retail Participation
Quarterly earnings reports from leading cryptocurrency platforms revealed declining retail engagement. Coinbase disclosed a 31% revenue contraction compared to the first quarter of 2025. Meanwhile, Robinhood’s cryptocurrency segment experienced a steeper 47% decline during the same timeframe.
Jake Kennis, who serves as senior research analyst at Nansen, observed that Bitcoin’s push above $81,000 was primarily fueled by institutional spot acquisitions and forced short closures — with minimal retail trader involvement. Notably, funding rates remained subdued throughout the price advance.
Lacie Zhang, research analyst at Bitget Wallet, suggested that absent a revival in retail interest, Bitcoin could face downward pressure toward the $75,000–$78,000 support range.
Data from major exchanges showed shifting sentiment among sophisticated traders. Top-tier Binance traders reduced their Bitcoin long exposure to levels not seen in more than four weeks. At OKX, the long-to-short ratio among leading traders plummeted to 0.27, a dramatic decline from 1.20 recorded just ten days prior.
Broader Economic Context: Employment Figures and Currency Weakness
The April U.S. nonfarm payrolls report delivered 115,000 new jobs — substantially exceeding the anticipated 62,000. Additionally, March figures were revised upward to 185,000. The unemployment rate remained steady at 4.3%.
While the robust employment data supported short-term risk appetite, the Federal Reserve’s capacity to implement rate cuts remains constrained by ongoing energy-related inflationary pressures.
The U.S. dollar has experienced depreciation against major global currencies over the past two months. Market analysts suggest this dynamic diminishes the attractiveness of U.S. Treasuries and may redirect capital toward scarce digital assets like Bitcoin.
Geopolitical tensions resurfaced as uncertainties regarding a U.S.-Iran ceasefire intensified. Iranian authorities alleged that Washington violated previously agreed-upon terms, while reports of renewed military action near the Strait of Hormuz drove crude oil prices higher on Friday.
In related developments, Kevin Warsh is anticipated to succeed Jerome Powell as Federal Reserve Chair. Warsh has publicly expressed favorable views toward Bitcoin and recently disclosed personal investments in cryptocurrency assets and industry-related companies.
Polymarket prediction markets indicate increasing probability that the U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve could commence BTC accumulation by 2027.
According to CryptoQuant data, Bitcoin held on exchanges decreased by 9,832 BTC between May 1 and May 9, declining from 2,686,423 to 2,676,591.
Crypto World
Leading automated strategies for passive income
Disclosure: This article does not represent investment advice. The content and materials featured on this page are for educational purposes only.
AI crypto trading bots gain popularity in 2026 as beginners seek automated passive income strategies.
Summary
- AI trading bots are reshaping crypto in 2026, helping beginners automate strategies and reduce emotional trading decisions.
- BulkQuant offers automated crypto trading with machine learning and pre-configured strategies.
- As markets grow more competitive, BulkQuant simplifies passive crypto trading for new users.
The cryptocurrency market in 2026 is evolving faster than ever. With Bitcoin regaining upward momentum and institutional capital continuing to enter the space, trading environments have become more competitive, data-driven, and highly automated. Recent developments—such as expanded crypto ETF access and improved regulatory clarity across major markets—are pushing both retail and professional traders toward smarter tools.
For beginners, this shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Manual trading is no longer enough to keep up with high-frequency market movements. As a result, AI crypto trading bots for beginners are quickly becoming the preferred solution for those seeking efficiency, consistency, and passive income.
Instead of reacting emotionally to price swings, traders are now deploying intelligent systems capable of analyzing markets, executing trades, and optimizing strategies automatically. This guide explores how automated crypto trading for passive income works in 2026 — and how anyone can start using it today.
What are AI crypto trading bots?
AI crypto trading bots are automated systems that use machine learning, data analysis, and algorithmic strategies to trade cryptocurrencies on behalf of users.
Unlike traditional bots that rely on fixed rules, modern AI-powered systems continuously adapt to market conditions. They analyze price trends, liquidity flows, volatility patterns, and trading signals to make informed decisions in real time.
These bots are designed to:
- Execute trades automatically 24/7
- Identify profitable opportunities using predictive analytics
- Reduce emotional decision-making
- Optimize strategies based on market behavior
In essence, they allow anyone — even with zero trading experience — to participate in crypto markets using intelligent automation.
Start now – Activate an AI crypto trading bot
How artificial intelligence is transforming crypto trading
Artificial intelligence is no longer a future concept — it is now a core driver of the crypto market.
With the rise of AI-powered crypto trading strategies, traders can access insights that were previously only available to hedge funds and institutional desks. AI processes massive datasets in seconds, uncovering patterns that human traders cannot easily detect.
Key transformations include:
Faster Execution
AI reacts instantly to market changes, capturing short-term opportunities.
Smarter Analysis
Instead of relying on a few indicators, AI evaluates thousands of data points simultaneously.
Adaptive Learning
Strategies evolve over time, improving performance in changing market conditions.
Emotion-Free Decisions
AI eliminates fear, greed, and hesitation—common pitfalls for beginners.
For anyone searching for “best automated crypto trading strategies 2026”, AI is now the foundation.
AI trading bots vs traditional trading: Key advantages
The difference between AI-driven trading and manual trading is no longer marginal — it is structural.
24/7 Automation vs Limited Human Attention
AI bots never stop monitoring the market, while human traders are restricted by time.
Dynamic Strategies vs Static Rules
AI adapts to volatility and trend changes, unlike fixed manual strategies.
Scalability vs Single-Market Focus
AI can track multiple assets and exchanges simultaneously.
Consistency vs Emotional Bias
AI executes trades based on logic, not panic or overconfidence.
This is why no experience crypto trading bots are becoming increasingly popular among beginners.
How crypto traders use AI in 2026
In 2026, AI trading is no longer complex or technical. Most platforms offer simplified tools designed for everyday users.
Common use cases include:
Automated Portfolio Allocation
AI distributes funds across assets based on risk and market conditions.
Grid Trading Bots
Capture profits from market fluctuations with structured buy/sell levels.
Arbitrage Trading
Exploit price differences across exchanges automatically.
Trend-Based AI Strategies
Identify and follow strong market trends early.
For users searching for “how to start AI crypto trading with no experience”, the process is now streamlined: choose a strategy, allocate capital, and let automation handle execution.
Best AI crypto trading bots in 2026 (beginner-friendly platforms)
1. BulkQuant
BulkQuant stands out as a fully automated AI crypto trading platform for passive income, designed specifically for users who want simplicity without sacrificing performance.
Its system integrates machine learning with quantitative trading models, allowing users to activate intelligent strategies without manual setup.
How to use it effectively:
Start by selecting a pre-configured AI strategy, allocating funds, and then let the system execute trades automatically. Over time, the platform continuously optimizes positions based on real-time market behavior.
This makes it one of the best AI trading bots for beginners in 2026.
2. 3Commas
A widely used platform offering smart trading tools, automation features, and AI-assisted strategies. Suitable for users who want flexibility.
3. Cryptohopper
A cloud-based trading bot platform known for customization and strategy marketplaces.
4. Pionex
An exchange with built-in bots, ideal for users looking for an all-in-one trading solution.
5. TradeSanta
Beginner-friendly platform with simple automation tools and preset strategies.
How to choose the right AI trading bot
When selecting the best AI crypto trading bot platform, consider:
Ease of Use – Beginner-friendly interface and quick setup
Transparency – Clear strategy logic and performance tracking
Risk Management – Stop-loss, capital protection, and position control
Exchange Integration – Compatibility with major crypto exchanges
Reputation – Trusted platform with real user feedback
Choosing wisely is critical for long-term success.
Risks and realities of AI crypto trading
Even the best automated crypto trading bots come with risks.
- Market volatility can lead to unexpected losses
- AI strategies are not guaranteed to be profitable
- Over-automation can reduce awareness of market trends
- Some platforms lack transparency
AI improves efficiency — but it does not eliminate risk.
Future trends: The next phase of AI crypto trading
The future of AI-driven crypto trading platforms is rapidly evolving:
Advanced Predictive Models
Combining on-chain data, macro trends, and sentiment analysis.
Decentralized AI Trading Systems
Integration with DeFi protocols for fully autonomous trading.
Personalized AI Strategies
Tailored to individual risk tolerance and financial goals.
Stronger Regulation
Improved transparency and security for users worldwide.
Conclusion: From manual trading to automated income
AI crypto trading bots are redefining how people engage with digital assets.
For beginners, the biggest advantage is clear: they no longer need to spend years mastering technical analysis to participate in the market. With the right tools, automated crypto trading for passive income is now accessible to anyone.
The real opportunity lies in using AI strategically — combining automation with basic understanding and disciplined risk management.
In 2026, success in crypto trading is no longer about working harder. It is about working smarter — with AI.
Disclosure: This content is provided by a third party. Neither crypto.news nor the author of this article endorses any product mentioned on this page. Users should conduct their own research before taking any action related to the company.
Crypto World
AI Agents and Crypto Payments: The Emerging 2026 Narrative
Key Highlights
- The crypto space is witnessing AI agents emerge as a significant narrative for 2026, continuing the evolution from DeFi, NFTs, and meme coin cycles
- Close to 1,000 developers participated in building AI agent applications during the Consensus Miami EasyA Hackathon, with representation from tech giants like Microsoft and Google
- Amazon Web Services introduced Amazon Bedrock AgentCore Payments, developed alongside Coinbase and Stripe, enabling AI agents to conduct payments with USDC
- Payment settlements occur on Base and Solana networks, creating a direct bridge between artificial intelligence and blockchain payment infrastructure
- Market observers caution that numerous projects might adopt “AI agent” terminology superficially without demonstrating genuine products, user bases, or revenue streams
Autonomous AI agents represent software capable of performing searches, making reservations, processing payments, and handling various tasks with minimal human oversight. The integration of these agents with cryptocurrency payment frameworks is capturing significant interest from developers, venture capital, and leading technology corporations.
This momentum became evident during Consensus Miami, where the EasyA Hackathon drew approximately 1,000 developers focused on creating AI agent applications. The event featured contributors from blockchain platforms including Base and Solana, alongside professionals from major tech companies such as Microsoft and Google.
Developer engagement at such gatherings frequently indicates emerging market directions. When programmers transition from theoretical discussions to actual product deployment, investment communities typically respond with heightened attention.
This movement extends beyond cryptocurrency-focused developers. Traditional web developers, cloud computing platforms, blockchain networks, and artificial intelligence firms are collectively addressing a fundamental challenge: how autonomous software should manage digital financial transactions.
Amazon Web Services Collaborates With Coinbase and Stripe
Amazon Web Services advanced this conversation significantly this week by unveiling Amazon Bedrock AgentCore Payments, a preview functionality developed through collaboration with Coinbase and Stripe.
This solution empowers AI agents to purchase web content, access APIs, utilize MCP servers, and transact with other autonomous agents. Coinbase and Stripe supply the wallet architecture and payment infrastructure.
Based on AWS technical documentation, the platform targets microtransaction use cases, encompassing payments for premium APIs, MCP servers, and digital content. Many of these transactions involve amounts under one dollar.
Conventional payment networks often prove inefficient for small-value transactions due to processing fees and settlement delays. Stablecoins offer rapid movement, global settlement capability, and programmable integration, positioning them as viable solutions for AI agent commerce.
CoinMarketCap confirmed that AgentCore Payments operates using USDC, with transaction finality occurring on Base and Solana blockchains.
Investment Considerations
Many market analysts identify the infrastructure segment as offering early-stage opportunities. This encompasses stablecoins, digital wallets, Layer-1 and Layer-2 blockchain networks, payment protocols, and developer tools. Entities such as Coinbase, Stripe, USDC, Base, Solana, and Ethereum each play roles within this emerging ecosystem.
AI-focused cryptocurrency tokens may likewise generate investor attention. Initiatives centered on decentralized computing, autonomous agent frameworks, data distribution networks, and oracle infrastructure could experience increased demand as this narrative expands.
Investors should prioritize identifying genuine user adoption, operational products, active developer communities, and transparent token economics. Previous market cycles witnessed numerous projects appropriating trending terms like “metaverse” or “AI” without producing viable offerings.
Security protocols and regulatory compliance represent additional considerations. AI agents with spending capabilities will require transaction limits, identity verification mechanisms, and fraud prevention measures. Regulatory bodies may intensify scrutiny of autonomous systems conducting large-scale stablecoin transfers.
The AWS AgentCore Payments platform, supported by Coinbase and Stripe partnerships, utilizing USDC transactions on Base and Solana, represents the most tangible advancement in this sector to date.
Concluding Observations
The AI agent narrative remains in its formative phase. However, with Amazon Web Services, Coinbase, and Stripe already deploying functional products, alongside nearly 1,000 developers actively contributing to the ecosystem, this movement has progressed beyond conceptual discussions. Its longevity as a crypto market component versus fading like previous trends will ultimately depend on achieving genuine user adoption and sustainable demand.
Crypto World
Ethereum (ETH) Slides Under $2,300 Amid Major Whale Dumping and ETF Withdrawals
Key Takeaways
- Large whale address transferred 244K ETH to Binance across three days, creating downward price pressure
- Spot Ethereum ETFs in the US registered $103.5 million in withdrawals, breaking a four-day positive flow trend
- Since February’s market low, institutional investors have preferred Bitcoin allocations over Ethereum holdings
- An address connected to Erik Voorhees accumulated 2,920 ETH valued at $6.67 million USDT during recent weakness
- ETH price is range-bound between $2,197 floor and $2,389 ceiling, eyeing $3,000 as major bullish milestone
Ethereum hovers around $2,290 on Friday, retreating from its weekly peak as major whale distributions and deteriorating ETF flows create headwinds.

A substantial whale address, reportedly connected to Bitcoin veteran Garrett Jin, moved 78K ETH into Binance on Friday. This followed an earlier 166K ETH deposit on Wednesday, totaling 244K ETH in potential liquidations within a three-day window.
The timing of these transfers correlates with ETH’s nearly 6% correction, sliding from $2,423 down to $2,277 during the identical timeframe.
Jin has demonstrated market timing ability previously, notably executing a leverage liquidation strategy on October 10 after establishing a $1.1 billion short stake. He also absorbed a $378 million loss from bullish positions in January.
On the fund flow front, US-based spot Ethereum ETFs reversed their four-day accumulation pattern on Thursday, recording $103.5 million in net withdrawals.
Analysis from CryptoQuant reveals Bitcoin-focused funds have accumulated 92,116 BTC since February’s market trough, whereas Ethereum funds have decreased holdings by 127,000 ETH during the corresponding timeframe.
“Throughout volatile conditions, numerous funds demonstrate greater readiness to trim ETH holdings initially, while preserving or expanding BTC positions as the ‘more secure’ digital asset allocation,” CryptoQuant noted.
Strategic Accumulation Persists Despite Distribution Pressure
Not every major holder is exiting positions. An address linked to Erik Voorhees purchased 2,920 ETH using 6.67 million USDT, at approximately $2,284 per token, data from Lookonchain shows.
This particular address had accumulated 123,184 ETH previously, representing $266 million in total value. While the connection to Voorhees remains unverified, market observers are monitoring this accumulation pattern.
Cryptocurrency analyst Ted highlighted on X that ETH breaking beneath $2,300 has amplified bearish momentum throughout the market, with declining investor confidence following the adverse ETF data.
Critical Price Levels Under Watch
From a technical perspective, Ethereum maintains position near its 20-day and 50-day exponential moving averages at approximately $2,307 and $2,265. The 50-day EMA offered cushion following a two-session downturn.
Trader Sky published chart analysis on X identifying three cup-and-handle formations developing beneath the $2,389 resistance barrier. The assessment suggests a potential rally toward $3,000 upon clearing that threshold.
Trader Cantonese Cat shared alternative technical analysis displaying ETH revisiting a downward trendline recently breached in late April, indicating a possible false breakout before any durable upward trajectory.
Critical support zones are positioned at $2,197 and $2,107. Overhead resistance barriers stand at $2,389, followed by $2,746.
ETH has yet to validate a decisive breakout above $2,389 as of Friday’s session, with pricing remaining contained below that threshold.
Crypto World
Anthropic raise eyes $900bn valuation in summer
Anthropic raise talks are targeting a $900bn valuation and up to $50bn in fresh capital, sources told the Financial Times.
Summary
- Anthropic is in talks to raise up to $50bn at a pre-money valuation of $900bn, which would surpass OpenAI’s March valuation of $852bn.
- The round could close within two months, with Dragoneer, General Catalyst, and Lightspeed among interested investors and a board decision expected in May.
- Anthropic’s annualized revenue is on track to exceed $45bn, up from $9bn at the end of 2025, driven largely by Claude Code and enterprise adoption.
Anthropic raise talks are targeting a $900bn valuation and up to $50bn in fresh capital, sources told the Financial Times. The proposed round, first reported by Bloomberg on April 29, would push the Claude developer past OpenAI as the most valuable private AI company in the world. OpenAI was valued at $852bn post-money in March after closing a $122bn funding round.
The round has not been finalized and Anthropic has declined to comment. TechCrunch’s sources describe the raise as possibly the company’s final private funding event before a public listing, with Bloomberg reporting a potential IPO as early as October 2026.
A board decision on whether to proceed is expected this month. One investor in the company told the Financial Times: “People are ready to throw any dollar amount at Anthropic.”
Why the numbers are moving so fast
Anthropic’s annualized revenue run rate has surpassed $45bn, up from $9bn at the end of 2025, according to sources cited by the Financial Times, a fivefold increase in roughly five months.
As crypto.news reported, the company’s revenue milestone of $30bn was driven largely by Claude Code and its Cowork platform, with over 1,000 enterprise customers each spending more than $1 million annually. Amazon separately confirmed a $5bn additional investment in Anthropic in April, bringing its total potential commitment to $25bn.
Dragoneer, General Catalyst, and Lightspeed Venture Partners are among the investors in active discussions. CFO Krishna Rao has already met with prospective backers, and some existing shareholders have requested new allocations even though a formal process has not yet launched, according to TechCrunch.
What a $900bn raise means for crypto markets
As crypto.news tracked, Anthropic’s tokenized pre-IPO shares on Jupiter’s Prestocks venue already imply a $1.2 trillion valuation, above OpenAI’s secondary market mark of roughly $880bn.
That spread between private round pricing and on-chain secondary pricing signals aggressive front-running by crypto-native investors ahead of any public listing.
As crypto.news noted, Anthropic is also finalizing a $1.5bn joint venture with Blackstone, Goldman Sachs, and Hellman and Friedman targeting private equity portfolio companies, adding a separate commercial revenue channel that makes the valuation case harder to dismiss as purely speculative. If the round closes at $900bn, Anthropic would sit at roughly 20 times its February valuation of $380bn reached just three months ago.
Crypto World
Meta’s Muse Spark ends its open-source AI era
Meta launched Muse Spark on April 8, its first fully closed AI model, abandoning its open-source Llama strategy
Summary
- Meta launched Muse Spark on April 8, the first product from its Meta Superintelligence Labs unit, built from scratch by Alexandr Wang’s team after a $14.3bn Scale AI deal.
- The model is fully proprietary with no open weights, a direct reversal of the Llama strategy that reached 1.2 billion downloads by early 2026.
- Meta stock rose 9% on launch day, and the model will roll out across WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and Messenger in the coming weeks.
Meta launched Muse Spark on April 8, its first fully closed AI model, abandoning its open-source Llama strategy. The launch marks the inaugural product from Meta Superintelligence Labs, the unit built around Alexandr Wang after Meta’s $14.3bn investment in Scale AI.
Wang said in a statement: “Nine months ago, we rebuilt our AI stack from scratch. New infrastructure, new architecture, new data pipelines. This is step one. Bigger models are already in development with plans to open-source future versions.”
Unlike Llama, Muse Spark’s weights are not publicly accessible. API access is currently by invitation only, targeting select partners. Meta has said it hopes to open-source future versions, framing the current closure as temporary.
Gartner analyst Arun Chandrasekaran described the move as a “major shift,” saying it signals Meta’s intention to move away from the Llama brand entirely.
What Muse Spark actually does
The model is natively multimodal, handling text, image, and voice inputs. Its flagship feature is a “Contemplating” mode that runs multiple reasoning agents in parallel before responding, competing directly with Gemini Deep Think and GPT Pro.
Meta collaborated with over 1,000 physicians to curate health-related training data, and the model is being marketed as a personal health reasoning tool alongside its general assistant capabilities.
Muse Spark sits below GPT-5.4 and Gemini 3.1 Pro on the Artificial Analysis Intelligence Index, scoring 52 against their 57. Meta has not disclosed the model’s parameter count or architecture details. As crypto.news reported, the model beat Gemini 3.1 Pro on several health-related benchmarks that Meta prioritized in its evaluation suite.
Why Meta made the switch now
As crypto.news documented, Meta had been signaling a phased approach to its next AI generation, keeping core components proprietary while assessing safety risks.
The switch to a fully closed first release reflects the competitive pressure from OpenAI and Anthropic, both of which have proprietary models generating billions in API revenue that Meta’s open-source approach could not capture.
Meta’s 2026 capital expenditure is guided at $115bn to $135bn, nearly double 2025 levels. Meta stock rose more than 9% on launch day, the strongest single-day response to a Meta product announcement in over two years. The developer community that built on Llama is now being asked to wait for a future open-source release with no confirmed timeline.
Crypto World
Wall Street poses no threat to Bitcoin’s future
Bitcoin’s ongoing institutional embrace is drawing attention from across the market, but Strike CEO Jack Mallers argues that Wall Street’s deeper involvement does not undermine the asset’s core principles. In a wide-ranging conversation with Danny Knowles on the What Bitcoin Did podcast, Mallers defended Bitcoin’s ethos while acknowledging the a new era of capital flow.
“My one-word answer to that is no,” Mallers said, responding to whether institutional participation threatens Bitcoin’s foundational ideas. “If Wall Street getting into Bitcoin kills it, it was never going to be successful in the first place.” He framed the development as a natural part of Bitcoin’s evolution as it competes for global wealth, arguing that the asset’s mission to be “money for all” should include even those who might oppose it or come from different communities.
“Bitcoin is predicated on this idea that it is money for all. And the all part should be explored,” Mallers added. “That means your enemies, too.”
Key takeaways
- Strike’s Jack Mallers argues that Wall Street’s increasing involvement in Bitcoin does not threaten the asset’s core principles and may be essential to its broader adoption.
- 11 US spot Bitcoin ETFs have drawn a combined net inflow of about $59.38 billion as of the most recent reporting period, underscoring rising institutional interest in Bitcoin exposure, according to data from Farside.
- The influx of traditional capital is framed as a competitive force for Bitcoin to become a global store of value, with wealth migrating toward digital assets as part of a broader monetization of Bitcoin’s network effects.
- Wall Street’s push into crypto access pathways is multiplying, with Morgan Stanley reported to have rolled out a cryptocurrency trading pilot on its E*Trade platform, offering retail clients a lower fee structure than many peers—50 basis points per transaction.
- Within the Bitcoin community, there are tensions about governance and development pace, with some critics warning that large institutions could seek to influence or replace development decisions if core concerns, such as quantum computing risk, are not addressed swiftly.
Bitcoin’s broadening narrative: Wall Street’s footprint deepens
Mallers’ comments speak to a broader debate inside crypto circles about whether Wall Street’s growing ownership, custody, and trading presence will shift Bitcoin’s social contract. Proponents say institutional participation brings legitimacy, risk management, and liquidity to a market that has long been driven by retail and tech-savvy participants. Critics warn that large holders could gain outsized influence over key decisions, potentially diluting Bitcoin’s original decentralization ethos. The tension is not merely theoretical: it is playing out in instruments and platforms that shape how non-technical investors access and perceive Bitcoin.
On one hand, the trend reflects a maturing market. Since the US introduced spot Bitcoin ETFs in January 2024, a cohort of products has begun to attract institutional inflows. As of the latest reports, the 11 spot ETF funds have collectively accumulated about $59.38 billion in net inflows, illustrating that traditional asset managers see Bitcoin as a credible, scalable exposure for clients’ portfolios. This momentum aligns with a broader arc of traditional financial firms integrating crypto into their advisory and execution capabilities, signaling that Bitcoin is increasingly being analyzed and priced like a global macro asset rather than a niche tech product.
For investors, the implication is twofold: greater access to Bitcoin via familiar channels and the potential for deeper price discovery as large, diversified capital allocators participate. Yet the dynamic also raises questions about market structure, custody, and governance—areas where institutions historically exert influence. The debate remains whether Bitcoin can maintain its trustless, permissionless ideals while absorbing the efficiency and governance expectations of mainstream finance.
From on-ramp to on-chain: Wall Street’s retail access play
The period of institutional interest is accompanied by concrete moves that blur the line between traditional finance and crypto native services. Wall Street banks aren’t just offering exposure; they are building the plumbing for everyday investors to transact in digital assets. A notable development reported this week was Morgan Stanley’s reported rollout of a cryptocurrency trading pilot on its E*Trade platform. The pilot is described as offering lower basic retail fees than some of the largest crypto and brokerage platforms, pricing at around 50 basis points on the dollar value of trades. By pricing crypto access competitively, Morgan Stanley appears to be aiming to win a broader share of the retail crypto trading audience, potentially drawing customers away from pure-play crypto exchanges and traditional brokers alike.
The move signals a shift from mere custody or custody-adjacent services toward full execution capability and market access, a trend that could accelerate user adoption and reshape marketplace liquidity. While industry participants weigh fee levels and execution quality, observers are watching how such pilots will integrate with existing risk controls, compliance frameworks, and customer protection standards that are central to mainstream finance.
For traders and institutions, the evolving retail-on-ramp dynamic matters because it influences liquidity, price discovery, and the cost of capital in Bitcoin markets. A broader, more diverse base of participants can smooth price movements and reduce the risk of outsized moves tied to niche trader cohorts. However, it also elevates the importance of robust risk controls and transparent governance to maintain market integrity as new players enter the space.
Community perspectives: balancing ascent with core principles
Not all voices in the Bitcoin ecosystem are unreservedly celebratory about Wall Street’s growing presence. Some critics argue that large institutions could gain enough influence to shape Bitcoin’s development trajectory or question the pace at which developers address emerging concerns. In particular, discourse around resilience and future-proofing has included warnings that governance could shift if institutions push for faster timelines or more centralized decision-making. One prominent Bitcoin thinker cautioned that as institutions accumulate Bitcoin, they may seek to substitute governance or push for changes that align with their risk tolerances and timelines. The underlying tension is a reminder that Bitcoin’s architectural and policy choices—such as how updates are implemented and how disputes are resolved—remain critical to its long-term integrity. This debate has been echoed in coverage discussing technology risk, including concerns around quantum computing and the implications for security and development governance, as noted in broader industry conversations.
As these discussions unfold, observers will be watching how institutions engage with Bitcoin’s open-source development community, and whether traditional governance expectations are reconciled with the decentralized, permissionless ethos that helped Bitcoin reach its current status. The nuanced point, underscored by Mallers’ interview, is that Bitcoin’s universal appeal—its promise to be money for all—should be inclusive of diverse actors, even those with competing interests. Yet the challenge remains balancing rapid adoption and scale with the safeguards that maintain the network’s core trust framework.
For readers seeking context, these perspectives sit alongside ongoing reporting that institutional actors are actively shaping how crypto markets are accessed and regulated, and how new products and platforms can align with both investor protection and the network’s decentralization philosophy. As markets continue to evolve, watchers should monitor policy developments, custody standards, and the governance conversations that ultimately determine how Bitcoin navigates the intersection of innovation and institutional participation.
In sum, Mallers’ stance frames Wall Street’s ascent not as a threat but as a catalyst for Bitcoin’s global monetization and adoption. The coming quarters will reveal how this dynamic plays out across product design, market structure, and the delicate balance between openness and safeguards that define the asset’s path forward.
What’s next? Investors and users should watch for further institutional-thick liquidity in spot markets, the trajectory of ETF inflows, and how major banks balance consumer access with robust risk controls. Regulatory signals and governance debates will also be key to understanding whether the current momentum can translate into lasting, widely accessible on-chain usage and sustained price formation.
Crypto World
What Does ETH Need to Surge Past $3,000 Again as Whales Are Abandoning Ship?
Ethereum’s native coin finally managed to break its all-time high during the 2025 rally, but only mildly compared to other assets, such as BTC. Its subsequent behavior has been quite painful, as it now trades over 53% away from its peak at $4,950 from August 2025, even after the market-wide rebound seen in the past few weeks.
Moreover, on-chain data shows that whales have been disposing of their assets, which begs the question: what does ETH need to recover to $3,000 and beyond?
Whales Moving Off ETH?
Recall that ETH whales went on a massive accumulation spree in the middle of last year, which peaked shortly after the asset’s all-time high and before the massive market-wide crash in early October. More precisely, those holding between 1,000 and 10,000 tokens had increased their portfolios from 12.95 million to 15.95 million in just several months, according to data shared by Ali Martinez.
Since then, though, their behavior has changed completely aside from a few brief exceptions. Their total holdings have declined by 21.5%, Martinez continued, bringing them below the starting point of 12.95 million to 12.52 million ETH.
Given this significant whale exodus, Martinez questioned whether they will be able to sustain a more profound rally to $3,000 and beyond. In fact, he suggested that the asset might require “a fresh wave of institutional or retail demand” to offset the whales’ distribution.
Ethereum whales are doing something they haven’t done in a year.
Since October 6, 2025, Ethereum whales holding 1,000 to 10,000 $ETH have undergone a significant regime change in their market behavior.
Before this shift, this cohort was in a steady accumulation regime. Their… https://t.co/5WAJSKsnl9 pic.twitter.com/qezrxfq6Re
— Ali Charts (@alicharts) May 7, 2026
ETF Inflows Incoming?
After five consecutive months of outflows dominating inflows, the spot Ethereum ETFs finally broke this adverse streak in April, attracting over $355 million in fresh capital. Although May began on a high note as well, with roughly $170 million entering the funds in just several days, the year-to-date numbers remain deep in the red.
Moreover, the ETH ETF cumulative total net inflows are far from their peak marked in early October of approximately $15 billion. As last week’s closing bell, they stood at just over $12 billion.
Consequently, it’s safe to assume that ETF investors have not stepped up to offset the whales’ distribution so far. Perhaps that’s why ETH remained over 53% below its August 2025 ATH, and every breakout attempt has been halted at $2,400.
The post What Does ETH Need to Surge Past $3,000 Again as Whales Are Abandoning Ship? appeared first on CryptoPotato.
Crypto World
Jack Mallers Shuts Down The Idea That Wall Street Is A Threat To Bitcoin
Bitcoin payments application Strike CEO Jack Mallers said that Wall Street’s growing involvement in Bitcoin poses no threat or conflict to the asset itself.
“My one-word answer to that is no,” Mallers told Danny Knowles on the What Bitcoin Did podcast published to YouTube on Thursday, in response to whether institutional involvement threatens Bitcoin’s core principles.
“If Wall Street getting into Bitcoin kills it, it was never going to be successful in the first place,” Mallers said.

Jack Mallers spoke to Danny Knowles on the What Bitcoin Did podcast. Source: What Bitcoin Did
“Bitcoin is predicated on this idea that it is money for all. And the all part should be explored. That means your enemies, too,” he said. “That means the ex-wife that cheated on you, that means your neighbor that’s a fan of the opposing football club, that’s everybody,” he added.
Bitcoin is competing for global capital, says Mallers
Some Bitcoiners argue that Wall Street’s presence threatens Bitcoin’s original ethos by concentrating ownership, influence and custody of the asset in the hands of large financial institutions. Since spot Bitcoin ETFs launched in the US in January 2024, the 11 funds have collectively recorded $59.38 billion in net inflows as of Friday, according to Farside data.
However, Mallers said the “obvious implication” is that Wall Street and other major traditional investors would get involved in Bitcoin as the asset competes for global capital.
“Where wealth exists today, those things will be demonetized like real estate will be demonetized, fine art will be demonetized, government debt will be demonetized, and Bitcoin will be monetized,” he said.
Some Bitcoiners have argued that growing institutional involvement could eventually give large firms too much influence over Bitcoin itself. Bitcoiner and venture capitalist Nic Carter said that major Bitcoin-holding institutions may eventually lose patience with Bitcoin developers for not addressing quantum computing concerns quickly enough. “I think the big institutions that now exist in Bitcoin, they will get fed up, and they will fire the devs and put in new devs,” Carter said in February.
Wall Street moves in on crypto platforms’ customers
There have been several developments in Wall Street’s adoption of Bitcoin and, more broadly, crypto over the past couple of years.
Related: CLARITY Act support carries electoral boost, HarrisX poll finds
Most recently, on Tuesday, it was reported that Morgan Stanley rolled out a cryptocurrency trading pilot on its E*Trade platform, charging lower basic retail fees than some of the largest US crypto and brokerage platforms.
The Wall Street bank is charging clients 50 basis points on the dollar value of each crypto transaction, undercutting Coinbase, Robinhood and Charles Schwab on standard retail pricing.
Magazine: Guide to the top and emerging global crypto hubs: Mid-2026
Crypto World
Best Crypto to Invest in Right Now as BITCOIN Breaks Past $81,000 and One Presale Could Deliver the Returns That Altcoins Cannot
BITCOIN just broke past $81,000 for the first time since January, and the best crypto to invest in landed back at the center of every portfolio decision. April ETF inflows hit $2.44 billion, the strongest monthly figure since October 2025, and that kind of institutional buying confirms the recovery is built on real demand rather than a short-lived bounce.
Meanwhile, Pepeto keeps banking capital at presale pricing, with $9.84 million raised and an expected Binance listing that could reprice the token before most buyers even notice.
While institutions stack BITCOIN through ETFs and retail watches from the sidelines, Pepeto’s PepetoSwap exchange and risk scoring tool bring direct trading paths and contract verification to every wallet. The presale window is narrowing by the day.
BITCOIN Rallies Past $81,000 on ETF Demand and Geopolitical Relief
BITCOIN hit $81,000 on May 5 as multiple catalysts came together at once. April spot ETF inflows reached $2.44 billion, with BlackRock and Fidelity leading the buying, according to CoinDesk.
The move also followed eased Middle East tensions after an announcement around the Strait of Hormuz, which lifted risk assets broadly. This rally confirms that capital is returning to crypto at a pace that makes the best crypto to invest in conversation relevant for anyone sitting on the sidelines.
Projects and Coins Defining the Best Crypto to Invest in for This Market Cycle
Pepeto
The BITCOIN rally is a reminder of how the capital flow works in crypto. Institutions and large wallets move first during fear, and by the time the recovery shows up on the chart, the cheapest entries are already gone. Whether it is ETF demand during a dip or whale buying before a breakout, the wallets that act during doubt collect what the late arrivals cannot reach.
Pepeto, considered the best crypto to invest in, was designed to close that distance. Created by the mind behind the original PEPE coin who proved what happens when 420 trillion tokens meet a community that refuses to stop buying, Pepeto’s PepetoSwap marketplace processes token trades and the risk scoring tool audits smart contracts before capital touches anything dangerous.
This functioning product is precisely why the presale banked more than $9.84 million during a market that crushed most new launches. At $0.0000001868, the project is backed by a functioning marketplace that traders already use, and the projected upside ranges from 100x to 300x because the entry window opened at the same stage where every past winner started before anyone cared.
Compare this to waiting for established coins to double from prices that already carry billions in market cap. Pepeto does not need years to play out because the expected Binance listing marks the moment when presale holders see their entry repriced against the full market for the first time.
Independent verification from SolidProof covers every contract, staking at 175 percent APY grows positions daily for wallets that moved early, and the distance between $0.0000001868 and a listing price set by millions of traders is the kind of gap that created every crypto fortune worth talking about.
DOGECOIN
DOGECOIN (DOGE) is trading near $0.10 after whales loaded 160 million tokens in 96 hours and the first DOGE ETF attracted fresh inflows. The price cleared the 50-day and 100-day moving averages for the first time in months, and technical targets now sit at $0.126 where the 200-day moving average waits as resistance.
While DOGE carries strong whale backing and growing ETF attention, the token still trades 84 percent below its all-time high of $0.7376 and needs multiple catalysts to reclaim higher ground, which is why many searching for the best crypto to invest in look at earlier-stage projects with a clear listing catalyst still ahead.
ETHEREUM
ETHEREUM (ETH) is trading near $2,285 according to CoinMarketCap after the Glamsterdam upgrade went live and tripled the gas limit to 200 million per block, according to Reuters. ETF inflows reached nine consecutive days, and whale buying topped 230,000 ETH in one week, which means large buyers are treating this zone as a long-term entry.
While ETH holds the strongest technical infrastructure in crypto, the price still sits 53 percent below its all-time high of $4,953 and needs sustained demand above $2,500 to confirm the next leg higher.
Conclusion
The market always pays the most to the earliest believers, and the window to be early does not stay open once the listing arrives. PEPE turned small wallets into millions with zero products, and those entries can never come back. More than $9.84 million flowing into this presale during market fear means those wallets see the same setup that rewarded the earliest holders in every previous cycle, and that is exactly what the best crypto to invest in conversation comes down to right now.
Pepeto carries the backing of the PEPE cofounder, a live marketplace, a risk scoring tool, and an expected Binance listing that could go live any day. One simple decision, entering now instead of waiting, is the difference between being the wallet that collected 100x to 300x and being the one that watched from the sidelines and spent the rest of the cycle wishing they had moved when it cost almost nothing.
The listing is not months away, it is close, and every day of hesitation shrinks the window that separates life-changing returns from regret that lasts the entire bull run.
Click To Visit Pepeto Website To Enter The Presale
FAQs
What makes Pepeto the best crypto to invest in during the 2026 bull market?
Pepeto is the best crypto to invest in during the 2026 bull market because it combines a working marketplace, a contract risk scorer, and an expected Binance listing into one presale entry at $0.0000001868. The project has raised more than $9.84 million with 175 percent APY staking that grows positions for holders who entered before listing.
How does the BITCOIN rally affect the best crypto to invest in right now?
The BITCOIN rally past $81,000 confirms institutional money is back in the market, and that capital historically rotates into smaller tokens within days of BTC breaking key levels. Presale entries with listing catalysts ahead capture the largest returns during this rotation phase.
Is DOGECOIN or ETHEREUM a stronger investment than Pepeto in 2026?
DOGECOIN and ETHEREUM carry solid technical backing but sit 84 percent and 53 percent below their all-time highs respectively, which limits their short-term upside. Pepeto offers a presale entry at $0.0000001868 with an expected Binance listing that sets a clear repricing event no established coin can match.
Disclaimer: This is a Press Release provided by a third party who is responsible for the content. Please conduct your own research before taking any action based on the content.
Crypto World
Ondo Finance Builds Bullish Setup Near 0.44 as Institutional RWA and Capital Inflows Surge
TLDR:
- Ondo Finance holds near $0.44 as accumulation signals strengthen across trading sessions
- Ondo Finance benefits from RWA expansion as institutional inflows support the market recovery trend
- Market structure improves as ONDO shows higher lows and reduced downside pressure overall
- Cross-border settlement with major institutions strengthens ONDO’s relevance in tokenized finance
Ondo Finance is on a revival journey as its price structure strengthens alongside its real-world asset adoption and institutional settlement progress. This move is showing a reflection of renewed confidence across digital asset markets.
Accumulation Structure and RWA-Driven Price Action
Ondo Finance is trading within a strengthening accumulation range after months of broad market correction pressure.
Price behavior around the $0.20 zone has repeatedly attracted buyers, establishing a notable demand foundation across sessions.
Following this reaction, ONDO recorded a sharp rebound of nearly 88 percent from recent lows with sustained volume expansion.
This movement suggests that selling pressure is gradually being absorbed as market structure shifts toward recovery formation stages.
RWA sector momentum continues to support Ondo Finance as tokenized treasuries and yield products attract renewed attention.
Market participants are increasingly rotating liquidity into real-world asset protocols as institutional demand expands across digital markets.
This rotation has strengthened ONDO positioning within narrative-driven altcoins, especially as volatility compresses near support regions.
Ondo Finance, therefore, remains positioned within a structurally improving range supported by gradual capital inflows and renewed participation.
The technical structure shows higher lows forming consistently, indicating absorption of supply during consolidation phases across trading intervals.
This pattern often precedes expansion phases when liquidity returns, and market sentiment stabilizes after extended uncertainty periods.
Ondo Finance, therefore, remains positioned within a structurally improving range supported by gradual capital inflows and renewed participation.
Cross-Border Settlement and Institutional Integration
Ondo Finance has advanced its institutional relevance through a near real-time cross-border redemption of a tokenized U.S. Treasury fund.
The transaction involved collaboration with Kinexys by JPMorgan, Mastercard, and Ripple across a hybrid settlement infrastructure.
Execution occurred using both public blockchain systems and traditional interbank rails, enabling seamless financial interoperability.
Settlement completion outside standard banking windows demonstrates continuous operational capability within tokenized financial systems. This framework supports the concept of 24/7 global settlement for digital assets across integrated financial networks.
Ondo Finance remains positioned within this evolving structure as institutional testing of blockchain settlement expands globally.
Market response reflects growing attention toward tokenized treasury products and real-time settlement efficiency across institutional channels.
Financial institutions continue exploring blockchain integration to improve settlement speed and reduce operational constraints.
Ondo Finance benefits from this environment as the adoption of real-world asset tokenization increases steadily across markets.
The collaboration between major financial entities signals increased alignment between traditional finance systems and blockchain networks.
This alignment supports broader experimentation with hybrid settlement models across global financial infrastructure frameworks.
Continued progress in tokenized settlement may shape future cross-border transaction standards across regulated markets.
Ondo Finance remains a reference point in this evolving financial infrastructure transformation phase. Liquidity flows indicate sustained interest from participants evaluating blockchain-based settlement systems. globally
-
Crypto World1 day agoHarrisX Poll Found 52% of Registered Voters Support the CLARITY Act
-
NewsBeat6 days agoChannel 5 – All Creatures Great and Small series 7 new post
-
Crypto World2 days agoUpbit adds B3 Korean won pair as Base token gains Korea access
-
Tech5 days agoImage AI models now drive app growth, beating chatbot upgrades
-
NewsBeat2 days agoNCP car park operator enters administration putting 340 UK sites at risk of closure
-
News Videos6 days agoAP Dhillon – Old Money (Official Audio)
-
Fashion16 hours agoWeekend Open Thread: Marianne Dress
-
Sports6 days agoFive killed in Texas plane crash identified as Amarillo pickleball players
-
Entertainment6 days ago
New Netflix Movies in May 2026 — My Top 3 Picks to Stream
-
Crypto World7 days agoPi Network Mandates Protocol 23 Upgrade for All Mainnet Nodes Before May 15 Deadline
-
Entertainment6 days agoMelissa Joan Hart and More Stars Attend 2026 Kentucky Derby
-
Entertainment6 days ago
Anna Nicole Smith’s Daughter Attends 2026 Kentucky Derby
-
Crypto World6 days agoBitcoin mining equities rise in 2026 as BTC lags behind
-
Business6 days agoLuka Doncic Injury Update: Doncic’s Hamstring Recovery Slows Lakers’ Hopes Against Thunder: Can He Run Yet?
-
Entertainment6 days agoVenus Williams’ Best Met Gala Looks Over the Years
-
Entertainment6 days ago
“Storage Wars” star Darrell Sheets' ex-wife breaks silence on his death
-
Business7 days agoKuwait International Airport Resumes Operations After Closure as Regional Tensions Ease in 2026
-
Sports6 days agoIs Man United v Liverpool on TV? Channel, streaming and how to watch Premier League fixture
-
Entertainment7 days agoAfter 2 Years, This Taylor Sheridan Neo-Western Doesn’t Have a Single Bad Episode
-
Crypto World6 days agoQ1 2026 Tech Layoffs AI Wave Hits 81,747 as Firms Shift to AI Infrastructure




You must be logged in to post a comment Login