Crypto World
South Korea Uses AI to Detect Crypto Market Manipulation
South Korea is accelerating its crypto market supervision by shifting from manual investigations to AI-powered surveillance. The Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) is upgrading its Virtual Assets Intelligence System for Trading Analysis (VISTA) to automate the initial detection of suspicious activity, a move aimed at coping with the speed and scale of modern digital-asset trading. The upgrade, supported by funding through 2026, enables sliding-window analysis across overlapping time frames to flag abnormal patterns such as sudden volume spikes or atypical price movements. In tandem, regulators are planning to extend AI capabilities to identify networks of coordinated trading accounts and trace the sources of funds used in manipulation. Officials also explore proactive interventions, including potential temporary suspensions of transactions or payments, to curb illicit gains before they can be withdrawn.
Key takeaways
- The Financial Supervisory Service’s upgraded VISTA now performs the initial detection of suspicious trading using automated algorithms rather than relying solely on human investigators.
- A sliding-window grid search method segments trading data into overlapping time frames to identify abnormal patterns, such as unusual volume surges or abrupt price moves.
- Through 2026, the FSS plans to add AI tools capable of detecting networks of coordinated trading accounts and tracing the funding sources behind manipulation schemes.
- Regulators are weighing proactive interventions, including temporary suspensions of transactions or payments, to block illicit gains before withdrawal or laundering.
- The move signals a broader shift toward continuous, AI-assisted oversight in digital-asset markets to align crypto supervision with evolving market dynamics.
Market context: Link the story to broader crypto conditions (liquidity, risk sentiment, regulation, ETF flows, macro, or sector trends) WITHOUT inventing facts.
Why it matters
The shift to automated surveillance reflects regulators’ need to keep pace with the sheer volume and velocity of crypto trading. In markets where a single exchange can process thousands of trades in minutes, manual review struggles to keep up, creating gaps that manipulators may exploit. By automating the detection of irregular activity, authorities can flag suspect intervals with far greater speed and consistency, reducing the window during which illicit actors can operate unchecked. Yet, automation also raises questions about the balance between vigilance and overreach. As algorithms flag patterns that resemble manipulation, there is a risk of false positives that could disrupt legitimate trading activity if not carefully managed.
For market participants, the move toward AI-driven oversight could raise the bar for compliance. Exchanges and custodians will need to ensure data quality and interoperability so that automated systems can access comprehensive, timely information. Regulators’ increased reliance on machine learning models may also spur new governance practices around model validation, transparency, and accountability. The net effect could be a more resilient market environment where manipulative tactics are detected earlier, but with continued diligence to avoid unintended penalties on innocent actors.
Beyond crypto-specific implications, the initiative signals regulators’ intent to harmonize digital-asset oversight with traditional financial markets. Korea’s exploration of proactive intervention intersects with broader debates on supervisory tools, due-process safeguards, and the threshold for action in fast-moving markets. If Korea proves effective, other jurisdictions may adopt similar AI-enabled approaches, extending the reach of automated risk detection across asset classes and trading venues.
What to watch next
- Milestones in the AI upgrade rollout through 2026, including when specific detection modules for coordinated accounts and funding tracing become operation-ready.
- Details of the proposed proactive intervention mechanism, such as criteria, governance, and safeguards for temporary transaction suspensions.
- Results from internal tests demonstrating the accuracy and coverage of automated detection, including any externally verified validation.
- Regulatory guidance on cross-venue data sharing and the integration of AI surveillance with existing market surveillance frameworks.
- Any expansion of AI-based monitoring to other asset classes or to cross-border coordinated trading investigations.
Sources & verification
- Official statements or documentation from the Financial Supervisory Service detailing the VISTA upgrade and its automated detection capabilities.
- Technical briefings or regulator notes describing the sliding-window grid search approach used to scan trading data.
- Public announcements about funding or timelines for AI enhancements through 2026.
- Regulatory notices or policy discussions about a potential payment-suspension mechanism to curb illicit gains.
- Industry coverage on pump-and-dump groups and spoofing in crypto markets for context on monitoring challenges.
South Korea deploys AI-powered surveillance to tighten crypto market oversight
The Financial Supervisory Service’s upgrade to VISTA represents a deliberate shift from reactionary, case-by-case probes to proactive, continuous monitoring of digital-asset markets. The upgraded system can autonomously identify likely manipulation windows across the entire data set, a capability regulators say was not feasible with earlier, manually driven methods. In internal testing, the AI detected all known manipulation periods from completed investigations and also highlighted additional intervals that human analysts had previously missed. This progress is framed as a necessary response to the extraordinary pace and complexity of today’s crypto markets, where millions of transactions occur across dozens of tokens every hour.
Central to the upgrade is a sliding-window grid search, a methodological choice that allows the model to examine overlapping time segments of varying durations. Rather than requiring investigators to guess where misconduct might lie, the algorithm evaluates every potential sub-period for telltale signs—such as sudden price spikes followed by rapid reversals or unusual bursts in trading volume. By prioritizing high-risk windows, the system helps analysts focus on the most suspicious intervals, enabling faster, more targeted inquiries. One striking insight from industry observers is that in crypto markets, some manipulation can unfold in under five minutes, a time frame that challenges human monitoring but is well within the reach of automated systems.
The upgrade is more than a technical upgrade; it signals regulators’ intent to extend AI capabilities beyond detection to prevention and enforcement. Through 2026, the FSS plans to implement tools that map networks of trading accounts that operate in coordination—an important step in dismantling capital flows that underpin manipulation schemes. The regulator also aims to perform large-scale analyses of trading-related text across thousands of crypto assets, seeking to correlate promotional narratives with price movements and to understand how attention shocks translate into market risk. And by tracing the origin of funds used in manipulation, authorities hope to build stronger enforcement cases and curb the ability of bad actors to launder proceeds.
As with any AI-driven regime, the initiative faces practical and philosophical challenges. Regulators acknowledge that automated surveillance must be complemented by human oversight to address issues such as cross-venue manipulation and off-platform coordination, which may elude any single venue’s view. Regular evaluation is required to mitigate bias or drift in models and to avoid flagging legitimate activity. The plan explicitly states that AI tools are intended to support, not replace, investigators, reinforcing the role of experienced analysts in interpreting and acting on automated signals.
Beyond the Korean context, the effort echoes a broader transition in financial markets toward real-time surveillance that blends traditional risk controls with modern data science. The Korea Financial Services Commission has even discussed a broader governance framework for algorithmic trading that would apply across asset classes, coupling market surveillance with behavioral signals and automated risk scoring. The overarching objective is a more resilient system capable of identifying irregularities promptly, while maintaining due-process protections and avoiding overreach that could disrupt legitimate market activity.
As policymakers weigh the regulatory levers, observers will look for concrete demonstrations of how these AI tools perform in live markets. The integration of automated detection with proactive interventions—such as potential temporary suspensions of transactions tied to suspected manipulation—could reshape how traders approach liquidity, risk, and compliance. The evolving framework may also influence how other jurisdictions craft AI-enhanced surveillance, potentially accelerating a global shift toward more transparent and accountable crypto markets.
For readers seeking deeper context, related analyses on pump-and-dump groups and the use of spoofing in crypto trading are available here: pump-and-dump groups: are they legal? and how scammers use fake transaction simulation sites to steal crypto.
From Chatbots to Autonomous Agents: The Next Phase of Artificial Intelligence
For years, artificial intelligence has been dominated by conversational assistants capable of answering questions, generating content, and supporting knowledge work. Today, however, the industry is undergoing a far more profound transformation: the shift from chatbots to autonomous AI agents capable of acting directly within digital environments and completing tasks end-to-end. This transition, widely referred to as
the Agentic Revolution, marks the emergence of a new class of systems that do not merely communicate, but observe, reason, and operate.
Early projects such as Manus AI demonstrated that agents could plan, decompose complex objectives, and coordinate multi-step reasoning. Building on this foundation, Anthropic’s Claude Computer Use now represents a major leap forward: one of the first commercially available AI agents capable of using a real computer autonomously, browsing the web, interacting with graphical interfaces, and executing full workflows in the same way a human operator would.
This development signals a fundamental change in how artificial intelligence interfaces with the digital world, transforming language models into fully operational digital workers.
How Claude Computer Use Works: The Computer-Using Agent Model
Claude Computer Use is based on the concept of a Computer-Using Agent (CUA). Rather than relying on predefined APIs or rigid automation scripts, the agent interacts directly with the operating system via the graphical user interface.
The system visually perceives the screen using computer vision, recognises interface elements such as buttons, text fields, menus, and windows, and interprets them within a semantic and task-oriented context. Given a user objective, the model applies its reasoning capabilities to construct a plan by decomposing the task into a sequence of atomic actions, such as moving the cursor, clicking, typing, scrolling, and navigating between applications and web pages.
Crucially, Claude does not follow a fixed script. It can adapt to unexpected interface changes, recover from errors, reassess its strategy, and continue execution dynamically. This level of flexibility distinguishes it from traditional robotic process automation and brings its behaviour much closer to that of a human digital operator.
From Manus AI to Claude: The Evolution Towards Fully Operational Agents
Manus AI introduced the idea of general-purpose agents capable of long-horizon reasoning, task decomposition, and tool orchestration. However, its interaction with software systems was still largely mediated through structured tools and APIs.
Claude Computer Use removes this intermediary layer by allowing the agent to operate the computer directly. Any application, including legacy systems without modern integrations, becomes accessible. This shift moves autonomous agents from a conceptual framework into practical deployment, enabling real-world task execution across virtually any digital environment.
Claude vs OpenAI Operator vs Google Mariner
Anthropic is not alone in developing agentic systems. OpenAI and Google are pursuing similar goals, each with a distinct strategic focus.
OpenAI Operator is designed for high-performance task execution across web and enterprise workflows, with deep integration into the GPT ecosystem and API-driven tooling. Its strengths lie in speed, scalability, and developer extensibility.
Google Mariner focuses on autonomous web navigation and large-scale information retrieval, leveraging tight integration with Chrome, Google Search, and Google Workspace. It is particularly well-suited to research, data collection, and productivity automation within Google’s ecosystem.
Claude Computer Use differentiates itself through its emphasis on general-purpose reasoning, interpretability, and safety. Anthropic has prioritised controlled autonomy, alignment, and robust governance, making Claude especially attractive for enterprise and regulated environments where reliability and risk management are critical.
Business Implications: True Cognitive Task Automation
Computer-using agents unlock a new level of cognitive automation that extends far beyond repetitive process scripting.
In operations, they can interact with legacy systems, enter and validate data, generate reports, and coordinate internal workflows without custom integrations.
In marketing and sales, they can conduct market research, perform competitive analysis, update CRMs, manage campaigns, and publish content.
In finance, they can access banking portals, prepare financial statements, perform reconciliations, and support audit processes.
In human resources, they can screen candidates, operate recruitment platforms, schedule interviews, and automate onboarding.
These capabilities effectively create a new category of worker: the autonomous digital employee, capable of performing knowledge-intensive tasks continuously, at scale, and with near-zero marginal cost.
Security and Privacy in the Age of Autonomous Agents
Granting AI direct control over computers introduces unprecedented security challenges. Such agents may handle credentials, access sensitive information, and execute actions with real operational consequences.
Potential risks include interface manipulation, visual prompt injection, execution errors, and insufficient auditability. In response, Anthropic has designed Claude Computer Use with layered safeguards: sandboxed environments, granular permission controls, human oversight for high-impact actions, comprehensive activity logging, and strict behavioural policies.
In the agentic era, cybersecurity is no longer only about protecting data. It is about governing autonomous behaviour within complex digital infrastructures.
The Shift from Chatbots to Agents
The transition from chatbots to autonomous agents represents a structural change in software architecture.
Chatbots respond; agents act.
Chatbots operate in isolated turns; agents maintain a persistent state and long-term plans.
Chatbots are reactive; agents can be proactive and goal-driven.
This evolution is giving rise to the agentic economy, in which organisations orchestrate fleets of specialised agents that research, plan, execute, and coordinate with one another across digital systems.
Conclusion: The Dawn of the Agentic Revolution
Anthropic’s Claude Computer Use marks a decisive step in the evolution of artificial intelligence from conversational tools to operational digital entities. While Manus AI laid the conceptual groundwork for autonomous agents, Claude demonstrates their practical viability by showing that a model can control a real computer and complete complex tasks independently.
The Agentic Revolution is not an incremental improvement. It is a paradigm shift: from passive tools to active digital collaborators, from assistants to operators, from software that advises to software that executes. In the coming years, competitive advantage will increasingly depend on how effectively organisations design, govern, and scale ecosystems of autonomous agents.
We are witnessing the emergence of a new form of workforce: the autonomous AI workforce. And Claude Computer Use is one of the clearest early signals that this future has already begun.
Nicki Minaj will take the stage at the Trump-linked World Liberty Forum later this week, marking her latest public alignment with the Trump family’s expanding crypto ambitions.
World Liberty Financial (WLFI), the DeFi project backed by Donald Trump’s family, confirmed that the global music icon will attend its flagship summit at Mar-a-Lago on February 18.
Sponsored
From White House Stage to Crypto Power Circle
Her participation comes just weeks after she appeared alongside Donald Trump at a government-linked event in Washington, D.C., where she openly praised the president and described herself as one of his strongest supporters.
Minaj’s invitation to the World Liberty Forum signals a deeper connection between Trump’s political influence and his family’s growing crypto ecosystem.
The forum, hosted by WLFI, will take place on February 18 at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida.
It is an invitation-only gathering expected to bring together approximately 300 to 400 executives, investors, policymakers, and technologists.
Sponsored
The event’s speaker roster includes some of the most powerful figures in global finance and crypto. Confirmed attendees include Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon, Nasdaq CEO Adena Friedman, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong, Franklin Templeton CEO Jenny Johnson, and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
Trump’s sons, Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump, who co-founded World Liberty Financial, will also speak.
Political Support Comes as Trump Expands Crypto Agenda
Minaj’s latest appearance follows her participation in Trump’s January event tied to a government savings initiative, where she publicly endorsed him and dismissed criticism from media and political opponents.
Her remarks marked one of the clearest endorsements Trump has received from a major global pop star. Trump has increasingly relied on high-profile cultural figures to amplify his message, particularly as his administration pushes policies aimed at supporting crypto markets and stablecoin infrastructure.
Recently, the broader pool of Hollywood celebrities has been vocal in opposition to the Trump administration and its policies. It’s evident that the US president is likely trying to bring his celebrity supporters closer to his inner circle across the entire spectrum, including crypto.
Sponsored
Nicki Minaj’s Limited but Notable Crypto History
While Minaj has not launched her own cryptocurrency or NFT collection, she has previously engaged with the crypto ecosystem.
In 2021, she promoted the Happy Hippos NFT project on social media during the peak of the NFT boom, joining a wave of artists experimenting with blockchain-based digital ownership.
However, unlike celebrities such as Snoop Dogg, Paris Hilton, or Logan Paul, Minaj has not launched a personal token, NFT platform, or crypto startup.
Her involvement has remained largely promotional and cultural rather than operational or technical.
Her appearance at the World Liberty Forum represents her most direct connection yet to institutional crypto infrastructure and policy discussions.
Crypto World
Altcoin Traders Are Turning to APEMARS Best Altcoins to Invest With 8,100% ROI After Missing Ethereum and XRP’s Initial Days
In the volatile crypto landscape of February 2026, where Bitcoin has dipped to $68,000 amid a sea of red, and altcoins are rotating amid macroeconomic pressures, scarcity mechanics are the key differentiator for savvy altcoin traders seeking the best altcoins to invest in. Remember Ethereum’s monumental rise from its $0.42 ATL to a $4,953 ATH, delivering life-changing returns for early holders? Or XRP’s explosive surge from $0.0028 to $3.84, turning modest investments into fortunes? Yet, many missed those ICO-like opportunities, watching from the sidelines as prices skyrocketed.
Don’t let history repeat with APEMARS ($APRZ), the live presale that’s igniting FOMO with its structured scarcity and 8,100%+ ROI potential from Stage 8 at $0.00006651 to $0.0055 listing. As Ethereum endures a 60% drawdown from highs but remains resilient with $14.6 billion in tokenized assets, and XRP boasts $1 billion in ETF inflows fueling a 38% post-crash surge, APEMARS leverages similar mechanics through post-stage token burns, like the 4 billion removed after Stage 6, creating limited availability and hype. With over 1,000 holders and $214K raised already, this Mars-themed gem rewards early access in a market where timing is everything.
APEMARS: The Scarcity-Powered Altcoin Set to Explode, Join Stage 8 Before Availability Vanishes
For every altcoin trader chasing the best altcoins to invest in during 2026’s rebound, APEMARS ($APRZ) screams urgency with its scarcity-driven model that’s already burning tokens and building massive hype. Imagine locking in at Stage 8’s ultra-low $0.00006651 price, poised for an 8,100%+ ROI to the $0.0055 listing, that’s not just potential; it’s a transparent pricing gap. What sets APEMARS apart? It’s Orbital Boost System, a killer utility offering 9.34% referral bonuses from a community pool, turning every holder into a growth engine and amplifying network effects faster than typical memes.
Add the deflationary burns, like the post-Stage 6 incineration of billions, ensuring supply shrinks as demand surges, creating that irresistible scarcity hype. With a clear 23-stage roadmap mapping out Mars conquests, staking rewards, and liquidity locks, APEMARS isn’t just another token; it’s a community-driven powerhouse with over 1,000 holders fueling momentum. In a market where Ethereum’s resilience shines through tokenized value and XRP rides ETF waves, APEMARS mirrors their success by structuring burns for value accretion. Don’t sleep on this; stages advance rapidly, availability is limited, and the hype is real.
As the best altcoins to invest in go, APEMARS is your now-or-never shot at explosive gains. Secure your bag today and ride the rocket.
$5,000 in APEMARS Now: Your Path to 8,100%+ Gains, Act Before Stage 8 Ends and Regret Sets In
Picture this, altcoin trader: You invest $5,000 in APEMARS ($APRZ) at Stage 8’s $0.00006651 price, snagging about 75.18 million tokens amid scorching scarcity from post-stage burns. Fast-forward to the $0.0055 listing, and that bag explodes to over $413,500, a jaw-dropping 8,100%+ ROI that eclipses even Ethereum’s historic runs. With limited availability and stages advancing weekly, this isn’t hype; it’s math fueled by deflationary mechanics and community momentum.
Imagine missing XRP’s 38% surge or ETH’s tokenized resilience, don’t repeat that FOMO nightmare. As the best altcoins to invest in 2026, APEMARS’ urgency is real: over $214K raised, 1,000+ holders, and burns like post-Stage 6’s billions tightening supply. Hesitate, and Stage 9 hikes prices, slashing your edge. Secure this now-or-never opportunity before hype catapults it.
How to Buy APEMARS: Quick Steps to Join the Presale Hype
As an altcoin trader hunting the best altcoins to invest in, buying APEMARS ($APRZ) is seamless. Head to apemars.com, connect your Web3 wallet. Select ETH, USDT, BNB, or fiat via card, input your amount, and confirm. Tokens hit your wallet instantly. With Stage 8 live at $0.00006651, act fast before progression limits availability, and burns amplify scarcity.
Ethereum: Resilience Amid Drawdowns, A Lesson in Scarcity for Altcoin Traders
Ethereum (ETH) exemplifies why scarcity and utility make it one of the best altcoins to invest in, even as altcoin traders navigate its current 60% drawdown from an all-time high of $4,953.73 reached on August 24, 2025. Priced around $1,973 in February 2026, ETH has shown remarkable resilience, hosting $14.6 billion in tokenized assets, a 16% increase in just 30 days, proving its dominance in real-world assets (RWAs) and DeFi. This tokenized value underscores Ethereum’s built-in scarcity through mechanisms like gas fees and upgrades that enhance efficiency, drawing institutional flows despite market reds.
From its all-time low of $0.4209 on October 21, 2015, ETH has surged over 467,000%, rewarding early participants who bet on its programmable scarcity via smart contracts. In today’s conditions, with Bitcoin at $68,000 and broader sell-offs, Ethereum’s $234 billion market cap and daily transactions nearing 3 million highlight its staying power. For altcoin traders, ETH’s story is a blueprint: scarcity mechanics, like its proof-of-stake burns, create long-term value. Yet, while ETH endures volatility, emerging projects like APEMARS adopt similar burns to amplify hype.
As one of the best altcoins to invest in, Ethereum teaches that drawdowns are opportunities, but don’t miss fresher scarcities like APEMARS’ presale before they moon.
XRP: ETF-Fueled Surges and Historical Highs, Why Scarcity Matters Now More Than Ever
XRP stands as a prime example for altcoin traders eyeing the best altcoins to invest in, with its $1 billion ETF inflows since late 2025, no outflows reported, propelling a 38% surge post the February 6, 2026, crash, lifting it to around $1.47. This momentum builds on XRP’s historical volatility, from an all-time high of $3.84 on January 4, 2018, to an all-time low of $0.002802 on July 7, 2014, a staggering 52,143% rise from ATL. These inflows, concentrated in low-fee products like Franklin and Bitwise, signal institutional confidence in XRP’s scarcity through its fixed 100 billion token supply and Ripple’s DeFi updates for scaling.
Amid 2026’s red market, where ETH slides over 5%, XRP’s resilience shines, with trading volumes spiking and ETF holdings surpassing $548 million overall. For altcoin traders, XRP’s story warns of missed opportunities: those who ignored its ATL regretted the ATH boom. Now, with no outflows and post-crash gains, it’s a scarcity play bridging traditional finance. But as XRP rides ETF waves, newer altcoins like APEMARS enhance scarcity via structured burns, urging traders to act on live presales. As one of the best altcoins to invest in, XRP proves scarcity drives hype. Don’t let APEMARS’ limited Stage 8 slip away.
Conclusion: Embrace Scarcity Now, APEMARS Is the Altcoin You Can’t Afford to Miss in 2026
In 2026’s rebounding yet red market, scarcity mechanics define winners for altcoin traders, as seen in Ethereum’s 60% drawdown resilience with $14.6B tokenized value and XRP’s $1B ETF inflows sparking 38% surges. Yet, APEMARS ($APRZ) elevates this with structured burns enhancing scarcity, making it one of the best altcoins to invest in amid limited Stage 8 availability at $0.00006651 and 8,100%+ ROI to $0.0055.
Don’t regret missing ETH’s ATL-to-ATH glory or XRP’s institutional hype, APEMARS’ community-driven roadmap, referral utilities, and momentum create unmatched urgency. As stages advance and hype builds, hesitation means watching others profit. Position yourself for the best crypto to buy now for this structured opportunity before broader listings ignite the moonshot.
For More Information:
Website: Visit the Official APEMARS Website
Telegram: Join the APEMARS Telegram Channel
Twitter: Follow APEMARS ON X (Formerly Twitter)
FAQs About Best Altcoins to Invest In 2026
What Makes APEMARS One of the Best Altcoins to Invest in for Altcoin Traders?
For altcoin traders, APEMARS stands out among the best altcoins to invest in with its scarcity burns and 8,100%+ ROI potential, rewarding early Stage 8 participants.
How Does APEMARS’ Presale Structure Benefit Altcoin Traders?
Altcoin traders benefit from APEMARS’ 23-stage presale, where prices rise progressively, making Stage 8 at $0.00006651 one of the best altcoins to invest in for maximized gains.
Why Is Scarcity Key for the Best Altcoins to Invest in, Like APEMARS?
Scarcity via token burns positions APEMARS as a top choice for altcoin traders seeking the best altcoins to invest in, mirroring ETH and XRP’s value drivers.
What ROI Can Altcoin Traders Expect from APEMARS?
Altcoin traders can eye 8,100%+ ROI from APEMARS’ Stage 8 to listing, solidifying it as one of the best altcoins to invest in during 2026’s market.
When Should Altcoin Traders Join APEMARS Presale?
Altcoin traders should join APEMARS now, as Stage 8’s limited availability makes it the best altcoin to invest in before hype and burns drive prices up.
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.
[PRESS RELEASE – Johannesburg, South Africa, February 16th, 2026]
VALR, Africa’s largest crypto exchange by trade volume, concluded its role as a Gold Sponsor at the Africa Tech Summit in Nairobi on 11–12 February 2026. The event underscored Africa’s growing prominence as a centre for crypto innovation and adoption.
Africa’s financial landscape remains fragmented, with 54 countries and multiple national currencies in use. Cross-border payments continue to face high costs, often averaging around 7-8% for remittances according to sources such as the World Bank and industry reports from 2025, and delays of several days via traditional systems. Inflation averaged above 13% across the continent in 2025, according to the African Development Bank’s Macroeconomic Performance and Outlook Update from November 2025. These factors limit access to relatively stable foreign currencies such as the US dollar and encourage the use of alternatives for value preservation and efficient transactions.
Crypto adoption has accelerated in response. Sub-Saharan Africa recorded 52% year-over-year growth in crypto activity through mid-2025, according to Chainalysis’ 2025 Global Crypto Adoption Index and Geography of Cryptocurrency Report. Stablecoins such as USDT and USDC play a prominent role in transaction volumes in the region, supporting practical applications including hedging inflation, remittances, and payments.
Countries including Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Ghana rank among the highest globally for crypto adoption, according to Chainalysis data. Nigeria leads Sub-Saharan Africa with over $92 billion in transaction value in the 12 months to mid-2025, followed by South Africa. Africa accounts for only about 3% of global trade volumes, yet these markets demonstrate leadership in applying crypto to real-world challenges around accessibility, participation, and capital flows.
VALR has expanded rapidly over the past two years, establishing itself as Africa’s leading crypto exchange by trade volume. It offers the deepest ZAR-denominated crypto markets in the world and ranks among the largest minters of USDC globally. Licensed by South Africa’s Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) and with regulatory approval in Europe, VALR serves over 1.7 million registered users and 1,800 corporate and institutional clients.
Co-Founder and CEO Farzam Ehsani delivered a keynote speech on the VALR Stage. He addressed the need for the global financial system to reflect the fundamental oneness of humanity, with crypto well-positioned to play a key role in achieving this.
Reflecting on the summit, Ehsani said: “The Africa Tech Summit in Nairobi reinforced a clear message: “Africa is not merely adopting crypto but leading its practical application to solve pressing financial needs. We are optimistic about the continent’s future and the role of unified, inclusive finance globally. VALR remains committed to building infrastructure that bridges divides and advances this shared vision.”
Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer Badi Sudhakaran participated in a panel on crypto adoption in Africa. He emphasised that adoption stems from necessity, positioning the continent as a hub for innovation and real-world application.
About VALR
Founded in 2018, headquartered in Johannesburg, and backed by leading investors including Pantera Capital, Coinbase Ventures and Fidelity’s F-Prime Capital, VALR is a global crypto exchange offering a comprehensive suite of products—including Spot Trading, Spot Margin, Perpetual Futures, Staking, Lending, Borrowing, OTC services, VALR Invest, Crypto Bundles, and VALR Pay. Licensed by South Africa’s FSCA, with regulatory approval in Europe, VALR serves over 1.7 million registered users and 1,800 corporate and institutional clients worldwide. The exchange is dedicated to advancing a just financial future that upholds human dignity and the unity of mankind. For more information, visit valr.com.
SECRET PARTNERSHIP BONUS for CryptoPotato readers: Use this link to register and unlock $1,500 in exclusive BingX Exchange rewards (limited time offer).
Dogecoin price dropped for two consecutive days after hitting the 50-day Exponential Moving Average as demand dropped and key headwinds rose.
Summary
- Dogecoin price has slumped in the past few months.
- Spot DOGE ETFs inflows have stalled this year.
- The futures open interest has continued falling, while the funding rate has turned negative.
Dogecoin (DOGE) token dropped to the important support level at $0.100, much lower than this month’s high of $0.1176. It remains ~67% from its highest level in 2025.
The coin faces major headwinds, which may drag its price in the near term. For example, it faces a major challenge on the ongoing crypto market crash, which has affected Bitcoin and most altcoins.
Additionally, the futures open interest has continued falling in the past few months, moving from a high of $5.20 billion in September to the current $1.16 billion. Falling open interest is a sign that demand has continued falling in the past few months.
More data shows that the weighted funding rate has remained in the red in the past few days. It dropped to the lowest level since February 10. A falling funding rate is a sign that investors believe that the coin will continue falling in the near term.
The same is happening in the exchange-traded fund market this year. Data compiled by SoSoValue shows that spot three spot DOGE ETFs by companies like Grayscale, 21Shares, and Bitwise have not had any inflows or outflows since February 3 this year. These funds now have had over $6.67 million in cumulative inflows, bringing the net inflows to $8.69 million.
Dogecoin price technical analysis
The daily timeframe chart shows that the DOGE price has been in a strong downward trend in the past few months, moving from a high of $0.3073 in September last year.
Dogecoin price has dropped below the key support level at $0.1295, its lowest level on April 7 last year. It has fallen below all moving averages, while the Percentage Price Oscillator remains below the zero line.
Therefore, the most likely scenario is where the coin continues falling, potentially to the year-to-date low of $0.0790, its lowest level this month. A drop below that support level will signal more downside.
Feeding Google’s Gemini AI careful prompts unlocks explosive 2026 price predictions for XRP, Solana, and Bitcoin.
Given the fact that Gemini leverages Google’s expansive data set, these compelling predictions are grounded in hard analysis of the projects’ fundamental strengths, overall roadmap and ongoing macro and industry developments.
Below we unpack why Gemini is bullish on these specific coins.
XRP ($XRP): Gemini Suggests Ripple’s Payments Solution Could Drive XRP to $10
In a recent update, Ripple reiterated that XRP ($XRP) remains central to its roadmap of establishing the XRP Ledger as a global, institution-ready payments layer.
With near-instant settlement speeds and minimal transaction costs, XRPL is in a position to benefit from growth in two rapidly expanding sectors: stablecoins, (via Ripple’s in-house RLUSD), and real-world asset tokenization.
The XRP token is currently trading around $1.49. Gemini’s outlook points to a potential move toward $10 by late 2026, implying a near-sevenfold gain, or roughly 600%, from current prices.
XRP’s Relative Strength Index (RSI) is at 42 and climbing quickly, a hint that investors are quietly stacking it at its current discounted price.
Possible momentum drivers include institutional capital flows following the approval of U.S.-listed spot XRP exchange-traded funds, Ripple’s expanding list of strategic partnerships, and the possibility of U.S. lawmakers finalizing the CLARITY bill later this year.
Solana (SOL): Gemini Projects a Climb Toward $600
The Solana ($SOL) network currently secures approximately $6.6 billion in total value locked (TVL) and carries a market capitalization near $50 billion. Increased on-chain activity, developer engagement, and daily user growth have supported its expansion.
The rollout of Solana-linked exchange-traded funds by firms such as Bitwise and Grayscale has further boosted institutional interest.
That said, following an extended correction in late 2025, SOL has spent much of February trading below the $100 level.
Under Gemini’s most optimistic scenario, Solana could rally toward $600 by 2027. Such a move would represent 7x upside from current levels around $84, comfortably exceeding SOL’s January 2025 ATH of $293.
Asset managers including Franklin Templeton and BlackRock are issuing tokenized real-world assets on the network, strengthening its real-world utility and long-term growth potential.
Bitcoin (BTC): Gemini Sees $250,000 Bitcoin on the Horizon
Bitcoin ($BTC), the original cryptocurrency and largest by market cap, reached a new all-time high of $126,080 on October 6 before entering a prolonged downturn.
Despite recent volatility, Gemini’s analysis indicates that Bitcoin can sustain its year-on-year growth and hit a new high watermark of $250,000.
Often referred to as digital gold, Bitcoin continues to attract institutional and retail investors seeking a hedge against inflation and macroeconomic uncertainty.
Bitcoin currently represents roughly $1.4 trillion of the $2.4 trillion total crypto market. Since setting its most recent ATH, BTC has fallen by around 46% and now trades below $70,000, following two sharp selloffs as potential U.S. military actions involving Iran and Greenland scared risk averse investors.
Gemini’s outlook highlights accelerating institutional adoption and post-halving supply constraints as key forces that could drive Bitcoin to multiple new highs this year.
Additionally, if U.S. lawmakers move forward with proposals to establish a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, Bitcoin’s long-term upside could extend even beyond Gemini’s already bullish forecasts.
Maxi Doge: A New Meme Coin Enters the Frame
Finally, while Gemini’s analysis centers on the steady advance of established market leaders, high-risk-high-reward seekers are diversifying their portfolios with Maxi Doge ($MAXI), a sensational new pre-launch token sale that has already pulled $4.6 million from investors.
The project revolves around Maxi Doge, a gym-obsessed, Dogecoin challenger who channels the fun and outrageous spirit of the 2021 bull run, aka the meme coin heyday.
Additionally, presale buyers can stake MAXI for yields of up to 68% APY, with returns gradually declining as the staking pool grows.
MAXI is priced at $0.0002804 in the current presale round, with planned price increases at each funding milestone. Interested participants can purchase using wallets such as MetaMask and Best Wallet, or via bank card.
Stay updated through Maxi Doge’s official X and Telegram pages.
Visit the Official Website Here
The post Google’s Gemini AI Predicts the Price of XRP, Solana and Bitcoin By the End of 2026 appeared first on Cryptonews.
Joachim Nagel said euro-pegged stablecoins would offer the bloc more independence from US dollar-pegged coins soon to be allowed under the GENIUS Act.
Joachim Nagel, president of Germany’s central bank, the Deutsche Bundesbank, supported the introduction of a euro-pegged central bank digital currency (CBDC) and euro-denominated stablecoins for payments.
In remarks prepared for a speech at the New Year’s Reception of the American Chamber of Commerce in Frankfurt on Monday, Nagel said EU officials were “working hard” toward the introduction of a retail CBDC. Euro-denominated stablecoins, according to the central bank president, could also contribute to “making Europe more independent in terms of payment systems and solutions.”
“Notably, a wholesale CBDC would allow financial institutions to make programmable payments in central bank money,” said Nagel. “I also see merit in euro-denominated stablecoins, as they can be used for cross-border payments by individuals and firms at low cost.”
Nagel’s remarks come months after US President Donald Trump signed a bill into law establishing a framework for payment stablecoins in the country, potentially setting US dollar-pegged stablecoins on a path to challenge any possible rollout of a euro-pegged peer. The law is expected to be fully implemented 18 months after it was signed or 120 days after related regulations are finalized.
Related: ING Germany expands crypto ETP and ETN offerings with Bitwise, VanEck
The German central bank president’s comment on stablecoins did not include risks he mentioned last week at the Euro50 Group meeting. Nagel warned domestic monetary policy “could be severely impaired, not to mention that European sovereignty could be weakened” if US dollar-denominated stablecoins were to have significantly larger market share than a euro-pegged coin.
Stablecoin yield at issue in US bill under consideration
Washington lawmakers and White House officials have been meeting with representatives from the banking and crypto industries ahead of a potential vote on the CLARITY Act in the US Senate. The bill, expected to provide a comprehensive regulatory framework for digital assets, has been dividing many crypto industry and banking leaders due to its approach to stablecoin rewards, which has yet to be finalized in the legislation.
Magazine: Brandt says Bitcoin yet to bottom, Polymarket sees hope: Trade Secrets
TLDR
- Vanguard Group increased its stake in Netflix by 0.4% in the third quarter, acquiring an additional 142,238 shares.
- The firm now owns 38,521,322 shares of Netflix, valued at $46.18 billion, representing 9.09% of the company.
- Several institutional investors, including Retirement Wealth Solutions LLC and Steph & Co., also made moves in Netflix stock.
- Analysts have adjusted their price targets for Netflix, with some lowering their projections for the stock.
- Insiders, including Cletus R. Willems and David A. Hyman, recently sold shares of Netflix, totaling over $700,000 in sales.
Vanguard Group Inc. has increased its stake in Netflix, Inc. ($NFLX) by 0.4% in the third quarter, as per the latest 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm now holds 38,521,322 shares of Netflix, reflecting an additional 142,238 shares acquired during the quarter. This move positions Netflix as the 16th largest holding in Vanguard’s portfolio, making up 0.7% of the total value.
Vanguard’s Stake in Netflix Grows
In the third quarter, Vanguard’s increase in Netflix shares signals confidence in the company’s performance. As of the most recent SEC filing, Vanguard’s stake in Netflix is valued at $46.18 billion. The firm now owns 9.09% of Netflix, a sign of its growing importance in Vanguard’s portfolio.
Other institutional investors also made moves during this period. Retirement Wealth Solutions LLC purchased a new stake in Netflix worth $28,000, while Steph & Co. increased its position by 188.9%. The combined actions of these firms suggest that many see potential in Netflix’s stock despite market fluctuations.
NFLX Stock: Analysts’ Take
Several analysts have updated their price targets and ratings for Netflix’s stock. Robert W. Baird reduced their target price from $150 to $120, while Wells Fargo & Company lowered its from $156 to $151. These adjustments reflect mixed sentiments about Netflix’s near-term outlook, but the stock continues to receive “buy” ratings from many experts.
Despite some analysts lowering their price targets, NFLX stock maintains a consensus “Moderate Buy” rating. With a 50-day moving average of $88.67 and a 200-day moving average of $106.99, the stock has experienced significant volatility in the past year. Investors remain divided on the stock’s potential, as reflected in its price swings between a 1-year low of $75.23 and a high of $134.12.
Insider Activity in Netflix
In addition to institutional movements, insiders at Netflix have also been active. On February 10th, Cletus R. Willems, a company insider, sold 3,136 shares at an average price of $82.67. Similarly, David A. Hyman sold 5,727 shares on February 9th at $81.06 each, totaling over $464,000.
These insider sales are part of regular transactions within the company, but do raise questions about internal confidence. The continued insider activity might suggest a desire to capitalize on the current market conditions. However, insiders still hold a combined 1.37% of the company’s stock.
Retail investors on Coinbase continued buying dips through market volatility, even as warnings of a severe crypto winter emerged.
Since reaching a record high last October, Bitcoin has shed nearly half its value. As it continues to struggle below $70,000, the weakness is fueling fears of another crypto winter.
But despite the ongoing volatility in the market, retail activity on Coinbase has remained steady, according to Brian Armstrong.
Post-October Slump
In a recent tweet, the Coinbase chief executive said that the platform data shows retail users have continued buying despite price dips as native unit holdings across Bitcoin and Ethereum increased. Armstrong added that a majority of retail customers held balances in February that were equal to or higher than their December levels, as participation from smaller investors on Coinbase remained steady.
While retail activity appears resilient, market commentator Mippo warned that the broader market outlook remains fragile. Mippo said current conditions point to the onset of a “full-on crypto winter,” which has the potential to match the severity of the 2022 bear market or even the downturn seen in 2019. He attributed the near-term pressure to the “air gap” created by previously unsustainable valuations alongside an evolving regulatory environment.
He stated that historical crypto valuations were largely driven by speculative capital flows rather than business fundamentals, as regulatory uncertainty made it difficult for projects to generate compliant revenue or cash flows. Prices were often set by how much capital chased a limited supply of tokens tied to the most popular narratives at the time, and higher-risk themes commanded higher valuations.
According to Mippo, this framework is now breaking down as regulatory pathways for crypto projects become clearer, beginning with stablecoins and expected to extend to a broader range of tokens.
While he characterized this regulatory change as positive over the long term, Mippo said it creates challenges for projects whose valuations were built primarily on speculation. As compliant revenue generation becomes possible, he explained that market participants are increasingly focused on cash flows, which has led to a reassessment of token prices that were set too high under earlier assumptions. This helps explain why on-chain activity and fundamental usage may be growing even as token prices continue to decline, he added.
You may also like:
AI Dominance Pressures Crypto
Mippo also said crypto is being “absolutely mogged by AI,” while adding that the frenzy around meme coin speculation is catching up with the industry, and that crypto failed to build useful products during that period.
As such, he estimated the reset in valuations could continue for another nine to eighteen months before broader market conditions begin to improve.
SECRET PARTNERSHIP BONUS for CryptoPotato readers: Use this link to register and unlock $1,500 in exclusive BingX Exchange rewards (limited time offer).
Animoca Brands has secured a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license from Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), enabling a broader, regulated footprint for crypto activities within the emirate. The license authorizes broker-dealer services and investment management related to virtual assets in Dubai, excluding the Dubai International Financial Centre, and targets institutional and qualified investors. The public record shows the license was issued on Feb. 5, reinforcing Dubai’s ongoing push to formalize digital-asset operations under a clear governance framework. Animoca says the license strengthens its ability to engage with Web3 foundations and global institutions within a well-defined regulatory environment. The move comes as Dubai continues to position itself as a regional hub for regulated crypto activity.
Key takeaways
- Animoca Brands obtains a VARA VASP license to offer broker-dealer services and asset-management activities related to virtual assets in Dubai, focused on institutional and qualified investors.
- The license excludes the Dubai International Financial Centre, signaling a mainland-and-free-zone approach to oversight under VARA.
- The development aligns with Animoca’s broader strategy in Web3, including support for projects such as The Sandbox, Open Campus, and Moca Network, while expanding its investor access in the region.
- Dubai has a growing roster of licensed crypto operators, underscoring a deliberate shift toward a regulated, institution-friendly crypto ecosystem in the emirate.
- Animoca’s recent activity includes the January acquisition of Somo, integrating playable and tradable digital collectibles into its portfolio.
Market context: Dubai’s VARA framework is part of a broader regional trend toward regulated digital-asset markets within the UAE, with enforcement actions signaling a clear stance against unlicensed activity and marketing breaches. The emirate’s approach contrasts with looser regimes elsewhere, drawing institutional participants seeking compliant environments and predictable governance.
Why it matters
The VARA license marks a meaningful expansion point for Animoca Brands in a market that has openly courted Web3 and blockchain-driven enterprise. By enabling broker-dealer functions and asset-management capabilities under VARA’s oversight, Animoca gains a regulated on-ramp for institutional and qualified investors, potentially accelerating large-scale partnerships and liquidity channels for its portfolio companies. This is particularly relevant as the company maintains a diversified portfolio—encompassing The Sandbox, Open Campus, and Moca Network—while continuing to back early-stage projects that align with its long-term strategy in decentralized ecosystems.
For Dubai, the approval reinforces a deliberate effort to attract structured capital and sophisticated investment strategies into digital-asset ventures. The license depiction in VARA’s public register confirms a formal recognition of Animoca’s operations within the emirate and suggests a framework under which the company can collaborate with Web3 foundations and other international players—an important signal for both developers and financiers looking for regulated access to Dubai’s growing crypto infrastructure.
On the corporate side, the move dovetails with Animoca’s ongoing efforts to broaden its influence in the blockchain space. The company has been expanding its reach through portfolio expansion, strategic acquisitions, and partnerships that blend gaming, digital collectibles, and interoperable ecosystems. The Somo acquisition in January, which added playable and tradable digital collectibles to Animoca’s repertoire, underscores a strategy to combine asset-backed experiences with a regulated, institution-facing platform. This combination could help the firm monetize digital assets through more formalized channels while maintaining its emphasis on creator economies and user-owned ecosystems.
Altogether, the Dubai license positions Animoca at the intersection of regulated finance and Web3 innovation—a space that investors and builders have increasingly prioritized as crypto markets mature. The licensing choice also aligns with a broader UAE narrative of modernization and regulatory clarity, where oversight is paired with a deliberate openness to institutional participation in digital-asset markets.
What to watch next
- VARA’s ongoing oversight of licensed entities: continued monitoring of market conduct and compliance expectations for broker-dealer activities in the emirate.
- Expansion of Animoca’s regional activities: potential collaborations with Dubai-based institutions and Web3 foundations, and integration of Somo and other assets into regulated product offerings.
- Further licensing activity in Dubai: follow-on approvals for additional asset classes or service models, signaling the pace of institutional crypto adoption in the region.
- Regulatory alignment within the UAE: broader moves to harmonize crypto frameworks across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and among allied Gulf markets.
Sources & verification
- VARA public register entry for Animoca Brands Middle East Advisory FZCO (license issued Feb. 5)
- Animoca Brands announcement: Animoca Brands secures VASP licence from Dubai’s VARA
- Animoca Brands expands portfolio with Somo acquisition
- BitGo awarded VARA broker-dealer license for its Middle East and North Africa unit
Dubai license expands Animoca’s Web3 footprint
Dubai’s VARA granted Animoca Brands a virtual-asset service provider license that unlocks broker-dealer and investment-management capabilities for virtual assets within the emirate, excluding the Dubai International Financial Centre. The license, officially issued on Feb. 5 and logged in VARA’s public register, opens the door for Animoca to serve institutional and qualified investors under VARA’s supervision. The registry entry confirms the formal scope of permitted activities and marks a notable milestone for a company whose portfolio spans The Sandbox, Open Campus, and Moca Network, along with a broad set of early-stage projects in the blockchain and gaming landscape. In comments accompanying the license, Omar Elassar, Animoca’s managing director for the Middle East and head of global strategic partnerships, described the move as a way to deepen partnerships with Web3 foundations and global institutions within a well-regulated framework.
The Dubai license is part of a broader pattern in which the emirate has actively cultivated regulated pathways for digital assets to foster institutional participation while maintaining oversight. VARA, established in 2022 to regulate asset issuance, trading, and related services across Dubai’s mainland and its free zones, has signaled a firm stance against unregistered activity. The regulator has also been active in enforcement, including financial penalties assessed against entities for unlicensed operations and marketing violations, underscoring the balance Dubai seeks between encouraging innovation and ensuring consumer protection and market integrity.
Animoca Brands’ footprint in the region extends beyond licenses. The company has built a diversified Web3 platform ecosystem that includes The Sandbox, a leading virtual world, along with Open Campus and the Moca Network. These projects are designed to integrate user-generated content, creator economies, and interoperable assets across multiple experiences. The company has also been expanding its investment thesis in digital collectibles and blockchain-based entertainment, backing a wide array of initiatives across the ecosystem.
In January, Animoca expanded its strategic capabilities by acquiring Somo, a gaming and digital-collectibles company, which brought playable and tradable collectibles into Animoca’s asset mix. The acquisition aligns with Animoca’s broader strategy of combining interactive experiences with a regulated, institution-facing platform, potentially enabling new revenue models and liquidity channels for Web3 projects within Dubai’s regulatory framework. While Somo’s integration is ongoing, the deal illustrates how Animoca intends to leverage regulatory access in Dubai to accelerate growth and broaden its reach in the Middle East’s burgeoning crypto market.
As Dubai continues to refine its regulatory approach and attract more institutional players, Animoca’s VARA license stands as a tangible signal of the emirate’s commitment to structured, compliant innovation in digital assets. For industry observers, the development highlights how major Web3 builders are moving toward regulated environments that can support scalable, investor-grade activity while preserving the decentralized and creator-centric ethos at the core of the sector.
‘Drop them’: Shahid Afridi slams son-in-law Shaheen Shah Afridi, Babar Azam after 61-run defeat | Cricket News
Most ransomware playbooks don’t address machine credentials. Attackers know it.
XRP Why So Many Are Buying Now #crypto #cryptocurrency#xrp #altcoins #xrpnews #shortsviral
-
Sports5 days agoBig Tech enters cricket ecosystem as ICC partners Google ahead of T20 WC | T20 World Cup 2026
-
Tech6 days agoSpaceX’s mighty Starship rocket enters final testing for 12th flight
-
Crypto World7 days agoU.S. BTC ETFs register back-to-back inflows for first time in a month
-
Video8 hours agoBitcoin: We’re Entering The Most Dangerous Phase
-
Tech2 days agoLuxman Enters Its Second Century with the D-100 SACD Player and L-100 Integrated Amplifier
-
Video4 days agoThe Final Warning: XRP Is Entering The Chaos Zone
-
Crypto World6 days agoBlockchain.com wins UK registration nearly four years after abandoning FCA process
-
Crypto World5 days agoPippin (PIPPIN) Enters Crypto’s Top 100 Club After Soaring 30% in a Day: More Room for Growth?
-
Crypto World3 days agoBhutan’s Bitcoin sales enter third straight week with $6.7M BTC offload
-
Video5 days agoPrepare: We Are Entering Phase 3 Of The Investing Cycle
-
Crypto World7 days agoEthereum Enters Capitulation Zone as MVRV Turns Negative: Bottom Near?
-
NewsBeat1 day agoThe strange Cambridgeshire cemetery that forbade church rectors from entering
-
Business4 days agoBarbeques Galore Enters Voluntary Administration
-
Crypto World6 days agoCrypto Speculation Era Ending As Institutions Enter Market
-
Crypto World4 days agoEthereum Price Struggles Below $2,000 Despite Entering Buy Zone
-
Politics6 days agoWhy was a dog-humping paedo treated like a saint?
-
NewsBeat1 day agoMan dies after entering floodwater during police pursuit
-
Crypto World3 days agoBlackRock Enters DeFi Via UniSwap, Bitcoin Stages Modest Recovery
-
NewsBeat2 days agoUK construction company enters administration, records show
-
Sports6 days agoWinter Olympics 2026: Australian snowboarder Cam Bolton breaks neck in Winter Olympics training crash