Its launch comes as Ethereum’s support ecosystem undergoes a broader evolution, following the debut of EthLabs and amid ongoing efforts by the Ethereum Foundation to respond to community criticism over transparency, communication and its role within the ecosystem by encouraging more independent organizations to take the lead on adoption and ecosystem growth.

Vivek Raman, CEO of Etherealize, said on X that Ethereum Institutional is another example of Ethereum’s decentralized model in action.

“Ethereum is not built by or run by a single organization,” Raman wrote. “Ethereum is a network of independent nodes that collectively make the infrastructure inevitable. Ethereum Institutional will play a key role in amplifying and growing Ethereum. Could not be more excited for this launch.”

Joe Andrews, CEO of privacy developer firm Aztec Labs, told CoinDesk that the launch reflects the continued decentralization of Ethereum’s support ecosystem rather than the emergence of a single voice.

“Over the last two weeks, the Ethereum community has further added to the decentralisation of the network,” he said. “There are now three non-profits all advocating for adoption of Ethereum. It is natural that one of these entities is focusing on institutions, as the world needs a global settlement layer and Ethereum is the only credible option.”

The Chainlink price prediction reflects tension this week, as LINK trades near $7.37 while investors weigh short-term caution against optimism tied to its growing DeFi integrations. Meanwhile, the TRON price is in bullish territory, with the network processing nearly $2 trillion in stablecoin settlements, proving that steady utility can still turn heads even when the broader market feels uncertain.

Then there is BlockDAG, entering the radar of investors searching for the best crypto to buy now. It has just rolled out BDAG AI, bringing a fresh suite of artificial intelligence tools now live on its network, adding an estimated $500 million to its valuation overnight.

And with entry still sitting at a fraction of a cent against a $0.05 buyback offer, BDAG is quickly becoming the standout name this week. Let’s see which makes the most urgent entry case today.

Chainlink Price Prediction: Consolidation Continues

The Chainlink price prediction remains mixed as LINK trades around $7.37 with a $5.51 billion market capitalization. The token is still below its 50-day SMA of $8.66 and 200-day SMA of $9.92, while the Fear & Greed Index of 12 reflects extreme caution among investors.

However, the 14-day RSI of 32.44 suggests selling pressure may be easing. In the short term, holding above $7.07 support could pave the way for a move toward $7.75, while a break lower may push LINK closer to $6.80.

From a longer-term perspective, Chainlink price prediction remains optimistic thanks to the network’s expanding role in decentralized finance and its recent integrations across 10 blockchain networks. Forecasts suggest LINK could climb to $17 in 2026, $28.53 by 2029, and potentially $52.95 by 2032, provided adoption continues and overall crypto market conditions improve.

TRON Price Rises on Stablecoin Settlement Activity

The TRON price could continue benefiting from the network’s dominance in stablecoin payments if current usage trends persist. During the first quarter of 2026, TRON processed $1.96 trillion in stablecoin settlements while hosting roughly $85–86 billion in USDT, highlighting strong demand for low-cost transfers.

Network engagement also remains healthy, with daily active users climbing 16% over the past month to around 4.4 million. However, slower user onboarding, with active addresses easing to 15.8 million, suggests growth is being driven more by existing users than newcomers.

Meanwhile, total value locked has reached about $4.4 billion, although much of it remains tied to payment activity instead of DeFi applications. For the TRON price outlook to strengthen over the long term, the ecosystem will likely need broader DeFi adoption alongside continued growth in stablecoin settlement volumes.

BlockDAG: 45x Window Ends in 24 Hours!

BlockDAG is seeing a rush of buyer interest right now, and once you look at what’s happening across the network, it’s easy to understand why. Entry currently sits at just $0.00000044 per coin, and the network just launched BDAG AI, a new set of artificial intelligence tools now built into the platform.

That move alone added an estimated $500 million to the project’s valuation. On top of this, the BlockDAG Futures & Spot Exchange is set to arrive in two weeks, a development many expect will push the entry price much higher.

Plus, for the next 24 hours, entry is even more rewarding thanks to a $0.05 buyback offer, which could translate into 45x returns for anyone who buys now and sells back at that rate. The World Cup Bonus is also live, giving buyers 50% extra BDAG on their purchase, further expanding the ROI potential.

A profit opportunity like this is rare in the market, especially for a network seeing as much demand and adoption as BlockDAG. The BlockDAG Casino also proves that, continuing to see record activity, with more than 13,000 users and over $150 million wagered in its first 30 days.

The casino runs on a high-speed network, currently processing 5,500 transactions per second, and is set to increase to 7,000 within three days. Thanks to this scalability, ROI, and technological strength, BDAG is effectively outperforming many established cryptos today.

According to experts, whether someone wants to cash out through the buyback or hold for the long term, this might be one of the most impressive entry points crypto has offered in a while.

Which Is The Best Crypto to Buy Now?

LINK and TRON are worth watching, but neither offers urgency right now. The Chainlink price prediction points to a slow grind upward, with LINK needing to reclaim key resistance before its longer-term targets of $17, $28.53, and beyond come into focus. As for the TRON price, while the stablecoin volume makes it a solid utility play, future gains depend on whether DeFi adoption can catch up to TRON’s payment dominance.

BlockDAG, on the other hand, is not asking investors to wait around. With BDAG AI just added to the network, a $500 million valuation, and the Futures & Spot Exchange launching in two weeks, the fundamentals are impressive.

And the entry won’t stay low for long. Those seeking the best crypto to buy now have already rushed in to secure $0.00000044 and position for the buyback program. Plus, the 50% World Cup Bonus means higher ROI at no extra cost. Those who miss this window risk missing out on one of the biggest opportunities of the year.

Presale: https://purchase.blockdag.network

Website: https://blockdag.network

Telegram: https://t.me/blockDAGnetworkOfficial

Discord: https://discord.gg/Q7BxghMVyu

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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.

Key takeaways:

• Persistent spot Bitcoin ETF outflows and US dollar strength reduce the odds of a quick bounce to $65,000.
• Strong AI sector earnings momentum and higher fixed-income returns pull capital from Bitcoin and gold.

Bitcoin (BTC) reacted positively to US Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh’s remarks on stubborn inflation. Despite the gains on Wednesday, traders fear that incentives for fixed-income investments and strong earnings momentum in tech stocks will continue to pressure non-yield-bearing assets like cryptocurrencies.

US 5-year Treasury yield (left) vs. Bitcoin/USD. Source: TradingView

The US 5-year Treasury yield jumped to 4.22%, meaning traders demanded higher returns to hold government bonds. Even as inflation eventually eases and WTI crude oil prices fell to a 4-month low, investors anticipate monetary expansion. Regardless of how the Fed manages interest rates and its balance sheet, the US Treasury dictates debt issuance trends.

Implied odds of FED interest rates on Sept. 16. Source: CME FedWatch Tool

US government bond futures implied 64% odds of interest rate hikes by September, up from 23% one month prior. The higher expected return on fixed-income investments came as the US dollar strengthened against other major global fiat currencies, which is especially concerning for alternative hedges such as gold and Bitcoin.

Gold/USD (left) vs. US dollar strength (DXY). Source: TradingView

Despite the gains on Wednesday, gold prices are down 12% in two months, while the US dollar strength (DXY) nears its highest mark in one year. This vote of confidence in the US economy partly stems from AI sector strength, evident in the 25% gains in the Nasdaq 100 index. However, some specific tech sub-sectors have recently signaled weakness, which could act as a catalyst for Bitcoin and gold.

Could the AI sector cool off act as a catalyst for Bitcoin?

Micron (MU US) and SanDisk (SNDK US) shares saw intraday losses exceeding 9% on Wednesday after competitors SK Hynix (000660 KR) and Samsung (005930 KR) announced plans to expand capacity. Still, the move can hardly be deemed a trend reversal as the iShares SOX Semiconductor Index ETF (SOXX US) gained 78% in three months.

Continued outflows from US-listed spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have shattered bulls’ hopes, reinforcing a negative price spiral as negative news gets amplified while positive events barely register. 

US-listed spot Bitcoin ETFs daily net flows, USD. Source: SoSoValue

Regardless of the rationale behind the sales, Bitcoin’s weakness, 53% below its all-time high, does not inspire confidence in the $60,000 support level.

Strategy (MSTR US) increased its cash position to restore a healthy 17 months of dividend coverage on Monday. However, Strategy’s variable-rate Stretch preferred stock (STRC US) continued to trade far from the $100 target required for additional issuances. The STRC dividend rose to 12% from 11.5%, which was apparently not enough to entice more buyers.

Related: Bitcoin just $5K away from ‘best investment opportunity’ of bear market

Bitcoin might have temporarily benefited from Fed Chair Warsh’s concerns about persistent inflation, but rising expectations for higher interest rates and strong earnings momentum in the AI sector may continue to exert negative pressure on Bitcoin. As a result, a sustainable rally to $65,000 could take longer.

UmexGain offers traders access to multiple asset classes, market analysis, educational resources, and tools designed to support informed trading.

When choosing a broker, traders consider the variety of assets, the quality of analytical support, the convenience of services, and the availability of learning materials. These elements offered by UmexGain are essential for making market participation both more comfortable and more productive.

The company provides a comprehensive approach to client support, combining a wide selection of instruments with up-to-date analytical resources. This format enables each user to select a suitable trading style, enhance their knowledge, and receive the timely information needed to make informed decisions.

Broad asset base

One of UmexGain’s key advantages is the extensive array of available assets. Clients can work with various financial instruments, including currency pairs, stocks, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. Each tool features unique properties, allowing for versatile market applications.

The inclusion of digital assets, which continue to play a significant role in the global financial system, deserves special mention. This allows the company’s clients to use the ever-growing opportunities within modern financial markets and craft diverse trading strategies tailored to their preferences.

This broad selection of instruments helps UmexGain customers focus on areas of greatest interest. The ability to choose from various asset classes also adds flexibility to the trading process and opens up new avenues for executing individual strategies and effective portfolio diversification.

Analytics and education

High-quality information support is essential for success in financial markets. UmexGain provides clients with all the data necessary to make informed decisions in a timely manner. This includes learning materials, helping beginners master the fundamentals of trading while allowing experienced professionals to refine their strategies. This data is presented in a user-friendly format, offering an introduction to core trading principles, market specifics, analysis methods, and strategies for building a personal plan.

Timely analytics enables the assessment and comparison of different assets’ prospects. It helps users track key events, monitor the performance of various instruments, and gain insights to assess market conditions. This allows clients to quickly process current information and use the data to inform their next steps.

The combination of learning resources and analytical support creates an optimal environment where UmexGain customers can continuously expand their knowledge. This approach fosters confident skill development, regardless of the user’s experience level.

Seamless trading experience

A modern broker must provide a convenient environment for daily activities. UmexGain strives to make the trading experience as intuitive and streamlined as possible. A well-organized interface ensures that key features are easy to locate, allowing users to focus on market analysis and implementing deals.

The combination of diverse tools and comprehensive information support offers a significant advantage. This approach allows users to dedicate more time to identifying new opportunities, developing their strategies, and honing their practical skills. Regardless of experience level, every client gains access to resources that help them navigate financial markets with greater confidence.

Summing up

UmexGain is a broker that combines a wide range of assets, modern trading capabilities, and high-quality information support. A vast array of financial instruments, including cryptocurrencies, enables clients to utilize the expanding opportunities of modern financial markets and select the most promising areas for their activities.

A key advantage of the company is its comprehensive user support. UmexGain provides clients with the information needed to make well-informed decisions in a timely manner, offering learning resources to master key trading concepts and refine strategies, alongside up-to-date analytics for evaluating and comparing the prospects of various assets. The combination of a diverse range of instruments, learning materials, and current market analysis makes UmexGain an attractive choice for those seeking to expand their knowledge and confidently pursue their goals.

Bitcoin (BTC) traded as high as $60,200 on Wednesday, up about 2.7% over the past 24 hours after falling to a 21-month low of $57,737 earlier in the session. Ether (ETH) and Solana (SOL) also gained, up 3% and 4.85%, respectively. 

The bounce took place amid deep investor caution, with sentiment trackers gauging the balance of fear and greed in crypto markets currently reading around 11 out of 100, in “Extreme Fear” territory. Despite the rebound from the yearly low, Bitcoin remains down roughly a third since the start of the year. 

Crypto Fear & Greed Index. Source: Alternative.me

Bitcoin dip-buyers overshadowed by fear of future selling

Investors’ cautious stance shows up differently depending on what data is analyzed. US spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have seen more money leave than enter in recent weeks, including a reported $4.5 billion total outflow in June, the largest since the funds launched. 

At the same time, onchain data shows that long-term holders added roughly 270,000 BTC over the past two weeks. That is generally read as a sign that some bigger investors see the recent decline as an opportunity rather than a reason to sell. 

Looking at the past few days, one useful gauge is the funding rate. That figure has stayed positive for three straight days, meaning bets on rising prices have remained crowded even as Bitcoin fell to new lows. When leverage builds up on one side of the market like this while price is weak, it can add to volatility, since more traders become exposed to being forced out of their positions if the market moves further against them. 

Bitcoin open interest, funding rate. Source: Hyblock

Liquidations continue to define the price action

A broader look at where leveraged positioning is concentrated, combining data from three major exchanges over the past week, shows the heaviest concentration of positioning is roughly between $57,000 and $60,500, which closely wraps around the range Bitcoin has traded in since late June. That concentration thins out noticeably above about $61,000 to $62,000, and again below about $55,000 to $56,000. 

Bitcoin liquidation heatmap, 3-day look back. Source: Hyblock

In practical terms, most of the leverage that could be forced to unwind sits close to the current price rather than in a distant zone, so a decisive move beyond roughly $61,000 on the upside, or $56,000 on the downside, is where forced position closures would likely have the most room to accelerate a move.

The view for the next 24 hours leans neutral and a genuine shift in positioning would likely need to show up as rising leveraged positioning alongside a rising Bitcoin price, a combination that has not yet appeared in the data.

Stock and cryptocurrency trading platform Robinhood announced the launch of its public mainnet about four months after it began testing the network.

On Wednesday, the company said Robinhood Chain, a layer 2 (L2) blockchain built on Arbitrum, had officially launched after the network went live on testnet in February. The blockchain, which the company described as “AI-native and purpose-built for real-world assets,” comes amid Robinhood’s expansion of crypto- and decentralized finance-related services.

According to Robinhood, it plans to launch crypto trading in the UK soon. The company also said that its tokenized stock products were live and available through its wallet app to users in more than 120 countries. CEO Vlad Tenev called tokenized stocks “inevitable” in January, arguing that offering the products could help prevent trading freezes that sometimes occur on traditional exchanges.

Source: Robinhood

The launch of the public mainnet came just a few weeks after Tenev announced that Robinhood would cut 10% of its workforce as part of a restructuring move. The company is expected to announce its 2026 second-quarter results on July 29, but reported in April that its crypto transaction revenue dropped by almost 50% year-on-year, from $252 million to $134 million.

Related: Last-minute MiCA approvals mark end of EU transition period

The company also introduced Robinhood Earn, a decentralized product that allows users to lend USDG, a dollar-backed stablecoin, through a self-custody wallet at an estimated 7% annual percentage yield. Robinhood shares rose about 8% on Wednesday.

Base’s L2 network reports back-to-back outages

Robinhood is entering an increasingly competitive L2 market dominated by networks such as Base, the Coinbase-backed blockchain.

In June, Base experienced two outages within hours of each other, which the engineering team later reported had been the result of a sequencer bug. The mainnet is the second-largest layer 2 network by total value secured at about $11 billion.

Magazine: AI is banking the unbanked in Africa… faster than crypto

Cointelegraph is committed to independent, transparent journalism. This news article is produced in accordance with Cointelegraph’s Editorial Policy and aims to provide accurate and timely information. Readers are encouraged to verify information independently.

TLDR

• Kroger revealed plans to purchase Giant Eagle in a transaction valued at $1.65 billion, consisting of $1.25 billion cash and $400 million in liability assumption.
• The acquisition brings approximately $9 billion in yearly revenue, 197 grocery locations, and 11 independent pharmacy outlets.
• Shares of Kroger declined 2.12% during Wednesday’s session, adding to a year-to-date drop of 12.11%.
• Transaction completion is anticipated in 2027, contingent upon regulatory clearance.
• Analysts at Wolfe Research characterized the acquisition as evidence Kroger is operating “more offensively,” projecting approximately 6% revenue growth.

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Shares of Kroger (KR) slipped 2.12% during Wednesday trading following the supermarket operator’s announcement that it would purchase family-run grocery chain Giant Eagle in a $1.65 billion transaction.

The Kroger Co., KR

The transaction structure includes $1.25 billion in cash consideration alongside $400 million in liability assumption. The Cincinnati-based retailer stated the purchase won’t push its net total debt to adjusted EBITDA multiple beyond its designated target corridor of 2.3 to 2.5 times.

Giant Eagle maintains a footprint of 197 grocery stores and 11 independent pharmacy locations throughout northern Ohio, western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland, and Indiana—regions where Kroger maintains an established market position.

The regional chain generates approximately $9 billion in yearly sales—a substantial contribution to Kroger’s operations.

Greg Foran, Kroger’s Chief Executive Officer, characterized the transaction as an obvious “strategic fit,” highlighting Giant Eagle’s customer loyalty initiatives, pharmaceutical services, and proprietary brand offerings as valuable assets.

What the Numbers Look Like

Greg Badishkanian, an analyst at Wolfe Research, noted the purchase aligns with Kroger‘s leadership team’s “increased openness to do M&A” and will enable the retailer to strengthen its store concentration while expanding into neighboring territories.

Wolfe’s analysis suggests Giant Eagle’s EBIT margins fall within the 2.0–2.5% range—comparable to Albertsons—and anticipates an additional EBIT contribution between $200 million and $250 million.

With Kroger’s sales forecast to reach $151 billion by 2027, the acquisition would increase total revenue by approximately 6%, bringing it to roughly $160 billion. Badishkanian anticipates modest EPS accretion during the second complete year following transaction closure.

The 197 additional locations would expand Kroger’s total store portfolio by roughly 7% from its existing network of 2,739 stores.

When Does the Deal Close?

Kroger anticipates finalizing the Giant Eagle acquisition in 2027, pending regulatory approval and customary closing requirements.

The grocery retailer indicated the transaction will contribute positively to adjusted EPS during the second complete year post-closure—when excluding one-time transaction expenses and integration-related costs.

To reassure shareholders, the company reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining dividend distributions and continuing its $2 billion stock buyback initiative.

Wednesday’s trading volume registered approximately 1.86 million shares, significantly below Kroger’s three-month average daily volume of roughly 7.77 million.

KR shares have declined 12.11% year-to-date and dropped 20.93% over the trailing twelve-month period.

Analyst sentiment on KR reflects a Moderate Buy consensus, comprising six Buy recommendations and seven Hold ratings issued within the past three months. The mean price target stands at $69.33, suggesting potential upside of approximately 27.4% from present levels.