Crypto World
Bitcoin, Altcoin Relief Rally Aim To Restore Pre-crash Range Highs
Key points:
-
Bitcoin is attempting a comeback, which is expected to face stiff resistance at the breakdown level of $74,508.
-
Several major altcoins are attempting a recovery, signaling that lower levels are attracting buyers.
Bitcoin (BTC) has risen above $68,500, as buyers attempt to form a higher low near $65,000. According to Glassnode, BTC is stuck between the true market mean at $79,200 and the realized price near $55,000. The onchain data provider expects the range-bound action to continue until a major catalyst pushes the price either above or below the range.
Standard Chartered also had a muted forecast for BTC. It lowered BTC’s target to $100,000 from $150,000 for 2026. The bank expects BTC to fall to $50,000 over the next few months, followed by a recovery for the remainder of the year.

Several analysts also say that BTC has not yet bottomed out. Crypto analyst Tony Research said in a post on X that BTC will bottom in the $40,000 to $50,000 zone, possibly “between mid-September and late November 2026.”
Could BTC and the major altcoins start a recovery? Let’s analyze the charts of the top 10 cryptocurrencies to find out.
Bitcoin price prediction
BTC turned up from $65,118 on Thursday, indicating demand at lower levels. The bulls will try to push the price to the breakdown level of $74,508.

If the Bitcoin price turns down sharply from the $74,508 level, it suggests that the bears remain active at higher levels. That may keep the BTC/USDT pair between $74,508 and $60,000 for a few days. On the downside, a break below the $60,000 support may sink the pair to $52,500.
Alternatively, if buyers thrust the price above $74,508, it suggests that the selling pressure is reducing. The pair may then rally to the 50-day simple moving average (SMA) ($85,046).
Ether price prediction
Buyers are attempting to push and maintain Ether (ETH) above the $2,000 level, but the bears have kept up the pressure.

If the price turns down from the current level or the $2,111 resistance, it suggests that the bears are aggressively defending the level. The Ether price may then retest the critical support at $1,750. If the level cracks, the ETH/USDT pair may extend the decline to the next major support at $1,537.
On the upside, buyers will have to swiftly push the price above the 20-day exponential moving average (EMA) ($2,297) to signal a comeback. If they manage to do that, the pair may ascend to the 50-day SMA ($2,800).
BNB price prediction
BNB (BNB) continues to gradually slide toward the strong support at $570, which is a vital level to watch out for.

If the BNB price plunges below the $570 support, it signals the start of the next leg of the downtrend toward the psychological level of $500.
However, the relative strength index (RSI) is in oversold territory, indicating that a relief rally is possible in the near term. If the price turns up from the current level, the bulls will attempt to push the BNB/USDT pair above the $669 level. If they can pull it off, the pair may march toward the 20-day EMA ($710).
XRP price prediction
XRP (XRP) has been clinging to the support line of the descending channel pattern, increasing the risk of a breakdown.

If that happens, the XRP price may drop to the $1.11 level. This is a critical level for the bulls to defend, as a break below it may resume the downtrend. The XRP/USDT pair may then fall to $1 and subsequently to $0.75.
Contrarily, if the price turns up from the current level and breaks above the20-day EMA ($1.55), it suggests that the pair may remain inside the channel for some more time. Buyers will have to achieve a close above the downtrend line to signal a potential trend change.
Solana price prediction
Solana (SOL) is trying to find support at the $77 level, but the bears are likely to sell on rallies.

The SOL/USDT pair may reach the breakdown level of $95, where the bears are expected to pose a strong challenge. If the price turns down sharply from the $95 level, it suggests that the bears have flipped the level into resistance. The Solana price may then plummet to the $67 level.
Conversely, if buyers push the price above the $95 level, the pair may rally to the 50-day SMA ($119). That suggests the break below the $95 level may have been a bear trap.
Dogecoin price prediction
Dogecoin (DOGE) is attempting to bounce off the $0.09 level, but the bears continue to sell on minor rallies.

If the Dogecoin price turns down and breaks below $0.09, the DOGE/USDT pair may drop to the $0.08 level. This is a crucial level for the bulls to defend, as a break below it may extend the downtrend to $0.06.
The first sign of strength will be a break and close above the 20-day EMA ($0.10). The pair may then rally to the breakdown level of $0.12, which is likely to act as stiff resistance. A break above the $0.12 level opens the doors for a rally to $0.16.
Bitcoin Cash price prediction
Bitcoin Cash (BCH) broke below the $497 support on Thursday, but the bulls failed to sustain the lower levels.

The bulls are attempting to push the price above the 20-day EMA ($536) but are expected to face significant resistance from the bears. If the price turns down from the 20-day EMA and breaks below $493, the BCH/USDT pair may plunge toward the $443 level.
On the contrary, if the price breaks and closes above the 20-day EMA, it suggests demand at lower levels. The Bitcoin Cash price may then rally to the 50-day SMA ($581), where the bears are again expected to mount a strong defense.
Related: Bitcoin open interest hits lows not seen since 2024: Is TradFi abandoning BTC?
Hyperliquid price prediction
Hyperliquid (HYPE) has risen back above the 20-day EMA ($30.18) on Thursday, indicating buying on dips.

The flattish 20-day EMA and the RSI just above the midpoint suggest a balance between supply and demand. Buyers will have to propel the Hyperliquid price above the $35.50 level to indicate that the corrective phase may have ended. The HYPE/USDT pair may then ascend to $44.
Contrary to this assumption, if the price turns down and breaks below the 50-day SMA ($27.25), it signals that the bears have an edge. The pair may then slump to the $20.82 support.
Cardano price prediction
Cardano (ADA) remains inside the descending channel pattern, indicating that the bears remain in charge.

The bears will attempt to strengthen their position by pulling the price below the support line and the $0.22 level. If they manage to do that, the ADA/USDT pair may descend to $0.20 and later to $0.15.
Instead, if the Cardano price turns up from the current level and breaks above the 20-day EMA ($0.29), it signals that the pair may remain inside the channel for some more time. Buyers will seize control on a close above the channel.
Monero price prediction
Monero (XMR) is facing resistance at the breakdown level of $360, but the bulls have not ceded much ground to the bears.

That increases the likelihood of a break above $360. If that happens, the bears will again try to halt the recovery at the 20-day EMA ($385). However, buyers are likely to have other plans. They will try to pierce the 20-day EMA, clearing the path for a rally toward the 50-day SMA ($460).
This positive view will be negated in the near term if the Monero price continues lower and breaks below $309. The XMR/USDT pair may then plummet to $276, which is likely to attract buyers.
This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision. While we strive to provide accurate and timely information, Cointelegraph does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information in this article. This article may contain forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Cointelegraph will not be liable for any loss or damage arising from your reliance on this information.
Crypto World
Regional banks must partner with crypto startups now
Disclosure: The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to the author and do not represent the views and opinions of crypto.news’ editorial.
The GENIUS Act has turbocharged the United States stablecoin market, and the U.S.’s biggest banks are already cashing in. Regional banks must partner with crypto startups now if they are to bridge the digital gap, provide customers with access to the market, and share in booming stablecoin revenues. If not, they risk being locked out of the market entirely by their larger counterparts.
Summary
- Stablecoins are now a revenue line, not a side bet: $33T in annual volume and multibillion-dollar bank revenues show the opportunity is already being captured.
- Regional banks can’t outspend — but they can outpartner: Collaborating with regulated crypto startups lets them skip costly R&D and compete with Big Four infrastructure.
- The real risk is hesitation: As regulation matures and giants lock in early market share, inaction could permanently shut regional banks out of stablecoin payment flows.
In such a gloomy, bearish market environment, stablecoins have emerged as the unlikely winners. Courtesy of the dial-moving GENIUS Act, the market has been given its long-overdue seal of regulatory approval, seeing a mass uptick in consumer sentiment and institutional embrace as a result. Demand is high, mood is high, and the market is at its peak. And with a huge upside ready for the taking, regional banks cannot afford to miss out on their time in the spotlight.
Stablecoin transaction volumes rose to a record $33tn in 2025, and JPMorgan’s payments division generated over $4bn in revenue in Q2 alone last year after launching its own token. Amid current reports of earnings surges across Wall Street, one thing is clear to me: those who take the risk and invest in their ability to facilitate stablecoin transactions will win customers and revenues.
Of course, there is an obvious difference in scale between the Big Four and regional banks — but regional institutions do not need to dominate the market to benefit from it. Even in states that you’d expect to be brick-and-mortar strongholds, like Wyoming, consumer demand is booming.
Crucially, regional banks also have a strong presence in these communities. By tapping into stablecoins, they can attract new customers, including higher earners who are more likely to adopt cryptocurrency-based payment methods. Attracting and retaining customers are two of the biggest problems executives at these banks tell me they face, which is exactly why stablecoins must become a strategic priority if they are going to expand their customer base.
The problem is that many regional banks are already behind the curve on industry digitalization. It’s no secret that these capital-tight institutions don’t have the billion-dollar budgets of Bank of America and JPMorgan to invest in new technology, specialized stablecoin-friendly infrastructure, and in-house experimentation. That then leaves the question: how can these banks offer customers access to the stablecoin market, quickly, cost-effectively, and before the Big Four captures the bulk of consumer demand?
My answer is to partner with agile, frontline crypto startups. There are hundreds of cryptocurrency payment startups operating across the U.S. that can help regional banks bridge the digital gap. Equally, by leveraging startups’ tech-forward infrastructure, regional banks can skip costly in-house experimentation to meet consumer demand more efficiently.
On a larger scale, this way of thinking has already proven successful. JPMorgan, Standard Chartered, and others have partnerships with a variety of small- to large-cap crypto businesses, including Coinbase, Circle, and the startup Digital Asset. Non-traditional institutions, too, like Stripe, followed this route last year — acquiring the stablecoin orchestration platform Bridge to expand their offerings. It’s already tried and tested, which is why regional banks must also follow suit if they want a share of the spoils.
Of course, I’m not blind to the risks. The stablecoin market has a checkered past that carries significant reputational challenges, and regional banks are right to be cautious. Investors lost $40bn when TerraUSD crashed in 2022, and I have no doubt that weighs on executives’ minds.
But that was four years ago. Crypto — and indeed, stablecoins — are no longer the Wild West of financial services. In fact, with the GENIUS Act clarifying regulatory frameworks and strengthening anti-money laundering protections, stablecoins have become rapidly more mainstream in the global payments landscape for institutions and consumers alike.
Rather, concerns about the risks stablecoins pose are precisely why these partnerships are so critical. Regional banks, by working with regulated startups that already have technical frameworks, will be able to mitigate risk and avoid the costly mistakes that could come with building untested systems in-house.
The bigger danger facing regional banks is inaction. The four biggest U.S. banks currently command over half the industry’s total profits — and their dominance will only grow as they sweep up payments revenues. As regulation matures and larger banks lock in early market share, regional banks face a narrowing window of opportunity to capitalize on consumer demand.
Given that these larger institutions are unlikely to want to dilute their potential share of stablecoin revenues across thousands of competitors, the race to meet consumer demand is well and truly underway. If regional banks wait, they will gift industry titans yet another competitive edge, one that they just cannot afford to lose.
Crypto World
Crypto Stocks Rally: Coinbase (COIN) Soars 18%, Strategy (MSTR) Gains 10%
TLDR
- Coinbase (COIN) surged by 18% despite reporting a $666.7 million loss in Q4 2025 due to lower trading revenue.
- The increase in Coinbase’s stock came from strong long-term revenue growth, particularly in subscription and stablecoin services.
- Strategy (MSTR) rose 10% as Bitcoin prices rebounded and the company disclosed a purchase of over 1,100 BTC.
- Despite a multi-billion dollar quarterly loss, Strategy remains committed to holding Bitcoin through market downturns.
- Other crypto-linked stocks, including Circle (CRCL) and Galaxy Digital (GLXY), also saw positive gains in line with the sector’s upward momentum.
U.S. markets saw a rotation into risk assets today, with crypto-linked stocks such as Coinbase and Strategy among the biggest gainers. Despite mixed performances from broader indexes like the Dow and S&P 500, digital-asset exposure helped certain high-beta stocks outperform. Coinbase (COIN) surged more than 18%, while Strategy (MSTR) rose around 10%, benefitting from the rebound in Bitcoin prices.
Coinbase (COIN) Gains 18% Amid Mixed Earnings Results
Coinbase (COIN) was one of the standout performers in today’s market. The stock rose by over 18%, as traders took advantage of a dip in crypto exposure. The increase came even as the company posted a challenging earnings report for Q4 2025, with a loss of $666.7 million. This was its first quarterly loss in several quarters, driven by lower trading revenue as crypto trading volumes dropped.
Despite the loss, Coinbase managed to show strength in other areas. Long-term revenue streams, particularly subscription and services, helped cushion the negative sentiment. Stablecoin revenue, a major contributor, performed well. These factors allowed the company to maintain positive momentum, despite a tough earnings backdrop.
The stock has been under pressure in early 2026, having fallen roughly 34% year-to-date. Bitcoin prices have dropped about 30% in the past month, leading to lower trading volumes and squeezing one of Coinbase’s main revenue drivers. Analysts have expressed caution, with Monness Crespi & Hardt downgrading the stock from “buy” to “neutral” and setting a $120 price target.
Strategy (MSTR) Posts 10% Jump, Remains Committed to Bitcoin
Strategy (MSTR) also saw strong gains, rising about 10% as Bitcoin prices rebounded. Shares of the company have fluctuated heavily in line with Bitcoin’s price movements. Strategy’s commitment to adding to its Bitcoin treasury was also a key driver for the uptick. The firm disclosed the purchase of over 1,100 BTC, spending roughly $90 million at an average price near the high-$70,000 range.
Despite market turbulence, Strategy’s focus on holding Bitcoin through downturns has remained unchanged. The company posted a multi-billion dollar quarterly loss, mostly due to declines in the value of its Bitcoin holdings. Executive Chairman Michael Saylor reiterated the company’s strategy, stating that it would not sell Bitcoin during price downturns.
While the company’s Bitcoin-heavy balance sheet poses risks, Strategy has maintained a long-term holding posture. Saylor continues to defend this approach, emphasizing that the company is positioned to withstand extended volatility in Bitcoin’s price. These statements helped bolster investor confidence, despite the challenges faced in recent months.
Crypto World
Analyst Maps Out 2 Paths for Ripple’s Price
Where will XRP find a bottom and how high it would go in a subsequent bull market?
The popular cross-border token plunged hard recently, going from a January 6 peak of $2.40 to just over $1.10 during last Friday’s market-wide massacre. After crashing by over 50% within a relatively short period, it bounced off but remains sluggish below $1.40, still showing a 25% decline on a year-to-date scale.
The consensus in the cryptocurrency community is that the bear market has already begun, given the fact that not only XRP but BTC and many other larger-cap alts have plunged by 50% or more from their heights in 2025. As such, analysts have started to speculate where each asset’s bottom might be and how much pain investors would have to endure before they see a trend reversal.
$0.60 to $11?
ERGAG CRYPTO, who is among the most well-known and bullish members of the XRP army, mapped out two potential scenarios for Ripple’s cross-border token. In the first chart, the bottom is presented at $0.60, which would essentially erase all gains charted after Trump’s presidential election victory in late 2024 and push the asset back to its starting point at the time.
This chart comes with a deeper drawdown, continuous fear and disbelief, and weak hands getting flushed. On the upside, XRP could go on a sublime run once the market reverses and the bulls take over, with the analyst predicting a surge to a $11 top.
#XRP – Chart 1 or Chart 2?
💡This isn’t opinion. It’s math, structure, and market behavior.
💡Markets don’t reward comfort. They reward conviction under pressure.
💡Choose your pain or pain will choose you.
📉 Chart 1:
▫️Bottom: $0.60
▫️Top: $11
▫️ Deeper drawdown
▫️ Fear… pic.twitter.com/7KxtTwcd2A— EGRAG CRYPTO (@egragcrypto) February 13, 2026
More Modest Prediction
The alternative in ERGAG CRYPTO’s mapping was a second chart showing lower volatility ahead in both directions. The bottom would be around $0.90, while the top could be $8.5.
This scenario would provide investors with more comfort and less pain, but its upside potential would also be lower, the analyst added.
You may also like:
At the time of writing, both bottoms seem more likely to be reached, while the tops appear quite far-fetched. After all, XRP would have to skyrocket by 3x (or more) from its 2025 all-time high of $3.65 before it can challenge the double-digit price levels. In contrast, going to $0.90 or even $0.60 in the current market environment seems rather reasonable.
Nevertheless, market trends can change extremely quickly, and XRP has proven in the past that it’s capable of remarkable runs. After the US elections, it went from $0.60 to $3.40 in just a few months, which is a 466% surge.
SECRET PARTNERSHIP BONUS for CryptoPotato readers: Use this link to register and unlock $1,500 in exclusive BingX Exchange rewards (limited time offer).
Crypto World
What It Means for Ether Price
Ether traded back above the $2,000 level on Friday, extending gains after the US consumer price index print came in cooler than expected. The relief rally adds to a nascent recovery narrative that could open the door to a test of higher targets if momentum sustains. Market participants are parsing a mix of on-chain signals, leverage data, and institutional demand as they gauge whether this move can translate into a durable bottom or simply a short-lived bounce. With weekly closes in focus, traders are watching for follow-through in the days ahead, while crypto derivatives data continues to feed the debate over whether risk appetite is finally pivoting in Ethereum’s favor.
Key takeaways
- Ether futures’ open interest across major exchanges has fallen by about 80 million ETH in the past 30 days, signaling a broad reduction in leveraged exposure rather than new long bets.
- Binance, the largest venue by volume, led the decline with roughly 40 million ETH pulled from futures positions (about half of the total drop), underscoring a widespread de-risking trend across top platforms.
- Across Gate, Bybit and OKX, combined declines pushed the total among the four major platforms toward a cumulative drop of roughly 75 million ETH, suggesting the trend is not isolated to a single exchange.
- Funding rates on Binance slipped into deep negative territory (around -0.006), the lowest seen in about three years, implying extreme bearish positioning that could set the stage for a short squeeze if buyers re-emerge.
- Technically, Ether has carved out a bullish setup, breaking from a falling wedge and hovering near $2,050; a measured move could target around $2,150, with potential tests of the 100-period SMA near $2,260 and a path toward $2,500 if demand accelerates.
- On-chain activity and rising institutional demand have persisted as tailwinds, with cost-basis accumulation identified around the $1,880–$1,900 zone helping form a potential price base for further upside.
Tickers mentioned: $ETH
Sentiment: Bullish
Price impact: Positive. The cooler CPI print contributed to a rebound from the $2,000 area and increased odds of an extended bounce toward higher targets.
Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold. The setup points to potential upside on continued demand signals, but traders should remain mindful of macro surprises and the possibility of renewed volatility if liquidity conditions shift.
Market context: The latest inflation data appears to have nudged investors back toward risk assets, helping to ease some of the near-term macro headwinds that had weighed on crypto markets. Although liquidity remains uneven across venues, the combination of weaker-than-expected inflation readings and supportive on-chain dynamics has contributed to a more constructive backdrop for Ethereum in the near term.
Why it matters
From a market perspective, Ethereum’s price action this week matters not only for holders but for the broader crypto ecosystem. The confluence of falling open interest and negative funding rates suggests many participants were trimming risk rather than chasing new bets, which can reduce the likelihood of rapid, force-driven liquidations in a downside scenario. In such environments, a cleaner backdrop often arises where a new rally can take hold more easily if buyers step in decisively, creating a more stable price base. The sustained improvement in network activity and inflows from institutional actors adds another layer of fundamental support that could help underpin a more durable recovery beyond short-term speculative moves.
On the on-chain front, the observed accumulation at sub-$2,000 levels signals a cadre of investors is building a longer-term stance, a factor that matters because the health of Ether’s network—usage, validator activity, and transaction throughput—has historically fed into price resilience. This dynamic aligns with discussions in the space about Ether’s role not just as a trading instrument but as a network with ongoing growth potential, particularly if demand from institutions and developers continues to accrete.
For market participants, the critical question is whether the $2,000 threshold can function as a genuine floor in the current cycle. If price can hold that level and push higher, momentum could attract fresh buyers and sequentially lift Ether toward the $2,150–$2,260 range in the near term, with a longer arc toward the $2,500 zone if fundamental and technical signals align. Conversely, a break below that level could accelerate downside risk, especially if systemic liquidity tightens or macro headlines shift sentiment once again. In either case, the latest data suggest that the market is closer to a base-building phase than a continuation of the prior downtrend.
What to watch next
- Monitor whether ETH holds the $2,000 support on continued trading sessions and whether buyers emerge at the next test of resistance around $2,150.
- Track open interest and funding rates across major exchanges for signs of capitulation ending or renewed leverage entering the market.
- Watch for a potential challenge to the 100-period simple moving average near $2,260 and any subsequent move toward $2,500 if momentum remains constructive.
- Observe on-chain signals, including ongoing accumulation patterns and institutional flow indicators, for signs of sustained demand beyond short-term price action.
Sources & verification
- CryptoQuant Quicktake: Ethereum open interest across major exchanges declines by over 80 million ETH in 30 days.
- CryptoQuant analysis on funding rates hitting -0.006, the lowest level since December 2022, signaling extreme bearish positioning.
- Glassnode heatmap data showing a cost-basis distribution with substantial support between $1,880 and $1,900 and roughly 1.3 million ETH accumulated there.
- On-chain signals and institutional inflows discussed in related coverage, including notes on network activity tailwinds for Ether.
Ether price action and outlook
Ether broke out of a descending wedge on the four-hour chart and traded around $2,050 at the time of observation. The measured move from the breakout points toward $2,150 highlights a near-term upside trajectory, with the potential to test higher resistance if the rally gains traction. The same chart framework points to possible retests of the 100-period simple moving average near $2,260, followed by a pathway toward the $2,500 horizon should momentum accelerate beyond the immediate levels.
On the downside, a firm hold above the psychological $2,000 level remains a critical anchor, reinforced by the 50-period moving average that has acted as interim support in recent sessions. The cost-basis distribution heatmap from Glassnode emphasizes a populated zone beneath the current price, where long-term holders have previously shown willingness to accumulate, which could provide a stabilizing force if price action turns choppy in the near term.
Historically, periods of negative funding rates at strong price floors have preceded short squeezes that sparked sharper moves to the upside. If the current dynamic persists—declining open interest, controlled leverage, and improving macro sentiment—ETH could establish a more durable base rather than form a brief rally followed by renewed volatility. As market attention shifts toward macro cues and ETF developments, investors will be watching how ETH behaves around key support levels and whether on-chain demand sustains the current trajectory.
Crypto World
Bitcoin Gains 4% As Soft US CPI Boosts March Rate-Cut Odds
Bitcoin (BTC) gained at Friday’s Wall Street open as a fresh US inflation surprise boosted the mood.
Key points:
-
Bitcoin price action heads toward key resistance after US CPI inflation data cools beyond expectations.
-
Crypto becomes a standout on the day as macro assets see a cool reaction to slowing inflation.
-
Traders stay wary on overall BTC price strength.
Bitcoin spikes on soft January CPI data
Data from TradingView showed up to 4% daily BTC price gains at the time of writing, with BTC/USD reaching $69,190 on Bitstamp.

The renewed upside came after the January print of the US Consumer Price Index (CPI) fell short of expectations.
As confirmed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), core CPI matched estimates of 2.5%, while the broader reading was 2.4% — 0.1% lower than anticipated.

Reacting, trading resource The Kobeissi Letter noted that CPI inflation was now at multiyear lows.
“Core CPI inflation is now at its lowest level since March 2021,” it wrote in a post on X.
“Odds of further interest rate cuts are back on the rise.”

Kobeissi referred to the prospects of the Federal Reserve cutting interest rates at its next meeting in March. As Cointelegraph reported, market expectations of such an outcome were previously at rock bottom, not helped by strong labor-market performance.
After the CPI release, odds of a minimal 0.25% cut remained at less than 10%, per data from CME Group’s FedWatch Tool.
Continuing, Andre Dragosch, European head of research at crypto asset manager Bitwise, argued that when viewed through the lens of Truflation, an alternative inflation meter, the CPI drop was “not really a surprise.”
📌RE: CPI Release
Not really a surprise there if you have been following the @truflation CPI number which has plummeted sub-1% already…
IYKYK pic.twitter.com/GPEUqaSNZI
— André Dragosch, PhD⚡ (@Andre_Dragosch) February 13, 2026
Elsewhere on macro, gold attempted to reclaim the $5,000 per ounce mark, while the US dollar index (DXY) sought a recovery after an initial CPI drop to 96.8.
US stocks, on the other hand, failed to copy Bitcoin’s enthusiasm, trading modestly down on the day at the time of writing.
Analyst eyes current range for BTC price higher low
Considering the outlook for BTC price action, market participants had little reason to alter their cautious positions.
Related: Binance teases Bitcoin bullish ‘shift’ as crypto sentiment hits record low
“$BTC Still consolidating in this falling wedge,” trader Daan Crypto Trades wrote in his latest X update.
“Attempted a break out yesterday but got slammed back down at the $68K level. That’s the area to watch if this wants to see another leg up at some point.”

Earlier, Cointelegraph reported on the significance of the $68,000-$69,000 zone, which plays host to both the old 2021 all-time high and Bitcoin’s 200-week exponential moving average (EMA).
“Whether you like it or not: Bitcoin remains to be in an area where I think that we’ll see a higher low come in,” crypto trader, analyst and entrepreneur Michaël van de Poppe predicted in his own forecast.
“It’s fragile, for sure, but it doesn’t mean that we’re not going to be seeing some momentum coming in from the markets.”

This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision. While we strive to provide accurate and timely information, Cointelegraph does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information in this article. This article may contain forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Cointelegraph will not be liable for any loss or damage arising from your reliance on this information.
Crypto World
Binance’s Mastercard crypto card launches across CIS countries
Binance rolls out its prepaid Mastercard crypto card to select CIS markets, offering instant crypto-to-fiat payments, cashback rewards, and a Valentine promo amid scam warnings.
Summary
- Binance’s prepaid Mastercard crypto card now serves verified users in selected CIS countries, including Armenia, converting Bitcoin, Ethereum, stablecoins and 100+ tokens to local fiat at checkout.
- The card supports in-store and online Mastercard payments, offers up to 2% cashback, and runs a Valentine-themed reward campaign with pink-icon tokens like AMP, UNI and DOT for referrals, top-ups, and trading.
- U.S. prosecutors separately warn that Valentine’s Day is peak season for romance-linked crypto scams, urging users to distrust online-only partners and avoid sending funds to unverified platforms.
Binance has launched its prepaid Mastercard crypto card in several Commonwealth of Independent States countries, marketing lead Anka Tsintsadze confirmed on Friday.
The cryptocurrency exchange, the world’s largest by trading volume, made the Binance Mastercard available to verified users in select CIS jurisdictions including Armenia. The card allows users to convert bitcoin, ethereum, stablecoins and more than 100 supported tokens instantly into local fiat currency at checkout.
“Pay in crypto. Merchants get fiat or crypto. Best way to push crypto payments and adoption,” Binance co-founder Changpeng Zhao wrote on X, commenting on the service’s regional expansion.
According to Binance, the card supports both in-store and online transactions at outlets that accept Mastercard. Prepaid crypto card holders are eligible to receive up to 2% cashback on qualifying purchases, capped per month.
Users in the CIS can fund accounts using US dollars via credit or debit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. In Uzbekistan, customers may deposit Uzbek som through the Humo card network, while those in Kazakhstan can top up balances in tenge through local banks and Mastercard channels.
The card enables customers to retain crypto holdings until the moment of purchase. When making payments, Binance executes the exchange at checkout, eliminating the need for cardholders to pre-convert their crypto into fiat.
The crypto-linked payment card will only be available to applicants who already hold an account with a provider that issues such cards, including a crypto exchange or a digital currency-supporting bank. Binance requires users to complete identity verification and anti-money laundering checks before ordering the card, including standard know-your-customer procedures.
Once approved, users can access card services without Binance administrative, processing, or annual fees, although third-party charges still apply in some cases, according to the company.
Prior to Friday’s announcement, the exchange had launched its card services in the UK, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Republic of Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden. The CIS rollout extends Binance’s card footprint beyond the European Economic Area.
Binance also announced a Valentine-themed promotional campaign with a reward pool. The campaign runs for approximately one month, or until the rewards are fully distributed. The promotion features pink-themed crypto rewards and invites users to complete tasks within the Binance ecosystem.
Users can participate by referring friends, topping up wallets, or trading on Spot and Futures markets. The “Bring a Plus One” initiative rewards users for inviting new participants to the platform. “Love at First Top-Up” encourages participants to deposit via Binance P2P, fiat channels, card payments, or the Buy Crypto feature. Rewards can reach up to a set limit in tokens identified by a pink icon, including AMP, UNI, and DOT, according to Binance.
Separately, US prosecutors issued a warning Thursday that Valentine’s Day is a peak season for romance cryptocurrency scams. The US Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio advised citizens to be cautious of online relationships.
Attorney David Toepfer stated that fraudsters may have been building trust over weeks or months before February 14, luring victims into making crypto payments to fraudulent investment platforms. He listed several warning signs, including requests to move conversations from dating apps to WhatsApp or Telegram, early professions of love, refusal to meet in person, and demands for payment via crypto, gift cards, or wire transfers.
“Romance scammers are after your money, not your heart. They prey on trust and emotion, often targeting elderly Americans and vulnerable individuals. We encourage everyone to slow down, verify identities, and never send money to someone you have not met in person,” US Attorney Toepfer stated in the alert.
Crypto World
Shytoshi Kusama’s Big Reveal: New Project to Shake Shiba Inu’s Path
TLDR
- Shytoshi Kusama will reveal details about an independent AI project on February 14.
- The project focuses on solving issues related to digital identity and legacy management.
- The initiative is not related to the Shiba Inu blockchain and aims to create an encrypted archive.
- Over six months of development and 100,000 lines of custom code have gone into the project.
- Shiba Inu’s price rebounded after a five-day drop and is now targeting resistance at $0.000007 and $0.0000076.
Shiba Inu’s Shytoshi Kusama is set to reveal details about a new independent project on Valentine’s Day. Kusama, the lead ambassador of the Shiba Inu ecosystem, had previously teased a significant update. This project, separate from the official Shiba Inu roadmap, focuses on addressing modern issues related to digital identity and legacy.
Kusama’s Focus on Digital Legacy and AI
Last week, Shytoshi Kusama shared more insights about his upcoming venture. The project is not related to blockchain but is centered around a standalone AI platform. This platform aims to tackle the growing problem of digital footprints, which are often messy and unorganized. Kusama explained that it would function as an encrypted archive, designed to preserve human legacy in a secure way.
Lucie, a Shiba Inu team member, clarified that this initiative is a separate endeavor and has no direct link to the Shiba Inu blockchain. Over six months of hard work and 100,000 lines of code have gone into developing this platform. Kusama’s independent project represents a fresh direction in the digital space, emphasizing the importance of managing personal digital footprints for future generations.
Shiba Inu’s Price Movements Amid Market Trends
While the Shiba Inu community eagerly anticipates Kusama’s February 14 update, the token’s price has seen some fluctuations. On February 12, SHIB reversed a five-day losing streak and began to show signs of recovery. At the time of writing, SHIB was priced at $0.000006290, marking a 3.03% decline over the last 24 hours. Despite this, the broader cryptocurrency market had experienced an uptick in response to January’s consumer inflation data, which came in lower than expected.
The Shiba Inu token has recently witnessed a 24% rise from a low of $0.000005 on February 6. The rebound comes after a period of sideways trading in early February. The next resistance levels for SHIB are set at $0.000007 and $0.0000076, which traders will closely monitor.
Shytoshi Kusama’s New Venture Outside Shiba Inu
At the end of January, Kusama broke his silence and revealed more about his new venture. A corporate partner prompted this initiative and operates outside the Shiba Inu ecosystem. Despite its separation from SHIB, Kusama’s update has generated much interest from the community. The upcoming broadcast is expected to reveal more details about this ambitious AI project.
As the Shiba Inu community waits for the next steps in the SHIB ecosystem, attention is focused on what Kusama has to share. His independent project may have far-reaching implications, especially given its focus on AI and digital legacy management.
Crypto World
Bitcoin Price Nears Undervalued Zone as MVRV Ratio Drops Below 1
TLDR
- Bitcoin’s MVRV ratio has dropped to 1.13, signaling that its price is approaching undervalued levels.
- The MVRV ratio reaching its lowest point since March 2023 suggests that Bitcoin is nearing an undervalued zone.
- CryptoQuant’s analysis shows that Bitcoin’s price has been in a downtrend for four months after its all-time high in October 2025.
- The Z-score of Bitcoin’s MVRV ratio is at historic lows, lower than during previous market bottoms in 2015, 2018, 2020, and 2022.
- Bitcoin’s current price decline differs from past cycles, as it has not experienced a sharp rise into overvalued zones.
Bitcoin (BTC) is nearing undervalued territory for the first time in three years as its market value to realized value (MVRV) ratio approaches a critical inflection point. The MVRV ratio compares Bitcoin’s market cap to the price at which its supply last moved, often seen as a key indicator of Bitcoin’s market cycle. According to CryptoQuant’s recent research, the MVRV ratio has fallen to 1.13, signaling that the current Bitcoin price is near levels that might be considered undervalued.
Bitcoin MVRV Ratio Reaches Lowest Level Since March 2023
As Bitcoin’s price dipped below $60,000 last week, the MVRV ratio dropped to 1.13, marking its lowest point since March 2023. The ratio below 1 suggests that Bitcoin’s supply is undervalued at current price levels. CryptoQuant contributor Crypto Dan noted that Bitcoin has been on a downtrend for about four months following its all-time high in October 2025, and is now entering what could be considered an undervaluation zone.
“When the MVRV ratio falls below 1, Bitcoin is regarded as undervalued,” Crypto Dan commented, adding that the current reading of around 1.1 suggests a near-undervalued state.
The MVRV ratio last registered below 1 in early 2023. At that time, Bitcoin was trading at about $20,000. The ratio surged to a peak of 2.28 during Bitcoin’s all-time high in October 2025, showing a sharp contrast to the present situation. This change highlights a difference in the current cycle compared to past ones.
The current decline in Bitcoin price has raised questions about its potential bottom. CryptoQuant’s analysis shows that Bitcoin’s market cap has dropped significantly, with the MVRV ratio falling into the undervalued zone. This suggests that the market is entering a critical phase, with the possibility of a trend reversal.
Research also highlights that Bitcoin’s price behavior during this cycle deviates from typical MVRV patterns. Historically, Bitcoin has experienced sharp rises into overvalued zones during bull markets, but this time the price has not reached such highs.
“Bitcoin did not experience a sharp rise into a clearly overvalued zone during the recent bull cycle,” the CryptoQuant report states.
Z-Score and MVRV Indicate Bitcoin Price Bottom Is Approaching
According to crypto trader and analyst Michaël van de Poppe, the Z-score of the MVRV ratio has recently reached historic lows. The Z-score measures the standard deviation of Bitcoin’s market cap in relation to the MVRV ratio. Van de Poppe pointed out that Bitcoin’s Z-score is now lower than during previous market bottoms, including those in 2015, 2018, the COVID crash in 2020, and 2022.
Furthermore, CryptoQuant contributor GugaOnChain described Bitcoin as being in a “capitulation zone” and suggested that the market is nearing an accumulation phase.
“The statistical deviation of the Z-Score screams opportunity, signaling that the bottom of this downtrend is being forged right now,” GugaOnChain wrote.
Crypto World
China extends crypto ban to stablecoins, tokenized real-world assets
Mainland China widens its crypto ban to cover RMB-pegged stablecoins and tokenized real-world assets, even as Hong Kong pushes ahead with a licensed stablecoin regime.
Summary
- A new joint notice from the PBoC, CSRC and other agencies extends China’s virtual currency ban to tokenized real-world assets, treating many RWA platforms as illegal finance if unlicensed.
- The rules bar any domestic or controlled entity from issuing RMB-pegged stablecoins abroad without approval, tighten mining enforcement, and target “shadow” data centers that secretly run rigs.
- Hong Kong moves in the opposite direction, with the HKMA preparing its first stablecoin licenses as firms like Ant Group and JD.com apply, even as Beijing flags crime and dollar-stablecoin risks.
China’s central bank and top regulatory authorities have extended the country’s cryptocurrency ban to include tokenization of real-world assets and stablecoins, according to a new regulatory notice.
China issues new stablecoin guidance
The People’s Bank of China and the China Securities Regulatory Commission, along with other agencies, released the notice to prevent and resolve risks associated with virtual currencies. Virtual currencies and mining remain completely prohibited in China under the expanded framework.
The notice requires prior authorization for the issuance of stablecoins tied to the renminbi outside the country. Domestic businesses and foreign entities under their control cannot issue virtual currencies worldwide unless they have obtained necessary permits from relevant authorities in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, the notice stated.
The regulatory framework emphasizes that monetary sovereignty is affected by stablecoins related to legal tender since they perform certain functions in circulation and usage. No entity or individual, domestic or foreign, can issue any RMB-pegged stablecoin outside the country without appropriate authorizations, according to the notice.
The notice reiterates the prohibition of virtual currency-related companies and the need to continue regulating virtual currency mining. The National Development and Reform Commission and relevant agencies will continue implementing stringent regulations on mining operations, the document stated.
Regulatory concerns include organizations appearing to be data centers but actually engaged in mining, managers moving equipment between areas to avoid local oversight, and correlation between some mining operations and speculation and trading in virtual currencies, according to the notice.
The notice establishes ground rules for tokenization of real-world assets, including compliance criteria. Regulators defined tokenization as using encryption and distributed ledger technology for the issuance and trading of rights to ownership, income, and other interests in assets.
Providing intermediary or technology services for RWA tokenization activities in China, as well as engaging in such activities, may be considered unlawful financial operations, the notice stated. The framework forbids the illegal sale of tokenized securities, the sale of securities to the public without proper authority, the trading of criminal securities or futures, and the solicitation of funds without a proper license.
The notice indicates possible exclusions for commercial operations carried out using specified financial infrastructure and with approval of relevant authorities under current laws and regulations. The entity with actual control over underlying assets is required to file a report with the CSRC before participating in related operations, according to regulatory guidelines.
Overseas issuance paperwork must describe the domestic filing company, underlying assets, token issuance strategy, and related details in depth, along with other relevant documentation, the notice stated.
Despite mainland opposition to cryptocurrency activity, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority is planning to grant an initial set of stablecoin licenses in March. Eddie Yue, chief executive of the HKMA, said in a Legislative Council meeting that a decision was hoped for by March.
The government is evaluating dozens of applications submitted by stablecoin issuers. The HKMA began accepting applications after Hong Kong passed a Stablecoins Ordinance requiring permits for entities that issue stablecoins in the territory or link them to the Hong Kong dollar.
Stablecoins are digital currencies designed to maintain steady values by being linked to assets such as traditional currencies or gold. The HKMA has discussed regional uses including tokenized deposit systems for foreign banks and cross-border payments, according to reports.
Ant Group and JD.com have expressed interest in Hong Kong’s licensing framework, according to the Financial Times. Preparations in Hong Kong were halted after Chinese authorities, notably the People’s Bank of China, raised reservations, the Financial Times reported.
China’s regulatory framework on cryptocurrency tightened from 2013 onward, and concerns about volatility and illegal activity led to a total ban on cryptocurrency transactions in 2021.
Recent research indicates that stablecoins were used by organized crime to move illicit funds, with daily transfers facilitated by complex networks, according to reports. Beijing’s concerns include the growing role of the US dollar in the digital asset market, especially dollar-tied stablecoins.
At a recent Senate Banking Committee hearing, the US Treasury Secretary said he “would not be surprised” if Hong Kong’s digital asset program were seen as an attempt to establish an alternative to American financial leadership.
Crypto World
Ethereum Struggles Below $2K as Derivatives Markets Shed 80M ETH in Open Interest
TLDR:
- Ethereum rejected at $2.1K resistance after breaking support, confirming bearish structure remains intact
- Open interest declined 80M+ ETH across exchanges in 30 days, with Binance leading at 40M reduction
- Technical framework requires sustained reclaim of $2.1K-$2.15K range to shift bias back to bullish
- Derivatives market cleanup reduces leverage risk and may establish foundation for price stability
Ethereum continues to trade below critical support levels while derivatives markets show widespread deleveraging.
The asset sits at $1,958.53 as of this writing after failing to hold the $2.1k threshold. Meanwhile, open interest across major exchanges has contracted by more than 80 million ETH over the past month.
This dual pressure from spot price weakness and futures market retreat signals a period of market recalibration.
Technical Breakdown Points to Further Downside Risk
Ethereum’s price structure has followed a textbook pattern of support failure and failed reclaim attempts. The rising trendline near $2.8k marked the initial breakpoint in this sequence. Once that level gave way, the asset moved swiftly toward $2.1k support.
Market participants initially viewed the $2.1k zone as a potential floor for consolidation. However, that expectation proved premature as the level failed to contain selling pressure.
The subsequent drop carried ETH down to $1.7k before any meaningful bounce materialized.
Analyst Dami-Defi noted on X that the asset “bounced just enough to suck in hope” before retesting the broken $2.1k support.
That retest resulted in a clear rejection, confirming the zone had flipped from support to resistance. This behavior typically indicates continued weakness rather than bullish recovery.
The current technical framework suggests limited upside potential while ETH trades below $2.1k. A sustained reclaim of the $2.1k-$2.15k range would be required to shift the bias.
Until such a development occurs, counter-trend rallies represent selling opportunities rather than the start of new uptrends.
Futures Market Contraction Reflects Cautious Positioning
Cryptoquant analyst Arab Chain reported that derivatives markets have undergone substantial position reduction across multiple platforms.
Binance recorded the largest decline with approximately 40 million ETH in open interest exiting over 30 days. Gate.io followed with more than 20 million ETH in reduced exposure.
Additional platforms showed similar trends with OKX declining by 6.8 million ETH and Bybit by 8.5 million ETH. These four venues alone account for roughly 75 million ETH in reduced open interest.
Source: Cryptoquant
When smaller exchanges are included, the total contraction exceeds 80 million ETH across the ecosystem.
This pattern indicates traders are closing positions rather than establishing new leveraged bets. The move reflects either profit-taking after extended positioning or risk reduction in response to volatile conditions.
High-leverage participants appear particularly active in unwinding exposure during this phase.
The derivatives market reset may ultimately create healthier conditions for future price discovery. Reduced leverage decreases the risk of cascading liquidations that amplify volatility.
This cleanup process often precedes periods of greater stability and can establish a firmer foundation for subsequent moves.
-
Politics5 days agoWhy Israel is blocking foreign journalists from entering
-
Sports7 days agoJD Vance booed as Team USA enters Winter Olympics opening ceremony
-
Business5 days agoLLP registrations cross 10,000 mark for first time in Jan
-
NewsBeat4 days agoMia Brookes misses out on Winter Olympics medal in snowboard big air
-
Sports2 days agoBig Tech enters cricket ecosystem as ICC partners Google ahead of T20 WC | T20 World Cup 2026
-
Business5 days agoCostco introduces fresh batch of new bakery and frozen foods: report
-
Tech3 days agoSpaceX’s mighty Starship rocket enters final testing for 12th flight
-
NewsBeat5 days agoWinter Olympics 2026: Team GB’s Mia Brookes through to snowboard big air final, and curling pair beat Italy
-
Video15 hours agoThe Final Warning: XRP Is Entering The Chaos Zone
-
Sports5 days agoBenjamin Karl strips clothes celebrating snowboard gold medal at Olympics
-
Sports7 days ago
Former Viking Enters Hall of Fame
-
Politics5 days agoThe Health Dangers Of Browning Your Food
-
Business6 days agoJulius Baer CEO calls for Swiss public register of rogue bankers to protect reputation
-
Crypto World2 days agoPippin (PIPPIN) Enters Crypto’s Top 100 Club After Soaring 30% in a Day: More Room for Growth?
-
Video2 days agoPrepare: We Are Entering Phase 3 Of The Investing Cycle
-
Crypto World4 days agoU.S. BTC ETFs register back-to-back inflows for first time in a month
-
Crypto World3 days agoBlockchain.com wins UK registration nearly four years after abandoning FCA process
-
NewsBeat5 days agoResidents say city high street with ‘boarded up’ shops ‘could be better’
-
Sports4 days ago
Kirk Cousins Officially Enters the Vikings’ Offseason Puzzle
-
Crypto World4 days agoEthereum Enters Capitulation Zone as MVRV Turns Negative: Bottom Near?


