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Did a Whale Trigger Bitcoin’s Recent Price Slide?

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Whale 3NVeXm Bitcoin Transfers

Bitcoin (BTC) has extended its downward trajectory. Over the past 24 hours, the asset has declined 1.39%, pushing its total losses for the month beyond 30%.

While the broader bear market environment remains the primary driver of weakness, emerging on-chain signals suggest that concentrated whale activity could reportedly be amplifying BTC’s downside. 

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Whale Activity Raises Concerns Over Short-Term Bitcoin Volatility 

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), blockchain analytics firm Lookonchain reported that a whale’s (3NVeXm) deposits have coincided with Bitcoin’s price drops. Data from Arkham showed that the whale started depositing Bitcoin to Binance three weeks ago, starting out with modest amounts. 

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However, activity accelerated this week. On February 11, the whale transferred 5,000 BTC into the exchange. The string of transfers has continued with the wallet sending another 2,800 coins just today.

Whale 3NVeXm Bitcoin Transfers
Whale 3NVeXm Bitcoin Transfers. Source: Arkham

Lookonchain suggested that the timing of these deposits may have influenced short-term price action.

“Every time he deposits BTC, the price drops. Yesterday, I warned when he made a deposit — and soon after, BTC dropped over 3%,” the post read.

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As of the latest available data, the address still holds 166.5 BTC, valued at over $11 million at current market prices. Large exchange inflows are often interpreted as a precursor to selling, as investors typically move assets to trading platforms to liquidate or hedge positions. 

While correlation does not necessarily imply causation, the scale and timing of these transfers could have increased immediate sell-side pressure in an already fragile market structure. In periods of heightened sensitivity, even the perception of whale-driven selling can amplify downside moves as traders react to on-chain signals and adjust positions accordingly.

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Capitulation Signals Point to Market Stress 

The transfers come at a time of pronounced weakness across the Bitcoin market. An analyst noted that Bitcoin’s realized losses surged to $2.3 billion.

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“This puts us in the top 3-5 loss events ever recorded. Only a handful of moments in Bitcoin’s history have seen this level of capitulation,” the analysis read.

Bitcoin’s Realized Loss
Bitcoin’s Realized Loss. Source: CryptoQuant

The analyst added that short-term holders, defined as those holding coins for less than 155 days, appear to be driving much of the current capitulation. Investors who accumulated BTC at $80,000-$110,000 are now locking in significant losses, suggesting that overleveraged retail participants and weaker hands are exiting their positions.

In contrast, long-term holders do not appear to be the primary source of this latest wave of selling. Historically, this cohort tends to hold through drawdowns.

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“In the past, extreme loss spikes like this triggered rebounds. We’re seeing it now: BTC bounced from $60K to $71K after the capitulation. But this could still be the beginning of a deep and slow bleed-out. Relief rallies happen even in prolonged bear markets,” the analyst stated.

Meanwhile, BeInCrypto previously highlighted several signals suggesting that BTC may still be in the early stages of a broader bear cycle, leaving room for further downside risk. CryptoQuant analysts have pointed to the $55,000 level as Bitcoin’s realized price, a level historically associated with bear market bottoms. 

In previous cycles, BTC traded 24% to 30% below its realized price before stabilizing. Currently, Bitcoin remains above that level.

When BTC approaches its realized price zone, it has historically entered a period of sideways consolidation before staging a recovery. Some analysts argue that a deeper correction toward the sub-$40,000 range could mark a more definitive bottom formation.

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Binance’s CZ rejects “fake news” claim of 60,000 BTC BitMEX hedge profits

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Wintermute Dismisses Claims Binance Caused October Crash

CZ denies Binance ever traded on BitMEX or booked 60,000 BTC in hedge profits during the March 2020 crash, calling the viral allegation “fake news” and technically impossible.

Binance founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao has moved to quash fresh allegations that the exchange secretly booked more than 60,000 BTC in profits by hedging client risk on BitMEX during the March 2020 crash, dismissing the claim as “fake news” and emblematic of the rumor‑driven warfare that still defines much of crypto trading culture.

CZ pushes back on BitMEX hedge narrative

Responding to a viral post from Flood, CEO of fullstack_trade on Hyperliquid, CZ said the allegation that Binance hedged flow on BitMEX for over 60,000 BTC in profit during the Covid‑era liquidation cascade was entirely fabricated. “4. Fake news. They just making things up randomly now. Not sure what their goal is. I feel bad for the people believing this without seeing any proof,” he wrote, adding bluntly that “Binance never traded on BitMex.” Zhao tagged BitMEX co‑founder Arthur Hayes to underline a key operational constraint at the time, noting that “BitMex processes withdrawals only once a day,” a structure that would have made real‑time risk‑hedging of that magnitude effectively impossible.

BitMEX and traders call claim “impossible”

Market participants quickly weighed in to deconstruct the 60,000 BTC storyline. “Exactly. BitMEX’s once-a-day withdrawal window back in 2020 made it impossible for an exchange to use it for a real-time hedge of that size,” commentator Murtuza J. Merchant argued, stressing that “no entity would trap 60,000 BTC in a manual multi-sig during a black swan crash.” He suggested the “60k figure is likely just a garbled memory of old” market anecdotes rather than a verifiable trade record. BitMEX itself has since confirmed that it has no records supporting the alleged flows and pointed to its upgrade from once‑daily batched withdrawals to real‑time payouts as part of broader infrastructure changes since 2020.

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FUD, Binance’s legacy, and market context

Not everyone accepted the “fake news” framing. One critic, posting under the handle Broly, countered that “Binance has had a major role in every major downfall of crypto,” citing the exchange’s role in the FTX collapse, its backing of LUNA before withdrawals were halted, and its influence around other major dislocations. The episode has been widely mocked as yet another round of competitive FUD, but it also underscores how opaque cross‑exchange flows, historical grievances, and incomplete memories can quickly harden into conspiracy narratives in a market that still trades on screenshots and hearsay as often as audited disclosures.

Market prices and further reading

This parabolic move comes as digital assets continue to trade as the purest expression of macro risk appetite. Bitcoin (BTC) is hovering around $68,280, with a recent 24‑hour range between roughly $64,760 and $71,450. Ethereum (ETH) is trading near the low‑$2,000 band, with prediction markets clustering key levels between about $1,940 and $2,100 over the near term. Solana (SOL) changes hands around $78–81, roughly flat on the session after a modest pullback from recent highs.

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Why the CPI Release Matters for the Price of Bitcoin

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Why the CPI Release Matters for the Price of Bitcoin

The previous Consumer Price Index (CPI) report was published on 13 January and had a significant impact on Bitcoin’s price. As the BTC/USD chart shows:

→ shortly after the release, the price surged aggressively to the 14 January peak;
→ it then reversed sharply lower (a sign of a bull trap), creating a bearish outlook — which we highlighted on 21 January;
→ subsequently, it broke through multi-month support and entered an accelerated decline towards the $60k area.

For this reason, today’s US inflation report (16:30, GMT+3) is drawing close attention across multiple markets, as it may have a substantial effect on both the dollar and traders’ appetite for risk assets, including Bitcoin.

Technical Analysis of the BTC/USD Chart

Bitcoin’s price swings have formed a descending channel, shown in red. Within this framework:

→ the lower boundary (L) appears to be key support. When the price dipped below it on 6 February, aggressive buyers stepped in, resulting in a candle with a long lower shadow;

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→ the QL line, which divides the lower half of the channel into two sections, is acting as resistance — as reflected in price action on 9 February.

The ATR indicator is trending lower, signalling declining volatility, which suggests the market is awaiting important news. Higher inflation is generally seen as a factor that could delay interest rate cuts, strengthen the dollar and bond yields, and weigh on BTC/USD. Conversely, softer inflation would be supportive for cryptocurrencies.

If the CPI release does not produce major surprises, Bitcoin may continue to trade within the broad L–QL range.

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This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

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Qzino Introduces Token-Based Revenue Model for Web3 iGaming Platform

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Qzino Introduces Token-Based Revenue Model for Web3 iGaming Platform

[PRESS RELEASE – Valletta, Malta, February 13th, 2026]

Qzino, a Web3-based crypto casino platform, has officially launched, introducing an ecosystem that integrates profit-sharing mechanisms, token-based rewards, and a broad gaming offering. The platform provides access to more than 10,000 games, including proprietary Qzino Originals, and incorporates token utility into its operational model.

Positioned as an alternative to traditional online casinos, Qzino integrates a revenue participation structure through its native QZI token. The token is designed to function as a profit-sharing mechanism within the platform’s ecosystem, allowing holders to receive distributions linked to overall platform performance, including during periods when they are not actively playing.

Simple and Transparent Profit-Sharing Model

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QZI functions as a participation token within the Qzino ecosystem. According to the project, the token is structured to enable holders to receive distributions tied to the platform’s performance.

The model includes:

  • Allocation of 30% of Qzino’s Net Gaming Revenue (NGR) to eligible participants
  • A staking mechanism under which 3% of the staking pool is distributed daily to QZI holders

Under this structure, rewards may be generated both through platform activity and through token holding. The distribution framework is designed to operate according to predefined parameters outlined by the project.

Staking Mechanism and Token Supply Structure

The Qzino ecosystem incorporates a token model centered on mining and staking mechanisms. The QZI token has a capped total supply of 7,777,777,777 tokens and follows a predefined distribution framework outlined by the project.

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Through the staking mechanism, eligible participants may receive daily distributions from the platform’s staking pool, subject to the platform’s terms and performance. The structure is designed to support ongoing token utility within the ecosystem and to align participation incentives with platform activity over time.

Cashback and Rakeback Program

Qzino includes a structured cashback and rakeback program as part of its platform model. According to the project, the system is designed to provide ongoing rewards tied to user activity.

The program includes:

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  • Cashback of up to 40%, distributed twice weekly, subject to platform terms
  • Rakeback of up to 15%, calculated automatically and applied to eligible bets

These mechanisms are integrated into the platform’s broader rewards structure and form part of its operational framework within the crypto iGaming sector.

Integrated Mining Mechanism

At launch, Qzino includes a built-in mining mechanism integrated into platform activity. The system enables users to accumulate QZI tokens through participation, without requiring external hardware or specialized technical setup.

According to the project, the mining framework is designed to distribute tokens through user engagement prior to the activation of additional features such as profit-sharing and staking. The mechanism forms part of the platform’s broader token distribution model within its ecosystem.

Sports Betting Coming to Qzino

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In addition to its casino offering, Qzino plans to integrate sports betting into the platform. The feature is intended to allow users to place cryptocurrency-based bets on major international sporting events.

According to the project, sports betting activity will be incorporated into the existing rewards framework, including cashback, rakeback, and token-based mechanisms. With this addition, Qzino aims to broaden its platform scope beyond casino gaming to include multiple forms of crypto-based betting within a single ecosystem.

AI-Supported Tools and Platform Accessibility

Qzino incorporates AI-based tools designed to support user experience within the platform. These tools assist with functions such as personalized game recommendations, basic analytics, and navigation, while gameplay decisions remain user-directed.

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The platform is mobile-responsive, supports multiple languages, and is accessible to users in various jurisdictions, subject to local regulations. According to the project, registration is streamlined, KYC requirements are limited, and deposits and withdrawals are processed in cryptocurrency.

Affiliate Program and Market Positioning

In parallel with its player-facing features, Qzino has introduced a global affiliate program aimed at crypto-focused influencers, communities, and media partners. The program offers revenue share of up to 35%, including sub-affiliate commissions, with real-time performance tracking. Additional components include token-based incentives, airdrop campaigns, and free-to-play funnels, as outlined by the project.

“Our mission with Qzino is to create a platform where players don’t just gamble — they participate,” said Matero, Co-Founder of Qzino. “By combining profit-sharing, staking, and industry-leading cashback, we’re building an ecosystem where users genuinely benefit from the platform’s growth.”

The launch takes place amid continued growth in the crypto iGaming sector, particularly among platforms emphasizing transparency and blockchain-based mechanics. By combining gaming services with token-based participation models, Qzino seeks to establish a presence within the evolving Web3 gaming landscape.

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For more information about Qzino and to join the platform, users can visit www.qzino.com.

About the Project

Qzino is a Web3-based crypto gaming platform designed to combine casino entertainment with tokenized revenue participation. Built around the QZI token, the project integrates profit-sharing, staking, mining mechanics, and a loyalty-driven rewards system into a single ecosystem.

The platform provides access to over 10,000 games, including proprietary Qzino Originals, with sports betting integration underway. By aligning platform growth with token holder participation, Qzino aims to introduce a sustainable, community-oriented model within the evolving crypto iGaming sector.

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China’s Baidu adds OpenClaw AI into search app for 700 million users

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Nvidia’s Huang to visit China as AI chip sales stall

Chinese tech company Baidu, best known for its search engine, also operates cloud, mapping and other internet-based services.

Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images

BEIJING — Baidu plans to give users of its main smartphone app direct access to the wildly popular artificial intelligence tool OpenClaw, according to a spokesperson for the Chinese tech company.

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Starting later on Friday, users who opt in can message the AI agent through Baidu’s main search app to complete tasks such as scheduling, organizing files and writing code.

AI agents such as OpenClaw have surged in popularity recently for their ability to automate tasks, including managing email and using online services.

Previously, the Austrian-developed open-sourced AI agent could only be accessed from chat apps such as WhatsApp or Telegram. Chinese companies such as Alibaba, Tencent and Baidu have already allowed users to run OpenClaw on their cloud systems.

Baidu claims 700 million monthly active users for its search app. The company is also rolling out OpenClaw’s capabilities to its e-commerce business and other services.

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The rollout comes just days ahead of China’s Lunar New Year holiday, as Chinese internet tech giants race to attract new users and monetize their AI investments.

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Alibaba has also integrated its e-commerce platforms, such as Taobao and travel site Fliggy, with its AI chatbot Qwen, and claimed it received more than 120 million consumer orders through the app in the six days through Feb. 11.

Qwen users can compare personalized product recommendations before completing payment through Alipay — all within the chatbot. Previously, the AI tool could suggest products based on prompts, but shoppers had to leave the app and navigate multiple platforms to complete their transactions.

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Despite growing interest in AI agents such as OpenClaw, cybersecurity firms including CrowdStrike have warned the public about granting OpenClaw unfettered access to enterprise systems.

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Boerse Stuttgart Digital Merges With Tradias In Crypto Push

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Boerse Stuttgart Digital Merges With Tradias In Crypto Push

Boerse Stuttgart Group, operator of one of Europe’s largest stock exchanges, said it will merge its cryptocurrency business with Frankfurt-based digital asset trading firm Tradias in a strategic move to expand its presence in institutional crypto markets.

The transaction will consolidate about 300 employees under a joint management team from both companies, according to a Friday announcement.

The combined unit aims to cover multiple digital asset services, including brokerage, trading, custody, staking and tokenized assets. It will serve banks, brokers and other financial institutions across Europe, providing fully regulated crypto infrastructure, the announcement said.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Boerse Stuttgart and Tradias representatives declined to comment to Cointelegraph on the deal’s terms. Bloomberg reported the transaction could value Tradias at about 200 million euros ($237 million) and the combined entity at more than $590 million.

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MiCA-compliant crypto custodian joins forces with BaFin-licensed bank

Boerse Stuttgart has been developing its regulated crypto infrastructure through its Boerse Stuttgart Digital arm, which provides trading, brokerage and custody services in accordance with the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA).

In 2025, Boerse Stuttgart reported tripling crypto trading volumes, accounting for a quarter of its total revenue in 2024. CEO Matthias Voelkel expressed a bullish stance on crypto and disclosed personal Bitcoin (BTC) holdings at the time.

The platform’s existing footprint in regulated digital assets positions the exchange group to expand offerings by combining technology with Tradias’ execution capabilities.

Operating as the digital assets arm of Bankhaus Scheich, Tradias is licensed as a securities trading bank by the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin).

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“With the planned merger of Boerse Stuttgart Digital and Tradias, Boerse Stuttgart Group is driving the development and consolidation of the European crypto market,” Voelkel said.

Related: Denmark’s Danske Bank allows clients to buy Bitcoin and Ether ETPs

“We have built strong growth momentum in recent years. By merging with Boerse Stuttgart Digital, we will take the next logical step in our corporate development,” Tradias founder Christopher Beck noted, adding:

“Together, we will cover the entire value chain for digital assets and create a new European champion with significantly greater reach, strategic depth, and creative power for further market consolidation.”

Magazine: How crypto laws changed in 2025 — and how they’ll change in 2026

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