Crypto World
White House Adviser Says Banks Shouldn’t Fear
The regulatory dispute shaping crypto markets intensified as lawmakers push the CLARITY Act, a proposal aimed at reconciling jurisdiction between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) while introducing a formal taxonomy for digital assets. In this environment, White House crypto adviser Patrick Witt argued that allowing stablecoin reward programs offered by crypto platforms should not threaten traditional banks, urging room for compromise between the industry and incumbents. He described the current clash over stablecoin yields as “unfortunate,” insisting that platforms can offer yield products without disrupting existing bank models. A key line of debate centers on whether such yields amount to an unfair advantage or a natural extension of crypto services that banks are already pursuing through OCC charters.
Witt spoke publicly amid ongoing negotiations about the CLARITY Act, a comprehensive bill that would delineate regulatory authority between the SEC and CFTC and codify a framework for classifying crypto assets. He told Yahoo Finance that the industry and banks should be able to operate with shared, competitive product offerings, and that cooperation could unlock new services for customers while preserving financial stability. The interview underscored a broader stance within the administration: innovation should not be stifled, but it must be channeled through clear, enforceable rules.
“They can also offer stablecoin products to their customers, just the same as crypto. This is not an unfair advantage in either way, and many banks are now applying for OCC bank charters themselves to start offering bank-like products to their customers.”
As the debate continues, industry observers note that stablecoin yield programs—long a source of friction between crypto platforms and traditional banks—have become a focal point in how the market structures, and how lawmakers will eventually codify governance for digital assets. The tension has contributed to delays in passing the CLARITY market structure bill, even as proponents emphasize that regulatory clarity would reduce risk and foster legitimate growth. The discussion is not limited to the United States; its outcomes could influence international actors seeking a predictable framework for crypto activities and yield-bearing products.
The CLARITY Act is not just about power delineations; it is also about process. The proposal would establish a formal taxonomy for digital assets and set clear boundaries on which agency leads on what types of instruments. In doing so, it aims to reduce the ambiguity that many market participants say has slowed product development and investment decisions. Yet with the 2026 U.S. midterm elections looming, policymakers and industry executives warn that a shift in control or a politicized environment could derail momentum and threaten the timeline for implementing new rules.
Supporters of the bill have argued that the current regulatory haze is a drag on innovation and market integrity alike. Opponents worry about overreach and the potential for regulatory fragmentation to create compliance burdens. The administration’s line, echoed by Witt, is that a pragmatic path exists: a framework that protects consumers and ensures fair competition while allowing crypto firms to compete on a level playing field with traditional financial institutions.
The debate has drawn attention from high-level voices inside and outside government. Some officials warn that if the House shifts control or if the midterms redraw the political map, the chance to finalize the act could slip away, raising the specter of a regulatory rollback under future administrations. In the meantime, proponents are pushing to keep the window open, arguing that a timely compromise would deliver much-needed clarity and enable continued innovation in a sector that has already reshaped payments, asset custody, and yield strategies for many users.
As markets watch for signs of movement, Witt cautions that a sense of urgency remains essential. The White House Crypto Council has signaled a preference to have the CLARITY Act signed into law before the midterms absorb all policy energy, a reflection of how election cycles can impact regulatory priorities in Washington. The broader industry context remains one of cautious optimism tempered by the reality that policy change in this arena tends to unfold incrementally, with multiple committees, hearings, and competing priorities shaping the final form of any legislation.
Key takeaways
- The CLARITY Act seeks to resolve regulatory overlaps by defining clear jurisdiction for crypto markets between the SEC and CFTC and by creating an asset taxonomy.
- Stablecoin reward programs offered by crypto platforms have emerged as a central flashpoint in negotiations, affecting how banks perceive competition and the potential for OCC charters to offer similar products.
- White House and industry voices emphasize that allowing yield-bearing crypto products does not inherently threaten bank models and may spur collaboration between fintechs and traditional banks.
- The approach hinges on political timing: the 2026 U.S. midterm elections could derail momentum, prompting urgency from policymakers to secure legislation before the election cycle dominates attention.
- Market participants are watching for concrete signals on regulatory alignment, licence pathways for banks, and any new guidance from the White House Crypto Council ahead of meaningful legislative action.
- Beyond domestic debates, the outcome of CLARITY could influence global regulatory expectations and how exchanges, lenders, and wallets structure risk and compliance moving forward.
Sentiment: Neutral
Market context: The ongoing CLARITY discussions sit within a broader climate of regulatory scrutiny and evolving risk sentiment in crypto markets. Investors and institutions await a coherent framework that reduces ambiguity around asset classification, custody, and product permissions, all while remaining sensitive to political timelines and potential shifts in congressional control. As regulators debate jurisdiction, market participants recalibrate liquidity strategies and risk management practices in anticipation of clarity rather than ambiguity.
Why it matters
The core significance of these negotiations lies in the potential for a formal, nationwide framework that makes it easier for crypto firms to operate with confidence while offering consumers clearer protections. A codified taxonomy and clarified agency responsibilities would reduce the current patchwork of guidance, enabling more predictable product development and risk management for platforms that offer yield-based services tied to stablecoins. For banks, the debate tests their willingness to engage with digital-asset ecosystems in a way that preserves safety and soundness while exploring new revenue streams through regulated, bank-like products.
For users, regulatory clarity could translate into more robust consumer protections, standardized disclosures, and a more consistent set of custodial and settlement practices. For builders—exchanges, wallets, and fintechs—a stable, rule-based environment lowers compliance risk and potentially unlocks new partnerships with traditional financial institutions. Yet until legislation passes, the sector remains exposed to policy fluctuations, with funding cycles, product launches, and strategic investments hinging on regulatory signals rather than market fundamentals alone.
In a sector that has repeatedly demonstrated the rapidity with which innovation can outpace policy, the CLARITY Act represents more than a legal instrument; it is a test of the industry’s ability to coexist with traditional finance under a framework that seeks to prevent systemic risk. The administration’s emphasis on timely action underscores the stakes: jurisdictions, product categories, and the balance of powers in financial regulation are all at stake as negotiators weigh how to translate high-level principles into enforceable rules. The outcome could set a template for how the United States integrates crypto assets into the broader financial system, with potential ripple effects across markets, liquidity flows, and investor confidence.
What to watch next
- Progress in CLARITY Act negotiations in Congress, including committee votes and potential amendments (date-dependent).
- Election results and the political balance of the House and Senate in the 2026 midterms and their impact on crypto policy agendas.
- Official guidance or announcements from the White House Crypto Council regarding timelines for the bill’s signing or regulatory clarifications.
- Any movement on OCC charter applications or other pathways for banks to offer crypto-related, yield-bearing products to customers.
- Public disclosures or hearings that illuminate how the SEC and CFTC would implement the proposed asset taxonomy and jurisdictional boundaries.
Sources & verification
- What the CLARITY Act is actually trying to clarify in crypto markets — Cointelegraph
- White House crypto adviser says there’s no time to wait as CLARITY Act window closes — Yahoo Finance
- Delays in passing the CLARITY market structure bill — Cointelegraph
- White House crypto bill talks ‘productive,’ but no deal yet — Cointelegraph
Market reaction and key details
What the debate means for users and institutions
The conversations around the CLARITY Act reflect a pivotal moment for crypto policy: designers of the framework aim to secure a balance between encouraging innovation and maintaining financial stability. The tension over stablecoin yields reveals a deeper question about alignment between rapidly evolving digital-asset products and traditional financial services. As negotiators seek to codify roles and product allowances, market participants should monitor statements from policymakers and industry leaders, as these will influence funding choices, product roadmaps, and risk management practices in the near term.
Why it matters next
Regulatory clarity could enable more predictable product development and safer consumer experiences within the crypto-finance ecosystem. For lenders and exchanges, a clear taxonomy and jurisdictional split reduces the risk of misclassification and regulatory overlap, potentially easing cross-border participation and institutional involvement. For policymakers, the CLARITY Act offers a framework to reconcile innovation with oversight, aiming to prevent systemic risk while preserving competitive, diverse financial services in the digital asset space.
BitGo Holdings, Inc. and 21Shares have expanded their global partnership to support a growing lineup of crypto exchange-traded products (ETPs) and ETFs with enhanced staking and custody services.
Summary
- BitGo Holdings Inc. and 21Shares have expanded their global partnership to strengthen custody and staking support for crypto ETFs and ETPs across the U.S. and Europe.
- BitGo will provide qualified custody, trading, execution and integrated staking services, enabling 21Shares’ products to offer secure asset storage and potential staking yields.
- The move comes amid rising institutional demand for regulated crypto investment vehicles, with 21Shares managing roughly $5.7 billion in assets.
21Shares turns to BitGo for expanded custody
The new agreement covers both the United States and Europe, deepening cooperation between two major players in digital asset infrastructure and investment products.
Under the expanded partnership, BitGo will provide qualified custody, trading, execution and integrated staking services for 21Shares’ U.S.-listed ETFs and international ETP offerings.
These services include secure asset safekeeping, access to deep liquidity across electronic and over-the-counter markets, plus competitive staking rewards, all delivered within BitGo’s regulated and insured custody framework.
21Shares, a leading issuer of crypto investment products managing roughly $5.7 billion in assets, gains from BitGo’s infrastructure as it continues to expand its suite of digital asset offerings. The expanded pact supports both spot crypto products and instruments that enable holders to earn staking yields, a growing demand among institutional and regulated investors.
What this means for the market
The expanded collaboration comes at a time when institutional interest in regulated crypto products is rising globally. By pairing BitGo’s custody and staking capabilities with 21Shares’ broad ETP platform, both firms are positioning themselves to attract professional capital seeking secure, compliant exposure to digital assets.
Adam Sporn, Head of Prime Brokerage and Institutional Sales at BitGo, highlighted the importance of the partnership as 21Shares increases its ETF product range worldwide.
Andres Valencia, Head of Investment Management at 21Shares, noted that BitGo’s track record in security, regulatory compliance and governance made it an ideal partner for expanding staking and custody services.
This development builds on recent milestones for BitGo, including regulatory approvals and its NYSE listing, which enhance its ability to serve institutional clients with robust, compliant infrastructure. Meanwhile, 21Shares continues to grow its global ETF and ETP footprint, leveraging trusted partners like BitGo to scale securely.
The Commodity and Futures Trading Commission expanded its Innovation Advisory Committee to a 35-member panel on Thursday with the addition of executives from leading crypto-facing entities like Coinbase and Ripple, among others.
Summary
- The CFTC has finalized a 35-member Innovation Advisory Committee to help modernize regulatory oversight.
- Executives from Coinbase, Ripple, Uniswap, and other crypto firms make up the majority of the panel.
- Chairman Michael Selig said the group will support the agency’s goal to “future-proof” U.S. financial markets.
An updated list with 23 new appointments, layered over the original 12 charter members that were designated at launch in late 2025, was published by the commission on Feb. 12.
The committee was formed to help guide the derivatives regulator so it can “future-proof its markets and develop clear rules of the road for the Golden Age of American Financial Markets,” Chairman Michael S. Selig explained.
The origins of the committee can be traced back to late 2025 under then‑Acting Chair Caroline Pham, who established the CEO Innovation Council to address the challenges of 24/7 trading, tokenized collateral, and prediction markets, goals that will remain on the agenda of the expanded Innovation Advisory Committee.
After Selig’s appointment as the permanent CFTC Chairman, he restructured and rebranded the council as the Innovation Advisory Committee, to officially replace the long-standing Technology Advisory Committee, and nominated the 12 original participants, such as Tyler Winklevoss from Gemini and Shayne Coplan from Polymarket, as charter members.
The majority of the 35-member committee now hails from digital asset firms. Notably, 20 members are directly involved with the crypto space.
Some of the new additions to the list include Crypto.com CEO Kris Marszalek, a16z crypto Managing Partner Chris Dixon, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse, and Blockchain.com CEO Peter Smith, among others.
Meanwhile, executives at Grayscale, Anchorage Digital, Solana Labs, Paradigm, Kraken, Bullish, Chainlink Labs, Bitnomial, Etherealize, and Framework Ventures were also named to the committee.
At least five members are tied to prediction markets, including Kalshi CEO Tarek Mansour and DraftKings CEO Jason Robins.
Other members include executives at major financial institutions such as Nasdaq, CME Group, Cboe Global Markets, Intercontinental Exchange, and the Depository Trust and Clearing Corporation.
“By bringing together participants from every corner of the marketplace, the IAC will be a major asset for the Commission as we work to modernize our rules and regulations for the innovations of today and tomorrow,” Selig said.
Bitcoin investors are rethinking the asset’s role as inflation cools, according to Bitcoin entrepreneur Anthony Pompliano. He told Fox Business that a softer inflation backdrop raises questions about Bitcoin’s value proposition as a finite-supply asset, especially if central banks continue to pursue accommodative policies. With January’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) cooling to 2.4% from 2.7%, the macro narrative is shifting and traders are weighing how long the inflation narrative can sustain crypto’s narrative as a hedge. The current price action mirrors a cautious mood within the market, as Bitcoin has retreated over the past month while sentiment remains subdued.
Key takeaways
- January CPI came in at 2.4% year over year, down from 2.7% in December, signaling a softer inflation backdrop.
- Bitcoin’s sentiment measure has slipped to multi-year lows, with the Crypto Fear & Greed Index signaling “Extreme Fear” at a recent reading.
- The flagship cryptocurrency is trading around the mid-to-upper $60 thousands, after a roughly 28% decline in the last 30 days.
- The U.S. dollar’s strength has cooled, with the dollar index down about 2.3% over the past month, reflecting shifting macro dynamics.
- Pompliano outlined a “monetary slingshot” thesis: as the dollar devalues and deflationary pressures surface in the near term, Bitcoin could gain longer-term value even if near-term volatility persists.
Tickers mentioned: $BTC
Sentiment: Bearish
Price impact: Negative. Bitcoin’s price has fallen roughly 28% over the past month as macro concerns and sentiment weigh on risk assets.
Market context: In a broader macro context, inflation data and policy expectations continue to shape appetite for risk assets, including crypto. Traders are watching how central banks respond to evolving growth signals, while crypto-specific catalysts compete with traditional macro forces in steering flows and volatility.
Why it matters
The debate over Bitcoin’s role as a hedge against inflation has long hinged on the premise that a fixed supply will preserve value when fiat currencies are debased. Pompliano’s comments underscore the tension between theory and market reality: even as inflation data cools, the path of monetary policy remains uncertain, and investors are wary of premature conclusions about a lasting inflation retreat. In the near term, softer inflation can sap risk premium, potentially slowing the upside impulse for non-fiat stores of value like Bitcoin. Yet the longer-term case for supply-limited assets persists in the eyes of many bulls, particularly if policy makers persist with higher money growth or if inflation surprises to the upside later in the cycle.
The price action around Bitcoin during this period is a reminder that macro-driven volatility remains a defining feature of markets. The asset’s correlation with broader risk sentiment has intensified at times, even as proponents argue that the fixed supply and ever-closer approach to a 21 million cap provide a unique resilience during downturns. The current price backdrop—around $68,850 at publication and a 28% decline over 30 days—illustrates the tug-of-war between inflation awareness and liquidity conditions in crypto markets. The discussion around how monetary policy interacts with digital assets is likely to stay in focus as investors recalibrate what constitutes a hedge in a low-inflation regime that could be reinforced by policy shifts in the months ahead.
Additionally, the commentary around a potential “monetary slingshot” frames Bitcoin as part of a broader debate about how currency debasement and macro policy interact with a new generation of investors. If the dollar softens further in response to renewed expectations for money supply expansion or rate adjustments, Bitcoin could attract fresh inflows as an alternative store of value. That possibility exists alongside the reality that sentiment remains fragile and technicals are unsettled, making immediate directional bets more challenging for casual traders and even some long-term holders.
The impact of macro data on crypto markets is not isolated to Bitcoin. Broader market dynamics—ranging from ETF activity to sentiment gauges—continue to influence the pace and direction of capital into digital assets. Investors are weighing whether the inflation narrative can reassert itself or if structural shifts in the macro environment will redefine how crypto assets behave in risk-off cycles. In parallel, other macro indicators—like the strength or weakness of the U.S. dollar—will help determine whether BTC can sustain any upside or if it remains trapped within a wider risk-off regime.
For readers following the latest data points, the CPI figure and the Fed’s communications are central to the story. While the inflation print itself is a headline, the deeper question is whether the disinflationary trend proves durable or merely a snapshot in a more complex cycle. As Pompliano noted in his remarks, even if inflation cools on the surface, structural changes in policy and global liquidity conditions could continue to shape the narrative around Bitcoin’s long-term value proposition.
In parallel, the market’s mood as reflected by the Crypto Fear & Greed Index and the price movement of Bitcoin underscore a broader caution. The index’s “Extreme Fear” reading suggests that participants are reluctant to push risk assets higher, even when macro data offers a glimmer of relief. Traders will be watching next month’s inflation data, policy statements, and the evolving set of on-chain metrics to gauge whether the current sell-off represents a temporary pause or the onset of a new leg lower.
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According to local reports, Russia’s central bank is re-examining its long-standing opposition to stablecoins. First Deputy Chairman Vladimir Chistyukhin said the Bank of Russia will conduct a study this year on the feasibility of creating a Russian stablecoin.
Previously, Russia had consistently opposed plans for a centralized stablecoin. However, Chistyukhin said foreign practice now warrants a renewed assessment of risks and prospects.
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Moscow Reopens the Stablecoin Debate
The shift signals a strategic rethink rather than an immediate policy change. Still, the timing is notable.
Over the past year, the United States passed the GENIUS Act, establishing a federal framework for payment stablecoins.
The law formalized 1:1 dollar backing and reserve transparency requirements.
As a result, US-backed stablecoins have gained institutional legitimacy and expanded their footprint in cross-border payments and digital asset settlement.
At the same time, the European Union has accelerated work on a digital euro and MiCA-compliant euro stablecoins led by major banks.
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European policymakers have framed these efforts as necessary to preserve monetary sovereignty and reduce dependence on foreign digital currencies.
Against that backdrop, Russia risks falling behind in the race to shape digital monetary infrastructure. Stablecoins now function as core liquidity rails in global crypto markets and, increasingly, in trade settlement.
If dollar and euro-backed tokens dominate cross-border flows, Russian entities could face deeper reliance on foreign-regulated instruments.
Sanctions Pressure and the Sovereignty Question
Moreover, sanctions and restrictions on Russia’s access to traditional payment networks add urgency.
A domestically controlled stablecoin could, in theory, provide an alternative settlement mechanism for international partners willing to transact outside Western systems.
Even exploring the concept signals that Moscow recognizes the geopolitical dimension of stablecoin infrastructure.
However, risks remain substantial. A Russian stablecoin would require credible reserves, legal clarity, and trust from counterparties. Without transparency and liquidity, adoption would be limited.
For now, the Bank of Russia is studying the issue, not endorsing it.
Crypto World
Hyperliquid price charts bullish reversal pattern as network earnings spike, rebound coming?
Hyperliquid price action recently confirmed a breakout from a bullish reversal pattern, supported by a notable uptick in network revenue.
Summary
- Hyperliquid price has been in a downtrend for over a week.
- Weekly revenue generated on Hyperliquid has increased nearly 200% since late December.
- A falling wedge pattern confirmed on the 4-hour chart could position the token for further gains.
After rallying to a yearly high of $37.84 on Feb. 3, the Hyperliquid (HYPE) price retraced nearly 18% to $31.06 at the time of writing.
This downtrend coincided with wider weakness across altcoins and majors like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), partly driven by a stronger-than-expected U.S. labor market report, which reduced the likelihood of imminent Fed rate cuts. Meanwhile, significant whale selloffs have also hurt its price performance.
Despite the recent price dip, a key network metric suggests that the token could be up for a recovery soon.
Data from DeFiLlama show that the revenue generated by the network over the past week has surged nearly 200% over levels recorded around the end of December. This uptick in revenue follows a spike in commodities futures trading on the platform, especially silver and gold markets.
Increased trading activity directly benefits HYPE holders through its unique buyback and burn mechanism. Notably, the protocol uses 97% of the fees generated by the derivatives trading platform to buy back HYPE from the open market, thereby reducing the available supply, which ultimately helps in supporting the price against volatility. Additionally, if Hyperliquid pairs are used for these trades, the protocol can burn them permanently to further increase scarcity.
There’s also considerable hype around upcoming updates. The Hyperliquid team has teased plans to support outcome trading via the HIP 4 upgrade, a feature that would be useful for the burgeoning prediction markets. A testnet version of HIP 4 is currently live.
On the 4-hour chart, Hyperliquid price has broken out of a falling wedge pattern formed of two descending and converging trendlines. Once confirmed, this pattern has historically been a precursor to staunch rallies.
Calculating a target based on this breakout would put HYPE on a path towards $36.70. This is calculated by adding the height of the pattern to the price at which it broke out of the upper trendline. At press time, this level lies roughly 18% above the current market price.
The MACD indicator appeared to favor the bullish prediction, with the MACD lines pointing steadily upward. At the same time, the Aroon Up was at 71.4% while the Aroon Down sat much lower at 28.57%, suggesting that bulls are still dominating the market direction.
However, it should be noted that broader market sentiment is playing a very important role in gauging market direction at the time, especially as BTC and ETH have been trading sideways this week.
A sudden spike in volatility or a sharp correction in the majors, as seen earlier multiple times this year, could easily invalidate the bullish narrative and likely force the token back into a consolidation phase.
Disclosure: This article does not represent investment advice. The content and materials featured on this page are for educational purposes only.
Bitcoin investors are being forced to rethink why they hold the asset as inflation data cools, according to Bitcoin entrepreneur Anthony Pompliano.
“I think the challenge for Bitcoin investors, can you hold an asset when there is not high inflation in your face on a day-to-day basis?” Pompliano said during an interview with Fox Business on Thursday. “Can you still believe in what Bitcoin’s value proposition is, which is that it’s a finite-supply asset. If they print money, Bitcoin is going higher,” he said.
“Bitcoin and gold are great long-term things,” he said. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) fell to 2.4% in January from 2.7% in December, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, Mark Zandi, Moody’s chief economist, recently told CNBC that inflation “looks better on paper than in reality.”
Bitcoin (BTC) is typically seen as a hedge against inflation because only 21 million coins will ever exist. When central banks increase the money supply and the value of fiat currencies declines, investors often turn to perceived riskier assets, such as Bitcoin, to protect their purchasing power.
Bitcoin sentiment has reached multi-year lows
It comes as sentiment for Bitcoin has reached multi-year lows not seen since June 2022, with the Crypto Fear & Greed Index, which measures overall crypto market sentiment, posting an “Extreme Fear” score of 9 in its Saturday update.
Bitcoin is trading at $68,850 at the time of publication, down 28.62% over the past 30 days, according to CoinMarketCap.
US dollar devaluation will be covered up by “monetary slingshot”
Pompliano said the macro environment could create short-term volatility for Bitcoin before it resumes its upward trajectory.
“We’re going get deflationary-type forces in the short term, people are going to ask to print money and to drop interest rates,” he said.
He explained that this will lead to the devaluation of the US dollar, though the effect won’t be immediately visible.
Related: Bitcoin ETFs bleed $410M as Standard Chartered slashes BTC target
“The currency is going to be devalued at a time where deflation covers up the impact, so I call it a monetary slingshot,” Pompiano said.
Pompliano forecasted that the Federal Reserve will continue to expand the money supply to “deal with inflation,” but as the dollar faces further devaluation, he expects Bitcoin to become “more valuable than ever.”
The US dollar index, which tracks the dollar’s strength against a basket of major currencies, is down 2.32% over the past 30 days and is trading at $96.88, according to TradingView.
Magazine: Bitcoin’s ‘biggest bull catalyst’ would be Saylor’s liquidation: Santiment founder
Crypto World
Can Monero price reclaim January highs as bullish MACD crossover forms after weekly rebound?
Monero price rebounded nearly 15% over the past week to $350 as investors bought the recent dip to a yearly low. It is close to charting a bullish MACD crossover that could pave the way for more upside in the coming weeks.
Summary
- Monero price is close to confirming a bullish MACD crossover on the daily chart.
- Recent dip buying and demand for privacy tokens have supported XMR price action.
On the daily chart, Monero price is on the brink of confirming a bullish MACD crossover, which occurs when the MACD line crosses over the signal line. Such a crossover typically means that buying pressure has started to outweigh the sellers who had been dominating previously.
XMR price has also confirmed a breakout from a falling wedge pattern formed when an asset price trades within two converging and descending lines. A falling wedge breakout has historically been one of the most reliable indicators of an impending bullish reversal in trend.
For now, the next key resistance to watch lies at $375, the strong pivot reverse point of the Murray lines. A rally above this could trigger a sharp continuation to as high as $625, where the strong pivot reverse of the upper range lies.
If bulls manage to push past that resistance, the next likely target would be a reclaim of the yearly high at $788.
According to data from crypto.news, Monero (XMR) price rallied to a weekly high of around $350 on Feb. 12, before stabilizing around $334 at press time.
Monero’s rally over the past months has largely been supported by renewed market chatter over privacy as a hedge, fueled by rising global surveillance concerns.
As the European Union prepares to implement stricter bans on anonymous accounts and privacy coins by 2027, and Dubai’s regulators tighten restrictions, users are moving toward XMR.
There’s also demand for the token across illicit marketplaces where bad actors use XMR to circumvent regulatory surveillance. Per a recent report from TRM Labs, nearly 48% of newly launched darknet markets now support XMR exclusively.
Holding a market cap of over $6.1 billion when writing, Monero has navigated a volatile start to the year. After soaring over 75% to a mid-January high of $788.50, the asset suffered a major correction that sent it tumbling to a yearly low of $284 last week.
The crash followed Bitcoin’s drop below the $75,000 psychological support level, an event that spooked the broader market and sparked billions of dollars in liquidations, with privacy coins bearing the brunt of the selloff.
Notably, as of press time, the total market cap of privacy coins was still in pain as it dropped nearly 12% over the past day to $11.4 billion.
However, some of the major players, such as Monero, Zcash (ZEC), and Decred (DCR), have managed to hold gains so far this week as investors capitalized on the recent volatility through dip buying, likely viewing the recent sell-off as a long-term accumulation opportunity.
Disclosure: This article does not represent investment advice. The content and materials featured on this page are for educational purposes only.
Standard Chartered cuts 2026 Bitcoin and Ethereum targets again, citing weak macro, softer Fed-cut hopes, ETF outflows and shifting investor positioning.
Summary
- Standard Chartered reduced its long-term 2026 Bitcoin price target for a second time in three months, after earlier downgrades from more aggressive projections.
- Geoff Kendrick cites deteriorating macro conditions, delayed Fed easing, ETF outflows and the risk of deeper investor capitulation as key downside drivers.
- The bank also lowered its 2026 Ethereum target, warning ETH could drop sharply first even as on-chain activity and network usage trends remain comparatively healthy.
Standard Chartered has lowered its long-term Bitcoin price forecast for the second time in less than three months, citing weakening macroeconomic conditions and shifting investor behavior in the cryptocurrency market.
In a note published Thursday, Geoff Kendrick, the bank’s head of digital assets research, stated that Standard Chartered now expects Bitcoin (BTC) to reach its revised target by the end of 2026. The latest projection represents a significant reduction from the bank’s previous forecast for the cryptocurrency. The revision follows an earlier downgrade in December, when the bank cut its target from a prior forecast.
Bitcoin pessimism remains
According to Bloomberg, the bank’s more cautious stance reflects a combination of deteriorating macroeconomic conditions and changing investor behavior, particularly during the past month’s market downturn. Bitcoin has declined substantially from its October peak, while US spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds have recorded sizeable net outflows.
Kendrick noted that slowing US economic momentum and reduced expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts have pressured digital assets. Declining ETF holdings have removed a critical source of demand that supported previous rallies, according to the note.
The interest-rate environment remains a central concern for cryptocurrency markets. Market participants have pushed back expectations for Federal Reserve easing, with investors now anticipating that the first rate cut may come later in the year than previously expected. Kendrick also cited uncertainty surrounding future Federal Reserve leadership as an additional factor contributing to caution around Bitcoin.
The bank warned that deteriorating macroeconomic conditions and the risk of further investor capitulation could continue to pressure prices in the near term.
Despite the more conservative forecasts, Standard Chartered emphasized that the current downturn appears more orderly than previous cryptocurrency market collapses. Kendrick highlighted that on-chain activity data continues to show improvement, suggesting that underlying network usage remains healthy. The market has not experienced high-profile platform failures similar to those that defined the 2022 cycle, when the collapses of Terra/Luna and FTX triggered widespread contagion, according to the bank.
Standard Chartered also revised its outlook for Ethereum, reducing its 2026 price target for the second-largest cryptocurrency from an earlier projection. Analysts expect Ether could fall significantly before reaching that level, according to the note.
Bitget launches Gracy AI, an animated digital human modeled on CEO Gracy Chen to guide users on market cycles, strategy, and career decisions rather than price calls.
Summary
- Bitget unveils Gracy AI, an animated digital human built around CEO Gracy Chen’s decision-making approach and leadership mindset for crypto users.
- The tool prioritizes market cycles, strategy, career paths, and uncertainty management over chart-watching or short-term price prediction, acting as a contextual guide.
- Gracy AI anchors Bitget’s Universal Exchange roadmap, tying into themed conversations like Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year to keep AI interactions personal and timely.
Cryptocurrency exchange Bitget has launched Gracy AI, a digital assistant designed to replicate the experience and decision-making process of Chief Executive Officer Gracy Chen, the company announced.
The AI tool represents the first animated digital human in the cryptocurrency sector created to provide leadership-oriented guidance through direct user interactions, according to the company. The technology aims to address market cycles, strategy development, career considerations, and decision-making frameworks rather than focusing on chart analysis or short-term market signals.
Gracy AI builds on GetAgent, Bitget’s existing AI platform for analytics and decision support. The new tool shifts focus toward interpretation and contextual understanding, allowing users to explore industry direction, uncertainty management, and decision-making approaches during volatile market conditions. The system does not predict prices but rather assists users in developing clearer analytical frameworks, the company stated.
“A big part of my job is listening to user concerns, getting close to the details, and helping people understand what’s really happening in the market,” Chen stated. “The team built Gracy AI around that same approach so more users can connect, learn and grow feeling supported by me and the team.”
The launch forms part of Bitget’s broader AI development roadmap within its UEX transformation initiative. While GetAgent established the exchange’s capabilities in analytics and decision support, Gracy AI represents the user-facing component of the strategy, emphasizing understanding over execution.
To accompany the launch, Bitget is introducing themed conversation modules tied to cultural moments. Valentine’s Day features self-care-focused interactions, while Chinese New Year includes guided conversations addressing goals, perspective, and planning. The campaigns aim to position AI interaction as personalized and contextual rather than transactional, according to the company.
The Gracy AI release follows Bitget’s ongoing integration of artificial intelligence across its platform, including AI-powered market insights, automated trading tools, and GetAgent’s volatility navigation features. The company stated the new tool extends its approach by incorporating experience and perspective into an accessible conversational interface as Bitget develops its Universal Exchange platform.
Bitcoin price is facing renewed pressure after on-chain data flagged by Lookonchain revealed that a major whale has moved roughly 10,000 BTC to Binance over the past two days, raising concerns of potential selling activity.
Summary
- Lookonchain flagged a Bitcoin whale moving nearly 10,000 BTC to Binance over two days, raising concerns of potential sell pressure.
- Bitcoin is trading around $66,900, well below its 50-day SMA near $85,000, confirming a strong short-term downtrend.
- Key support sits at $65,000 and $60,000, while resistance stands at $72,000 and $78,000–$80,000, with indicators still showing mild capital outflows.
The most recent transfer involved 2,035 Bitcoin (BTC) worth about $135 million. In total, the whale has deposited around 8,200 BTC in 48 hours, bringing cumulative recent inflows close to the 10,000 BTC mark.
Lookonchain warned traders that previous deposits from the same wallet were followed by short-term price drops, including a decline of more than 3% shortly after a prior alert.
Large exchange inflows are often interpreted as potential sell signals because coins moved to centralized platforms become immediately liquid. While deposits do not guarantee selling, the timing has raised caution among traders already navigating a fragile technical setup.
Bitcoin price analysis and forecast
On the daily chart (BTC/USDT), Bitcoin is currently trading near $66,900, well below the 50-day simple moving average at $85,012. The sharp gap between price and the 50 SMA signals a strong prevailing downtrend.
Price recently plunged toward the $60,000–$62,000 zone, printing a long lower wick before bouncing. That area now stands as critical support. A daily close below $60,000 could open the door toward the psychological $55,000 region.
Immediate support sits around $65,000, which price is currently testing. If this level fails, bears may attempt another push toward the recent lows.
On the upside, resistance is forming at $72,000, where recent recovery attempts stalled. A stronger resistance cluster lies between $78,000 and $80,000, followed by the 50-day SMA near $85,000, which now acts as dynamic resistance.
The Chaikin Money Flow (CMF) indicator sits slightly negative at around -0.05. While it has recovered from deeply negative territory, it still suggests capital outflows remain dominant. Sustained movement above the zero line would be needed to confirm renewed buying pressure.
If whale deposits translate into spot selling, Bitcoin could retest the $60,000 support zone. However, if $65,000 holds and exchange inflows fail to trigger heavy liquidation, a short-term rebound toward $72,000 is possible.
For now, the trend remains bearish unless Bitcoin reclaims levels above $80,000 and closes back above its 50-day moving average.
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