Crypto Breaking

DZ Bank has received approval from Germany’s financial regulator BaFin to launch its cryptocurrency trading platform. The approval comes under the European Union’s MiCAR framework. The platform will initially offer four major cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Ethereum.

The new service, named meinKrypto, will provide access to retail customers of DZ Bank and its affiliated local cooperative banks. These institutions will now be able to offer crypto trading services through the platform. The service is integrated into the VR Banking App, enabling users to invest directly from their existing banking interface.

Crypto Offerings and Custody Solutions

The meinKrypto platform will launch with Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), and Cardano (ADA). The custody of these digital assets will be handled by Boerse Stuttgart Digital. This entity, part of the Boerse Stuttgart Group, is regulated to ensure secure asset storage.

Trades executed on meinKrypto will be processed by EUWAX AG, a Germany-based financial services provider. This company is a subsidiary of Boerse Stuttgart GmbH. The partnership with Boerse Stuttgart ensures that the platform has a regulated and secure foundation for digital asset transactions.

Collaborations and Regional Expansion

DZ Bank’s initiative to enter the crypto market follows a series of preparations. A pilot program, launched in December 2024, allowed select cooperative banks to test the platform. Westerwald Bank was the first cooperative bank to trial the service, setting the stage for wider adoption across Germany’s cooperative financial network.

With the regulatory green light, the cooperative banks now face the task of securing their individual MiCAR notifications. Only after this will they be able to roll out crypto trading services to their customers. DZ Bank’s collaboration with Ripple subsidiary Metaco also laid the groundwork for this launch, with crypto custody solutions introduced in late 2023.

As Germany’s largest cooperative bank, DZ Bank’s move into the crypto space positions it as a key player in the growing digital assets sector. While the platform starts with a limited selection of assets, future expansions are likely as the market develops. With growing regulatory support and institutional collaboration, the country’s banking sector appears increasingly open to digital currencies.

This article was originally published as DZ Bank Secures BaFin Approval to Launch Crypto Platform for German Banks on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Pakistan has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with SC Financial Technologies, an affiliate of World Liberty Financial, to explore integrating a USD-pegged stablecoin into the country’s payment infrastructure. This partnership aims to enhance Pakistan’s digital finance landscape by focusing on cross-border transactions and stablecoin adoption. The collaboration will bring the stablecoin into Pakistan’s existing cryptocurrency framework, which includes both regulatory advancements and digital asset initiatives.

This MoU is significant as it marks the first public agreement between a sovereign state and a cryptocurrency project. The deal follows Pakistan’s formation of the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) and the Pakistan Crypto Council. These steps highlight the nation’s increasing commitment to building a robust digital economy with enhanced regulation for virtual assets.

Stablecoin Integration for Cross-Border Transactions

Under the new agreement, World Liberty Financial will work alongside Pakistan’s central bank to incorporate a dollar-pegged stablecoin into the national payment system. The stablecoin will be utilized primarily for cross-border payments, with an emphasis on remittances and trade. This move aligns with Pakistan’s broader efforts to streamline financial transactions and reduce dependency on traditional banking methods for international transfers.

The stablecoin, which operates across multiple blockchains, including BNB Smart Chain, has experienced significant growth in circulation. It aims to simplify the process of international transactions, offering a stable alternative to volatile cryptocurrencies. The partnership with World Liberty Financial could provide Pakistan with more control over digital assets and facilitate smoother financial operations within the region.

Pakistan’s Efforts to Strengthen the Cryptocurrency Ecosystem

Pakistan’s collaboration with World Liberty Financial comes as the nation takes key steps toward strengthening its cryptocurrency ecosystem. In the past year, Pakistan has introduced initiatives such as the PVARA and the Pakistan Crypto Council to regulate digital assets and ensure their safe integration into the economy. Major exchanges, including Binance and HTX, now operate legally within Pakistan, reflecting the country’s progressive stance toward cryptocurrency.

Additionally, Pakistan has revealed plans to establish a Bitcoin reserve, a move that signals the government’s intent to fully embrace blockchain technology. With these efforts, Pakistan aims to position itself as a leader in the global digital finance arena. This new agreement with World Liberty Financial is another step toward modernizing the country’s financial infrastructure and expanding its digital finance initiatives.

The USD-pegged stablecoin has grown significantly, with a circulating supply exceeding $3.4 billion. The deal aligns with Pakistan’s broader strategy to explore the potential of blockchain and decentralized finance. As this collaboration moves forward, it could lead to deeper integration of stablecoin technology in Pakistan’s financial sector, driving innovation in digital finance.

This article was originally published as Pakistan Taps Trump-Linked Firm for Stablecoin Payments on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Bitwise has rolled out its new Chainlink exchange-traded fund (ETF), trading under the ticker CLNK on NYSE Arca. This move offers investors a regulated route to gain exposure to Chainlink (LINK) without directly holding the tokens. The approval of the ETF provides institutional investors with a convenient and secure way to add LINK to their portfolios through standard brokerage accounts. The fund, tracking the spot price of Chainlink, aims to simplify access for those looking to invest in digital assets through traditional financial vehicles.

The ETF comes with a 0.34% management fee, but it waives this fee for the first three months or until the fund reaches $500 million in assets. As part of its security measures, Bitwise has partnered with Coinbase Custody to store the Chainlink tokens in segregated institutional cold wallets. The fund’s net asset value is based on the CME CF Chainlink-Dollar Reference rate, ensuring it aligns with commodity indices used by regulated crypto ETFs.

Institutional Interest Grows in LINK Exposure

The Bitwise Chainlink ETF follows the introduction of Grayscale’s GLNK ETF, which sparked competition in the growing market for Chainlink ETFs. These products are slowly attracting institutional capital, signaling increasing interest in LINK. As of now, the cumulative investment in LINK ETFs stands at around $64 million, with total assets amounting to $88 million. Interestingly, while recent sessions showed no notable change in the inflow of capital, the lack of outflows indicates that institutions are holding their positions, a sign of long-term commitment.

Bitwise has indicated that it will not stake the assets in the ETF at launch. However, the company plans to file for the ability to stake the assets once it secures the necessary regulatory approvals. This approach lowers initial costs and minimizes risks associated with token custody, further enhancing the appeal for institutional investors. The absence of staking at the outset also gives the fund a more flexible structure, aligning it with traditional financial products.

Chainlink’s Price Reacts to ETF Launch

In line with the ETF’s rollout, Chainlink’s market price showed positive movement. LINK traded at approximately $14.25, up slightly from $14.04 in the previous session. The increase came after a sharp intraday reversal, where the price initially dipped below $13.90 before bouncing back. This resilience in the price movement highlights the confidence among investors, as many view the ETF as a signal of growing regulated access to cryptocurrency markets.

Market participants typically watch price action closely following the launch of ETFs, as it often reflects investor sentiment. The positive price movement of Chainlink is seen as a direct response to the improved access brought by the ETF, reinforcing the belief that regulated products like this can lead to price stability and growth.

This article was originally published as Bitwise Launches Chainlink ETF, Boosting Institutional Access to LINK on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Bitcoin ETFs Experience Notable Inflows, Signaling Renewed Investor Confidence

Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have recorded positive inflows over three consecutive days, reversing earlier declines observed in early January. The recent surge highlights growing investor interest and a tentative shift in market sentiment, coinciding with Bitcoin’s upward momentum and increasing bullish indicators.

Key Takeaways

Spot Bitcoin ETF inflows reached over $843.6 million on Wednesday, marking the largest single-day inflow of 2026.

During the three-day streak, ETFs attracted more than $1.7 billion, offsetting previous outflows of approximately $1.4 billion.

Bitcoin’s price exceeded $97,000, reaching its highest level in two months and fueling investor optimism.

BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin ETF led daily inflows with over $648 million, showcasing institutional commitment.

Tickers mentioned: BTC

Sentiment: Bullish

Price impact: Positive. The inflows and price rally reflect increased investor confidence and market momentum.

Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold. The current rise suggests potential for further gains, but markets remain volatile and should be approached cautiously.

Market context: The renewed inflows are part of a broader trend of institutional adoption and growing interest in crypto assets amid improving sentiment and macroeconomic conditions.

Market Dynamics and Investor Sentiment

Bitcoin ETFs have experienced a significant turnaround early this year, with inflows totaling approximately $1.5 billion across the first nine trading days of January. This marks a stark contrast to prior outflows, signaling renewed confidence among institutional and retail investors alike. Notably, Tuesday recorded inflows of $754 million—the largest since October—according to data from SoSoValue.

The surge coincided with Bitcoin surpassing $97,000, the highest level since mid-November, before pulling back marginally to around $96,642 at the time of writing, based on Coinbase data. The rally has contributed to a positive shift in market sentiment, exemplified by the Crypto Fear & Greed Index climbing to 61, entering ‘greed’ territory for the first time in months.

Leading ETF providers have driven these inflows, with BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin ETF initiating over $648 million of new investments. Fidelity’s Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund and other funds such as ARK 21Shares and Bitwise Bitcoin ETF have also contributed significantly to the inflows, demonstrating strong institutional backing.

This trend underscores a broader market shift, as Bitcoin appears to be regaining credibility among investors, supported by macroeconomic factors, technological developments, and a more favorable regulatory environment. As Bitcoin continues to test new highs, the increasing flow into ETFs underscores growing mainstream acceptance of digital assets as viable investment options.

This article was originally published as Bitcoin ETFs Surge With $840M Inflows as BTC Soars Above $97K on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Expert predicts Bitcoin to Reach New Highs Amid Anticipated Monetary Expansion

Despite underperforming against gold and technology stocks in recent years, Bitcoin is poised for a bullish surge according to influential industry expert Arthur Hayes, co-founder of BitMEX. Hayes suggests that expanding monetary conditions in the United States could catalyze a significant rally for the flagship cryptocurrency in the coming years.

Key Takeaways

Hayes forecasts Bitcoin reaching new all-time highs, driven by increased dollar liquidity.

Expansion of the US Federal Reserve’s balance sheet via monetary easing is a key catalyst.

Geopolitical and military expenditures are expected to sustain monetary expansion trends.

Bitcoin’s value is closely linked to fiat currency debasement and global liquidity dynamics.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC, $ETH

Sentiment: Bullish

Price impact: Positive. The outlook of enhanced liquidity and monetary easing indicates potential upward momentum for Bitcoin.

Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold. The anticipated monetary expansion could propel Bitcoin towards new highs, but caution remains advised given past market volatility.

Market context: The broader macroeconomic environment continues to favor risk assets amid ongoing monetary policies.

Analyst Highlights Bitcoin’s Future Amid Macro Trends

Arthur Hayes emphasizes that Bitcoin’s future trajectory is intricately tied to macroeconomic movements, particularly monetary policy actions by the US Federal Reserve. His analysis suggests that if dollar liquidity continues to expand through measures like “money printing,” Bitcoin could experience a “drastic increase,” potentially reaching historic highs by 2026.

Hayes points to several catalysts underpinning this potential surge. These include the Fed’s ongoing balance sheet expansion, falling mortgage rates as liquidity loosens, and increased lending to strategic industries backed by the US government. Such measures are likely to bolster the risk-on environment, which traditionally benefits Bitcoin.

He notes that although Bitcoin faced a 14.4% decline in 2025, the broader crypto market’s performance was heavily influenced by liquidity constraints. Conversely, gold soared 44.4% over the same period, illustrating divergent asset responses to macroeconomic shifts. Hayes highlights that Bitcoin remains fundamentally a monetary technology, its value rooted in fiat currency debasement.

Bitcoin experienced a 12.2% increase over the past month, reflecting renewed investor interest. Source: CoinMarketCap

Hayes concludes that for Bitcoin to approach $100,000 per coin, relentless fiat currency debasement is a prerequisite. Despite recent setbacks, his outlook remains optimistic, positioning Bitcoin as a key beneficiary of ongoing macroeconomic policies focused on monetary expansion and strategic government spending.

This article was originally published as Bitcoin Hits New Highs: How Upcoming Monetary Expansion Could Boost Prices on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Bitcoin Derivatives Market Signals Deleveraging Ahead of Potential Recovery

Recent trends in Bitcoin derivatives markets suggest a period of deleveraging, which could pave the way for a stronger market base and potential bullish recovery. According to CryptoQuant, the decline in open interest over the past three months indicates that market participants are unwinding risky positions, helping to reduce systemic risk and set the stage for sustainable growth.

Data shows that open interest in Bitcoin derivatives has decreased by approximately 31% since October, signaling a de-risking phase. CryptoQuant’s analysis emphasizes that such reductions in leverage often coincide with market bottoms, effectively resetting the trading environment and fostering a more robust foundation for future rallies. Crypto analyst “Darkfost” noted that historically, significant drops in open interest have marked key market bottoms, which could be a positive sign for investors seeking a potential turnaround.

However, caution remains. Darkfost highlighted that if Bitcoin’s price continues to decline and the bear market deepens, open interest could contract further. This extended deleveraging would likely signal ongoing capitulation, delaying any recovery. Open interest, representing unsettled derivatives contracts, serves as a key indicator of market sentiment. The unwinding of risky leveraged positions can prevent sharp selloffs and reduce cascading liquidations, as was seen during the October 10 crash.

Bitcoin open interest has fallen more than 30% since October. Source: CryptoQuant

Historic Surge in Bitcoin Open Interest

In 2025, Bitcoin’s open interest tripled compared to previous levels, driven by heightened speculative activity. Last year’s surge saw open interest peak at over $15 billion on October 6, a stark increase from the $5.7 billion recorded at the market peak in November 2021. This nearly threefold growth reflects renewed trader enthusiasm and increased leverage entering the market.

During recent price rallies, declining open interest often indicates short positions are being liquidated or closed, leading to a squeeze on bearish traders. This dynamic reduces selling pressure and suggests that spot buying is the primary driver behind recent price gains, which have increased nearly 10% since the start of the year. Such a scenario supports a more sustainable rally, free from excessive leverage-driven volatility.

Market Conditions Remain Cautious

Despite the rise in spot prices, the overall derivatives market remains cautious. Total Bitcoin open interest across exchanges stands at approximately $65 billion, down around 28% from early October’s peak of over $90 billion. Notably, on Deribit, Bitcoin options with a strike price of $100,000 hold a notional value of $2.2 billion, indicating bullish sentiment among traders, with more long bets than shorts.

Nevertheless, market analysts note that the derivatives environment has not yet transitioned into a fundamentally bull phase. The current posture appears reactive, driven by recent surges rather than a shift in long-term sentiment. Experts suggest that a true bull market in derivatives will require more sustained structural bullish signals before traders can confidently expect a broader rally to unfold.

This article was originally published as Bitcoin Open Interest Drops 31% — Strong Bullish Deleveraging Signal on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

As regulatory pressure intensifies worldwide, issues such as geopolitics, cybersecurity, and tax enforcement are becoming increasingly interconnected with the digital economy.

For companies operating across borders, including those in crypto, blockchain, and emerging technologies, understanding the evolving disputes and investigations landscape is no longer optional.

In this context, leading global law firm Baker McKenzie has released its annual Global Disputes Forecast, highlighting the key risks organizations expect to face in 2026, from cross-border investigations to cybersecurity and tax-related disputes.

Below is Baker McKenzie’s full outlook on how these forces are shaping the year ahead.

Leading global law firm Baker McKenzie has published its annual Global Disputes Forecast, highlighting the challenges of operating in a global environment. Geopolitical pressures are heavily influencing dispute risks, and 82% of organizations are concerned about being subject to a cross-border or multiagency investigation in 2026. In addition, respondents point to cybersecurity and tax as their top dispute and investigation risk areas this year across a diverse, high-stakes risk portfolio.

The Firm’s Forecast, now in its ninth year, is based on a survey of 600 senior in-house lawyers from industry-leading multinationals across several sectors, including industrials, manufacturing and transportation; consumer goods and retail; healthcare and life sciences; technology, media and telecoms; financial institutions; and energy, mining and infrastructure.

Key Findings

The latest Global Disputes Forecast highlights that organizations are entering 2026 feeling disputes from all sides. Alongside technology-related risk and operational and supply chain disruption, geopolitics and trade policy are also central concerns, with 79% of respondents identifying tariffs, sanctions, and export controls as major external market factors increasing their exposure to disputes. This geopolitical reality is driving fears of cross-border and multi-agency investigations, with 82% of organizations worried about being subject to such scrutiny in the coming year. At the same time, threats across cybersecurity, tax, employment, and ESG disputes remain top of mind for legal leaders.

Sunny Mann, Global Chair of Baker McKenzie, said, “We find ourselves in a paradox. Organizations are more globally connected than ever, yet operating in an increasingly fragmented and unpredictable geopolitical environment that is fundamentally altering risk calculations.

The challenge for multinationals is that global integration, once seen as a hedge against risk, has become a vulnerability: supply chains cross contested borders, data flows encounter sovereignty barriers, and business relationships can become compliance liabilities overnight as political alignments shift.

A primary mitigation technique among our clients is one of diversification across supply chains, customer base, fund flows, data storage, and business and investment partners. Overreliance on a single party or market is a vulnerability.”

Addressing such an expansive set of risks necessitates a delicate balancing act as organizations manage competing pressures, often with increasingly limited resources. 38% of respondents say their disputes budget for 2026 is inadequate to meet current risk levels, with funding and resourcing constraints cited as the top barrier to litigation preparedness.

The Forecast also highlights that tax emerged as the second greatest area of concern for both disputes and investigations, likely attributed to the growing complexity of cross-border tax compliance, new international tax frameworks, and increased scrutiny from authorities, which are leading to more frequent and high-stakes tax controversies.

Key Disputes Trends: 2026 Snapshot

According to respondents, the following types of disputes present the greatest risk to their organization in 2026 (ranked by the percentage of respondents identifying the following as their single greatest risk):

Data privacy/cybersecurity: 18%

Tax: 12%

Trade sanctions/export controls: 11%

ESG: 9%

Employment: 8%

Product liability and consumer disputes: 7%

AI-related (e.g., bias, liability, misuse): 6%

Antitrust/competition: 6%

Commercial/contract: 6%

Intellectual property/patents/trademark: 6%

Brand/reputation: 6%

In 2026, organizations’ top risks for both disputes and investigations are the same— cybersecurity and tax.

Cybersecurity and data privacy disputes (18%) and investigations (17%) are now an inescapable reality of more digitized processes and operations in the face of an ever increasing and more complex cross-border regulatory matrix and cyber-attacks that grow in sophistication almost daily.

Tax emerged as both the second greatest dispute (12%) and investigations (11%) risk, reflecting the complexity of navigating cross-border tax compliance, transfer pricing scrutiny, and shifting international tax frameworks. For example, notwithstanding the January 5 Side-by-Side Package, which introduced a number of favorable safe harbors, the OECD’s Pillar Two global minimum tax will continue to add a layer of tax complexity worldwide for both US and non-US parented multi-nationals. The rollout of the global minimum tax has added layers of complexity, and jurisdictions around the world are still grappling with how to balance implementing the global tax mandate into domestic law and establishing effective and manageable reporting and compliance mechanisms. Additional concerns include developing the necessary skills to be able to administer and audit a regime that requires familiarity with the nuances of multiple accounting standards and domestic tax systems. Against this backdrop, businesses should prepare for Pillar Two disputes in all material jurisdictions.

Trade sanctions and export controls, ESG, and employment also ranked among the top concerns, emphasizing that, alongside urgent pressures, organizations are addressing a diverse portfolio of risks more broadly.

Technology, geopolitics, and supply chain disruption drive external disputes risk.

The rapid deployment of AI and the increasingly complex cybersecurity threats and data privacy regulations have made data-driven risk the top external driver of dispute exposure in 2026, with 80% of respondents citing it as a concern. Governments are seeking to shore up national security interests, particularly in critical infrastructure sectors such as energy, water, food, technology, health, and financial services. This is prompting the creation of cyber laws that impose new reporting obligations, such as the EU’s NIS2 Directive, the US CIRCIA, and Singapore’s Cybersecurity Act. These laws require critical infrastructure operators to report major cyber incidents within a stipulated time frame to protect national security and essential services.

At the same time, 79% of organizations view geopolitics and trade policy as a threat, as sanctions, tariffs, and export controls disrupt global operations and create uncertainty in cross-border contracts and enforcement. Concerns over geopolitics and trade policy are felt particularly acutely in Germany (84%) and the UK (84%), reflecting the vulnerability of foreign trade-heavy economies.

Operational and supply chain disruption, a concern for 78% of respondents, also continues to test organizational resilience.

Resource constraints expose vulnerabilities in organizations’ risk-readiness

Over one-third, 38%, of organizations report that their 2026 disputes budget is insufficient to meet current risks, which can lead to slower and less effective responses to disputes. Organizations with limited resources struggle to investigate issues thoroughly, engage specialist counsel, or manage multiple cases at once. These constraints reduce flexibility and increase the risk of delayed or reactive decision-making when disputes escalate unexpectedly. Funding and resource constraints (55%) and inability to keep pace with regulatory developments (52%) have also emerged as organizations’ greatest barriers to litigation preparedness. Barriers such as addressing supply chain vulnerabilities (47%) are felt most acutely by sectors with complex and sensitive supply chains, such as industrials, manufacturing, and transportation.

Cross-border investigations pose a significant threat in 2026

A remarkable 82% of respondents fear that they may be subject to a cross-border investigation in 2026, while data preservation/forensics (52%) and cross-border coordination (48%) come out as the top areas organizations say present a challenge for their preparedness for investigations. This underlines a disconnect between the looming reality of cross-border investigation risk and organizations’ ability to overcome it. Concerns over the likelihood of being subject to a cross-border investigation are felt particularly acutely by respondents in Singapore (88%) and Hong Kong (85%). This is likely due to their positions as major regional hubs for cross-border trade, financial flows, and data movement, as well as a surge in whistleblowing activity in the Asia Pacific region.

Modern arbitration requires adapting to complexity.

International arbitration continues to be a cornerstone of cross-border dispute resolution, valued for its flexibility, neutrality, confidentiality, and enforceability across borders. In the medium term, organizations expect the greatest challenges for international arbitration to arise from digital transformation and data security, cost and duration, and geopolitical issues. Adoption and integration of technology and data security, particularly cybersecurity threats and the ethical use of AI, are expected to present challenges in areas such as virtual hearings, digital evidence management, and legal research.

About Baker McKenzie

Baker McKenzie’s 2026 Global Disputes Forecast surveyed 600 senior decision-makers with responsibility for, or with a key role in, disputes and investigations at large organizations (annual revenue greater than USD 500 million). Respondents are based in the US, the UK, Germany, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Brazil.

With more than 1,000 battle-tested lawyers specializing in disputes and investigations, who have roots in their home jurisdictions and deep sector knowledge, Baker McKenzie’s Dispute Resolution Practice is one of the largest and most recognized in the world. Consistently top-ranked by leading market surveys, the practice supports multinational clients with their most complex and business-critical challenges across the world, particularly high-stakes multijurisdictional disputes. The Firm’s cases frequently involve novel and precedent-setting issues in countries around the world, including markets where competing law firms do not have a local presence.

This article was originally published as Geopolitics and Trade Policy Expected to Shape the Disputes Landscape in 2026, According to Baker McKenzie Survey on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Crypto Industry Divided Over Market Structure Bill Amid Regulatory Uncertainty

The proposed market structure bill, known as the CLARITY Act, has ignited a debate among cryptocurrency executives and advocates. While some leaders support its efforts to establish clearer regulations, others, including Coinbase, have expressed significant reservations, citing concerns over potential overreach and restrictions that could hinder innovation.

Key Takeaways

The CLARITY Act aims to provide a more defined regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies in the US.

Industry leaders like Chris Dixon view the bill as a step toward protecting decentralization and fostering innovation.

Major industry players, notably Coinbase, oppose the bill’s current form, citing serious issues such as potential bans on tokenized equities and increased government surveillance.

The legislation’s progress has been delayed, with bipartisan efforts facing hurdles amid intense scrutiny.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC, $ETH

Sentiment: Mixed / Cautiously optimistic

Price impact: Neutral — Bitcoin’s recent rally suggests investor optimism despite regulatory uncertainties.

Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold — Await clearer regulatory signals before making significant moves.

Market context: The discussions reflect broader uncertainty in the crypto space, with markets reacting to regulatory developments and potential policy shifts.

Legislative Backdrop Sparks Industry Debate

The CLARITY Act has become a focal point of discussion within the crypto community, especially after Coinbase announced it would withdraw support for the bill in its current draft. The company criticized the legislation for containing numerous issues, including a de facto ban on tokenized equities, restrictions on decentralized finance (DeFi), and provisions granting government unlimited access to financial records.

“There are too many issues, including a de facto ban on tokenized equities, DeFi prohibitions, giving the government unlimited access to your financial records, and removing your right to privacy,” Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong stated on social media. “This version would be materially worse than the current status quo.”

Other industry figures, such as Ryan Rasmussen of Bitwise Invest, echoed concerns, emphasizing that the bill could adversely affect tokenization, stablecoins, DeFi, and overall innovation. Legal experts like Jake Chervinsky also highlighted the potential for amendments during the legislative process to improve the bill before it becomes law.

Despite disagreements, some industry leaders support progressing the bill, arguing that swift regulatory clarity is essential for maintaining the US’s competitive edge.

Bitcoin’s Resilience Amid Regulatory Turmoil

Meanwhile, Bitcoin continues to demonstrate resilience, with recent rallies driven by renewed ETF interest and hopes for clearer regulatory frameworks. According to OKX Singapore CEO Gracie Lin, the cryptocurrency’s upward momentum indicates that markets are often ahead of policymakers in pricing potential outcomes.

Bitcoin briefly surged past $97,600 but later settled around $96,350, highlighting ongoing investor confidence despite ongoing legislative debates. Experts note that the cryptocurrency’s performance remains closely tied to evolving regulatory discussions and macroeconomic conditions.

This article was originally published as Crypto Industry Divided Over CLARITY Act Bill: Impact on Market Structure on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Legislative Uncertainty Clouds Crypto’s Future as US Senate Delays Action

The ongoing debate over the regulation of decentralized finance (DeFi) and stablecoin rewards in the proposed CLARITY Act is creating uncertainty within the US legislative landscape. Key stakeholders from banking and crypto sectors are divided, potentially impeding progress on crypto-friendly legislation. Recent developments suggest a delay in Senate proceedings, reflecting the contentious nature of proposed provisions.

Key Takeaways

Senator Cynthia Lummis indicates a likely postponement of the Senate markup on crypto legislation.

Coinbase withdraws support over industry-unfavorable text around stablecoin rewards and tokenized assets.

Legislation’s stalled progress could significantly impact crypto companies’ revenue streams and traditional banking operations.

Broader market implications include potential shifts in stablecoin adoption and regulatory oversight.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC, $ETH, $COIN

Crypto → $BTC, $ETH, $COIN

Sentiment: Bearish

Price impact: Negative. Regulatory delays and industry pushback increase uncertainty, potentially dampening market momentum.

Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold. Cautiously observe regulatory developments before making any entry decisions.

Market context: Ongoing legislative battles underscore the increasing regulatory scrutiny faced by crypto markets amid broader institutional adoption and market growth concerns.

Legislative Developments and Industry Responses

Recent reports suggest that the Senate Banking Committee may postpone its scheduled markup of the crypto market structure legislation. Senator Cynthia Lummis, a notable advocate for crypto-friendly policies, is expected to recommend delaying the process, leaving Chair Tim Scott to decide. The Senate committee had planned to conduct a markup session on Thursday at 10:00 am Eastern Time, but sources indicate that the timing could shift.

Source: Steven Dennis

Coinbase publicly criticized the latest draft of the legislation, citing concerns that it would impose unfavorable restrictions on industry growth. The company explicitly challenged provisions related to stablecoin rewards, tokenized stocks, and government access to financial data, highlighting the risk of stifling innovation. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong emphasized the importance of passing effective regulation without sacrificing the industry’s integrity, noting, “This version would be materially worse than the current status quo. We’d rather have no bill than a bad bill.”

The legislation’s outcome is pivotal. Industry insiders warn that unfavorable regulations could severely impact revenue, with Coinbase alone earning hundreds of millions from stablecoins and blockchain rewards. Conversely, advocates for stricter rules argue that widespread stablecoin adoption could siphon trillions from traditional banking systems, making this legislative debate highly consequential for both sectors.

As the regulatory landscape remains uncertain, the crypto market faces heightened volatility. Industry leaders and policymakers are at a crossroads, balancing innovation with oversight amidst an evolving geopolitical and economic backdrop.

This article was originally published as US Senator Suggests Crypto Market Regulation Bill Could Be Delayed on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Stable Recovery After Sui Blockchain Outage, Network Incidents Renew Concerns

The Sui Layer-1 blockchain experienced a significant service disruption, marking its second major outage since launching in May 2023. The outage, which lasted nearly six hours, temporarily halted transactions and restricted over a billion dollars in on-chain value, raising questions about the network’s resilience and security protocols.

Key Takeaways

The network outage was caused by a “Consensus outage,” although the Sui Foundation did not specify the exact trigger.

Developers swiftly addressed the issue, restoring full functionality within approximately six hours.

This incident is the second major disruption in Sui’s brief history, with previous issues dating back to November 2024.

Despite mounting outages, the token experienced a brief 4% surge amidst the chaos, settling near its prior levels.

Tickers mentioned: $SUI

Sentiment: Neutral

Price impact: Neutral. The token’s price briefly surged on outage news but quickly stabilized, reflecting market uncertainty.

Market context: The incident underscores ongoing challenges faced by high-speed layer-1 blockchains, amid a broader landscape of network stability concerns.

Details of the Outage and Response

The disruption was first confirmed by the Sui Foundation on Wednesday afternoon at 3:24 pm UTC, when they announced that core developers were actively working to resolve the issue. The network, which had been functioning smoothly prior, experienced a “Consensus outage” that impaired transaction processing and halted activities across the platform, which handles assets valued at over $1 billion.

Investigation timelines show the issue was detected around 2:52 pm UTC, with the problem resolved approximately 5 hours and 52 minutes later at 8:44 pm UTC. During this period, users were unable to execute transactions, raising concerns among investors and developers alike.

Historical Context and Broader Implications

This recent outage follows a prior incident in November 2024, indicating ongoing stability challenges for Sui’s rapidly developed infrastructure. Compared to Solana, which has experienced similar issues in the past but has not faced outages for over a year, Sui’s recurrent problems spotlight the difficulties of maintaining high-performance networks under rapid growth.

Solana has implemented emergency updates, empowering validators to coordinate for critical fixes, which has helped prevent outages. Meanwhile, the Sui Foundation has yet to disclose a detailed root cause or preventive measures, fueling debate about the long-term scalability and security of the platform.

Market Reaction

While SUI’s token price initially spiked by 4% as the outage was announced, the rally was short-lived. The token mostly traded around $1.84 following the event, indicating that the market’s response is still uncertain and reactive to ongoing developments.

This article was originally published as Sui Blockchain Bounces Back After 6-Hour Network Downtime on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Bitcoin Faces Cautious Momentum Amid Geopolitical and Market Uncertainties

Bitcoin recently surged past $97,000, reaching levels not seen in over 60 days, buoyed by significant inflows into spot Bitcoin ETFs. However, despite the upward momentum, market analysis suggests that broader risks and derivative market signals temper expectations for sustained gains. Investors remain wary amid geopolitical tensions, declining treasury yields, and subdued equity performance, constraining Bitcoin’s upward potential in the near term.

Key Takeaways

Bitcoin’s recent rally above $97,000 is not yet confirmed by derivatives indicators, with options skew signaling caution amongst traders.

Geopolitical tensions, especially involving Iran protests and US foreign policy plans, contribute to heightened risk aversion.

Falling US treasury yields and a weaker Nasdaq Index point to a risk-off environment that limits speculative upside.

Market sentiment remains mixed, with professional traders displaying skepticism over a quick push beyond $105,000.

Tickers mentioned: Bitcoin, Nasdaq

Sentiment: Neutral

Price impact: Negative. The overall risk environment and derivative signals suggest limited momentum for sustained bullish runs.

Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold. Given prevailing uncertainties, it’s prudent to observe further confirmations before committing new positions.

Market context: These developments come amid broader macroeconomic pressures and geopolitical tensions, influencing investor confidence across asset classes.

Market Dynamics and Technical Indicators

Bitcoin’s price has climbed past $97,000 following an influx of approximately $840 million into spot Bitcoin ETFs over two days. Despite this, the futures and options markets paint a cautious picture. The options delta skew remains at 4%, unchanged from a week earlier, signaling persistent skepticism among institutional traders regarding a rapid rally beyond the $100,000 mark.

Market participants have encountered substantial liquidations, with leveraged short positions totaling $370 million over two days— the highest since October 2025. This tumult reflects traders’ cautious stance and the influence of macro factors beyond crypto-specific catalysts. Notably, geopolitical tensions—specifically protests in Iran and US threats of tariffs—have led to a risk-averse environment, reducing appetite for speculative assets.

BTC futures liquidations highlight market volatility affecting short-term trader positions.

Yields on the US 2-year Treasury fell to 3.51%, reflecting investor preference for safer assets amid inflation concerns. Meanwhile, equity markets show continued weakness, with the Nasdaq failing to reclaim the 26,000 levels seen in early November 2025. This environment underscores the broader risk-off sentiment impacting Bitcoin’s prospects.

Amid these macro and geopolitical concerns, notable figures like Warren Buffett have expressed worry over the uncertain future of artificial intelligence and its broader economic implications, further amplifying cautious investor sentiment. Berkshire Hathaway’s cash holdings surged past $381.7 billion, indicating a preference for safety and liquidity.

In summary, while Bitcoin’s recent price action hints at potential upside, multiple market indicators and external risks point toward a cautious approach. Traders and investors remain vigilant, awaiting clearer signals that could confirm a sustained rally beyond current resistance levels.

This article was originally published as Why a Bitcoin Surge to $105K Is Unlikely Amid Global Economic Challenges on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Crypto Miners Shift Focus Toward Artificial Intelligence and High-Performance Computing

As Bitcoin mining firms grapple with rising operational costs and increasing difficulty, many are pivoting toward emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC). Recent developments highlight this trend, with major players investing in infrastructure and strategic assets to capitalize on new growth avenues.

Key Takeaways

CleanSpark acquires 447 acres in Texas to develop a scalable data center aimed at AI and HPC workloads.

Industry-wide diversification as companies like MARA Holdings, Core Scientific, Hut 8, Riot Platforms, and TeraWulf repurpose infrastructure for AI and HPC purposes.

Some miners explore sustainable initiatives, such as Canaan’s project providing computing heat for greenhouses.

Bitcoin mining difficulty hit record highs in 2025, prompting firms to seek alternative revenue streams amid escalating costs.

Tickers mentioned:
Crypto → $BTC, $ETH
Companies → MicroStrategy (NASDAQ: MSTR), Riot Platforms, Hut 8, Core Scientific, TeraWulf, MARA Holdings

Sentiment: Neutral

Price impact: Neutral. The shift towards AI and HPC infrastructure indicates strategic diversification amidst challenging mining conditions.

Market context: The broader industry is adapting to increased difficulty and high energy costs by exploring innovative and sustainable business models.

Transition from Traditional Crypto Mining

Bitcoin mining company CleanSpark has announced a significant expansion into artificial intelligence and high-performance computing through a strategic land purchase in Brazoria County, Texas. The company plans to develop a 300 MW data center, with potential expansion up to 600 MW, designed specifically for AI and HPC workloads. The move aligns with industry confrontations with rising energy demands and constrained transmission infrastructure. Details here.

As the mining sector faces increasing difficulty—bitcoin difficulty peaked at approximately 156 trillion in November 2025—many companies are diversifying. Industry leaders such as MARA Holdings, Core Scientific, Hut 8, Riot Platforms, and TeraWulf have repurposed or expanded their infrastructure to pursue AI and HPC projects, seeking new revenue streams amid ongoing operational challenges.

Source: CleanSpark

Meanwhile, sustainability initiatives are gaining traction; Canadian Bitcoin miner Canaan announced a program to utilize computing heat for greenhouse agriculture, exemplifying innovative efforts to reduce emissions and operational costs. Read more here.

Industry Challenges and Future Outlook

Bitcoin’s rising network difficulty, reaching record highs of 156 trillion in 2025, has increased the cost of mining operations, prompting companies to explore diversification. The industry’s pivot toward AI and HPC signifies a strategic response to ongoing challenges, balancing operational costs with potential new revenue sources amid broader market shifts.

This article was originally published as CleanSpark Expands into AI & HPC with Strategic Acquisition in Bitcoin Mining on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Ethereum’s Fundamentals Outlook Signals Potential Revaluation by 2026

Despite recent price stagnation, Ethereum’s underlying fundamentals show signs of robust growth that could lead to a reassessment of its value in the coming years. Ethereum’s CEO Vivek Raman highlights that the current market price does not fully reflect the network’s expanding capabilities and adoption metrics, suggesting a potential upward trajectory by 2026.

Key Takeaways

Ethereum’s on-chain activity and developer engagement continue to grow steadily despite stagnant price levels.

The upcoming advancements, including network upgrades and scaling solutions, are poised to strengthen Ethereum’s position.

Market sentiment remains cautious but increasingly optimistic about Ethereum’s longer-term prospects.

Analysts suggest that the current valuation may undervalue Ethereum’s true potential by 2026.

Tickers mentioned: Ethereum (ETH)

Sentiment: Bullish

Price impact: Neutral. While the price remains subdued, fundamentals point toward potential future appreciation.

Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold. The current market conditions suggest maintaining positions until upcoming upgrades potentially catalyze a rally.

Market context: Rising on-chain activity and technological upgrades position Ethereum for long-term growth amid broader crypto market stabilization.

Ethereum’s recent price performance has raised questions about its valuation relative to its fundamental health. Vivek Raman, CEO of Etherealize, argues that despite the token’s apparent lag in market price, underlying metrics tell a different story. On-chain activity, including transaction volume and network activity, has shown consistent growth, indicating increased adoption and developer participation.

Furthermore, Ethereum’s upcoming upgrades, particularly the transition to Ethereum 2.0 and enhancements in scalability through layer-2 solutions, are expected to improve network efficiency and reduce transaction costs. These developments could significantly bolster user engagement and institutional interest, potentially driving demand for ETH in the long term.

Market analysts caution that the current price may undervalue Ethereum’s fundamental strengths and future potential. They suggest that traders and investors should consider the underlying network improvements and growth metrics as signals of a possible significant revaluation by 2026.

Overall, Ethereum’s fundamentals support a bullish outlook, especially as technical upgrades and increasing decentralized application adoption are set to enhance the network’s utility and value proposition. While short-term market conditions remain cautious, the narrative for Ethereum’s long-term growth remains compelling, positioning it as a key player in the evolving crypto ecosystem.

This article was originally published as Ether’s Price vs. Fundamentals Gap Could Signal 2026 Breakout Opportunity on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Key Insights

KB Card patent enables stablecoin spending while preserving existing credit card functions

Hybrid payment model aligns with South Korea’s evolving stablecoin regulatory framework 

KB Card strengthens digital payment strategy through blockchain wallet integration

KB Card filed a patent to combine stablecoin spending with existing credit card payments through a single hybrid system. The filing highlights a practical structure that supports digital asset use without changing merchant acceptance processes. Therefore, the move positions KB Card within South Korea’s expanding digital payment and regulatory landscape.

Hybrid Payment Model Integrates Stablecoins With Cards

KB Card designed a hybrid payment system that links blockchain wallets directly to existing credit cards. The structure enables stablecoin balances to fund purchases before any remaining amount shifts to a credit line. As a result, transactions proceed smoothly while standard card functions remain active.

The patent describes a workflow that preserves traditional authorization and settlement steps. However, it adds a stablecoin layer that operates automatically during payment execution. Consequently, users retain card rewards and protections while accessing digital asset liquidity.

KB Card structured the model to function across current merchant networks without technical adjustments. The system processes payments using familiar infrastructure and backend logic. Therefore, the approach lowers barriers to stablecoin use within everyday commercial activity.

Patent Aligns With South Korea Stablecoin Regulation Efforts

KB Card submitted the patent as South Korea advances its Digital Asset Basic Act framework. The legislation aims to define issuance and usage rules for stablecoins, including tokens linked to the Korean won. Policymakers expect the framework to guide market activity during the year.

Regulators continue evaluating whether licensed banks should issue stablecoins through shared consortia. Financial groups monitor these discussions as authorities define operational and compliance standards. Meanwhile, debates persist over competition and access within the emerging payment ecosystem.

KB Card operates within a financial group that tracks stablecoin policy development closely. Related institutions have filed trademarks connected to digital currency initiatives. Therefore, the patent reflects broader institutional preparation for regulated stablecoin adoption.

KB Card Expands Strategy for Digital Payment Infrastructure

KB Card continues developing tools that connect blockchain functionality with established financial systems. The patent outlines a flexible settlement process that adapts to future regulatory requirements. Accordingly, the company strengthens its readiness for evolving payment rules.

The proposed system supports automatic fund selection between wallets and credit accounts. This design enables real time settlement choices without user intervention. As a result, payment flows remain efficient and predictable.

KB Card frames the patent as a long term infrastructure step rather than a limited experiment. The company emphasizes practical deployment within regulated boundaries. Ultimately, the filing marks progress in South Korea’s transition toward integrated digital payment models.

This article was originally published as KB Card Files Patent to Blend Stablecoins With Traditional Credit Card Payments on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Bitcoin surges to eight-week high amid rising US inflation data

Bitcoin has reached new two-month highs, maintaining momentum despite the release of higher-than-expected US Producer Price Index (PPI) figures. The cryptocurrency climbed to approximately $97,000 as markets responded to inflation data that points to continued economic tightening, diverging from broader stock market movements. Traders and investors are closely watching key support levels, particularly the $93,500 mark, which could set the stage for a bullish recovery reminiscent of previous upward runs.

Key Takeaways

Bitcoin rises to an eight-week high despite increased US PPI inflation figures for November.

The US Supreme Court has refrained from issuing a ruling on trade tariffs, adding an element of market uncertainty.

Maintaining a weekly close above $93,500 is crucial for Bitcoin to sustain its bullish trajectory.

Analysts suggest that current price action mirrors past rebounds, with potential for further gains if key levels hold.

Market Reaction to Inflation Data and Policy Outlook

On the trading day, Bitcoin rebounded strongly against a backdrop of higher-than-anticipated inflation data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The PPI for November was reported at 3%, exceeding expectations of 2.7%. The core PPI remained unchanged, but the overall inflationary pressure suggests the Federal Reserve may hold off on cutting interest rates at its upcoming January meeting. This prospect has fostered optimism among crypto traders, who see Bitcoin as a hedge amid tightening monetary policy.

BTC/USD one-hour chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingView

Despite rising inflation, market participants expect the Federal Reserve to pause rate hikes, with the CME FedWatch Tool indicating a high probability of unchanged interest rates in the near term. This expectation has bolstered Bitcoin’s price rally, which has largely ignored the inflationary pressures.

Earlier discussions centered on the Supreme Court’s deliberation over US trade tariffs, which, as of the latest update, remains undecided. The absence of a ruling introduces some uncertainty, but analysts emphasize that the technical outlook remains bullish. The focus is now on the weekly close, with traders emphasizing the importance of closing above the $93,500 threshold to confirm a continued upward trend.

According to market analyst Rekt Capital, sustaining above this level could mirror past rebounds seen in 2024 and 2025, setting the stage for further gains. If Bitcoin manages to hold this support level into the new week, it might retest previous highs, paving the way for a potential rally reminiscent of the post-tariff news surge last year. Historically, dips below $75,000 during tariff-related news preceded substantial bullish runs, highlighting the significance of key support zones in Bitcoin’s ongoing recovery.

This article was originally published as Bitcoin Surges to $97K as PPI Overshoot Fails to Hold Back Price Rally on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Nashville, TN USA — January 14, 2026 Museum & Art Gallery (BMAG) as a permanent cultural institution dedicated to art, research, and long-term cultural work emerging around Bitcoin. Based in Nashville, BMAG consolidates years of global conference-based art programming into an institutional model focused on sustained exhibitions, artist residencies, grants, collecting, and research into how stable monetary systems shape long-term creative and cultural production.

BMAG is led by Dennis Koch, Director and Curator, who has helped establish the Bitcoin Conference Art Gallery as a functioning cultural economy— pricing all works in bitcoin and facilitating over 120 BTC in art sales (approximately $5–6 million USD) since 2019. BMAG carries that model forward into a permanent Museum platform focused on stewardship, experimentation, and institutional continuity.

BMAG opens its inaugural exhibition this January with Memetica Mysterica, a solo exhibition by contemporary painter Ksenia Buridanova. The exhibition serves as the first articulation of BMAG’s curatorial standards—bringing classical technique to contemporary iconography and establishing an institutional tone from the outset.

Buridanova’s work examines how images born in online environments change once removed from their native speed and context. Rendered in oil and canvas, her paintings elevate familiar internet imagery into objects of sustained attention, balancing technical mastery with cultural inquiry.

“Bitcoin doesn’t produce culture intentionally,” said Koch. “But like the sun, it reshapes everything it touches. In the luminous surfaces of Buridanova’s paintings, that indirect influence becomes visible—giving form to an emergence well suited to BMAG’s first exhibition.”

BMAG’s launch also signals the expansion of its broader institutional mission. Later this month, the organization will open applications for:

Artist residencies

Grants and special projects

Exhibition submissions for global conference-based galleries

Historic Bitcoin memorabilia for museum display and special auctions

BMAG will function as a shared cultural platform within BTC Inc., supporting long-duration exhibitions, research initiatives—including emerging fields such as AI—and new creative work presented across global conferences, while maintaining an institutional voice grounded in craft, history, and stewardship.

Memetica Mysterica marks the beginning of BMAG’s year-round programming and represents a rare opportunity to acquire original works by Buridanova.

Learn more: https://museum.b.tc
Follow: @bmag_HQ

About BTC Inc

BTC Inc is the parent company of BTC Media, LLC, the publisher of Bitcoin Magazine, the original and most trusted source for Bitcoin news and education, and producer of The Bitcoin Conference, the largest and most influential Bitcoin event in the world. Headquartered in Nashville, BTC Inc builds media, data, events, and advocacy products that accelerate Bitcoin adoption around the globe.

This article was originally published as Bitcoin Museum & Art Gallery Launches as Permanent Institution, Opening with Ksenia Buridanova’s Memetica Mysterica on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

DZ Bank Secures EU Crypto License, Advances in Germany’s Banking Crypto Strategy

DZ Bank, one of Germany’s leading financial institutions by assets, has obtained approval under the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation. This key licensing milestone enables the bank to operate crypto services within the EU, signaling a significant step forward in its strategic plans to expand its digital asset offerings.

Key Takeaways

DZ Bank received approval from Germany’s Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) to launch its crypto platform, meinKrypto.

The platform aims to provide trading infrastructure to cooperative banks across Germany, supporting Bitcoin, Ether, Litecoin, and Cardano at launch.

MiCA’s regulatory framework simplifies cross-border crypto operations within the EU, replacing fragmented national rules.

The approval marks a shift from planning to execution for DZ Bank’s crypto expansion, with further rollout anticipated in collaboration with partner institutions.

Tickers mentioned: None.

Sentiment: Positive

Price impact: Neutral. The licensing status enhances operational clarity but does not directly affect market prices.

Market context: The milestone aligns with wider EU efforts to establish a unified regulatory environment for crypto assets, facilitating institutional adoption.

Movement Toward Crypto Service Deployment

DZ Bank’s recent approval signifies a turning point after years of regulatory groundwork. The bank announced that it had obtained the necessary license from BaFin, which permits it to run its crypto platform, meinKrypto. This platform is designed primarily for banking partners within Germany’s cooperative banking group, allowing these institutions to offer digital asset trading to their retail clients. Each participating bank will need to submit individual notifications to BaFin before providing crypto services, ensuring compliance with ongoing regulatory oversight.

Initially, meinKrypto will support popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ether, Litecoin, and Cardano. The service will be integrated directly into the VR Banking App, enabling users to make self-directed investments in digital assets. Developed collaboratively with Atruvia, Germany’s leading IT service provider for cooperative banks, the platform exemplifies the evolving landscape of institutional crypto adoption across Europe.

Strategic Implications and Future Plans

The MiCA license marks a concrete transition from strategic planning to operational deployment for DZ Bank, aligning with the broader EU strategy to foster a cohesive regulatory environment. While the license primarily applies to the infrastructure needed for crypto services, individual banks within the network still face regulatory hurdles before offering retail trading. The bank previously announced partnerships with firms like Boerse Stuttgart Digital to enable crypto trading and custody services for approximately 700 cooperative banks, with a phased rollout expected later this year.

This significant regulatory clearance reduces uncertainties that previously surrounded DZ Bank’s crypto initiatives, positioning the bank as one of the first major financial groups to put EU crypto regulations into practice at scale. The move underscores a broader institutional shift, as traditional banks increasingly integrate digital assets into their service portfolios while navigating the evolving European regulatory landscape.

This article was originally published as DZ Bank Obtains MiCA License to Offer Regulated Crypto Services on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Decentralized Perpetual Futures Exchanges Grow as Trading Volumes Surge

Perpetual decentralized exchanges (DEXs) are rapidly gaining market share, offering traders lower-cost, blockchain-based alternatives to traditional centralized trading venues. These platforms enable users to trade perpetual futures contracts with leverage, without the typical constraints of expiry dates and intermediaries, fueling a shift toward decentralized finance (DeFi) derivatives markets.

Key Takeaways

Perp DEXs’ market share surged from 2.1% in January 2023 to a record 11.7% in November 2025.

The total trading volume on perp DEXs tripled in 2025, reaching over $12 trillion amid increasing demand for on-chain derivatives.

Leading DEX tokens like Hyperliquid are projected to reach over $200 within a decade, driven by growing platform adoption.

Major competitors are racing to develop integrated services like lending, brokerage, and custody within the decentralized infrastructure.

Tickers mentioned: $HYPE

Sentiment: Bullish

Price impact: Positive. The increasing adoption of perp DEXs and their expanding market share are likely to bolster the value of related tokens.

Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold. The sector shows strong growth potential amid ongoing innovation and rising trade volumes.

Market context: As decentralized derivatives trading accelerates, the crypto industry continues its shift toward fully on-chain financial mechanisms, challenging traditional finance structures.

Growth of Perpetual DEXs and Market Significance

Decentralized platforms specializing in perpetual futures trading are transforming the derivatives landscape. According to Delphi Digital, these platforms are anticipated to continue capturing market share from legacy financial products by leveraging their operational efficiencies. Unlike fragmented and costly traditional systems, performant infrastructure enables perp DEXs to streamline trading, lending, and custody services, positioning them as comprehensive financial hubs within the blockchain ecosystem.

“Perpetual DEXs could evolve into multifaceted platforms that serve as brokerages, custodians, and clearinghouses all in one,” Delphi Digital remarked in a recent social media post, highlighting the competitive race among platforms like Aster, Lighter, and Paradex to innovate and expand their offerings.

The growth in trading volume underscores this trend. Data from CoinGecko reveals that the market share of perp DEXs surged from 2.1% to a peak of 11.7% in late 2025. Moreover, the total trading volume on these exchanges skyrocketed from $4.1 trillion at the start of 2025 to over $12 trillion by year’s end, reflecting a 3-fold increase and widespread adoption among traders seeking decentralized derivatives exposure.

While these figures mark significant progress, they still pale compared to over-the-counter derivatives, which reached $846 trillion in notional value in mid-2025, according to the Bank for International Settlements. Nevertheless, the trajectory suggests that decentralized solutions are increasingly integral to the broader crypto and financial markets, with platforms like Hyperliquid ($HYPE) poised for substantial growth. Cantor Fitzgerald’s recent outlook projects the token could exceed $200 within ten years, supported by predicted compound annual growth rates and token buyback strategies.

Source: Delphi Digital

This article was originally published as Perp DEXs to Dominate Finance by 2026, Says Delphi Digital on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Main Takeaways

In 2025, Binance became the first global exchange to secure full authorization under ADGM’s internationally recognized framework and crossed 300 million registered users worldwide, signaling a new phase where scale and regulatory scrutiny advance together.

Binance remained a primary venue for global crypto liquidity, with $34 trillion traded on the platform in 2025 and spot volume exceeding $7.1 trillion, alongside an 18% increase in average daily trading volume across all products.

Crypto’s center of gravity expanded beyond the order book as Binance Alpha 2.0 surpassed $1 trillion in trading volume with 17 million users, while Binance’s security, compliance, risk, and governance efforts delivered measurable user protection outcomes at scale.

Binance’s State of the Blockchain 2025 year-in-review report is out, highlighting the most important themes and growth metrics across regulation, liquidity, Web3 discovery, institutional adoption, user protection, and the everyday use of crypto. For the full set of findings, product updates, and data points, you can read the full report available here in English.

Two milestones arrived close together at the end of 2025: Binance became the first crypto exchange to secure full authorization under the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of ADGM’s rigorous regulatory framework, allowing regulated global trading, and our community crossed 300 million registered users worldwide. Together, they reflect how expectations in our industry are changing as crypto platforms are increasingly judged as financial infrastructure – on governance, resilience, user protection, and the ability to perform under stress, in addition to scale, liquidity, and the strength of the user community.

Trust as Infrastructure: Regulation, Resilience, and Measurable Outcomes

The ADGM framework covers governance, risk management, custody, clearing, and consumer protection, aligning crypto market structure more closely with the expectations placed on traditional financial venues.

The report also emphasizes that trust can be measured in outcomes. Since 2023, Binance has reduced direct exposure to major illicit funds categories by 96%. In 2025, Binance’s controls helped prevent $6.69 billion in potential fraud and scam losses for 5.4 million users. Over the same period, Binance processed 71,000+ law enforcement requests, supported the confiscation of around $131 million linked to illicit activity by law enforcement partners, and delivered 160+ law enforcement training sessions.

Trust is also built by reducing unnecessary friction for legitimate users. One example that the report highlights is Enhanced Due Diligence redesign, where we simplified submission steps and improved pass rates in a short implementation cycle, aiming to make compliance stronger without making user experience harder than it needs to be.

Where Liquidity Lives: Depth, Participation, and New Discovery Flows

Liquidity still determines the trading experience users actually get: spreads, slippage, and execution reliability. In 2025, Binance processed $34 trillion in trading volume across all products, with spot trading volume above $7.1 trillion. All-time traded volume reached $145 trillion across all products.

At the same time, participation is becoming more diverse. Binance expanded spot markets to 490 coins and 1,889 spot trading pairs, and futures coverage to 584 coins. Tools also shifted user behavior toward more structured participation, including simulation and automation. Binance Demo Trading, a unified spot and futures demo environment with virtual funds, was used by more than 300,000 users as a way to learn interfaces and test strategies before trading with real funds. In futures, more than 1.2 million users subscribed to Smart Money, a live suite for tracking aggregated behavior signals from profitable traders.

The report also highlights a meaningful shift in where users discover and engage with new projects. Binance Alpha 2.0 became a major discovery surface integrated into the Binance experience, surpassing $1 trillion in trading volume and onboarding 17 million users in 2025. It distributed $782 million in rewards across 254 airdrops. With that scale came added integrity requirements: the report notes that risk controls blocked 270,000 dishonest reward participants attempting to game campaigns, helping keep rewards aligned with real users rather than bot activity.

Institutions in Motion: From Pilot Programs to Operational Workflows

Another theme running through the report is institutional adoption shifting from experimentation to integration. Institutions are increasingly looking for crypto infrastructure that fits governance, collateral, reporting, and settlement requirements they already use. The increasing scale of their presence was reflected on Binance over the past year as institutional trading volume grew by 21% compared to the year before, and OTC fiat trading volume shot up by 210%.

In 2025, tokenization moved closer to operational use cases, including tokenized funds used as eligible off-exchange collateral under Binance’s institutional collateral framework. The report also describes how modular offerings, including white-label rails through Crypto-as-a-Service, are enabling regulated firms to offer digital assets without rebuilding full exchange infrastructure from scratch. Account structures offered through Fund Accounts, Binance Wealth, and Binance Prestige reflect how capital is organized in traditional finance, with formats that support managed strategies, entity onboarding, and dedicated service models.

Everyday Crypto: Local Rails, Payments, and Earning

Beyond trading and discovery, crypto adoption depends on whether users can fund accounts in local currency, move value easily, and choose earning tools that match their risk preferences. In 2025, Fiat and P2P volume grew 38%; Binance Pay users grew 30% year over year, and acceptance expanded massively to more than 20 million merchants. Across its line of products, Binance Earn distributed $1.2 billion in rewards to users in 2025.

Final Thoughts

Digital finance is becoming more standards-driven, more liquid where execution is reliable, and more user-directed as discovery and participation become easier. Binance’s 2025 numbers show scale, but the deeper point is what that scale requires: regulatory anchors like ADGM authorization, resilience and security programs that prevent real losses, strong data protection and AI governance, and product design that reduces friction for legitimate users while raising the cost of abuse. This blog only summarizes a selection of the report’s findings. The full report includes deeper breakdowns, supporting context, and additional product and infrastructure updates.

Read the complete State of the Blockchain 2025 report here.

This article was originally published as Binance’s 2025 End-of-Year Report: Trust, Liquidity, and Web3 Discovery on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

France Flags 90 Crypto Firms for Non-Compliance Ahead of MiCA Deadline

French financial regulators have identified 90 cryptocurrency companies operating without the required licenses as mandated by the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation, ahead of the June compliance deadline. This swath of unlicensed firms underscores ongoing enforcement challenges within the broader EU crypto framework, just months before the regulation takes full effect.

The Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) issued a warning that approximately 30% of these unlicensed firms have yet to respond concerning their intentions to obtain necessary licensing. Stakeholders were notified in November that the transitional period for compliance would conclude on June 30, with non-compliant companies facing shutdowns starting July.

Unlicensed Crypto Firms Divided on Licensing Plans

Among the 90 companies operating in France without a license, about 40% have openly stated they do not plan to seek authorization under MiCA. Conversely, roughly 30% have indicated that they are in the process of applying for licenses. The AMF has not disclosed specific identities of firms that refuse licensing or those that remain unresponsive, citing confidentiality.

In response to the regulatory environment, notable companies like CoinShares, a leading European crypto investment firm, and Relai, a Swiss Bitcoin application, have secured MiCA licenses in France. CoinShares received its license in July 2025, while Relai obtained approval in October, signaling some industry players’ proactive approach to compliance.

Despite these licenses being granted, the enforcement of MiCA remains a concern. The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) emphasized in December the importance of orderly wind-down plans for companies lacking license approval once the transition period concludes. Additionally, the European Commission proposed centralizing ESMA’s supervisory authority over all EU crypto firms, a move that has raised industry fears of slowing licensing processes and restricting startup growth.

Paris has been a vocal critic of the EU’s passporting regime, highlighting the risk of some entities seeking more permissive jurisdictions. Meanwhile, France’s authorities continue to advocate for stronger oversight powers for ESMA, aligning with broader efforts to regulate the crypto industry effectively while balancing innovation and consumer protection.

This article was originally published as France Flags Unlicensed Crypto Firms Before MiCA Regulations Take Effect on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.