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Bitmine Immersion Technologies (BMNR) Announces $200 Million Investment in Beast Industries
Bitmine will hold its Annual Stockholder Meeting at the Wynn Las Vegas on January 15, 2026
Bitmine is supported by a premier group of institutional investors including ARK's Cathie Wood, MOZAYYX, Founders Fund, Bill Miller III, Pantera, Kraken, DCG, Galaxy Digital and personal investor Thomas "Tom" Lee to support Bitmine's goal of acquiring 5% of ETH
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- (NYSE AMERICAN: BMNR) Bitmine Immersion Technologies, Inc. ("Bitmine" or the "Company") the leading Ethereum treasury company in the world, announced a $200 million equity investment into Beast Industries. Bitmine also implements an innovative digital asset strategy for institutional investors and public market participants.
"MrBeast and Beast Industries, in our view, is the leading content creator of our generation, with a reach and engagement unmatched with GenZ, GenAlpha and Millennials," said Thomas 'Tom' Lee, Chairman of Bitmine. "Beast Industries is the largest and most innovative creator based platform in the world and our corporate and personal values are strongly aligned."
"We are excited to welcome Tom Lee and Bitmine as new investors in Beast Industries joining our current top-tier venture investors," said Jeff Housenbold, CEO of Beast Industries. "Their support is a strong validation of our vision, strategy, and growth trajectory and it provides additional capital to achieve our goal to become the most impactful entertainment brand in the world. We look forward to exploring ways to further collaborate and incorporate DeFi into our upcoming financial services platform."
The deal is expected to close on or about January 19, 2026.
Bitmine will hold its Annual Meeting on January 15, 2026, which will be livestreamed on Bitmine's X account: https://x.com/bitmnr
The Fiscal Full Year 2025 Earnings presentation and corporate presentation can be found here: https://bitminetech.io/investor-relations/
To stay informed, please sign up at: https://bitminetech.io/contact-us/
About Bitmine
Bitmine (NYSE AMERICAN: BMNR) is the leading Ethereum Treasury company in the world, implementing an innovative digital asset strategy for institutional investors and public market participants. Guided by its philosophy of "the alchemy of 5%," the company is committed to ETH as its primary treasury reserve asset, leveraging native protocol-level activities including staking and decentralized finance mechanisms. The company will launch MAVAN (Made-in America Validator Network), a dedicated staking infrastructure for Bitmine assets, in Q1 of 2026.
For additional details, follow on X:
https://x.com/bitmnr
https://x.com/fundstrat
https://x.com/bmnrintern
About Beast Industries
Beast Industries is a multifaceted entertainment, consumer products, and CPG company founded and led by YouTube creator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast. A global entertainment powerhouse, MrBeast is the most-subscribed YouTube channel in the world with over 450 million subscribers and over 5 billion monthly views across all channels. Recognized as the #1 creator on Forbes' Top Creators List (2023) and featured on the TIME 100 and inaugural TIME100 Climate lists, Donaldson has built Beast Industries into a platform spanning groundbreaking content, record-breaking competition formats, and some of the fastest-growing CPG launches in history, including the snack brand Feastables. The company also drives large-scale social impact through initiatives like #TeamTrees, #TeamSeas, #TeamWater, and Beast Philanthropy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has provided over 20 million free meals and funded critical infrastructure projects worldwide. At its core, Beast Industries blends entertainment, innovation, and purpose to create culturally resonant IP, market-leading products, and lasting change.
Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." The statements in this press release that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements which involve risks and uncertainties. This document specifically contains forward-looking statements regarding progress and achievement of the Company's goals regarding ETH acquisition and staking, the long-term value of Ethereum, continued growth and advancement of the Company's Ethereum treasury strategy and the applicable benefits to the Company. In evaluating these forward-looking statements, you should consider various factors, including Bitmine's ability to keep pace with new technology and changing market needs; Bitmine's ability to finance its current business, Ethereum treasury operations and proposed future business; the competitive environment of Bitmine's business; and the future value of Bitcoin and Ethereum. Actual future performance outcomes and results may differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond Bitmine's control, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of Bitmine's Form 10-K filed with the SEC on November 21, 2025, as well as all other SEC filings, as amended or updated from time to time. Copies of Bitmine's filings with the SEC are available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. Bitmine undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.
Disclaimer: Any information written in this press release does not constitute investment advice. Crypto Front News does not, and will not endorse any information about any company or individual on this page. Readers are encouraged to do their own research and base any actions on their own findings, not on any content written in this press release. Crypto Front News is and will not be responsible for any damage or loss caused directly or indirectly by the use of any content, product, or service mentioned in this press release. For more details, visit our disclaimer page.
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Bitwise’s CLNK ETF offers spot Chainlink exposure via NYSE Arca, tracking the CME CF LINK-Dollar Reference Rate.
The fund charges a 0.34% fee, waived for three months, with LINK held in Coinbase Custody cold storage.
CLNK joins Grayscale’s GLNK as institutional interest grows in Chainlink’s oracle infrastructure role.
Bitwise Asset Management has launched a new U.S.-listed crypto product, expanding regulated access to Chainlink. The Bitwise Chainlink ETF began trading on NYSE Arca under the ticker CLNK. The launch involved Bitwise, U.S. exchanges, and institutional investors seeking spot exposure to LINK through brokerage accounts.
ETF Structure and Trading Framework
According to Bitwise, CLNK provides direct spot exposure to Chainlink’s market price without requiring token custody. The fund tracks the CME CF Chainlink-Dollar Reference Rate to calculate daily net asset value. This structure aligns CLNK pricing with benchmarks used across regulated crypto products.
Notably, the ETF charges a 0.34% management fee. However, Bitwise waived fees for the first three months on up to $500 million in assets. Chainlink tokens held by the fund are stored with Coinbase Custody in segregated institutional cold storage accounts.
CLNK does not stake LINK at launch. However, Bitwise stated it may amend filings later, subject to regulatory approval. This approach limits custody complexity and reduces initial operational risk.
Chainlink’s Role in Blockchain Infrastructure
Chainlink launched in 2017 and focuses on decentralized oracle services. These services allow blockchains to access external data and systems. According to Bitwise, Chainlink has facilitated more than $27 trillion in transaction value across over 70 blockchains.
Additionally, more than $75 billion in decentralized finance contracts rely on Chainlink data feeds. The network has published over 19 billion verified onchain messages. Major DeFi platforms, including Aave and Polymarket, use Chainlink infrastructure.
Chainlink has also worked with traditional institutions such as JPMorgan, Mastercard, and SWIFT. These collaborations focus on tokenization experiments and cross-network payments.
Market Context and Institutional Activity
CLNK entered the market alongside another U.S. Chainlink product, Grayscale’s GLNK. Combined, LINK-focused ETFs have reported about $64 million in cumulative net inflows. Total assets across these funds stand near $88 million.
Recent trading sessions showed stable flows, with no notable inflows or outflows. During the latest session, LINK traded near $14.25 after recovering from earlier intraday declines. The price previously dipped below $13.90 before reversing.
According to Bitwise Chief Investment Officer Matt Hougan, Chainlink provides essential infrastructure connecting blockchains to real-world systems. CLNK now offers regulated market access to that exposure through standard investment channels.
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China Probes CBDC Architect Over Ethereum Bribery Case
Yao Qian used hardware wallets and shell accounts to hide crypto bribes, but blockchain records enabled investigators to trace funds.
Authorities linked ETH transfers to property purchases, including a Beijing villa funded through crypto-exchange proceeds.
An ICO case showed Yao received 2,000 ETH for favors, leading to expulsion from the Party and criminal prosecution.
An investigation in China has revealed details of a corruption case involving Yao Qian, a senior former regulator. The investigation examined allegations tied to cryptocurrency bribes and abuse of authority. Yao, a former digital currency official, now faces prosecution following a multi-agency investigation.
On January 14, Chinese state television aired the fourth episode of “Never Stop, Never Back Down.” The episode focused on technology-enabled corruption cases. It highlighted how officials used cryptocurrencies to conceal illicit payments.
According to the documentary, investigators seized several hardware wallets during the probe. These devices held cryptocurrency valued at tens of millions of yuan. Officials said the assets appeared small but stored significant digital wealth.
Yao Qian appeared in the program and acknowledged awareness of wrongdoing. He said he believed digital methods would complicate evidence discovery. Investigators countered that blockchain records remained traceable.
Ethereum Transfers and Shell Accounts
Authorities placed Yao Qian under investigation in April 2024. The task force included the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and local supervisors in Guangdong. Investigators examined Yao’s digital currency background due to his long industry involvement.
Officials found hardware wallets in Yao’s office drawer. They also identified shell bank accounts controlled by Yao. One 10 million yuan transfer traced back to a cryptocurrency exchange account.
Investigators linked those funds to property purchases in Beijing. The villa cost over 20 million yuan and used shell account funds. Additional transfers totaling 12 million yuan later surfaced.
ICO Bribe Linked to 20,000 ETH Token Raise
Further inquiry revealed involvement by businessman Wang and intermediary Jiang Guoqing. Jiang served as Yao’s subordinate and assisted multiple transactions. He helped route cryptocurrency transfers through intermediary wallet addresses.
In 2018, Jiang connected Yao with a businessman surnamed Zhang. Yao then assisted with a token issuance and exchange listing. The project raised 20,000 Ethereum through an ICO.
Zhang later transferred 2,000 Ethereum to Yao as payment. Investigators traced 370 Ethereum sold in 2021 for roughly 10 million yuan. Yao admitted violations after blockchain analysis confirmed the transaction chain.
Authorities expelled Yao from the Communist Party in November 2024. They dismissed him from public office and transferred the case for prosecution.
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Senate Banking says the bill preserves securities laws, clarifies SEC–CFTC roles, and protects developers.
The U.S. Senate Banking Committee released draft text of the CLARITY Act during a scheduled markup week. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong publicly opposed the bill after reviewing it over 48 hours. The response came as Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse expressed support, highlighting a sharp divide among major crypto executives.
Coinbase Flags Privacy, Stablecoin, and Oversight Issues
According to Brian Armstrong, Coinbase cannot support the Senate Banking draft in its current form. He said the text introduces what he described as a de facto ban on tokenized equities. He also cited provisions affecting decentralized finance, which he said would expand government access to financial records.
Moreover, Armstrong said draft amendments would end rewards on stablecoins. He noted banks could then restrict competition from crypto-based products. He also pointed to changes that, according to Coinbase, weaken the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Armstrong said those changes would reduce innovation and elevate the Securities and Exchange Commission’s authority.
However, Armstrong acknowledged bipartisan efforts behind the legislation. Still, he said the draft would perform worse than the current regulatory environment. Coinbase, therefore, prefers no bill over what it views as a flawed framework. Armstrong later added that he remains optimistic negotiations could still produce acceptable language.
Ripple Backs Senate Effort While Talks Continue
In contrast, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse welcomed the Senate Banking Committee’s move on market structure. According to Garlinghouse, the CLARITY Act represents progress toward workable crypto regulation. He said clearer rules remain preferable to regulatory uncertainty, based on Ripple’s past experience.
Notably, Garlinghouse emphasized consumer protection alongside innovation. He said Ripple continues participating in discussions during the markup process. He also expressed optimism that lawmakers could resolve outstanding issues through debate. His comments positioned Ripple as supportive, though engaged in ongoing revisions.
Senate Defends CLARITY Act Framework and Process
Meanwhile, the U.S. Senate Banking Committee defended the bill’s development and intent. According to the Committee, lawmakers spent more than six months on bipartisan negotiations. They consulted regulators, law enforcement, academics and industry participants.The Committee said the bill clarifies oversight between the SEC and CFTC. It also said securities laws remain intact and enforceable. Furthermore, the Committee stated the bill strengthens anti-money laundering rules. It added that developers and self-custody rights receive explicit protection, while misconduct remains punishable.
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RPL Breakout Setup Tightens as Compression Signals an Imminent Decision Phase
RPL breakout structure forms after prolonged downside pressure and extended consolidation near demand.
Short-term momentum has turned constructive, while higher timeframes still await confirmation.
Volume behavior and key reclaim levels are guiding near-term market participation.
RPL breakout conditions are forming as trading activity compresses near a long-defended support zone. Market participants are closely watching confirmation levels that could define the next directional move.
Compression After Prolonged Decline Draws Attention
RPL breakout discussions have intensified as the daily chart shows tightening ranges following months of lower highs. Price remains constrained beneath a descending trendline originating near the $4.00 region.
The structure reflects sustained selling pressure that has gradually weakened. Downside extensions have become shorter, while buyers continue to defend the same demand zone.
Crypto Candy stated that the $2.10 to $2.00 region has repeatedly absorbed sales pressure since November.
Candle formations near this zone show reduced volatility and smaller bodies. Such behavior often appears when markets approach a decisive phase.
Overhead resistance remains defined near $2.64, followed by $3.33. Supply from the $4.06 to $4.07 region continues to cap broader recovery attempts.
A decisive daily close above the descending trendline would signal renewed bullish participation. Until then, directional conviction remains measured.
Critical Levels Guide Short-Term Positioning
RPL breakout expectations remain sensitive to downside risk near $1.97. A clean break below this level could expose deeper downside toward the mid-$1.50 range.
Price is currently hovering around $2.19, keeping it above recent swing lows. This positioning limits immediate downside but does not confirm trend reversal.
Crypto Candy outlined scenarios involving liquidity sweeps near $2.03. A brief dip followed by a strong reclaim could attract renewed buying interest.
Such a reaction would require visible confirmation through reversal candles and expanding participation. Near-term objectives discussed include $2.18 and $2.30.
Failure to reclaim $2.03 would shift focus toward $1.78. That area aligns with previous consolidation and weaker historical demand.
Short-side interest remains tied to rejection near $2.15 or $2.18. Bearish reversal signals around those levels continue to attract attention.
Intraday Momentum Shows Constructive Shift
In the 45-minute timeframe, RPL breakout conditions appear more favorable. Price formed a rounded base between $1.95 and $2.00 before advancing.
Source: CryptoRank
The rally toward $2.24 occurred alongside expanding volume. This behavior suggests genuine participation rather than a low-liquidity move.
Market structure now shows higher highs and higher lows. Former resistance near $2.10 has transitioned into short-term support.
Momentum indicators reflect strength with signs of moderation. RSI near 68 signals strong demand while suggesting brief consolidation.
MACD remains positive, though histogram contraction points to momentum digestion. This supports expectations of consolidation rather than immediate reversal.
As long as price holds above $2.10, intraday control remains with buyers. Broader compression continues to frame expectations on higher timeframes.
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Solana Price Shows Rising Momentum and Market Cap Activity This January
Solana price breaks the descending trendline, showing early bullish reversal.
Network revenue stabilizes, Solana leads alongside Tron and BNB.
Over the week market cap fluctuated between $137M and $144M with steady trading.
Analysis for Solana price reveals an early-stage bullish trend after a prolonged decline. Network revenues diversify, and market cap cycles show cautious investor activity.
Solana Price Shows Early Bullish Reversal
Solana has shifted from a long-term downtrend toward a potential bullish reversal. On the SOLUSDT 8-hour chart lower highs and lower lows are forming, hinting at a breakout above the descending trendline.
The support level between $115 and $120 is a critical zone where buyers defended prices repeatedly in the past. This is suggesting that selling pressure is weakening.
Since then, momentum has been minimal and has shown shallow pullbacks and controlled volatility. This is further reinforcing the possibility of continued upward movement.
Crypto analyst Captain Faibik noted that the breakout above the descending trendline is structural. Adding that consolidation and higher lows indicate acceptance above previous resistance, which is supporting the early bullish stance.
The projected target range of $185–190 aligns with prior consolidation zones.
Network Revenue Trends Highlight Solana's Position
Blockchain network revenue from October 12, 2025, to January 11, 2026, shows Solana gaining a prominent share alongside Ethereum, Tron, and BNB. Initially, revenue peaked above $100 million in mid-October.
Then, the revenue stabilized between $25 million and $40 million weekly. During this period, Solana contributed $7.65 million in the last week sampled, surpassing Ethereum’s $3.28 million and closely competing with Tron at $6.46 million.
The data reflects a post-peak period with more balanced revenue distribution across multiple networks. BNB also gained visibility, contributing $4.89 million.
Smaller protocols like Polygon, Base, and HyperEVM maintained modest revenue shares, indicating diversified user activity across blockchains.
Market Cap Movements Reflect Short-Term Trading Cycles
Over the past seven days, Solana’s market cap ranged from $137 million to $144 million. It stayed mostly in a moderate volatility zone. The market cap initially rose from $140 million to a peak above $143 million on January 12.
This was a signal of sustained short-term buying momentum. After the peak, the market then experienced a correction, dropping close to $138 million on January 13.
Through a subsequent recovery the market cap returned near $142 million, due to renewed trading interest and stable investor confidence. Notably, volume levels remained consistent throughout the week.
Stable trading activity suggests that price fluctuations were influenced by steady buying and not sudden large trades.
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$2.00 support remains pivotal for maintaining bullish structure.
The market shows compression and cautious consolidation across the week.
The XRP Outlook reflects ongoing market compression and indecision. The crypto is trading below $2.10. Bulls need to maintain support at $2.00 to push toward $2.27 and $2.75 resistance levels.
XRP Faces Compression Below Resistance
XRP is trading beneath a long-standing descending resistance line and is showing indecision in the market. Price remains capped despite intermittent upward attempts.
Daily candlestick patterns indicate neither strong bullish nor bearish dominance.According to CRYPTOWZRD, XRP closed indecisively, emphasizing lower time frame observation.
Holding above $2.10 could trigger momentum, while trading below encourages sideways price movement. This confirms that intraday conditions remain neutral.
The market appears to digest prior volatility. Buyers have defended the $1.90–$2.00 demand zone, yet momentum remains limited.
This compression under resistance signals that the market is gathering energy for a future directional move.
Key Support Levels Maintain Bullish Potential
Structurally, $2.00 serves as a critical support zone for XRP. Price acceptance above this level sustains the bullish recovery thesis.
A decline below $2.00 could shift the market into broader distribution, signaling caution. Daily technical patterns show that a clean bullish close above $2.27 is necessary for a confirmed trend reversal.
The zone also marks resistance formed during previous bounces, where sellers may defend aggressively. Reclaiming it could pave the way toward $2.75.
Volume and price action suggest that market participants remain reactive rather than speculative.
The lack of strong continuation after short-term bounces demonstrates that XRP is undergoing controlled consolidation, rather than an outright shift in trend.
Market Consolidation Reflects Cautious Sentiment
A 7-day market cap chart indicates a transition from distribution to stabilization. Early-week drawdowns removed weaker positions, while subsequent flattening around $124–$126B reflects controlled absorption.
Sellers no longer dominate, but buyers cautiously defend support zones. Volume tapering across the consolidation phase confirms the stabilization.
Market participants appear to hold positions, avoiding immediate re-entry, which suggests that XRP’s next move will depend on structural confirmations. The sideways behavior aligns with observations of compression beneath descending resistance.
Until a clear break above $2.27 or $2.75 occurs, XRP is likely to remain largely range-bound, waiting for external triggers to generate decisive momentum.
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TAO Market Watch: Trendline Holds Near $280 as Traders Eye $295 Breakout
TAO price is above $270 support, and is forming a short-term consolidation range.
Resistance near $295–300 caps upward momentum despite bullish structure.
The market mirrors Bitcoin’s early cycle, indicating potential post-halving acceleration.
TAO price analysis shows the token in a critical phase of consolidation between $270 and $295. Traders are watching the trendline for either a breakdown or bullish continuation.
TAO Consolidation and Short-Term Structure
TAO price is currently testing the rising trendline, which has supported higher lows during recent market activity. The 4-hour chart suggests momentum is slowing after a strong upward rally from the low 220s to nearly $300.
CryptoPulse tweeted that the $TAO market is at a “break or bounce” moment, with the trendline near $280 acting as a critical point. A close below the line may lead to a retest of the $265-$250 support zone.
Price action has repeatedly failed to breach $295–300, confirming the area as active resistance. At the same time, dips toward $270 have consistently been bought, forming a firm demand floor. This pattern reflects absorption rather than distribution.
Comparison with Bitcoin’s Early Cycle
Historical cycle analysis shows TAO’s trajectory resembles Bitcoin’s first major cycle. Both assets display a three-phase pattern: early expansion, peak, and prolonged consolidation.
TAO’s cycle peak aligns around 881 days from inception, similar to Bitcoin’s early peak. Following this, both assets entered long sideways ranges where volatility contracted.
Projected halving dates differ slightly, with TAO expected around January 31, 2026. Similar to Bitcoin, TAO is anticipated to experience a post-halving takeoff, with market acceleration occurring after the event rather than before it.
Short-Term Trading Dynamics
Recent TAO price activity reflects a tightly defined range between $270 and $295. The market shows higher lows, indicating subtle bullish pressure below resistance.
A spike on January 9 represented a liquidity sweep or news-driven move, quickly retracing into the established range. This behavior often signals stop-hunting rather than a true trend reversal.
Volume patterns remain stable to declining, suggesting accumulation by larger participants. Traders may expect continued range-bound activity until a decisive breakout above $295 or breakdown below $270 occurs.
TAO price analysis signals a consolidation phase with a clear bias defined by trendline support and resistance near $295. Time symmetry with Bitcoin cycles may shape future movements.
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US Spot Crypto ETF Flows Signal Renewed Institutional Interest in Crypto
Bitcoin ETFs absorbed most inflows, reinforcing their role as institutional liquidity anchors within regulated crypto markets.
Selective allocations toward Solana and XRP reflected performance and regulatory narratives shaping ETF demand.
Zero inflows into legacy assets signaled disciplined capital allocation rather than broad-based crypto exposure.
US Spot Crypto ETF flows on January 12, 2026 reflected measured institutional accumulation, with capital favoring liquidity, regulation, and functional blockchain utility across major digital assets.
Bitcoin ETFs Anchor Institutional Allocation
US Spot Crypto ETF flows were dominated by Bitcoin, which captured nearly four-fifths of total daily net inflows.Bitcoin ETFs added approximately 1,280 BTC, translating to about $116.67 million in capital during the session.
This concentration showed that institutions continued prioritizing liquidity depth and monetary credibility over broader diversification.Market participants noted on X that ETF demand again exceeded daily miner issuance by a meaningful margin.
This imbalance reinforced the ongoing supply absorption theme shaping medium-term market structure for Bitcoin exposure.ETF desks treated Bitcoin as a macro-aligned digital asset rather than a short-term trading instrument.
The buying pattern suggested strategic positioning rather than reactionary risk appetite. Institutions used spot ETFs to gain regulated exposure while minimizing custody and operational complexity.
Bitcoin’s role as the reference allocation within crypto portfolios remained unchanged during this flow session.
Selective Expansion Into Utility and Performance Assets
US Spot Crypto ETF flows also showed continued, though restrained, interest in Ethereum-based exposure.Ethereum ETFs recorded inflows of roughly 1,634 ETH, valued near $5.04 million for the day.
The allocation reflected ongoing respect for Ethereum’s infrastructure role without aggressive capital expansion.Solana ETFs attracted approximately $10.67 million, marking one of the stronger relative inflows among altcoins.
This allocation indicated growing institutional comfort with high-throughput networks supporting consumer-facing applications.Capital entering Solana ETFs aligned with performance-oriented strategies during favorable market conditions.
XRP ETFs recorded inflows of about $15.04 million, supported by improving regulatory clarity narratives. Analysts on X referenced XRP’s positioning within cross-border payment infrastructure discussions.
ETF investors appeared to price operational utility rather than purely speculative upside in XRP exposure.
Disciplined Exclusion Signals Market Maturity
US Spot Crypto ETF flows also revealed notable exclusions that informed institutional preference structures.Chainlink, Litecoin, and Dogecoin ETFs recorded zero net inflows during the session.
These absences reflected allocation discipline rather than negative sentiment toward underlying technologies.Chainlink’s lack of flows suggested ETF allocators remained cautious around indirect value capture models.
Litecoin continued facing reduced relevance amid Bitcoin’s dominance within regulated investment products.Dogecoin’s speculative identity appeared misaligned with institutional ETF mandates emphasizing stability.
HBAR ETFs recorded modest inflows near $318,000, signaling early-stage institutional curiosity.The allocation aligned with interest in enterprise-grade distributed ledger applications and compliance readiness.
Such positioning showed that exploratory exposure continued alongside larger, more established ETF allocations.
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MANTRA Restructures Amid Challenges and Team Reductions
JP Mullin confirms tough layoffs, stressing focus, efficiency, and sustainable growth for MANTRA in 2026.
Former employees praised for contributions; company encourages new opportunities and highlights a leaner, stronger future.
AMA planned to address user trust concerns amid past airdrop issues and insider activity, signaling renewed transparency.
MANTRA, a blockchain platform focused on RWA, is going through a big shake-up after a rough 2025. CEO and founder JP Mullin shared the news on X, saying the company will reduce its team and simplify operations.
The CEO stated in the post that the choice was difficult and underlined that it is being made to ensure the company's survival and position it for future expansion. "I have really tried everything in my power to avoid coming to this conclusion," Mullin stated.
According to Mullin, this restructuring comes after ambitious scaling in 2024 and early 2025. MANTRA invested heavily in RWA tokenization, building its chain, and expanding its ecosystem. Unfortunately, this combination of market downturns, competitive pressures, and certain events occurring in April 2025 have made their cost structure unsustainable.
Mullin added, “To thrive in this environment and take back our market-leading position, we must become more capital-efficient and laser-focused.” To that end, MANTRA is focusing resources on key initiatives while eliminating non-core spend to extend runway.
Impact on Staff and Company Direction
The restructuring has led to difficult separations, with some talented employees leaving. Defisushi, a former team member, described the experience as “brutal and heartbreaking,” noting the suddenness of the redundancies.
Mullin made it clear that the layoffs aren’t about anyone’s performance but part of a bigger plan for 2026. He said, “The people leaving MANTRA are talented and dedicated, and they have contributed immensely to our progress.” He also encouraged other companies to consider hiring these employees for new opportunities.
The remaining team will need to adjust to a smaller, more focused setup, where the main goal is getting work done and growing smartly. Mullin said, “With our clear focus and strategic efforts, we will not only survive, but we will be stronger, more resilient, and better positioned for success.”
Rebuilding User Trust and Future Plans
Amid criticism over prior airdrops, insider actions, and poor communication, some users doubt MANTRA’s ability to regain trust. In response, Mullin plans to host an AMA to address these concerns directly.
He stressed that the aim of the reorganization and new focus strategy is to enhance the innovation ecosystem for RWA and restore the credibility thereof. The business hence seeks to offer a bright, organized, and sustainable future for the years 2026 and onward.
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Crypto Market Cap Faces Key Resistance Amid Investor Caution
Total crypto market cap bounces from $2.86T support, eyeing resistance at $3.32T and $3.53T.
Fear & Greed Index averages low post-October 10 liquidation, showing cautious investor sentiment.
Market recovery depends on breaking key resistance or falling below $2.85T to define next trend.
The cryptocurrency market is at a critical juncture as total market capitalization hovers around $3.06 trillion. Analysts are closely watching two major levels that could define the next trend.
According to Daan Crypto Trades, “$TOTAL Market Cap still stuck within the two major levels. The 10/10 flush low and the horizontal area at $2.85T. Keep a close eye out for whichever side gives in first. I think that will kick off the trend for several weeks following it.” The market recently bounced from support near $2.86 trillion, suggesting investors may be stepping in at lower ranges to stabilize prices.
Moreover,the analyst also point out that there is major resistance around about $3.32 trillion. Notably, this level has traditionally served as a barrier beyond which the rising pressures ease or reverse. Also, the market is still below $3.53 trillion, which is a major resistance if the rising pressures gain further strength.
Trading volume remains moderate, although occasional spikes indicate short bursts of investor engagement. Consequently, while the market shows resilience above $3 trillion, overcoming these resistance points will determine the short-term trend.
Persistent Fear Dominates Market Sentiment
Market sentiment is seen to be playing an important part here again. Coin Bureau explains: “Ever since the liquidation event that occurred on October 10, the Fear & Greed Index has averaged 30 or lower, thus expressing fear-driven market sentiment for the past three months.” Although the peak occurred for Bitcoin on October 10 at around $121,771, the investors remained quite optimistic with the price hovering around $94,348 in January 2026.
Moreover, the Fear & Greed Index highlights alternating caution and optimism. It currently sits at 53.91, suggesting a balance rather than extreme sentiment. Analysts believe this mix of fear and measured optimism could influence short-term market moves. Hence, investors should monitor both capitalization levels and sentiment indexes closely to anticipate potential shifts.
Outlook: Watch Resistance and Sentiment
Overall, the cryptocurrency market attempts a cautious recovery. The total market cap remains under pressure from key resistance zones. Meanwhile, investor sentiment shows moderation after months of fear.
As a result, the next breakout or breakdown is most likely to establish the market’s trend for a period of weeks. Traders must be on high alert because breaching $3.32 trillion or dropping below $2.85 trillion may establish the market’s trend.
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Ethereum added over 390K wallets in a single day, signaling growing adoption despite sideways price movement.
Fusaka upgrade reduced fees and improved Layer-2 interactions, attracting new users to DeFi, NFTs, and gaming.
Analyst Michaël van de Poppe eyes $3,800 target; support at $2,400–$2,600 remains key for bullish momentum.
Ethereum is experiencing a surge of new wallets being created. According to analytics platform Santiment’s data, the average creation of new Ethereum wallets has stood at 327,100 on a daily basis for the current trading week, peaking at 393,600 on Sunday, which is the highest recorded ever.
As per the Santiment report, the Fusaka protocol update, which went live in early December 2025, made the Ethereum network more affordable and accessible. It maximized the handling of data, which reduced the costs associated with publishing Layer-2 data back to the Ethereum network. This led to a smoother experience in engaging with dApps, rollups, and hence new users to create wallets.
Additionally, the number of stable transfers on the Ethereum network improved, reaching an all-time high of 8 trillion in Q4 of 2025.
Concurrently, on-chain data and social trends show increasing interest in adoption. Despite Ethereum’s price remaining flat, new users began exploring DeFi, NFTs, or gaming dApp use cases, creating wallets simply so they could participate.
The change in seasons towards the end of the year contributed to increasing this onboarding process. The sentiment on-chain became more neutral to positive in mid-December, as retail participants joined the chain.
Price Action Signals Potential Upside
Analyst Michaël van de Poppe highlighted the bullish momentum, stating, "It's $ETH season. It held the 21-Day MA. Crucial level to hold onto, and it has held that level nicely." Ethereum recently tested a key resistance level just above $3,000. If it breaks this barrier, the price could move up toward the next target near $3,800.
On the other hand, support levels between $2,400 and $2,600 are very important. Holding these levels helps prevent bigger drops, as trading activity shows strong interest around these zones.
If Ethereum maintains its course, it will soon reach greater heights. But if it fails to overcome the current resistance level, it can cause market consolidation or correction. It’s noteworthy for one to be cautiously optimistic about Ethereum prices, which rely greatly on market engagement.
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DUSK Eyes Upside Continuation Near $0.06 After Confirmed Breakout From Long Downtrend
• $DUSK confirms a multi-month descending trendline breakout on higher timeframes. • Volume expansion and higher lows support controlled bullish continuation. • RWA and privacy narratives position Dusk Network within institutional discussions.
$DUSK is drawing market attention following a confirmed technical breakout after a prolonged bearish phase. Recent price behavior reflects accumulation, improving structure, and renewed interest. This is as broader infrastructure narratives resurface across digital asset markets.
Long-Term Structure Signals a Market Shift
$DUSK spent most of 2024 and early 2025 within a defined descending channel. Price action consistently respected dynamic resistance, reinforcing sustained seller dominance during that period.
Each recovery attempt stalled below the trendline, confirming structural weakness. The decline eventually compressed into a narrow accumulation range near the 0.05–0.06 zone.
Repeated downside wicks suggested demand absorption rather than continuation. This behavior often appears during late-stage bearish cycles, where sellers lose control gradually.
According to a widely shared chart by World Of Charts on X, price has now broken above the descending trendline. The breakout was followed by a successful retest, signaling acceptance above former resistance and a shift in market structure.
Short-Term Price Action and Momentum Development
Following the breakout, $DUSK entered a tight consolidation phase. This range resembles a re-accumulation structure rather than distribution. Price continues to form higher lows, indicating controlled participation from buyers without aggressive speculation.
Volume expanded during the breakout phase. Volume behavior remains constructive during consolidation, supporting the view of preparation rather than exhaustion.
Volatility compression after confirmation often precedes directional continuation.Technical projections shared by analysts suggest a measured move toward the 0.10–0.12 zone.
This area aligns with prior supply levels and historical structural highs. A sustained hold above current support remains the primary condition for continuation.
Narrative Support and Market Positioning
Beyond chart structure, $DUSK benefits from exposure to infrastructure, privacy, and real-world asset narratives. Dusk Network focuses on regulated asset issuance using zero-knowledge technology.
This positioning aligns with increasing institutional exploration of compliant blockchain frameworks. Analysts emphasized the relevance of long-term channel breakouts.
Historical comparisons indicate that such moves often redefine market cycles when supported by volume and broader market stability. Bitcoin conditions were also referenced as a key external factor.
Current price behavior reflects methodical positioning rather than speculative acceleration.
$DUSK continues to trade within a defined technical roadmap.
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ETFs funneled capital into Bitcoin and Ether, preventing broad altcoin rotation and compressing market breadth.
Altcoin rallies shortened to approximately 20 days as narratives peaked faster and retail attention shifted to equities.
Derivatives and OTC trading grew, signaling a more mature market focused on yield, protection, and discretion.
Liquidity entered crypto markets throughout 2025, yet it failed to spread as expected. According to Wintermute’s 2025 Digital Asset OTC Markets report, capital concentrated instead of rotating. Using proprietary OTC flow data, Wintermute examined where funds moved, when activity peaked, and how trading behavior changed across regions, products, and assets during the year.
ETFs Drove Capital Into Majors, Not Altcoins
According to Wintermute, exchange-traded funds and digital asset trusts directed liquidity toward Bitcoin, Ether, and select large-cap tokens. As a result, broader altcoin rotation never materialized. Trading activity clustered near the top of the market, reducing market breadth.
Altcoins felt the impact through shorter rallies. Wintermute data shows average altcoin rallies lasted about 20 days in 2025, down from roughly 60 days in 2024. Consequently, narratives compressed rapidly. Memecoin launchpads, perpetual DEXs, and AI tokens all peaked quickly, then faded.
Meanwhile, retail interest shifted elsewhere. Wintermute reported that equities absorbed attention previously drawn to crypto. AI, robotics, and quantum themes led equity markets. After Oct. 10, broker-linked flows showed retail rotating back into major crypto assets for the first time since late 2023.
Derivatives and OTC Trading Signaled Market Maturity
Derivatives activity expanded sharply during 2025. Wintermute reported options volumes and trade counts more than doubled year over year. Notably, usage shifted away from directional bets. Traders instead favored systematic strategies, including yield generation, downside protection, and covered calls.
At the same time, execution methods evolved. OTC trading gained importance as participants prioritized discretion and capital efficiency. Wintermute observed deeper counterparty engagement, even as price performance remained muted. This shift reflected more deliberate execution strategies across large positions.
Regional Flows Shifted With Macro Events
Liquidity flows varied by region rather than moving together. According to Wintermute, Asia sold during April’s tariff-driven volatility. Europe redistributed positions through the summer months. Meanwhile, the United States led net selling into year-end, following hawkish Federal Reserve signals.
Wintermute noted that ETFs and DATs joined stablecoins as primary liquidity funnels. Their mandates shaped where capital settled, limiting spillover beyond major assets. The report states that 2025 outcomes reflected concentration patterns, not traditional cycle timing, as market structure continued to grow.
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Backpack unifies predictions, perps, spot, and margin trading, reducing capital lock-up and boosting liquidity.
Fully collateralized predictions let traders hedge instantly, avoiding over-leverage and illiquid markets.
2026 roadmap targets global expansion, new products, and advanced trading tools for crypto and finance markets.
Crypto traders may soon experience a major upgrade in prediction markets. Backpack, founded by Armani Ferrante, is introducing the Unified Prediction Portfolio, an invite-only private beta designed to tackle long-standing inefficiencies in prediction markets.
Traditionally, traders lock up their USD or crypto for the duration of an event, often facing high opportunity costs. Consequently, even skilled traders may hesitate to place bets, reducing liquidity and market efficiency. Armani Ferrante explained, “With the Unified Prediction Portfolio, your capital can be used not just in a prediction, but across all of Backpack seamlessly without fragmenting your balances.”
The launch represents a significant step for the crypto-finance space. Unlike platforms such as Kalshi or Polymarket, Backpack offers a fully native, vertically integrated system. It combines spot trading, spot-margin, borrow-lending, perpetual futures, and prediction markets under a single portfolio.
Hence, traders can quote price predictions, get filled, and hedge on perps simultaneously, all within one margin account. Additionally, Backpack integrates advanced order types, world-class fiat rails, and connections to every major blockchain network.
Risk Management and Liquidity Innovation
One concern in prediction markets is illiquidity and price manipulation. On social media, a user asked, “How are you going to estimate a fair price for prediction markets and liquidate positions on illiquid orderbooks?”
Armani Ferrante responded, “Not exactly. Predictions are fully collateralized (via your entire portfolio). You don't need to estimate a fair for the prediction position, only the max loss, and an estimate on your other positions + crypto, which can be accurately estimated.” Moreover, Backpack’s cross-margin and cross-collateralization system ensures traders avoid over-leveraging, making it safer to combine perps with predictions.
Looking Ahead: Global Expansion and Product Growth
Backpack plans a gradual beta rollout, focusing initially on portfolio functionality and risk engine performance. Consequently, active traders will receive invites to test the platform, providing critical feedback.
Ferrante also revealed that in 2026, Backpack plans to roll out new products, expand into more markets, and go global, growing from 48% coverage to the entire world. This means the platform isn’t just improving prediction markets—it’s also giving traders better tools to manage risk, access liquidity, and handle all their trading in one place.
By combining predictions, perpetuals, and spot trading in a single account, Backpack could change how traders think about using their capital, protecting themselves, and making trades. On top of that, its system opens the door for new features like insurance, advanced hedging, and automated trading strategies that other platforms don’t offer yet.
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XVG Technical Analysis Reveals Bullish Price Action Across Key Timeframes
XVG breaks a descending channel on the 8-hour chart, confirming momentum reversal with sustained bullish structure.
Monthly dominance charts show accumulation and compression beneath long-term resistance, suggesting a potential macro transition.
Relative strength structures indicate XVG may outperform BTC if higher-timeframe resistance levels are confirmed.
XVG Technical Analysis points to a shift in market structure as short-term momentum aligns with improving long-term dominance trends across key timeframes.
Short-Term Structure Shows Momentum Reversal
XVG Technical Analysis on the 8-hour timeframe reflects a completed bearish phase marked by a descending channel. Price respected lower highs and lower lows, yet volatility steadily compressed toward the channel’s final section.
This compression suggested seller fatigue rather than renewed downside conviction from market participants. The technical turning point occurred with a decisive breakout above descending resistance.
The breakout candle showed strong range expansion, followed by bullish continuation without immediate rejection. Several analysts on X noted that such follow-through often confirms genuine demand entering the market.
A projected measured move estimates upside near forty-five percent from the breakout base. Price continues pressing toward the upper target zone, supported by consistent higher closes.
As long as price holds above former resistance, the short-term bias remains constructive.
XVG Technical Analysis on the monthly dominance chart provides a broader structural context.After years of underperformance, price stabilized within a clearly defined horizontal demand zone.
Each test of this zone produced higher lows, suggesting supply absorption rather than distribution.Repeated monthly closes near this resistance indicate building pressure rather than rejection.
Market observers on X referenced this compression as a common precursor to directional expansion. Momentum conditions also show improvement on the macro timeframe.
The RSI recovered from oversold levels and now holds above the midpoint. This behavior reflects stabilization and gradual strength returning to relative performance.
XVG Technical Analysis against Bitcoin dominance presents another layer of confirmation.The relative-strength chart displays a rounded base forming after an extended macro decline.
This structure indicates long-term accumulation following seller exhaustion.An ascending triangle has emerged on the monthly timeframe.
Higher lows press against a flat resistance band, tightening the range over time. Such formations often precede expansion when confirmed by a breakout.
Moving averages have flattened and begun converging near current price levels. This alignment reduces downside pressure while maintaining clear risk boundaries.Traders on X described the setup as a coiled structure awaiting confirmation. Short-term continuation remains favored while higher-timeframe resistance levels define confirmation thresholds.
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Senate Stablecoin Yield Talks Near Deadline Amid Dissent
Negotiators say a stablecoin yield compromise was reached, but details remain undisclosed and unconfirmed in final text.
Some Democratic offices still oppose a yield ban, signaling unresolved concerns after the amendment deadline.
Uncertainty over final language clouds whether the deal can unlock progress on broader stablecoin rules.
A debate has started after the U.S. Senate Banking released revised text on stablecoin rules. The update followed negotiations over yield on stablecoin accounts, ahead of a 5 p.m. ET amendment deadline. Patrick Witt said negotiators reached a compromise, although some Democratic offices remained dissatisfied, according to multiple reports.
Compromise Claims Surface After Senate Interview
In a Monday interview, Patrick Witt said talks produced a solution acceptable to banks and crypto firms. He described the progress as unexpected, noting that agreement appeared impossible only a week earlier. According to Witt, some public reports reflected outdated concerns that negotiators had already resolved.
He said industry participants played a key role in narrowing differences. Witt emphasized that earlier legislative battles already addressed similar issues. He added that reopening those debates now made little sense, given prior discussions around stablecoin oversight.
Moreover, Witt said the compromise removed another obstacle from ongoing negotiations. He suggested that resolving the yield issue could help address remaining disagreements. However, he did not disclose specific text changes or confirm whether revisions were finalized.
Democratic Concerns Persist Past Amendment Deadline
Despite those statements, reports later Monday said some Democratic Senate offices remained unsatisfied. Notably, objections centered on a provision banning yield on stablecoin account balances. Staff concerns reportedly persisted even after the 5 p.m. ET amendment deadline passed.
At the same time, it remained unclear whether Senate Banking altered the text released the previous night. Lawmakers had not publicly confirmed any post-deadline edits. As a result, uncertainty surrounded the final language under consideration.
This disconnect highlighted differing views on whether consensus truly existed. While negotiators cited progress, staff-level resistance suggested unresolved policy concerns. Consequently, the status of the compromise remained unsettled.
Focus on Final Text and Remaining Issues
Attention is on whether Senate Banking adopts the proposed compromise language. The stablecoin yield debate has remained one of the most contentious issues in the bill. Therefore, its resolution carries procedural significance for broader negotiations.
Witt said solving this issue could create momentum for other outstanding matters. However, reports indicated that not all parties agreed progress was complete. As discussions continued, lawmakers and staff awaited clarity on the final legislative text.
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Aster “Human vs AI” Live Trading Competition Season 1 Concludes
George Town, British Virgin Islands, January 14th, 2026, Chainwire
Human Trader ProMint Claims Championship as AI Demonstrates Superior Risk Control
Aster, the high-performance and privacy-focused on-chain trading platform backed by YZi Labs, has announced the final results of its “Human vs AI” live trading competition. Conducted over a two-week period under highly volatile market conditions, the event highlighted a clear contrast between discretionary human trading and AI-driven strategies.
While individual human trader ProMint secured the top ranking with positive net profits, the human trading team as a whole recorded an overall ROI of -32.22%, reflecting significant performance dispersion across participants. In contrast, AI agents delivered materially more stable results at the aggregate level, limiting total losses to approximately USD 13,000 and achieving an overall ROI of -4.48% across all participating AI strategies.
Trading Insight: Stability vs Asymmetric Opportunity
Competition data highlighted a clear contrast in risk behavior between human traders and AI agents. During the event, 43% of human participants were liquidated, while all 30 AI agents completed the competition without a single liquidation, achieving a 100% survival rate.
According to Aster, the results underscore the structural strengths of AI-driven strategies in stable, risk-controlled market environments, where systematic execution and disciplined risk management help mitigate large drawdowns. At the same time, the findings also suggest that in market conditions driven by human emotion, rapid market shifts, and nonlinear price dynamics, discretionary human traders with strong judgment and narrative awareness can still capture asymmetric opportunities and outperform purely systematic approaches.
Future Competitiveness Lies in Collaboration, Not Replacement
Competition data showed that human traders exhibited significantly wider performance dispersion, with individual gains exceeding USD 19,000 and losses in other cases approaching USD 18,000, resulting in higher overall return volatility.
Aster emphasized that the “Human vs AI” showdown was designed not to determine replacement, but to clarify evolving roles. AI is becoming a foundational tool for execution and risk management, while human traders increasingly contribute judgment, context awareness, and narrative interpretation in complex market conditions. As a result, Aster believes future competitiveness will be driven by collaboration between humans and AI, rather than direct confrontation.
Aster: Using the Market as a Real-World Testing Ground
Aster stated that the initial goal of hosting this live trading showdown was to observe how different trading participants behave on the same decentralized infrastructure under real market conditions, rather than relying on backtesting or simulated data.
As the decentralized derivatives market continues to grow, Aster will continue to explore infrastructure designs that better serve professional trading needs, enabling strategies, risk management, and execution to achieve higher certainty on-chain.
“This was not a competition with a predetermined conclusion, but a starting point,” said Leonard, CEO of Aster, in the post-event summary. “As markets become more complex, traders need more than individual tools. They need integrated systems that can evolve alongside the market.”
The Next Trading Showdown Begins on Jan 22
Aster has confirmed that the next live trading showdown will officially kick off on January 22 and take place on the Aster Chain Testnet.
This upcoming event will open participation to a newly expanded group of traders, including professional participants from around the world, enabling live competitive trading within Aster’s testnet environment.
Additional details regarding competition mechanics, rewards, and participation criteria are available in Aster’s official X competition announcement.
About Aster
Aster is an on-chain trading platform offering high-performance perpetual and spot trading with MEV-aware trading mechanics, advanced order types such as Hidden Orders, and a protected trading mode, Shield Mode, across multiple chains. Beyond trading, Aster enables greater capital efficiency through Trade & Earn and supports ecosystem growth via Rocket Launch, which connects real traders with early-stage liquidity opportunities. Backed by YZi Labs, Aster is building toward its own Aster Chain and is currently running a multi-stage airdrop and incentive program to support its global community.
Users can learn more at the Aster official website or connect with Aster on the official X account.
Disclaimer: Any information written in this press release does not constitute investment advice. Crypto Front News does not, and will not endorse any information about any company or individual on this page. Readers are encouraged to do their own research and base any actions on their own findings, not on any content written in this press release. Crypto Front News is and will not be responsible for any damage or loss caused directly or indirectly by the use of any content, product, or service mentioned in this press release. For more details, visit our disclaimer page.
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HyperliquidX monetizes 10x more per volume, highlighting Lighter’s need for unique features to compete effectively.
Lighter, the Ethereum-based perpetuals DEX, has seen a steep drop in metrics since its token generation event (TGE) on December 30, 2025. The platform launched $LIT, a token with a total supply of 1 billion, airdropping 25% to users. It debuted near $3.70, peaked at $4.04, but fell sharply to $2.05 by January 13, resulting in a $514 million market cap.
The rapid decline has sparked debate over Lighter’s sustainability and ability to compete with established platforms like HyperliquidX. Investors and analysts are closely monitoring whether the platform can recover or if the market has moved on.
Volume Trends and Market Reactions
According to jez, a market analyst, “Lighter has seen volumes come in from 10bn+ to finding its base ~2-4bn again. The same this is the answer to ‘how much volume is organic.’” He added that Lighter’s daily volume growth reflects real trading activity, even if it remains below the airdrop-driven peaks.
Jez emphasized that trading revenue should not be the only focus, arguing, “Perps are a land grab and trading revenue for market share is a long-term winning strategy.” He predicts both HyperliquidX and Lighter will continue separating from smaller competitors, benefiting from immediate liquidity and economics rather than speculative hype.
However, Simon Dedic, founder of Moonrock Capital, criticized Lighter’s long-term strategy. He stated, “Lighter was nothing more than an opportunistic farm, designed for short-term extraction, dumping $LIT, and moving on to the next opportunity.”
Dedic highlighted that the project has consistently declined across all major metrics, including new users, TVL, fees, and activity. He warned that pursuing market share without product differentiation often leads to failure, citing past examples from Layer 1 networks and DeFi protocols.
Moreover, 0xLouisT noted a critical metric difference between Lighter and HyperliquidX. “HL monetizes its trading volume at a rate 10x higher than Lighter: a signal of pricing power. Unless you have significant product differentiation, simply undercutting the market leader on fees cannot be a winning strategy.”
Consequently, Lighter’s path to reclaiming market dominance appears challenging. Its future likely depends on creating unique offerings rather than replicating competitors’ models.
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The draft grants non-security status to tokens in ETFs by 2026, placing XRP, SOL and DOGE alongside Bitcoin and Ethereum.
It draws a firm SEC–CFTC split, adds disclosure rules, and protects developers’ accurate public communications.
Exchanges face stricter custody, surveillance, proof-of-reserves rules, with DeFi added to systemic risk oversight.
A new draft of the CLARITY Act surfaced this week in the U.S. Senate, outlining a revised crypto market structure. The proposal, released by the Senate Banking Committee, seeks to define regulatory oversight, asset classification, and exchange standards. Lawmakers introduced it ahead of scheduled markup hearings, aiming to address long-standing regulatory uncertainty through statutory rules.
ETF-Based Classification and Asset Status
Under the draft, cryptocurrencies included in exchange-traded products by Jan. 1, 2026, gain non-ancillary asset status. This classification would exempt them from Securities and Exchange Commission securities rules. Notably, the approach relies on ETF participation rather than token design.
Chairman Tim Scott’s proposal places XRP, Solana, and Dogecoin alongside Bitcoin and Ethereum. Litecoin, Hedera, and Chainlink also qualify under existing ETP listings. Consequently, these assets would receive equivalent regulatory treatment once the law takes effect.
According to industry observers, this structure establishes parity through regulated market inclusion. Jamie Elkaleh of Bitget Wallet said the framework regulates crypto through financial product exposure. Similarly, Jordan Jefferson of DogeOS noted the clarity expands which institutions can legally engage with specific tokens.
Clear Agency Roles and Disclosure Standards
The draft also defines regulatory jurisdiction. Securities fall under the SEC, while commodities move to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. This separation aims to end overlapping enforcement disputes between agencies.
Additionally, the bill introduces ancillary asset disclosure requirements. Projects must publish details on token creation, ownership concentration, governance, system mechanics, and risks. Larger fundraises exceeding $25 million require audited financial statements and verified treasury disclosures.
The proposal also shields software developers. Builders may discuss roadmaps and features, provided statements remain accurate. This provision seeks to reduce legal exposure tied to public communications.
Exchanges, Market Integrity, and DeFi Oversight
The legislation imposes registration and custody standards for crypto exchanges. Platforms must segregate customer funds, implement surveillance systems, and prevent manipulation. Wash trading, spoofing, and front-running would become criminal offenses.
Exchanges must also provide proof of reserves through regular verification. This measure targets failures linked to undisclosed liabilities. Furthermore, the bill formally incorporates decentralized finance into systemic risk and cybersecurity planning.
The Senate Banking Committee plans to debate amendments during Thursday’s markup session. Joshua Chu of the Hong Kong Web3 Association said political dynamics, including upcoming elections, remain a decisive factor.
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