Alternative News for You

by Cointelegraph by Yashu Gola on April 20, 2025 at 11:50 am

Bitcoin (BTC) price has rebounded by 14.60% after plunging below $75,000 for the first time in five months in April. However, its failure to break above the $85,000 resistance level decisively has sparked concerns that the ongoing recovery may trap bulls.BTC/USD daily price chart. Source: TradingViewGold’s rally may risk crashing Bitcoin below $50,000 Bitcoin could continue to underperform as Donald Trump’s intensifying global trade war drives investors toward safer assets like gold, according to Bloomberg’s Senior Commodity Strategist Mike McGlone.McGlone argues that risk assets are showing signs of reverting to long-term means, mainly their 200-week moving averages that have historically served as critical floor during major price corrections.Bitcoin and S&P 500 weekly chart comparison. Source: Mike McGloneAs of April 20, Bitcoin’s 200-week moving average was around $46,300, down by about 45% compared to current price levels at around $85,000. Meanwhile, gold has surged to a record high of $3,115 per ounce in April, up over 19% year-to-date. The precious metal continues to attract capital amid rising geopolitical tensions, recession fears, and tariff-driven inflation risks. XAU/USD versus BTC/USD year-to-date performance chart. Source: TradingViewAccording to McGlone, this rotation into hard assets like gold and out-of-high-beta plays like crypto reflects a classic flight to safety.The divergence between gold and Bitcoin is evident in institutional investment trends.For instance, the ETFs backed by the precious metal have seen consistent inflows in 2025, attracting over $27.10 billion year-to-date, according to data resource World Gold Council.Gold vs Bitcoin ETF holdings year-to-date comparison. Source: World Gold Council, GlassnodeConversely, Bitcoin ETFs have experienced $12.38 billion in outflows, according to data resource Glassnode.However, not all analysts see gold’s rally lasting. Veteran trader Peter Brandt pointed to a possible “blow-off top” for gold, warning that such rapid gains typically end in sharp reversals, though timing the peak remains risky. Some believe that if gold’s momentum fades, Bitcoin could continue its bull run, providing its history of lagging the precious metal rally by several months.Source: Lawrence LepardBitcoin’s unrealized losses suggest early bear market riskGlassnode data reveals a growing divergence between short-term and long-term Bitcoin holders, hinting at potential early-stage bear market conditions, albeit not a confirmed crash.Notably, short-term holders (STHs)—those who acquired Bitcoin within the past few months—have been facing substantial unrealized losses relative to the current drawdown. Bitcoin STH unrealizes losses per percent chart. Source: GlassnodeThis level of loss, normalized by drawdown percentage, is comparable to the early stages of past bear markets, including late 2018 and early 2022.In contrast, long-term holders (LTHs)—those holding Bitcoin for over 155 days—remain broadly in profit. Bitcoin STH vs LTC unrealized loss per percent chart. Source: Glassnode However, the data suggests a growing risk: as BTC top buyers from recent highs age into LTH status, more unrealized losses could shift into the long-term cohort. Historically, most shifts in loss absorption have preceded bear market regimes.Therefore, the risk lies in whether LTH profitability can withstand prolonged market weakness—or if capitulation sets in as it did during previous downtrends. For now, caution may be warranted, but this data does not yet confirm an outright crash.Bitcoin is still in bull market, PlanB assertsSome analysts view the current dip as a standard correction within a broader bull trend. Among them is pseudonymous analyst PlanB, who argues that Bitcoin remains structurally bullish.According to PlanB’s Stock-to-Flow (S2F) and 200-week moving average models, Bitcoin’s current price action mirrors historical consolidation phases seen before major rallies. Bitcoin 200-week moving averages vs 200-week geometric mean chart. Source: PlanBIn particular, past cycles show that when the 200-week simple moving average (black line) converges with the 200-week geometric mean (gray line), Bitcoin tends to surge soon after. This convergence is happening again in April.PlanB also highlights the red-dot phase—representing the 6-month pre-halving to the 18-month post-halving window—as historically bullish. Bitcoin is now seven months into this period, which has consistently delivered explosive price action in previous cycles.Edit the caption here or remove the text"On-chain indicators still point to a bull market," PlanB noted, suggesting that the recent pullback is more likely a setup for the next leg higher above $100,000 than a breakdown into a bear market.This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.

on April 20, 2025 at 10:46 am

The pope, who is still recovering from a near-fatal bout of double pneumonia, drew cheers and applause from the gathered crowds.

by Cointelegraph by Zoltan Vardai on April 20, 2025 at 9:45 am

Dogecoin holders worldwide celebrate “Dogeday” on April 20, as the memecoin’s community awaits upcoming deadlines for Dogecoin-related exchange-traded fund (ETF) applications.Dogeday marks the unofficial holiday of the Dogecoin (DOGE) community. It gained traction in the memecoin community four years ago, in 2021, during International Weed Day on April 20.Source: BitgetDespite its reputation as a joke token, Dogecoin remains the eighth-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, currently valued at $23.3 billion, according to CoinMarketCap.Dogecoin’s tokenomics have often been criticized for issuing 14.4 million worth of new DOGE into circulation per day, giving it a daily inflation rate of over $2.16 million.Related: Altseason 2025: ‘Most altcoins won’t make it,’ CryptoQuant CEO saysTop 10 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization. Source: CoinMarketCapDogecoin’s staying power “stems from a blend of community-driven enthusiasm, low entry barriers, and speculative appeal,” according to Anndy Lian, author and intergovernmental blockchain expert.Dogecoin’s inflationary tokenomics may also contribute to its retail appeal, Lian told Cointelegraph, adding:“Unlike Bitcoin or Ethereum, Dogecoin’s inflationary supply — adding roughly 5 billion coins annually — keeps prices accessible, typically under $1, making it psychologically appealing for retail investors.”“The retail appeal is amplified by Dogecoin’s meme-driven branding, which resonates with younger, internet-savvy investors,” explained Lian.Related: Solana, XRP ETFs may attract billions in new investment — JPMorganMemecoins like Dogecoin lack underlying blockchain use cases and typically rally based on social media traction and retail hype alone.In November 2024, Dogecoin surpassed Porsche’s market capitalization, driven by continued social media endorsements by billionaire Elon Musk.Dogecoin community awaits DOGE ETFs deadline in MayThe Dogecoin community is closely watching the US Securities and Exchange Commission as it weighs several DOGE-related ETF applications.There are four Dogecoin ETF filings awaiting approval: the Bitwise Dogecoin ETF, the Grayscale Dogecoin ETF, the 21Shares Dogecoin ETF and the Osprey Fund Dogecoin ETF.Grayscale’s ETF application is due for a response on May 21 after the SEC delayed its decision on multiple crypto ETF filings.The SEC has delayed deciding to approve several altcoin ETFs. Source: SECBitwise’s filing could receive a response on May 18, which marks the end of the SEC’s 75-day initial review period after the 19b-4 filing. However, the 240-day review period could enable the regulator to delay the decision until October 2024 for both filings.The ETF applications from 21Shares and Osprey are still pending review for their initial 19b-4 filings, with no set deadline from the securities regulator.Magazine: Crypto ‘more taboo than OnlyFans,’ says Violetta Zironi, who sold song for 1 BTC

on April 20, 2025 at 9:44 am

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Russia is making a pretence of a ceasefire to advance on Ukraine's frontline.

by Cointelegraph by Alon Muroch on April 20, 2025 at 9:00 am

Opinion by: Alon Muroch, founder of SSV LabsEven though Ethereum remains a leader in terms of total value locked (TVL), things aren’t looking great. Network activity is hemorrhaging, and momentum is slipping. Ethereum has become locked in a fight for its future. Without meaningful change, Ethereum risks becoming inaccessible to the builders and users it needs to thrive. Ethereum needs fresh ideas to bolster the ecosystem out of its slump, unify it, and genuinely support innovation.Enter based applications (bApps), which are any application or service that uses the Ethereum validator set for security. Inspired by the based movement, bApps enable any project to bootstrap directly from the Ethereum layer 1 (L1), enabling interoperable, scalable and cost-effective development.High stakes and high costsThe recent decline in network activity highlights a deep issue across Ethereum, and it boils down to UX. The race to scale a blockchain isn’t just about TVL and transactions per second (TPS). It’s about the experience of users and developers who co-create the ecosystem. Ease of development and interoperable developer ecosystems and applications are paramount. Improving the developer experience is crucial for improving user experience, which drives adoption.Today, builders are presented with two options. The first and more popular one is restaking, which has become the default mechanism for bootstrapping new services by locking up validators’ withdrawal keys or large amounts of capital for security. That leaves teams with only one other inconvenient alternative: self-bootstrapping. Building a validator set from scratch is resource-heavy, technically complex and often starts off centralized. Both choices are limiting for builders and don’t solve the fragmentation problems we see today in Ethereum.It is not just builders but validators that are affected by this system. In the current restaking setup, validators who want to earn more yield by supporting new services must restake, lock up their withdrawal keys, and take on additional risk. By locking up withdrawal keys to secure applications with slashable capital, validators are exposed to cascading risks, which, at scale, could affect Ethereum itself — a core departure from Ethereum’s founding vision.bApps are more securebApps provide a third, more accessible option for self-bootstrapping and restaking. Using based security infrastructure drastically lowers entry barriers for any size protocol to build securely and sustainably, all while preserving the traditional network effects of Ethereum. Validators are incentivized to join through risk-free yield opportunities; developers can affordably access security to build; and users benefit from a unified and interoperable ecosystem.Recent: SSV Network to create ‘based’ apps infrastructure for EthereumMission-critical services like rollups, bridges and oracles don’t need to reinvent the wheel. They simply plug into an existing, trusted security model. Using Ethereum validators as a primary security base, any out-of-protocol service can inherit the Ethereum L1’s decentralization and Sybil resistance. It’s also possible to extend this paradigm beyond Ethereum, enabling other L1 validators to secure bApps. This potentially turns bApps into a marketplace for multichain security, dramatically reducing the complexity (and cost) for developers and raising the bar for the entire ecosystem, offering a “based” path forward.bApps empower validators to earn more with their existing stake. By primarily using the validator principle as non-slashable security, validators can opt into many services through their existing Ethereum validator role without needing to restake or supply extra stakes. This would encourage broader validator participation, especially from smaller or more risk-averse operators, which is excellent considering solo stakers are an important ecosystem pillar.bApps unlock scalabilitybApps also revolutionize Ethereum’s current bootstrapping ecosystem, which relies heavily on slashable capital. In restaking, one participant’s gain may directly correspond to another’s loss, creating a zero-sum model. Building a competitive dynamic where participants must add or reallocate resources instead of sharing them, consequently working against new entrants by creating competition for limited attention and resources.The based economy, conversely, promotes an infinite-sum game, transforming competition for resources into a synergistic environment where new applications, services and participants increase the overall value of the platform. Each new validator increases security for bApps, and each new bApp provides new opportunities for validators. This infinitely scalable model breaks free from the limitations of a zero-sum model, enabling seamless bootstrapping, rewarding innovation and building more secure, inclusive and resilient ecosystems.Unifying Ethereum’s fractured ecosystemFor Ethereum to grow, fragmentation has to be addressed. Builders need building blocks, which need to be secure, low-cost, interoperable and scalable. Think about what cloud computing did for Web2. BApps offer just that — by introducing an infinite-sum game, they unlock scalability and provide a safe and affordable way to bootstrap with Ethereum’s proof-of-stake network.If Ethereum is to be the foundation of tomorrow’s decentralized world, it must empower the builders of today. The way forward is to solve Ethereum’s user and developer experience problem with a based infrastructure. Going based is the clear solution.Opinion by: Alon Muroch, founder of SSV Labs. This article is for general information purposes and is not intended to be and should not be taken as legal or investment advice. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed here are the author’s alone and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions of Cointelegraph.

by Cointelegraph by Ciaran Lyons on April 20, 2025 at 6:54 am

Jan3 CEO Samson Mow says that Bitcoin dominance hasn’t yet exhausted its upside trajectory after analyzing how altcoin prices would stack up against Bitcoin if all were on equal terms of total supply.His forecast for Bitcoin (BTC) Dominance to rise further comes as the ratio has already exceeded the levels many crypto analysts expected it would reach by late 2024.“Unit bias is absolutely destroying the uninitiated,” Mow said in an April 19 X post. Mow suggested that unit bias — a psychological method in behavioral economics that suggests that individuals usually like to own a complete unit or stock regardless of its price and size — often causes less experienced investors to assume cheaper whole altcoins are better value than owning part of a Bitcoin.Mow questions altcoin valuations on level playing field“You can buy one twenty-one millionth of the BTC supply for ~$85,000,” Mow said. He asked, “What happens if you remove unit bias from alts to calculate the equivalent of 1/21 million?”He pointed out that Ether (ETH) would be priced at $9,200, XRP (XRP) would be priced at $5,800, and Solana (SOL) would be priced at $3,400 — representing increases of approximately 278,746%, 470%, and 2,328%, respectively, from their prices at the time of publication, according to CoinMarketCap data.“No way these alts are worth that much,” Mow said. Source: Samson MowSunny Po, an anonymous Bitcoin proponent, said on Jan. 12 that “Unit bias is a core foundational framework of the normie mind. ‘Cheaper better.’”Mow said that “most” altcoins take advantage of unit bias by implementing a very high total supply so market participants “can’t figure out what they’re buying.”Related: XRP: Why it’s outperforming altcoins — and what comes nextBased on his calculations, Mow said Bitcoin dominance is going “so much higher.” Bitcoin dominance — a metric that reflects Bitcoin’s share of the total crypto market capitalization — is often used by traders to gauge when Bitcoin might be nearing a price peak. Historically, when Bitcoin Dominance declines, it often signals the start of altcoin season, with capital flowing from Bitcoin into altcoins to find higher returns.Bitcoin Dominance is up 9.11% over the past six months. Source: TradingViewAt the time of publication, Bitcoin Dominance is sitting at 63.69%, as per TradingView data.Several crypto analysts were forecasting Bitcoin Dominance to top out at 60% in late 2024 before the beginning of an altcoin season. In August 2024, Into The Cryptoverse founder Benjamin Cowen said “I don’t think it is going back up to 70%, my target for Bitcoin dominance has been 60%.”Magazine: Altcoin season to hit in Q2? Mantra’s plan to win trust: Hodler’s Digest, April 13 – 19

by Tessa Flemming on April 20, 2025 at 6:53 am

NASA astronaut Don Pettit, who spent 220 days in the ISS and orbited the Earth 3,520 times, landed back on Earth in Kazakhstan on Saturday local time. 

by Menagerie on April 20, 2025 at 5:00 am

  Reading 1 Acts 10:34a, 37-43 Peter proceeded to speak and said: “You know what has happened all over Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached, how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power. He went about doing good and healing all those oppressed by the devil, for The post He is Risen appeared first on The Last Refuge.

by Andrew McGarry and Marnie Vinall on April 20, 2025 at 4:46 am

In the aftermath of their 71-point victory over St Kilda, the Western Bulldogs will be sweating on Sam Darcy's scan results after he was forced from the field with a serious knee injury.

by Ethan Rix and Melissa Brown on April 20, 2025 at 4:45 am

Two men remain missing since Friday, one in NSW and the other in Victoria, as the search to recover their bodies has so far failed.

by Kellie Scott on April 20, 2025 at 4:29 am

Luke Tribe didn't feel ready to get another dog soon after saying goodbye to his best friend of 10 years. But that time did eventually come.

by Sundance on April 20, 2025 at 4:20 am

In an effort to keep the Daily Open Thread a little more open topic we are going to start a new daily thread for “Presidential Politics”. Please use this thread to post anything relating to the Donald Trump Administration and Presidency. This thread will refresh daily and appear above the Open Discussion Thread. Posted in The post April 20th – 2025 Presidential Politics – Trump Administration Day 91 appeared first on The Last Refuge.

by Sundance on April 20, 2025 at 4:15 am

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. THY WILL BE DONE, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but DELIVER US FROM EVIL. The post Sunday April 20th – Open Thread appeared first on The Last Refuge.

by Cointelegraph by Ciaran Lyons on April 20, 2025 at 4:04 am

The Bank for International Settlements’ (BIS) push to isolate crypto markets and its controversial recommendations on DeFi and stablecoins is “dangerous” for the entire financial system, warns the head of a blockchain investment firm.“Many of their recommendations and conclusions — perhaps due to a mix of fear, arrogance, or ignorance — are completely uninformed and, frankly, dangerous,” CoinFund president Christopher Perkins said in an April 19 X post, referring to the BIS’ April 15 report titled “Cryptocurrencies and Decentralized Finance: Functions and Financial Stability Implications.” BIS recommendations exposes TradFi to risks of “unimaginable scale”“Crypto is not communism,” Perkins said, pushing back against the BIS’ call for a “containment” approach to isolate crypto from traditional finance and the broader economy.“It’s the new internet that provides anyone with a connection access to financial services,” Perkins said. “You cannot control it anymore than you control the internet,” he added.Perkins warned that a containment approach to crypto would expose the traditional financial system to massive liquidity risks “of unimaginable scale,” especially when the crypto market operates in real-time, 24/7, while traditional financial markets shuts down after trading hours.“If implemented they will cause--not mitigate--the systemic risk they seek to prevent.”The report warned that the number of investors and amount of capital in crypto and DeFi have “reached a critical mass,” with investor protection becoming a “significant concern for regulators.”Source: Michael EgorovPerkins pushed back against the BIS’ claim that DeFi presents significant challenges, arguing instead that it represents a “significant improvement” over the “opacity” and imbalances of the traditional financial system.Related: Crypto industry is not experiencing regulatory capture — AttorneyResponding to the BIS’s concern about the anonymity of DeFi developers, Perkins questioned its relevance:“Sorry, but when was the last time a TradFi company published a list of its developers? Sure, public companies provide a degree of disclosures and transparency, but they seem to be dying off in favor of private markets.”Perkins also critiqued the BIS’s concern around stablecoins that it could lead to “macroeconomic instability in countries like Venezuela and Zimbabwe.”“If there is demand for USD stablecoins and it helps improve the condition of anyone in the developing world, perhaps that is a good thing,” Perkins said.Source: Christopher PerkinsPerkins wasn’t alone in criticizing the controversial report. Lightspark co-founder Christian Catalini also weighed in, posting a series of critiques on X that same day. Catalini summed up the report with the analogy:“Think: writing parking regulations for a fleet of self‑driving drones — earnest work, two technological leaps behind.”Magazine: Altcoin season to hit in Q2? Mantra’s plan to win trust: Hodler’s Digest, April 13 – 19

by Stephanie Dalzell on April 20, 2025 at 3:56 am

The Coalition has accused Labor of "disgraceful" lies about claims a future Dutton government would scrap almost 90 existing urgent care clinics.

on April 20, 2025 at 3:13 am

Minjee Lee will enter the final day of the LPGA Tour's LA Championship three shots off the lead after fighting back from a mid-round slump.

by Simon Smale on April 20, 2025 at 3:09 am

The Sharks hammered the insipid Knights 34-14 in Newcastle. Earlier, the Titans led Canberra 16-0 in their contest on the Gold Coast, before the Raiders roared back to win 30-20.

by Gareth Hutchens on April 20, 2025 at 2:44 am

Do home owners ever complain when house prices rise? A former prime minister said they didn't, but we're now dealing with the fallout.

by Elizabeth Byrne and Charlotte Gore on April 20, 2025 at 2:27 am

Thousands of people turn out in Canberra for the 59th annual National Folk Festival, with acts ranging from Scottish fiddlers and poetry readings, to folk dancing and a music quiz show. 

on April 20, 2025 at 2:06 am

The state opposition says it's obtained documents showing Melbourne's first COVID curfew was announced without proper health advice.

by Mietta Adams on April 20, 2025 at 1:53 am

The Pilbara is one of the few regions in the country where bilbies are still found. This pastoralist has been working to protect them on her station.

by Mawunyo Gbogbo on April 20, 2025 at 1:36 am

The Sydney Comedy Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary with a program including some of Australia's best known comedians, new talent and guests from across the world.

by Hamish Cole on April 20, 2025 at 1:25 am

Blind cricket gave Scott Jones an opportunity to meet like-minded people after the loss of his eyesight left him with a feeling of grief.

on April 20, 2025 at 1:15 am

The demonstrations ranged from a march through Manhattan and a rally in front of the White House to a demonstration at a Massachusetts Revolutionary War commemoration.

by Elizabeth Byrne, Melissa Brown, Meg Whitfield, and Lottie Twyford on April 20, 2025 at 12:55 am

The faithful have gathered throughout Australia to mark one of the holiest days on the Christian calendar.

by Jake Evans on April 20, 2025 at 12:50 am

Coalition MPs say 14 days is an eternity in politics and the party can reclaim ground before voting day in two weeks' time — even as it fends off new claims the Coalition would revive its unpopular work from home plan after the election.

by Scout Wallen on April 20, 2025 at 12:38 am

An antithesis to mass-produced chipboard furniture, a Tasmanian designer is making pieces that should last "hundreds of years".

by Aaron Kelly on April 20, 2025 at 12:30 am

A new study has found mud crabs actually have complex lives. From long distance travel, to carving up food for little fish, these Easter lunch favourites might surprise you. 

by Menagerie on April 20, 2025 at 12:15 am

Exult, let them exult, the hosts of heaven, exult, let Angel ministers of God exult, let the trumpet of salvation sound aloud our mighty King’s triumph! Be glad, let earth be glad, as glory floods her, ablaze with light from her eternal King, let all corners of the earth be glad, knowing an end to The post The Exsultet (Easter Proclamation) appeared first on The Last Refuge.

by Charlie Mills on April 20, 2025 at 12:11 am

As a storm brews over federal industrial relations changes, government critics say increased worker power will take the resource-rich Pilbara region back to the "bad old days" of union power. But how bad were they?

by Briana Shepherd on April 20, 2025 at 12:04 am

WA Health Department directives restricting filming of ambulance ramping for the TV show Paramedics are labelled dishonest by the state opposition and a disservice to health workers and the public by doctors.

by Jason Dasey on April 19, 2025 at 11:42 pm

Queensland hopeful Reece Walsh may be sidelined for State of Origin I, having sustained a PCL injury in the Broncos' 20-18 golden-point loss to the Warriors in New Zealand.

on April 19, 2025 at 11:32 pm

Trans rights protesters gather in the English capital to protest against the UK's Supreme Court ruling that a woman is someone born biologically female.

on April 19, 2025 at 11:15 pm

Homicide Squad detectives are investigating the death of a man in Melbourne's inner south-east this morning, along with an unrelated serious assault of a woman in the coastal town of Barwon Heads.

by Cointelegraph by Cointelegraph on April 19, 2025 at 9:50 pm

Today in crypto, CoinFund’s president has taken aim at the latest crypto report from the BIS, Charles Schwab CEO eyes April 2026 window for debut of spot Bitcoin trading, a new report from the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) warns that crypto and stablecoins may destabilize finance and widen inequality.‘Crypto is not communism’ — Exec slams BIS’ take on cryptoThe Bank for International Settlements’ (BIS) push to isolate crypto markets and its controversial recommendations on DeFi and stablecoins is “dangerous” for the entire financial system, warns the head of a blockchain investment firm.“Many of their recommendations and conclusions — perhaps due to a mix of fear, arrogance, or ignorance — are completely uninformed and, frankly, dangerous,” CoinFund president Christopher Perkins said in an April 19 X post, referring to the BIS’ April 15 report titled “Cryptocurrencies and Decentralized Finance: Functions and Financial Stability Implications.” “Crypto is not communism,” Perkins said, pushing back against the BIS’ call for a “containment” approach to isolate crypto from traditional finance and the broader economy.“It’s the new internet that provides anyone with a connection access to financial services,” Perkins said. “You cannot control it anymore than you control the internet,” he added.Charles Schwab CEO hints spot BTC trading may come in April 2026Charles Schwab CEO Rick Wurster said the financial services company is looking at a potential April 2026 target to rollout spot Bitcoin trading to its clients.According to RIABiz, the CEO said that crypto was attracting traffic to the financial service company's crypto-focused website.70% of that traffic was not Schwab clients and represented potentially new prospects, Wurster said. The Schwab CEO gave a timeline for the rollout:“Our expectation is that with the changing regulatory environment, we are hopeful and likely to be able to launch direct spot crypto. Our goal is to do that in the next 12 months."The move comes at a time when many traditional financial institutions are increasingly adopting crypto or offering digital asset products to their clients.Crypto, DeFi may widen wealth gap, destabilize finance: BIS reportThe growing adoption of cryptocurrencies may pose risks to the traditional financial system and exacerbate wealth inequality, according to the Bank for International Settlements (BIS).In an April 15 report, the BIS warned that the number of investors and amount of capital in crypto and decentralized finance (DeFi) have “reached a critical mass,” with investor protection becoming a “significant concern for regulators.”The size of the crypto market signals that authorities should be worried about the “stability of crypto over and above the role it may have for TradFi and the real economy,” the report states, highlighting the role of stablecoins, which the BIS said have “become the means through which participants transfer value within crypto.”BIS report on crypto and DeFi’s functions and financial stability implications. Source: BISThe report calls for targeted stablecoin regulation on stability and reserve asset requirements that will guarantee the redemption of stablecoins for US dollars during “stressed market conditions.”

by Cointelegraph by Vince Quill on April 19, 2025 at 9:30 pm

Financial educator, author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad, and investor Robert Kiyosaki recently forecasted a $1 million Bitcoin (BTC) price by 2035 as the US dollar continues to lose value to inflationary monetary policies."I strongly believe, by 2035, that one Bitcoin will be over $ 1 million, Gold will be $30,000, and silver $3,000 a coin," Kiyosaki wrote in an April 18 X post.Kiyosaki, a self-described gold bug, has long argued that bearer assets like gold, silver, and more recently Bitcoin, are critical hedges against inflation and key to long-term generational wealth accumulation through economic cycles.United States M2 money supply 1959-2025. Source: TradingView"In 2025, credit card debt is at all-time highs, US debt is at all-time highs, unemployment is rising, 401k’s are losing, and pensions are being stolen. The USA may be heading for a greater depression," Kiyosaki warned.Kiyosaki, like many other sound money advocates, has continually warned of an impending financial crash brought on by expansionist monetary policies and fiscal irresponsibility. Bitcoin maximalists argue that loose monetary policy will drive the price of Bitcoin to seven-figures.Related: Bitcoin could hit $1M if US buys 1M BTC — Bitcoin Policy InstituteAnalysts eye $1 million BTC in the 2030sIn May 2024, Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey forecasted that the price of a single BTC would be $1 million by 2030 and could appreciate further.Trader and investor Michaël van de Poppe told Cointelegraph, in November 2024, that Bitcoin could go to $1 million. However, the price appreciation would come with hyperinflation and a broader economic collapse, the trader said.Blockstream CEO Adam Back said the price of Bitcoin could rise to $1 million per coin if the Trump administration established a Bitcoin strategic reserve for the United States and started buying Bitcoin on the open market.On Dec. 10, Eric Trump delivered the keynote speech at the Bitcoin MENA event in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and predicted that Bitcoin would hit $1 million due to its scarcity.More recently, in February 2025, Ark Invest CEO Cathie Wood said that Bitcoin could hit $1.5 million by 2030 if demand for the digital asset continues to grow.Magazine: TradFi fans ignored Lyn Alden’s BTC tip — Now she says it’ll hit 7 figures: X Hall of Flame

by Cointelegraph by Vince Quill on April 19, 2025 at 7:45 pm

Charles Schwab Corp CEO Rick Wurster is reportedly eyeing an April 2026 launch window to provide spot Bitcoin (BTC) trading services to Schwab clients.According to RIABiz, Wurster cited a 400% increase in traffic to Schwab's crypto website as evidence of investor interest in digital assets. The CEO predicted:“Our expectation is that with the changing regulatory environment, we are hopeful and likely to be able to launch direct spot crypto. Our goal is to do that in the next 12 months, and we are on a great path to be able to do that.”The Schwab CEO's comments reflect the growing trend of traditional financial (TradFi) institutions adopting crypto products and offering services that blur the line between the digital asset world and TradFi.Related: Lyn Alden lowers Bitcoin forecast after ‘tariff kerfuffle,’ eyes liquiditySchwab makes crypto moves under new CEO Rick Wurster assumed the helm at Schwab in 2025, and in a November 2024 Yahoo Finance interview, said the company was happy to provide services to clients who want to trade digital assets.At the time, Wurster told the financial news outlet that Schwab wanted to offer crypto directly to its clients but was waiting for a positive regulatory catalyst.Following the re-election of Donald Trump in the United States, Wurster said the financial services company anticipated a much better regulatory environment to expand its digital asset services.The Schwab CEO previously said he did not own any cryptocurrency, adding that he felt "silly" for not investing in the nascent asset class as it has continued to provide outsized investment gains.Rick Wurster speaking to Yahoo Finance in November 2024. Source: Yahoo FinanceIn January 2025, Charles Schwab partnered with the Trump Media and Technology Group (TMTG) to provide customized exchange-traded funds and cryptocurrency services for the upcoming "Truth.Fi" service.Truth.Fi will encompass digital assets and traditional financial services as a proposed alternative to the legacy banking system.TMTG CEO, and White House official, Devin Nunes said the goal of TMTG is to provide an option for individuals worried about unfair banking practices and "cancellation, censorship, debanking, and privacy violations committed by big tech and woke corporations.”Magazine: Researchers accidentally turn ChatGPT evil, Grok ‘sexy mode’ horror: AI Eye

by Cointelegraph by Vince Quill on April 19, 2025 at 5:39 pm

Brandon Ferrick, general counsel at Douro Labs, said that the Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) openness to public input on crypto policy and their roundtable discussions are positive signs that the crypto industry is not currently experiencing regulatory capture.In an interview with Cointelegraph, Ferrick identified signs of regulatory capture including, a public-to-private sector revolving door of employees, the same roster of attendees at regulatory events, and special treatment given to certain crypto projects. However, Ferrick added:"The reason why I am not worried today is that a lot of what you're seeing from the regulatory side, like the SEC, for example, is totally open, public, and there are available opportunities to have conversations with the regulators about changing or thinking about the regulatory structures.""[The SEC] has a public portal where you can just submit written commentary on your thoughts for the crypto regulatory environment, and you can schedule meetings with them," the attorney continued.Crypto Industry executives and panelists discuss cohesive crypto regulation at the SEC’s first crypto roundtable in March 2025. Source: SEC As the crypto industry becomes more integrated with the traditional financial system and engages state regulators more, some analysts and executives are worried that the industry is experiencing regulatory capture that will skew incentives and politicize the burgeoning crypto sector.Related: SEC staff gives guidance on how securities laws could apply to cryptoSEC hosts several roundtable discussions on crypto policyThe SEC has hosted several crypto roundtable discussions and panels, with more slated in the coming months — a sharp contrast from the agency's regulation-by-enforcement approach under former SEC chairman Gary Gensler.On March 21, the regulatory agency hosted its first crypto roundtable, which featured crypto industry executives, SEC officials, and even opponents of the crypto industry.Former SEC official John Reed Stark was highly critical of the industry and opposed comprehensive regulatory reform, arguing that digital assets must comply with existing securities laws.Former SEC official John Reed Stark addresses the SEC’s March 2025 crypto roundtable. Source: SECThe SEC's April 11 roundtable focused on trading rules and included a different set of panelists, including representatives from Uniswap and Coinbase.The next SEC panel will occur on April 25 and focus on establishing guidelines for crypto custodians and other firms holding crypto on behalf of customers.Magazine: SEC’s U-turn on crypto leaves key questions unanswered

by Sundance on April 19, 2025 at 5:21 pm

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced an Easter ceasefire of all hostilities in order to celebrate the holiest of Christian holy days.  According to his announcement the ceasefire will last from 6 p.m. Moscow time (1500 GMT) on Saturday, to midnight (2100 GMT) Monday, following Easter Sunday. “We assume that the Ukrainian side will follow The post Russian President Vladimir Putin Announces Easter Ceasefire appeared first on The Last Refuge.

by Sundance on April 19, 2025 at 4:01 pm

The White House provides the following Easter message from President Donald Trump. “As we approach this joyous Easter Sunday, I want to wish Christians everywhere a happy, and beautiful, and blessed holiday. America is a nation of believers. We need God. We want God. And with His help, we will make our nation stronger…” –President The post President Trump Delivers an Easter Message appeared first on The Last Refuge.

by Sundance on April 19, 2025 at 3:54 pm

On this 250th Anniversary of the first Patriots Day, the battle of Lexington and Concord, the White House posts the following historical account for our consideration.  Thank You President Donald J Trump. . Posted in Christian Values, Culture, Heros, History, Patriotism, President Trump, Uncategorized The post 250 Year Anniversary of “The Shot Heard Around the World” – The Battle of Lexington and Concord appeared first on The Last Refuge.

by Cointelegraph by Jin Kwon on April 19, 2025 at 3:00 pm

Opinion by: Jin Kwon, co-founder and chief strategy officer at SagaCrypto has come a long way in boosting transaction throughput. New layer 1s (L1s) and side networks offer faster, cheaper transactions than ever before. Yet, a core challenge has come into focus: liquidity fragmentation — the scattering of capital and users across an ever-growing maze of blockchains.Vitalik Buterin, in a recent blog post, highlighted how scaling successes have led to unforeseen coordination challenges. With so many chains and so much value splintered among them, participants face a daily tangle of bridging, swapping and wallet-switching. While these issues affect Ethereum, they also affect nearly every ecosystem. No matter how advanced, new blockchains risk becoming liquidity “islands” that struggle to connect with one another.The real costs of fragmentationLiquidity fragmentation means there is no single “pool” of assets for traders, investors or decentralized finance (DeFi) applications to tap into. Instead, each blockchain or side network hosts its own siloed liquidity. For a user who wants to buy a token or access a specific lending platform, this siloing introduces multiple headaches. Switching networks, opening specialized wallets and paying multiple transaction fees are far from seamless, especially for those less tech-savvy. Liquidity is also thinner in each isolated pool, leading to price disparities and higher slippage on trades. Many users resort to bridges to move capital across chains, yet these have been frequent targets for exploits, raising fear and mistrust. If it’s too cumbersome or risky to move liquidity around, DeFi fails to gain mainstream momentum. Meanwhile, projects scramble to deploy across multiple networks or risk being left behind.Some observers worry that fragmentation could drive people back to a few dominant chains or centralized exchanges, undermining the decentralized ideals that fueled blockchain’s rise.Familiar fixes, with persisting gapsSolutions have emerged to tackle this tangle. Bridges and wrapped assets enable basic interoperability, but the user experience remains cumbersome. Crosschain aggregators can route tokens through a chain of swaps, yet they generally don’t merge the underlying liquidity. They only help users navigate it. Meanwhile, ecosystems like Cosmos and Polkadot bring interoperability within their frameworks, though they are separate realms in the broader crypto landscape.The problem is fundamental: Each chain views itself as distinct. Any new chain or sub-network must be “plugged in” at the ground level to truly unify liquidity. Otherwise, it adds another liquidity island that users must discover and bridge into. This challenge is compounded by chains, bridges and aggregators seeing one another as competition, leading to intentional siloing and making fragmentation even more pronounced.Integrating liquidity at the base layerIntegration at the base layer addresses liquidity fragmentation by embedding bridging and routing functions directly into a chain’s core infrastructure. This approach appears in certain layer-1 protocols and specialized frameworks, where interoperability is treated as a foundational element rather than an optional add-on. Recent: What are exit liquidity traps — and how to detect them before it is too lateValidator nodes automatically handle crosschain connections, so new chains or side networks can launch with immediate access to the broader ecosystem’s liquidity. This reduces reliance on third-party bridges that often introduce security risks and user friction.Ethereum’s own challenges with heterogeneous layer-2 (L2) solutions underscore why integration is essential. Different participants — Ethereum as a settlement layer, L2s focusing on execution, and various bridging services — have their own motivations, resulting in fragmented liquidity. Buterin’s references to this issue highlight the need for more cohesive designs. An integrated base-layer model brings these components together at launch, ensuring that capital can flow freely without forcing users to navigate multiple wallets, bridge solutions, or rollups.An integrated routing mechanism also consolidates asset transfers, mimicking a unified liquidity pool behind the scenes. By capturing a fraction of the overall liquidity flow rather than charging users for every transaction, such protocols reduce friction and encourage capital mobility across the network. Developers deploying new blockchains gain instant access to a shared liquidity base while end-users avoid juggling multiple tools or encountering unexpected fees. This emphasis on integration helps maintain a seamless experience, even as more networks come online.Not just an Ethereum issueWhile Buterin’s blog post focuses on Ethereum’s rollups, fragmentation is ecosystem-agnostic. Whether a project builds on an Ethereum Virtual Machine-compatible chain, a WebAssembly-based platform, or something else, the fragmentation trap arises if liquidity is fenced off. As more protocols explore base-layer solutions — embedding automatic interoperability into their chain design — there’s hope that future networks won’t splinter capital further but instead help unify it.A clear principle emerges: Throughput means little without connectivity.Users shouldn’t need to think about L1s, L2s or sidechains. They just want seamless access to decentralized applications (DApps), games and financial services. Adopting will follow if stepping onto a new chain feels identical to operating on a familiar network.Toward a unified and liquid futureThe crypto community’s focus on transaction throughput has revealed an unexpected paradox: The more chains we create for speed, the more we fragment our ecosystem’s strength, which lies in its shared liquidity. Each new chain intended to boost capacity creates another isolated pool of capital.Building interoperability directly into blockchain infrastructure offers a clear path through this challenge. When protocols handle crosschain connections automatically and route assets efficiently, developers can expand without splintering their user base or capital. Success in this model comes from measuring and improving how smoothly value moves throughout the ecosystem.The technical foundations for this approach exist today. We must implement them thoughtfully, with attention to security and user experience.Opinion by: Jin Kwon, co-founder and chief strategy officer at Saga. This article is for general information purposes and is not intended to be and should not be taken as legal or investment advice. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed here are the author’s alone and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions of Cointelegraph.

by Cointelegraph by Zoltan Vardai on April 19, 2025 at 2:31 pm

Whales and institutions are increasing their Bitcoin holdings ahead of Easter, as market analysts predict a weekend with less volatility after two weeks of heightened volatility driven by escalating global trade tensions.A wallet linked to London-based investment firm Abraxas Capital acquired 2,949 Bitcoin (BTC) worth more than $250 million during the four days leading up to April 19.In the latest transaction, the firm bought over $45 million worth of Bitcoin from Binance on April 18, according to crypto intelligence firm Lookonchain, citing Arkham Intelligence data.Source: Arkham Intelligence, LookonchainThe investment came days after Michael Saylor’s Strategy bought $285 million worth of Bitcoin at an average price of $82,618 per BTC, as the world’s largest corporate Bitcoin holders signal continued confidence in Bitcoin, amid global tariff uncertainty.Large Bitcoin investors, or whales, continue accumulating, absorbing over 300% of Bitcoin’s yearly issuance as exchanges continue losing coins at a historic pace, Cointelegraph reported on April 18.Related: Spar supermarket in Switzerland starts accepting Bitcoin paymentsCrypto analysts eye quiet Easter weekend after weeks of turmoilDespite continued accumulation from whales and institutions, volatility concerns were raised by significant movements from the medium-term Bitcoin cohort, which holds coins for an average of three to six months.Over 170,000 Bitcoin entered circulation from the medium-term cohort, a development that may signal “imminent” crypto market volatility, according to pseudonymous CryptoQuant analyst Mignolet.“The effect of this metric on LTF moves is overstated as large onchain movement of coins hardly ever affects weekend price action since it’s not on liquid markets or CEX markets,” analysts at Bitfinex exchange told Cointelegraph, adding:“It is important to note that funding rates remain relatively flat currently. Moreover, US markets are closed as we have a long weekend for Easter, so volatility could be suppressed barring headlines from the White House.”Related: Crypto, DeFi may widen wealth gap, destabilize finance: BIS reportMarcin Kazmierczak, chief operating officer of RedStone Oracles, added that the recent movements may be operational transfers, not necessarily signs of imminent selling pressure.Still, concerns over weekend volatility have been amplified over the past two weeks after the Mantra (OM) token’s price collapsed by over 90% on Sunday, April 13, from roughly $6.30 to below $0.50, triggering market manipulation allegations and highlighting “critical” liquidity issues in the industry.Two weeks ago, on April 6, Bitcoin fell below $75,000 on Sunday, as investor concerns spread from a record-breaking  $5 trillion sell-off from the S&P 500, its largest on record.BTC, SPX, year-to-date chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThe correction was caused by Bitcoin’s 24/7 trading availability, which made it the only large liquid asset available for de-risking on Sunday, Blockstream CEO Adam Back told Cointelegraph.“On a weekend, there’s not much volume. So you have a worse risk of rapid sort of flash crashes or flash dips that get filled in again,” he said.Magazine: Bitcoin ATH sooner than expected? XRP may drop 40%, and more: Hodler’s Digest, March 23 – 29

by Cointelegraph by Yashu Gola on April 19, 2025 at 2:15 pm

XRP (XRP) has bounced nearly 30% after a four-month low of $1.61 amid rising tariff tensions. However, the rebound may be short-lived as technical patterns and on-chain signals now point to a deeper correction ahead.XRP cup-and-handle pattern hints at 40% drop XRP is forming a classic bearish reversal pattern that could see its price falling by at least 40% in the coming weeks.Dubbed inverse-cup-and-handle (IC&H), the pattern forms when the price rounds off in a curved descent (cup) followed by a brief consolidation phase (handle) — all atop a common neckline support level. Inverted cup-and-handle pattern illustrated. Source: MediumThe pattern is confirmed by a breakdown stage, where the price breaks decisively below support and falls by as much as the pattern’s maximum height. As of April 19, XRP had entered the pattern’s handle-formation phase, eyeing a decisive close below the neckline support at around $2. In this case, the primary downside target will likely be around $1.24, almost 40% below current prices.XRP/USD three-day price chart. Source: TradingViewThe IC&H target aligns with XRP’s 200-3D exponential moving average (200-3D EMA; the blue wave) at around $1.28 — and further coincides with a November 2024 top.Additionally, veteran trader Peter Brandt suggests that XRP’s market cap could drop by 50% in the coming weeks.Source: Peter BrandtXRP onchain fractal hints at 50% correction XRP’s inverse cup-and-handle pattern is unfolding in line with its historical price behavior, signaling that its 2025 rally may have topped out. For instance, the cryptocurrency saw sharp pullbacks to its aggregated realized price following major surges in previous cycles, most notably in 2018 and 2021.XRP realized price by age (aggregated). Source: GlassnodeFor traders, the realized price serves as a psychological benchmark, representing the average price at which the XRP supply was last moved. When the market price trades well above this level, most holders are in profit, which can encourage complacency or profit-taking. Conversely, if the price nears the realized price, fear of losses tends to rise, and selling pressure can intensify.In 2025, XRP surged past $3.20 before losing steam, repeating patterns seen in past bull-to-bear cycles. The current realized price at around $1, a likely downside target in 2025 down about 50% from the current prices.Interestingly, XRP’s $1 realized price target is closer to its 200-week EMA (the blue wave in the chart below) at $0.81, a bear market target discussed in Cointelegraph’s analysis in late March.XRP/USD weekly price chart. Source: TradingViewAdding to the bearish outlook, over 80% of XRP addresses are currently in profit. The metric historically reached similar levels during previous market tops, often preceding significant rounds of profit-taking and pullbacks. Related: 81.6% of XRP supply is in profit, but traders in Korea are turning bearish — Here is whyXRP percent of addresses in profit. Source: GlassnodeIf history repeats, such similar conditions could incentivize traders to exit positions, accelerating XRP’s retracement toward the realized price.Odds of XRP hitting record highs are declining Sentiment around XRP reaching a new all-time high above the $3.55 level is deteriorating, according to prediction market data from Polymarket. As of April 19, the odds of XRP achieving this milestone before 2026 have dropped to just 35%, marking a sharp 25% decline from peak confidence levels in March, as shown below.XRP all-time highs before 2026 odds. Source: PolymarketThe upside momentum in the crypto market has faded overall in April, coinciding with a broader decline in risk appetite driven by escalating global tariff tensions under Donald Trump’s trade policies.This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.

by Cointelegraph by William Suberg on April 19, 2025 at 1:07 pm

Bitcoin (BTC) faces “unprecedented” US dollar correlation as new BTC price research gives a $75,000 floor.In one of his latest analyses on April 18, network economist Timothy Peterson calculated that BTC/USD may rise as high as $138,000 within the next three months.BTC price probabilities give bulls the upper handBitcoin is navigating highly unusual macroeconomic conditions as a result of the ongoing US trade war, but history still offers clues as to where BTC price action may head next.For Peterson, the US High Yield Index Effective Yield, currently at over 8%, holds the key.“This has happened 38 times since 2010 (monthly data),” he summarized. “3 months later: Bitcoin was up 71% of the time. The median gain was +31%. If it went lower, the worst loss was -16%.”US High Yield Index Effective Yield. Source: Timothy Peterson/XWith BTC/USD performance thus skewed to the upside, Peterson gave hope to those waiting for a rematch of all-time highs from January.“This likely puts Bitcoin between $75k and $138k within 90 days,” he concluded.Bitcoin would need to deliver 62% gains within that period to achieve that maximum level.As Cointelegraph reported, Peterson has been a frequent contributor to BTC price forecasts in 2025, with one of his proprietary tools, Lowest Price Forward, giving 95% odds of a $69,000 floor in March.Bitcoin DXY correlation will flip negativeTurning his attention to the dramatic drop in the US dollar index (DXY) thanks to US trade tariffs, he predicted that its unusual positive correlation with BTC would ultimately end.Related: Bitcoin price volatility 'imminent' as speculators move 170K BTC — CryptoQuant“This level of BTC-USD correlation is unprecedented. The relationship is not causal, but reflective of underlying conditions affecting both,” he explained.  “Historically inverse, the relationship flipped in 2024 as both assets began responding to the same macro stressors: tightening liquidity, high real rates, and global risk aversion.  BTC will decouple and rise when real yields drop + liquidity returns.”BTC/USD vs. US dollar index (DXY). Source: Timothy Peterson/XDXY continued to stay below the key 100 mark on April 18, per data from Cointelegraph Markets Pro and TradingView, reflecting some of its lowest levels in the past three years.Earlier, separate analysis nonetheless saw the potential for Bitcoin to directly benefit from dollar weakness in a manner similar to the early innings of the bull run in 2023.US dollar index (DXY) 1-week chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThis article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.

by Cointelegraph by Zoltan Vardai on April 19, 2025 at 11:43 am

The growing adoption of cryptocurrencies may pose risks to the traditional financial system and exacerbate wealth inequality, according to the Bank for International Settlements (BIS).In an April 15 report, the BIS warned that the number of investors and amount of capital in crypto and decentralized finance (DeFi) have “reached a critical mass,” with investor protection becoming a “significant concern for regulators.”The size of the crypto market signals that authorities should be worried about the “stability of crypto over and above the role it may have for TradFi and the real economy,” the report states, highlighting the role of stablecoins, which the BIS said have “become the means through which participants transfer value within crypto.”BIS report on crypto and DeFi’s functions and financial stability implications. Source: BISThe report calls for targeted stablecoin regulation on stability and reserve asset requirements that will guarantee the redemption of stablecoins for US dollars during “stressed market conditions.”Related: Spar supermarket in Switzerland starts accepting Bitcoin paymentsThe report comes two weeks after the US House Financial Services Committee passed the Stablecoin Transparency and Accountability for a Better Ledger Economy, or STABLE Act, with a 32–17 vote on April 2.Source: Financial Services GOPThe STABLE Act aims to create a clear regulatory framework for dollar-denominated payment stablecoins, emphasizing transparency and consumer protection.On March 13, the GENIUS Act, short for Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoins, passed the Senate Banking Committee by a vote of 18–6. The act aims to establish collateralization guidelines and require full compliance with Anti-Money Laundering laws from stablecoin issuers.Related: $400M Web3 investment fund ABCDE halts new investments, fundraisingCrypto may exacerbate wealth gapThe BIS also raised concerns about how crypto markets may worsen income inequality by enabling larger investors to capitalize on the emotions of less sophisticated retail participants, as seen during the FTX collapse in 2022.Whale vs retail activity after FTX collapse. Source:  BIS“As prices tumbled in 2022, users actually traded more,” the BIS report noted. “Most disturbingly, large bitcoin holders (“whales”) were selling as ordinary retail investors (“krill”) were buying.” It added:“This implies that the crypto market, which is often presented as an opportunity for inclusive growth and financial stability, can be a means for redistributing wealth from the poorer to the wealthier.”The report concludes that DeFi and TradFi have similar underlying economic drivers, but DeFi’s “distinctive features,” like “smart contract and composability,” present new challenges that need proactive regulatory interventions to “safeguard financial stability, while fostering innovation.”Magazine: Uni students crypto ‘grooming’ scandal, 67K scammed by fake women: Asia Express

by Cointelegraph by Zoltan Vardai on April 19, 2025 at 9:59 am

Web3 and blockchain-focused investment fund ABCDE is halting new investments, but the $400 million fund remains committed to supporting its existing projects.In an April 19 X post, ABCDE co-founder and Huobi exchange founder Du Jun said the $400 million fund will no longer invest in new projects or raise capital for the second phase of the fund.However, Jun said the fund will continue to “post-investment support and exit arrangements of existing projects” to ensure the firm’s commitment to entrepreneurs and liquidity providers (LPs).“My personal work focus will also gradually shift from financial investment in the primary market to strategic investment-led and deep incubation-based, focusing more on industrial synergy and long-term value creation,” Jun added.Source: Du JunThe announcement comes nearly three months after ABCDE’s last investment into an Ethereum layer-2 (L2) solution, Soon (Solana Optimistic Network), which raised $22 million through a non-fungible token sale to mark the launch of its mainnet, Cointelegraph reported on Jan. 22.SOON block times, compared to other blockchains. Source: SOONThe Soon mainnet claims to outperform Solana in speed and efficiency, delivering average block times of 50 milliseconds compared to Solana’s 400 milliseconds.ABCDE is a $400 million fund, with 28% of its investments in Bitcoin (BTC) scaling technology, 16% in Ethereum liquid staking derivatives finance (LSDFi) infrastructure, and an additional 12% invested in L2s, restaking and smart contract platforms, Cryptorank data shows.ABCDE investments focus area, average round size. Source: CryptorankABCDE has invested over $40 million worth of capital into over 30 projects over the past three years, with an internal rate of return (IRR) “still at the global leading level,” despite the current market environment, Jun said.Related: Trump family memecoins may trigger increased SEC scrutiny on cryptoNew incubator brand Vernal announcedABCDE’s suspension of fundraising efforts was announced a month after the fund’s co-founder launched a new incubator brand, Vernal.Source: Du JunThe new incubator is set to announce its shareholders and incubation rules for the first batch of projects in May, along with its first investments.Jun said that the decision to halt ABCDE’s fundraising efforts was not made due to financial constraints or lack of funds but because of a fundamental concern for the current development trajectory of the crypto industry.Related: Crypto, stocks enter ‘new phase of trade war’ as US-China tensions rise.“Frankly speaking, I am increasingly unable to agree with the current ecological atmosphere of the primary market,” Jun said in an April 19 X post, adding:“Many projects are extremely short-sighted and only think about how to get listed on the exchange as soon as possible, and what is left behind is often a mess.”“What is more worrying is that some primary funds not only have no reflection on this, but also hype up their ‘listed projects’ and short-term market value performance, but never mention the value creation of the projects themselves,” he added.Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson has urged fourth-generation cryptocurrency projects to embrace more collaborative tokenomics to compete with major centralized tech companies entering the crypto industry.Charles Hoskinson. Source: Cointelegraph“The problem right now, with the way we’ve done things in the cryptocurrency space, is the tokenomics and the market structure are intrinsically adversarial. It’s sum 0,” Hoskinson said at Paris Blockchain Week on April 9. “Instead of picking a fight, what you have to do is you have to find tokenomics and market structure that allows you to be in a cooperative equilibrium.”“You can’t build a global ecosystem this way, and you can’t win this way,” he added. “Because here’s the thing. The incumbents are much larger.”Magazine: Your AI ‘digital twin’ can take meetings and comfort your loved ones

by Cointelegraph by Ciaran Lyons on April 19, 2025 at 8:06 am

The creator of Ethereum layer 2 blockchain Base, Jesse Pollak, has apologized following backlash over posting digital artwork that controversially played on Base’s tagline, “Base is for everyone.”Several social media users found the artwork offensive and inappropriate.“It was a single phrase among many, but I’ll own this was a mistake and apologize,” Pollak said in an April 18 X post referring to his decision to reshare a GIF image that featured the phrase “Base is for...” followed by a rotating sequence of words, including both controversial terms like “pimping” and “squirting,” as well as more neutral ones like “art,” “minting,” and “ideas.”Pollak says he appreciates “provocative art”Pollak emphasized that the artwork was made by a creator, not him, and specifically apologized for the image featuring the phrase “Base is for pimping.”Pollak said that while he wants to support artists building on Base and admits he appreciates “provocative art,” he recognizes the need to be mindful of his shared messages, especially when they appear to come directly from him.Source: Jesse PollakIt comes after criticism from several crypto industry participants who took to social media to voice their disappointment over Pollak’s endorsement of the image, calling out the use of the word “pimping.”Crypto commentator “Kristel” said in an April 18 X post, “so we’re just casually platforming pimping now?” “I get pushing boundaries, but this isn’t it,” she said.“This isn’t provocative and ‘edgy,” she added. Kanto Labs founder said it is an “absolute PR nightmare.”Meanwhile, crypto commentator David Z. Morris said this “doesn’t just hurt Base, it hurts crypto.” Morris added:“The specific allusion to sex trafficking (not “sex work,” pimping is pretty fundamentally exploitation) is specifically bad for a sector that needs to advance the narrative that open finance is a net social positive.”However, many praised Pollak for the apology and his continued efforts to push boundaries in the crypto industry. “Love the honesty. We all make mistakes, but it’s about how we grow from them,” crypto commentator Zuri said.Bankless co-founder David Hoffman said, “I respect the leadership here.” Milk Road co-founder Kyle Reidhead said, “Do and share whatever you want without apology.”Base was at the center of controversy only days ago when the official X account shared a post promoting a memecoin with its marketing tagline, “Base is for everyone.” Related: Base creator Jesse Pollak to join Coinbase exec team and lead wallet chargeIt also shared a link to a token of the same name on Zora, a social network where users can make posts into tokens for others to speculate on.In just over an hour after it was created, the Base is for everyone token hit a peak market capitalization of $17.1 million — then dropped by nearly 90% over the next 20 minutes to a market value of $1.9 million, according to DEX Screener data.A Coinbase spokeswoman distanced Base from the token, telling Cointelegraph on April 17, "Base did not launch a token.” “This is not an official Base token, and Base did not sell this token. Base posted on Zora, which automatically tokenizes content,” the spokeswoman said.Magazine: Make Ethereum feel like Ethereum again: Based rollups explained

by Cointelegraph by Dilip Kumar Patairya on April 19, 2025 at 7:55 am

What are tariffs? Tariffs are taxes placed on imported goods by a government or a supranational union. Occasionally, tariffs can be applied to exports as well. They generate government revenue and serve as a trade regulation tool, often to shield domestic industries.Four main categories of tariffs are:Ad valorem tariffs: These are calculated as a percentage of the good’s value. For instance, a 20% tax might be placed on $100 of goods.Specific tariffs: These are fixed fees based on the quantity of goods. For example, there might be a tariff of $5 per imported kilogram of sugar.Compound tariffs: These combine a specific duty and an ad valorem duty applied to the same imported goods. Both tariffs are calculated together to determine the total tax. For example, a country might place a tariff on imported wine at $5 per liter plus 10% of the wine’s value.Mixed tariffs: Mixed tariffs apply either a specific duty or an ad valorem duty, based on predefined conditions. For instance, for imported trucks, a country might charge either $5,000 per vehicle or 15% of the car’s value, whichever is greater.The objective of such policy is to influence international trade flows, protect domestic industries, and respond to unfair practices by foreign countries. When a tariff is applied to an imported good, it raises its cost, making domestically produced alternatives more lucrative for customers regarding price.In the US, the Trump administration uses reciprocal tariffs as a key instrument in influencing the trade policies of other countries. Reciprocal tariffs are trade duties a country imposes in retaliation to tariffs or barriers set by another country. This policy seeks to correct trade imbalances and safeguard domestic industries.Tariffs are generally collected by the customs departments of a country at ports of entry based on the declared value and classification of goods.Did you know? Some countries use tariff-rate quotas, allowing a set quantity of a product to be imported at a lower tariff. Once the quota is exceeded, a higher tariff kicks in. This system balances domestic protection with access to global markets, especially in sectors like agriculture and textiles. Trump administration’s reciprocal tariff policy US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on April 2, 2025, a day he called Liberation Day, citing his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The order placed a minimum 10% tariff on all US imports effective April 5, 2025. Reciprocal tariffs went into effect on April 9, 2025. Trump stated that the US would apply reciprocal tariffs at roughly half the rate imposed by other countries. For instance, the US imposed a 34% tariff in response to China’s 67%. A 25% tariff on all automobile imports was also announced.The Trump administration’s reciprocal tariff policy is rooted in the belief that the US faced long-standing trade imbalances and unfair treatment by global trading partners. To address this, his administration pushed for what it called reciprocal tariffs, aiming at setting a tariff structure that matched or at least was close to tariffs that foreign nations imposed on American exports.Under this approach, the administration used tariff policies to pressure countries to lower their trade barriers or renegotiate trade deals. The policy drew support from domestic manufacturers and labor groups for attempting to rebalance trade and support the US industry. But it also sparked criticism from economists and international allies who viewed it as protectionist and destabilizing the prevalent economic system in the world. The reciprocal tariffs policy has reshaped US trade relations and marked a departure from decades of multilateral, open global trade policy.Did you know? Tariffs can reshape supply chains. To avoid high import taxes, companies often relocate manufacturing to countries with favorable trade agreements. This shift doesn’t always benefit consumers, as savings are not always passed down, and logistics become more complex. The US–China tariff war: A defining economic conflict The US–China tariff war, which began in 2018 under the first Trump administration, marked a significant shift in global economic relations. The conflict between the world’s two largest economies had broad implications for global supply chains, inflation and geopolitical dynamics.The trade conflict between the US and China wasn’t just a bilateral spat. It signaled a structural rethinking of trade policy in a multipolar world. The trade war began after the US imposed sweeping tariffs under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, citing unfair trade practices, intellectual property theft and forced technology transfers by China. Over time, the US levied tariffs on more than $360 billion worth of Chinese goods. China retaliated with tariffs on $110 billion of US exports, targeting key sectors like agriculture and manufacturing.The conflict disrupted major supply chains and raised costs for American businesses and consumers. American farmers were hit hard by retaliatory Chinese tariffs on soybeans, leading the US government to provide billions in subsidies to offset losses.While the Phase One Agreement in 2020 eased tensions and required China to increase purchases of US goods and enforce intellectual property protections, many tariffs remained in place. The Biden administration retained most of the economic measures imposed by the first Trump administration, signaling bipartisan concern over China’s trade practices.As of April 10, 2025, Trump had imposed 125% tariffs on China, while for 75 countries, he had paused the imposition of tariffs for 90 days.Compared to disputes with allies like the European Union or Canada, the stakes are higher in the US–China conflict, and the consequences are more far-reaching. Here are the responses of various governments to Trump’s tariffs:Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney implemented a 25% tariff on US-made cars and trucks.China will impose a 34% tariff on all US imports, effective April 10.The French prime minister described the tariffs as an economic catastrophe.Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticized the tariffs as wrong.European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen pledged a unified response and prepared countermeasures.Taiwan’s government denounced the tariffs as unreasonable. How do tariffs work? When a tariff is applied — for example, a 30% tax on imported steel — it raises the price of that good for importers. They, in turn, pass these added costs to downstream businesses, which further transfer these costs to consumers.For importers, tariffs mean higher purchase costs. If a US company imports machinery from abroad and faces a tariff, its total cost increases. This possibly reduces its profit margins or forces it to search for alternatives. Exporters in other countries may suffer if US buyers reduce orders due to higher prices, hurting their competitiveness.Domestic producers may benefit initially from a high tariff regime. Tariffs can shield them from cheaper foreign competition, allowing them to increase sales and potentially make profits. But if their operations rely on imported components subject to tariffs, their input costs may rise, offsetting gains.Consumers often bear the brunt. Tariffs can lead to price hikes on everyday goods — from electronics to apparel. In the long term, high tariffs contribute to inflation and reduce purchasing power.Tariffs also disrupt global supply chains. Many products are assembled using components from multiple countries. High tariffs on one component can cause delays, prompt redesigns, or force companies to relocate manufacturing, increasing complexity and costs.Overall, while tariffs aim to protect domestic industries, their impact is felt across the economy through altering prices, trade flows and business strategies. One way or another, tariffs influence everyone — from factory owners to workers and everyday shoppers.Trump excluded various tech products, such as smartphones, chips, computers and certain electronics, from reciprocal tariffs, providing the tech sector with crucial relief from tariff pressure. This step of Trump eased pressure on tech stocks. Trump’s tariff announcement on April 2 triggered a sharp sell-off in both equities and Bitcoin (BTC), with BTC plunging 10.5% in a week. Once seen as a non-correlated asset, Bitcoin now trades in sync with tech stocks during macro shocks. According to analysts, institutional investors increasingly treat BTC as a risk-on asset closely tied to policy shifts. While some view Bitcoin as digital gold, recent behavior shows it reacting more like Nasdaq stocks — falling during global uncertainty and rallying on positive sentiment.Did you know? Tariff exemptions can be highly strategic. Governments may exclude specific industries or companies, allowing them to import goods tariff-free while competitors pay more. This creates an uneven playing field and can spark domestic controversy. Why do tariffs matter for global markets? Tariffs are a robust tool in the hands of governments to shape a nation’s economic and trade strategy. They are not merely taxes on imports but a tool that influences domestic production, consumer behavior and global trade relationships.For the US, tariffs have historically been used to assert economic power on the global stage, protect emerging industries, and respond to unfair trade practices. When countries with large economies are involved, tariff decisions can impact global supply chains, shift manufacturing hubs, and alter the price of goods worldwide. Even for the smaller countries, in an interconnected world, tariffs matter because their impact goes far beyond national borders. Domestically, tariffs could boost local industries by making foreign goods more expensive. This can create jobs and support economic resilience in the short term. Governments getting larger revenue via tariffs will enable them to reduce direct taxes as Trump proposed. But they can also raise prices for consumers, hurt exporters, and trigger retaliation from trade partners.As geopolitical tensions rise and nations reevaluate their economic dependencies, tariffs have reemerged as a central element of US trade policy. Whether used defensively or offensively, they shape the balance between protectionism and global engagement. This makes tariffs a matter not just of economics, but of national strategy and global influence. Who sets tariff policy in the US? In the US, tariff policy is shaped by a combination of legislative authority, executive power and administrative enforcement. Various agencies also help in the execution of tariff policy.Congress holds the constitutional authority to regulate trade and impose tariffs. Over time, Congress has given the president significant power to change tariffs for national security, economic threats or trade violations.The Office of the US Trade Representative plays a central role in formulating and negotiating US trade policy. It leads trade talks, manages disputes, and recommends tariff actions, often in coordination with the president and Congress.US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is responsible for enforcing tariffs at ports of entry. CBP collects duties based on the classification and value of imported goods according to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule.Several major trade laws have shaped tariff policy in the US. The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930, aimed at protecting US farmers during the Great Depression, led to retaliatory tariffs and worsened global trade. Later, the Trade Act of 1974 gave the president tools like Section 301, which was used extensively during the US–China trade war to impose retaliatory tariffs on unfair foreign practices.Together, these actors and laws form the foundation of US tariff policy. Criticism of Trump’s tariff policy Criticism of Trump’s tariff policy surfaced following the announcement of reciprocal tariffs. Critics say this move bypasses Congress and sets a dangerous precedent for unchecked executive power in economic matters.Detractors argue that these tariffs hurt American businesses more than their intended foreign targets. A Vox article argued that low-income people would be hit more by Trump’s tariffs than by the already reeling Wall Street. Former Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers fears that America may slip into recession due to tariffs, probably costing 2 million jobs nationwide.Legal challenges have also emerged regarding Trump’s tariff policy. The New Civil Liberties Alliance (NCLA), a conservative legal group, has filed a lawsuit on behalf of Simplified, a small business based in Florida that sells planners and sources goods from China. The lawsuit claims that the president overstepped his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) when imposing tariffs in a non-emergency trade context.Small and mid-sized businesses, many of which rely on global supply chains, will have to deal with rising import costs due to tariffs. This may lead to inflation and reduced competitiveness of such businesses. While the tariffs might hit China financially in the short term, the action could result in higher prices for US consumers and disrupt operations for American firms if the tariff policy continues for a long time.

by Cointelegraph by Ciaran Lyons on April 19, 2025 at 5:50 am

Crypto entrepreneur Anthony Pompliano says that US President Donald Trump shouldn’t follow through on his recent threat to fire the head of the US Federal Reserve, saying it would set a dangerous precedent — especially considering the true motive behind it.“I do not believe that the President of the United States should come in and unilaterally fire the Fed President,” Pompliano said in a video posted on X on April 18.Firing over disagreement is a slippery slope, says PomplianoPompliano said, “Where you have a disagreement and then the firing, I think that’s not really the area that we want to go into.”“The idea of firing the Fed chairman is a very bad precedent to set this way.”It comes after Trump took to his social media platform Truth Social to accuse Fed chair Jerome Powell of being too slow to cut interest rates. “Powell’s termination cannot come fast enough!” Trump said on April 17.Anthony Pompliano made the remarks on his online show “From The Desk of Anthony Pompliano.” Source: Anthony Pompliano Pompliano explained that while the Fed is meant to operate independently, he agrees with critics who argue it’s not truly independent. “The Fed, I think, is highly politicized, even though they pretend not to be,” he said.Pompliano acknowledged his own criticism of the Fed, saying he's not exactly a fan, but emphasized that even if the Fed has made mistakes, responding in kind isn't the right approach.“I still think that just because somebody else is doing something wrong doesn't mean that you should do something wrong,” Pompliano said.US Senator Elizabeth Warren recently warned that if Trump eventually moves to fire Powell, it could undermine investor confidence in the integrity of US capital markets and trigger a financial crash. “A big part of our economy strong, and a big part of the world economy strong, is the idea that the big pieces move independently of politics,” Warren said during an appearance on CNBC.Related: Fed’s Powell reasserts support for stablecoin legislationLower interest rates often lead to increased liquidity, which has historically led to higher prices of perceived riskier assets like Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.It comes not long after Powell said establishing a stablecoins legal framework was a “good idea.” In an April 16 panel at the Economic Club of Chicago, Powell said, “The climate is changing, and you’re moving into more mainstreaming of that whole sector, so Congress is again looking [...] at a legal framework for stablecoins.”Magazine: Your AI’ digital twin’ can take meetings and comfort your loved ones