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by Cointelegraph by Amitej Gajjala on April 21, 2025 at 3:00 pm

Opinion by: Amitej Gajjala, co-founder and CEO of KernelDAOBitcoin is the principal asset of the cryptocurrency world and even one of the world’s top 10 most valuable assets, recognized for its role as a store of value. Yet a huge percentage of the Bitcoin (BTC) supply remains dormant for years, meaning the crypto market only works with a fraction of the circulating supply each year. This idle Bitcoin has an enormous amount of untapped financial potential.Bitcoin’s principal narratives are “store of value” and “never sell.” Today’s decentralized finance (DeFi) tools, however, enable yield gain by holding Bitcoin and taking advantage of dormant Bitcoin, which just sits in investors’ wallets and does nothing. Existing dormant Bitcoin is not being fully utilized Dormant Bitcoin has not been used for long periods, usually one or more years. According to Glassnode, as of early 2025, the active supply that has not moved in more than one year is approximately 62%.This Bitcoin is held in wallets that show no activity on the blockchain and remain inactive for various reasons. These could be intentional long-term holding strategies or even permanent loss as a result of negligence or the death of their users. Let’s put aside the rest of the reasons and focus on long-term Bitcoin holding strategies. The existence of this group implies that they could enter the market at any time, producing significant volatility in the price of Bitcoin. Why aren’t we using that Bitcoin in DeFi right now? Activating dormant Bitcoin will make waves in the marketIf large quantities of dormant Bitcoin were to reactivate immediately, it could significantly affect the cryptocurrency market, creating a noticeable event. These movements could dramatically affect Bitcoin's price in a negative way due to potential selling pressure and influence the market with a significant increase in active circulating supply.Recent: Stablecoin presence key to blockchain legitimacy, says ZachXBTIf the reactivated Bitcoin is, however, reintegrated into productive DeFi ecosystems rather than sold en masse, it could provide liquidity without destabilizing the market. With that amount of active liquidity, Bitcoin would not only be a “store of value” but also a productive asset with utility and application.Let’s look at the announcement of the creation of a Bitcoin strategic reserve in the United States. One of the key points of this reserve is that it will follow budget-neutral strategies without selling the estimated 198,000 BTC held by the government. Those conditions are perfect for putting this Bitcoin into restaking and using it in DeFi to obtain rewards. Just picture all the gains the US could make by using most of its Bitcoin reserves in that way, without selling.We need to explore Bitcoin’s potential in DeFiIntegrating dormant Bitcoin into DeFi platforms offers interesting Bitcoin and decentralized finance opportunities. Bitcoin would encourage transactions and fees on the network to support miners. The total value locked (TVL) in DeFi will be tremendous compared to all the liquidity Bitcoin will add to the DeFi market.Advances like wrapped tokens and crosschain bridges have enabled Bitcoin holders to engage in flash loans, lending, staking, restaking and yield farming on DeFi platforms. The current levels are, however, insufficient and will not be the only way to take advantage of this enormous liquidity injection. As of March 10, Bitcoin’s TVL in DeFi stood at over $5 billion, according to DefiLlama data. This represents only 6% of the TVL of all the current blockchains on the market, with Ethereum the king at 52.56% with $48 billion. If Bitcoin became the new king of TVL in DeFi, it would only need to use some of the dormant Bitcoin mentioned above.In this scenario, Bitcoin will provide more stability to DeFi, as its holders, including institutional and long-term investors, are not prone to selling during market downturns. In addition, activating even a small fraction of currently idle Bitcoin could unlock billions of dollars of liquidity for decentralized finance applications.The best way to use BTC in DeFi is restakingToday, restaking is emerging as an innovative, engaging way to integrate Bitcoin into DeFi while maintaining its appeal as a conservative, secure investment vehicle. Restaking enables holders to stake their assets in decentralized protocols and earn passive income while contributing to the economic security of the network.This mechanism offers several benefits, including passive income with minimal risk and economic security, by supporting the development of new products. It parallels traditional finance by offering predictable returns while preserving capital, which appeals more to conventional investors.Restaking aligns with the conservative mindset typical among many Bitcoin holders, allowing them to participate in innovations within the DeFi space. Restaking is desirable for every Bitcoiner to obtain yield with their reserves.Dormant Bitcoin is a massive opportunity for DeFiDormant Bitcoin is a vast, untapped reservoir within the Web3 ecosystem. By integrating Bitcoin into DeFi platforms today, individual investors and the broader ecosystem will significantly benefit from the increased stability, liquidity and growth opportunities.Opinion by: Amitej Gajjala, co-founder and CEO of KernelDAO.

by Cointelegraph by Adrian Zmudzinski on April 21, 2025 at 2:57 pm

Pseudonymous Bitcoin stock-to-flow (S2F) model creator PlanB attacked Ethereum and mocked the project’s co-founder, Vitalik Buterin.PlanB mockingly reposted a June 2022 X post by Buterin in which the Ethereum co-founder said S2F “is really not looking good now.” PlanB responded with a new posting stating, “Ethereum is really not looking good now.”Source: PlanBIn his response to Buterin’s criticism from years ago, PlanB claimed Ethereum and the network’s coin, Ether (ETH), are centralized and premined, pointing to its shift to proof-of-stake (PoS) and changes in its issuance rate. He said that those features “are harmful and deserve all the mockery they get,” echoing Buterin’s old comment about S2F.Related: Bitcoin analyst PlanB transfers Bitcoin to ETFs to avoid 'hassle with keys'PlanB’s criticism of EthereumIn a separate X post, PlanB explained that an Ethereum full node requires nine terabytes of disk space, meaning he “can not run it” on his hardware. The kind of node in question is probably an Ethereum archival node, which, according to Etherscan data, requires over 21.8 terabytes (TB) with the Geth client.An Ethereum full node running the Geth client that prunes older states with the default settings requires 1.28 TB, according to Etherscan data. The Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum communities have long debated what constitutes a full node.This type of pruned node cannot access the full historical data or generate Merkle proofs for old blocks, which limits its research and bug-finding applications. Still, such nodes can engage in full trustless block and transaction validation.Bitcoin’s full nodes require under 700 gigabytes (0.7 terabytes), according to Statista data, and also require much less computing power. This means that users can run Bitcoin full nodes much more easily, leading to a higher node count and higher network decentralization.Not everyone views the criticism as founded. Jeremiah O’Connor, chief technology officer and co-founder at crypto cybersecurity firm Trugard, told Cointelegraph:“PlanB’s take is classic Bitcoin maxi energy — loud, confident and missing half the picture.“O’Connor explained that Ethereum and Bitcoin serve two different purposes. He said that “Ethereum nodes are bigger and more complex” since Ether “isn’t just digital gold — it’s a full-on global computer.”“Of course it’s heavier.“He conceded that users relying on centralized data providers like Infura is a problem. Still, he claimed that every ecosystem engages in centralization tradeoffs and that Ethereum developers are working to address the issue, and “it’s evolving fast.”“Calling ETH a “shitcoin” because it’s not Bitcoin is like calling smartphones a scam because they aren’t landlines,“ he said.He added that the two are different tools with differing purposes. He views Bitcoin as a “rock-solid value storage” and Ethereum as “where the builders are,” and said that “both matter” and “complement each other.”Related: Can the Ethereum blockchain roll back transactions? Understanding the limits and risksButerin as a “single point of failure”PlanB also questioned Buterin’s influence on Ethereum’s development, calling him a “single point of failure.” However, Ethereum Foundation co-executive director Tomasz Stańczak recently announced that Buterin is stepping back from day-to-day operations to focus on research.PlanB also raised an issue with Ethereum rolling back transactions following the 2016 DAO hack:“The fact that this is even possible should worry you.“Bybit CEO Ben Zhou suggested an Ethereum rollback following the exchange’s $1.4 billion hack. Still, many in the community argued that a rollback happening now, with Ethereum being a more mature network, would be next to impossible.Bitcoin itself had a comparable incident in its early history as well. On Aug. 15, 2010, an exploit resulted in a transaction that minted 184 BTC on the network in block 74638.Satoshi Nakamoto (still involved in development at the time) and other core developers released an update that rolled back the network to block 74637 and patched the vulnerability. In other words, Bitcoin saw its own blockchain rollback in its early days.Other points raised by PlanB include Ethereum switching to PoS, which he claims has consequences for the price. He suggested that changes to issuance and governance undermine Ethereum’s value proposition compared to Bitcoin’s fixed and predictable supply.Magazine: Crypto ‘more taboo than OnlyFans,’ says Violetta Zironi, who sold song for 1 BTC

by Cointelegraph by Yohan Yun on April 21, 2025 at 2:25 pm

A little-known VOXEL trading pair on cryptocurrency exchange Bitget suddenly clocked over $12 billion in volume on April 20, dwarfing the metrics of the same contract on Binance.The activity centered on VOXEL/USDT perpetual futures, where traders reported instant order fills — an anomaly many described as a bug that allowed savvy traders to rack up outsized profits by exploiting unusual price behavior.The atypical metrics drew Bitget’s attention. In the fallout of its early investigation, the exchange suspended accounts suspected of market manipulation and rolled back irregular trades that occurred throughout the day. Traders who copped losses during that period were offered compensation.Bitget’s response and remediation plan may have prevented lasting investor damage, but the episode is the latest in a series of cases that raise questions about how exchanges handle market makers, internal systems and user safeguards. While Bitget promotes an open API and regularly touts its global market maker program, it has yet to disclose who was behind the April 20 activity or what technical factors led to it.The lack of incident-level detail has fueled speculations comparable to similar breakdowns on Binance — the world’s largest exchange by trading volume — that included the sudden price crashes of cryptocurrencies GoPlus (GPS) and MyShell (SHELL) in March. Binance kicked out an unnamed market maker it found responsible for manipulation, but the lack of disclosure added fuel to the crypto industry’s infamous rumor mongering.Bitget’s VOXEL/USDT perpetual futures volume exceeded that of all other top 10 markets combined on April 20. Source: Thành CryptoTraders VOXEL market maker bug, Bitget disagreesCrypto market participants pointed to rapid price fluctuations and what multiple Mandarin-language X accounts described as a bug in a “market maker” bot as the cause of VOXEL’s excessive volume.Traders claimed that VOXEL’s price flickered between several ranges, such as $0.125 and $0.138. Orders placed between those bands filled instantly due to the suspected bug, X user Dylan said, sharing screenshots and videos of profitable accounts. Perpetual futures contracts are typically matched through an order book, with each trade requiring a counterparty. But in this case, trades appeared to execute automatically and without delay.A machine-translated post shares how one trader profits hundreds of thousands of dollars with just $100 USDT in starting capital. Source: 0xDy_ethTraders who spotted the suspected bug early used high-leverage bets to boost their profits, X user Qingshui said, calling the strategy a “zero-cost exploit.” Like Dylan, Qingshui attributed the issue to a market maker bot misfiring and questioned why traders were blocked from accessing profits if the problem originated from Bitget’s side.Related: How Mantra’s OM token collapsed in 24 hours of chaosA third user, Hebi555, pointed the finger at Bitget’s market-making team for its poor performance. Xie Jiayin, Bitget’s head of Asia, clapped back, stating that the exchange works with over 1,000 market makers and institutional clients. He added that Bitget’s API is open to the public and emphasized that specific market maker identities could not be disclosed due to confidentiality agreements.In an April 20 response to Cointelegraph, Bitget CEO Gracy Chen said that suspicious trades were between individual market participants, not the platform. Replying to Cointelegraph’s follow-up inquiry on April 21, Chen neither confirmed nor denied whether a market maker bot was involved, only reiterating that the trading was “between users.”“We are conducting a thorough review, and once the rollback is completed, trading and account restrictions will be lifted as appropriate. Bitget’s security infrastructure is designed to catch irregularities like this in real time — as it did in this case,” Chen said.Bitget’s VOXEL anomaly adds to crypto’s market manipulation mysteryConcerns over market manipulation in the cryptocurrency industry have been intensifying. In early March, the prices of two tokens, GPS and SHELL, crashed in tandem with their Binance listings. The exchange’s investigation found that the two tokens employed the same unnamed market maker. Binance banished the dubious trading firm from its platform and confiscated its proceeds to help fund compensation efforts for GPS and SHELL traders. Without a suspect to blame, social media users began pointing fingers at several market makers and trading firms. Those named denied any involvement.GSR was among the most frequently accused firms, but denied being the market maker removed by Binance. Source: GSRBinance then kicked out another unnamed market maker, this time for trading activities related to the Movement (MOVE) token. The MOVE token’s market maker on Binance was found to have associations with the market maker for GPS and SHELL.Related: Market maker deals are quietly killing crypto projectsA recent Cointelegraph report found that market makers are employing a loan-based model that is killing off small- and medium-cap projects. The loan model gives market makers access to a project’s tokens in exchange for liquidity provision. But instead, what often happens is that market makers dump the loaned tokens on the open market just to buy them back at a cheaper price, leaving the projects with damaged price charts.VOXEL was on Bitget, but exploits aren’t limited to CEXsBoth Bitget and Binance’s cases show that even the largest centralized exchanges (CEXs) aren’t immune to market manipulation or traders exploiting platforms for profits.But a recent case on decentralized exchange (DEX) Hyperliquid shows the issue isn’t confined to CEXs. In late March, a whale allegedly exploited the liquidation parameters on Hyperliquid, resulting in the delisting of the platform’s JELLY perpetual futures product. Hyperliquid then announced a compensation plan for affected users, similar to how Bitget responded to its own VOXEL drama.X user spotlights double standards in how exchanges respond to bugs. Source: Dotyyds1234Ironically, Bitget’s Chen had some strong words against Hyperliquid at the time, raising concerns about the network’s centralization. She compared the DEX to FTX, once a billion-dollar trading firm whose founder is now serving a 25-year prison sentence for multiple counts of fraud.“The way it handled the JELLY incident was immature, unethical, and unprofessional, triggering user losses and casting serious doubts over its integrity. Despite presenting itself as an innovative decentralized exchange with a bold vision, Hyperliquid operates more like an offshore CEX with no [Know-Your-Customer/Anti-Money Laundering], enabling illicit flows and bad actors,” she said.Bitget’s VOXEL episode may have been contained, and Hyperliquid’s users may be compensated, but the broader pattern is harder to ignore for traders. As platforms scramble to maintain trust, the industry’s vulnerability isn’t just the bugs or exploits, but the silence that follows them.Magazine: Uni students crypto ‘grooming’ scandal, 67K scammed by fake women: Asia Express

by Cointelegraph by Marcel Pechman on April 21, 2025 at 2:21 pm

Despite Bitcoin’s (BTC) price reaching its highest level in over three weeks, traders on Bitfinex reduced their leveraged long (bullish) positions on margin contracts by more than $100 million between April 17 and April 19. This reduction has led to speculation that Bitcoin whales may be anticipating a price correction or, at the very least, are not confident in further short-term gains. Let’s look closer at whether this could be the case. Bitfinex Bitcoin whales remain bullishBitcoin surged above $86,000 on April 21 after US President Donald Trump openly discussed the possibility of replacing Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Trump criticized Powell for not acting swiftly enough to ease monetary policy. Additionally, investors are increasingly risk-off due to concerns about a recession as the global trade war escalates, particularly given the ongoing uncertainty in US-China relations.The rationale behind this profit-taking in margin markets is especially noteworthy, as Bitcoin’s price has remained below $90,000 since early March, prompting some investors to question the likelihood of a sustainable decoupling from traditional markets. The S&P 500 index futures are trading 1.1% below their closing price on April 17, and rising political tensions in the US are further eroding investor sentiment.April 2025: BTC/USD (left, orange) vs. Bitfinex BTC margin longs. Source: TradingView/CointelegraphBitcoin margin longs on Bitfinex stood flat at 80,400 BTC between April 10 and April 17, indicating strong confidence from bullish traders as this level neared a seven-month high. However, even as BTC’s price reclaimed the $83,000 level, these traders chose to reduce their leveraged bullish positions by 1,250 BTC, equivalent to $106 million.Historically, Bitfinex traders are known for rapidly opening or closing substantial Bitcoin margin positions, indicating that whales and large arbitrage desks are typically behind these movements. Nevertheless, it is not accurate to suggest that Bitfinex whales have shifted to a bearish stance, considering their margin longs currently total 79,136 BTC, valued at $6.86 billion, while margin shorts amount to just 326 BTC.Related: Bitcoin whales absorb 300% of newly mined BTC supply — Is $100K next?The significant difference between bullish and bearish positions can be attributed to the platform’s notably low 2% annual interest rate. In comparison, traders utilizing two-month BTC futures currently pay a 5.7% annualized premium. This disparity creates opportunities for arbitrage, as one can open Bitcoin longs on the margin market and simultaneously sell the equivalent position on BTC futures to capture the difference.BTC doesn’t often move with Bitfinex leverage changesFurthermore, Bitcoin’s price does not always correlate directly with changes in leveraged positions on Bitfinex. For instance, in the two weeks ending March 10, whales increased their margin longs by 13,454 BTC, yet Bitcoin’s price declined from $95,930 to $67,076 during the same period. Similarly, margin longs decreased by 11,047 BTC in the two weeks ending Dec. 16, 2024, while Bitcoin’s price rose from $96,200 to $106,400.Dec. 2024: BTC/USD (left, orange) vs. Bitfinex BTC margin longs. Source: TradingView/CointelegraphHowever, these sophisticated investors have demonstrated strong market timing over the longer term. For example, Bitcoin’s price eventually dropped below $58,000 on Dec. 23, 2024, after margin-long positions had already been reduced by 26% in the preceding 30 days. This pattern suggests that these traders are generally highly profitable but also display a significantly higher risk tolerance and patience compared to the average investor.Ultimately, a $106-million reduction in BTC margin longs is not sufficient evidence to claim that professional traders are turning bearish.As Cointelegraph reported, onchain data suggests Bitcoin whales have grown in number throughout March and April despite the price slump, suggesting accumulation.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 Helen Partz on April 21, 2025 at 2:07 pm

El Salvador, the first country in the world to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender, is working with the computer chip giant Nvidia to implement artificial intelligence for national development.El Salvador signed a letter of intent to collaborate with Nvidia on “sovereign AI to drive innovation and economic growth,” the National Bitcoin Office (ONBTC) of El Salvador announced on X on April 21.As part of the collaboration, El Salvador will benefit from Nvidia’s AI tools, resources and expertise, enabling the development of sovereign AI capabilities targeting priorities related to culture, language, environment and economy.“El Salvador will focus on building domestic AI infrastructure, upskilling the workforce, and creating solutions to address local challenges such as improving healthcare delivery, advancing education, and boosting economic productivity,” the announcement said.AI training for state officials and developersEl Salvador’s latest collaboration with Nvidia marks the country’s commitment to encouraging AI usage to optimize multiple processes within the government and society.With its new AI push, El Salvador intends to establish AI training programs for developers, researchers and government officials to “ensure the nation has the talent to sustain its AI ambitions.”Source: The Bitcoin OfficeOne example includes the creation of AI-driven models to forecast weather and rainfall, which would support emergency response, protect residents in landslide-prone areas and optimize hydroelectric power management.Not the first AI initiative for El SalvadorEl Salvador’s Nvidia partnership adds to a growing list of AI-focused initiatives.In March 2025, the ONBTC announced Salvador’s university-level public education AI program CUBO_ai, touting it as the “only national education program bringing in top-tier field experts.” The program was announced with support from major Bitcoin bull Cathie Wood, who is expected to give the first lecture as part of the program.An excerpt from the CUBO_ai announcement by El Salvador. Source: The Bitcoin OfficeLast year, Wood predicted that El Salvador’s Bitcoin (BTC) and AI plans may boost GDP tenfold by 2029.Related: Only 11% of El Salvador’s registered Bitcoin firms operationalWhile El Salvador has been aggressively introducing AI initiatives, its Bitcoin ambitions have been somewhat deterred.In early March, the International Monetary Fund moved to restrict further Bitcoin purchases by El Salvador as part of an extended $1.4 billion funding arrangement with the country. However, the government has continued stacking 1 Bitcoin a day, raising questions about the implications of the deal with the IMF.Magazine: Your AI ‘digital twin’ can take meetings and comfort your loved ones

by Cointelegraph by Zoltan Vardai on April 21, 2025 at 2:05 pm

Scammers are once again capitalizing on the popularity of Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence chatbot Grok, with fake tokens again emerging as part of potential phishing attacks.A wallet linked to former Binance CEO Changpeng “CZ” Zhao received 90 million fake Grok (GROK) tokens on April 21, according to blockchain security firm PeckShield.The tokens are “likely a scam,” since the “deployer distributed it to multiple addresses via multisend,” PeckShield said.Source: PeckShieldAlertThe X platform’s Grok AI chatbot has no official cryptocurrency and no plans to launch one in the future.Related: Bitcoin up 33% since 2024 halving as institutions disrupt cycleFake Grok-related tokens first emerged in 2023 when a scammer deployed an ERC-20 Grok token on Ethereum, which led to an over 90% drop after the deployer sold 0.5% of the total supply, according to blockchain data visualization platform, Bubblemaps.Fake GROK ERFC-20 token crash, 2023. Source: Bubblemaps Scammers often capitalize on the credibility of social media platforms, large brands, or celebrities like Elon Musk to cultivate a sense of trust with victims.Meta was the most mimicked brand in phishing reports filed throughout 2024, according to a report by email security provider Mailsuite.US brands are often impersonated by scammers. Source: MailsuiteCoinbase was the most impersonated brand by scammers in the crypto industry, but Meta was targeted by over 25 times as many scammers as the cryptocurrency exchange.Related: Bitcoin rally above $100K may follow US Treasury buybacks — Arthur HayesElon Musk-related scams and fake coins see a resurgenceElon Musk-related scams and fake tokens are seeing a resurgence as scammers continue vying for investors’ crypto holdings.A fake announcement claiming to be an official “AI Elon Musk stream” giving away $20,000 worth of cryptocurrency was flagged on April 14 by crypto recovery and security advocate, Denis Thomas.Source: Denis Thomas Multiple other Elon Musk-related memecoins were launched on the BNB Smart Chain in recent weeks, according to a scam detector platform, Coinspeedrun.Source: CoinspeedrunPhishing scams like address poisoning involve tricking victims into sending assets to fraudulent wallet addresses.Phishing scams cost the crypto industry over $1 billion across 296 incidents in 2024, making them a major threat, according to blockchain security firm CertiK.Magazine: Down to $200 one day, Pixels founder had $2.4M the next: Luke Barwikowski, X Hall of Flame

by Cointelegraph by Cointelegraph on April 21, 2025 at 1:26 pm

Today in crypto, the Ethereum Foundation is shifting gears as Vitalik Buterin moves to a research-focused role, Bybit CEO Ben Zhou confirmed that around two-thirds of its funds stolen by Lazarus in February are currently still traceable, and Bitget crypto exchange rolled back accounts following “abnormal trading activity” in VOXEL-USDT perpetual futures contracts.Ethereum Foundation shifts focus to user experience, layer-1 scalingThe Ethereum Foundation, the nonprofit organization developing the Ethereum ecosystem, is shifting its focus to user experience and layer-1 scaling challenges following its March leadership reshuffle. On April 21, the Ethereum Foundation co-executive director Tomasz Stańczak shared an X post detailing how the organization has changed since its change in leadership structure.Stańczak said the change aims to give Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin more time for research and exploration rather than dealing with day-to-day tasks and crisis management.“Each time Vitalik shares insights or communicates a direction, he accelerates major long‑term breakthroughs,” he wrote.Stańczak added that Buterin’s recent posts had advanced promising avenues and helped realign the community around the organization’s core values.On April 20, Buterin proposed a change in the Ethereum Virtual Machine’s (EVM) contract language to improve the efficiency and speed of the blockchain’s execution layer. Stańczak said that while Buterin’s proposals will “always carry weight,” they are supposed to start conversations and encourage progress in different research areas. The executive said the community can either refine or reject the ideas. Bybit CEO: Two-thirds of Lazarus-hacked funds remain traceableCrypto exchange Bybit co-founder and CEO Ben Zhou says more than two-thirds of the digital assets stolen from the platform in February by North Korea’s Lazarus Group still remain traceable. In an executive summary on hacked Bybit funds posted on X on April 21, Ben Zhou said that of the total $1.4 billion hacked, 68.6% “remains traceable,” 27.6% has “gone dark,” and 3.8% has been frozen.Around $1.2 billion worth of stolen crypto is still being tracked. Source: Lazarus BountyThe untraceable funds primarily flowed into mixers, then through bridges to peer-to-peer and over-the-counter platforms, he added. Zhou confirmed that 944 Bitcoin (BTC) worth around $90 million went through the Wasabi mixerAnother 432,748 Ether (ETH), around 84% of the total worth roughly $1.21 billion, has been transferred from Ethereum to Bitcoin via THORChain. Around two-thirds of that — around $960 million worth of Ether — has been converted into 10,003 BTC across 35,772 wallets, he added. Around $17 million worth of Ether remains on the Ethereum blockchain across 12,490 wallets, Zhou reported. Bitget rolls back accounts after market irregularity in VOXEL-USDT perpetual futures contractsCryptocurrency exchange Bitget detected "abnormal trading activity" in VOXEL-USDT perpetual futures contracts between 8:00 to 8:30 UTC on April 20 and is rolling back accounts impacted by the trading irregularity during the next 24 hours.Bitget CEO Gracy Chen told Cointelegraph that the issue was not platform-wide and involved funds traded between market participants and not the exchange itself. Chen added that all user funds are safe.The exchange is also issuing a compensation plan for traders affected by the market irregularity. Chen told Cointelegraph:"For any residual losses, Bitget is fully prepared to offer compensation. Our $300 million protection fund provides more than sufficient backing to support our users in such events, assuring that user assets remain secure."The incident is the latest in a string of market irregularities impacting cryptocurrency exchanges and causing losses to users, including the Hyperliquid-Jelly memecoin market exploit in March 2025.VOXEL-USDT perpetual futures contract spikes by over 138% in a single day. Source: TradingView

by Cointelegraph by Dilip Kumar Patairya on April 21, 2025 at 1:15 pm

What are gold-backed stablecoins, and how do they work? Gold-backed stablecoins are digital currencies pegged to physical gold reserves and designed to maintain a stable value. The concept of gold-backed digital currencies dates back to the early days of cryptocurrency, with developers aiming to create a reliable store of value. Each gold-backed stablecoin represents a specific quantity of gold. For instance, one token might be linked to 1 troy ounce of gold. A troy ounce is a unit of weight used explicitly for weighing precious metals like gold, silver and platinum; it is equal to 31.1034768 grams. A third party typically holds the gold reserves to ensure security and transparency. The issuing entity is responsible for maintaining an equivalent amount of physical gold for every token in circulation. The token’s price remains closely aligned with the market value of gold. Buyers pay gold's spot price for a token. Similarly, if the stablecoin fails, the tokenholders can redeem their tokens for the gold. Practically, the gold is liquidated for electronic fiat transfers.Regulators classify gold-backed stablecoins as commodity-backed stablecoins or asset-referenced tokens (ARTs), depending on jurisdiction. Examples of gold-backed stablecoins include Tether Gold (XAUT), Paxos Gold (PAXG) and Alloy (aUSDT).Did you know? On April 1, 2025, Tether Gold (XAUT) traded at $3,165. Its market capitalization was about $780.3 million, with a daily trading volume of $11.03 million. Advantages of gold-backed stablecoins Gold-backed stablecoins combine the stability of gold with the flexibility of digital assets. Their blockchain-based nature offers benefits beyond traditional paper gold. Here are a few advantages of gold-backed stablecoins:Flexible alternative to physical gold: Gold-backed stablecoins function as blockchain-based representations of gold, offering a more efficient and flexible alternative to holding physical bullion. Instant global trading: Unlike traditional gold ownership, these tokens can be stored in cryptocurrency wallets from which you can transfer instantly and trade globally with a nominal transactional fee.Access to DeFi applications: They also enable decentralized finance (DeFi) applications, expanding their usability beyond traditional gold investments.Better security: Physical gold is vulnerable to theft, loss and damage. Gold-backed stablecoins, stored on blockchain networks, can be more secure.Programmability: Gold-backed stablecoins are programmable because they exist on blockchain networks such as Ethereum. This allows them to interact with smart contracts and work with decentralized apps (DApps).Divisibility: Splitting physical gold or even paper gold is challenging. However, you can split a single token into several decimal places, which can be recorded on the blockchain.Make gold more accessible: Gold-backed tokens enable you to easily access gold. An ounce of gold may be expensive, but you can easily buy 0.001 of a token. Interoperability: When you release a token on a widely used network like Ethereum, it is instantly operable with DApps, DeFi platforms and wallets supported by the network.Diversification of funds: Investing in gold-backed stablecoins enables you to diversify your funds. It is a unique type of asset that protects you against currency value drops. What are USD-backed stablecoins, and how do they work? USD-backed stablecoins are cryptocurrencies designed to maintain a stable value by being pegged to the US dollar. Each token is typically backed by an equivalent amount of US dollars or cash-equivalent assets held in reserve by a financial institution or trust.For every USD-backed stablecoin issued, the issuing entity must maintain a corresponding reserve amount to guarantee its value. This ensures that holders can always redeem their tokens for an equivalent dollar amount. Examples of USD-backed stablecoins are Tether (USDt), USDC (USDC) and Binance USD (BUSD), all of which are used in trading, payments and DeFi.You can buy and sell stablecoins through crypto exchanges like Binance or Coinbase. To purchase, create an account, complete verification, deposit fiat or crypto and choose a stablecoin such as USDt or USDC. To sell, go to the trading section, select your stablecoin, and exchange it for fiat or another crypto. Some wallets and peer-to-peer (P2P) exchanges also support stablecoin trading.Did you know? The EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulations (MiCA) have forced crypto exchanges to delist USDT and other non-compliant stablecoins, resulting in a growing market for Euro-backed stablecoins. USDC continues to be a prominent USD alternative in the region. Advantages of USD-backed stablecoins USD-backed stablecoins offer several advantages, making them a critical part of the crypto ecosystem. By combining the reliability of fiat currency with the efficiency of blockchain, USD-backed stablecoins play a vital role in digital finance. Here are a few advantages of USD-backed stablecoins:Steady value: Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies, which experience high volatility, stablecoins maintain a steady value, making them an ideal unit for payments, particularly in exchange for goods and services.Liquidity and accessibility: USD-backed stablecoins are widely accepted across crypto exchanges, payment platforms and DeFi applications. This allows traders to move funds quickly between assets without converting crypto back to fiat currency, reducing transaction costs and delays.Transparency: Issuers generally provide regular audits and reports on their reserves, which enables users to verify that actual USD holdings back each token. This transparency builds trust among users, issuers and regulators.Fast, low-cost international payments: Operating on blockchain networks, USD-backed blockchain networks facilitate fast, low-cost international payments without relying on traditional banking systems. This makes them a preferred option for remittances and cross-border trade.Safe haven during market downturns: USD-backed stablecoins offer stability during periods of market volatility. Investors and traders often convert volatile crypto holdings into stablecoins to protect their value without exiting the crypto market entirely.Still, please note that stablecoins may depeg occasionally because of several macro and microeconomic factors. Macro factors include changes in economic conditions, such as inflation or an increase in interest rates. Micro variables involve differences in market conditions, such as changes in the underlying collateral and problems with liquidity. When Silicon Valley Bank failed in March of 2023, the USDC stablecoin deviated from its peg because $3.3 billion of its reserves were held there.Did you know? Stablecoins are of four types: fiat-collateralized, crypto-collateralized, algorithmic and commodity-collateralized. Algorithmic stablecoins have gradually gone out of favor. Key differences between gold-backed and USD-backed stablecoins Gold-backed and USD-backed tokens are stablecoins, yet they differ in several ways. This comparison explores the fundamental differences, focusing on their backing assets, price stability, liquidity, adoption and primary use cases:Backing asset: Physical gold vs fiat reservesGold-backed and USD-backed stablecoins differ primarily regarding the collateral that supports their value. Gold-backed stablecoins are tied to physical gold, usually at a fixed ratio, while some USD-backed stablecoins are backed by a reserve of US dollars, short-dated and cash deposits.Price stability: Long-term vs short-termThe value of gold-backed stablecoins fluctuates depending on the market price of gold, which can experience short-term volatility but tends to appreciate over the long run. USD-backed stablecoins maintain a 1:1 peg to the dollar, ensuring more predictable short-term stability. Their value remains steady unless external factors, such as regulatory changes or mismanagement of reserves, impact the peg. Liquidity and adoption: Use of USD-backed in DeFi applicationsUSD-backed stablecoins are more liquid and widely accepted in the crypto ecosystem, including exchanges, payment systems and DeFi applications. They are frequently used for trading and lending. Moreover, many countries in Latin America, such as Bolivia, have adopted USDC for payments. Gold-backed stablecoins, while useful for preserving value, are less commonly integrated into DeFi protocols due to low liquidity concerns.  Use cases: Value storage Gold-backed stablecoins serve as a hedge against inflation, appealing to investors seeking growth. USD-backed stablecoins are preferred by investors seeking stability and value storage. USD-backed stablecoins are used for everyday transactions, trading and financial services, thanks to instant liquidity and ease of use.Regulatory considerations: ComplianceGold-backed stablecoins and fiat-backed stablecoins differ in regulation due to their underlying assets. For instance, specific regulations such as the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoins Act (GENIUS Act) and the Stablecoin Transparency and Accountability for a Better Ledger Economy (STABLE) Act have emerged in the US for USD-backed stablecoins. However, no specific regulations exist for gold-backed stablecoins as of March 31, 2025, though they are expected to adhere to the usual banking and financial regulations. Can gold-backed stablecoins surpass USD-backed coins in adoption? Two factors favoring gold-backed stablecoins are their inflation-resistant properties and long-term stability. As Bitcoin advocate Max Keiser points out, gold enjoys greater global trust than the US dollar, particularly among nations with strained relations with the US. But is this enough for gold-backed stablecoins to get ahead of its more celebrated competitor?USD-backed stablecoins, often under scrutiny in the days of the Biden administration, are now enjoying the support of the US government headed by President Donald Trump. The current dispensation views USD-backed stablecoins as a potent tool to maintain the status of the US dollar as the world's reserve currency. While the Trump administration has been crypto-friendly since it took over, its support of the GENIUS Act and the STABLE Act, which await Congressional approval, is further testimony of this approach.Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has emphasized stablecoins as a strategic tool for sustaining the dollar’s reserve currency status. Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller has echoed this sentiment, supporting stablecoins as a means to uphold US dollar hegemony.Still, countries including Russia, China and Iran, arch-rivals of the US, might prefer gold-backed stablecoins over USD-backed stablecoins because the bullion-powered coins may help them limit the influence of the US dollar. According to Keiser, China and Russia collectively hold around 50,000 tons of gold, more than officially reported. If true, this gold could be used to roll out gold-backed stablecoins.If gold-backed stablecoins gain wider adoption, they could challenge the US government’s efforts to maintain dollar dominance through stablecoins. To that end, stablecoin issuer Tether introduced Alloy (aUSDT) in June 2024, a gold-backed digital asset tied to Tether Gold (XAUT), a token representing claims on physical gold. Gold-backed stablecoins resemble the gold-backed US dollar before 1971. That was the year when President Richard Nixon abolished the convertibility of the US dollar to gold. XAUT has enjoyed a 15.7% price increase year-to-date, suggesting the growth potential of the bullion-backed stablecoins.While gold-backed stablecoins present a compelling alternative, the battle for dominance between gold and USD-pegged stablecoins remains ongoing, influenced by geopolitical factors, financial policies, and market demand.

by Cointelegraph by Adrian Zmudzinski on April 21, 2025 at 12:55 pm

Major cryptocurrency firms, including stablecoin issuer Circle and crypto custodian BitGo, are reportedly considering applying for bank charters or licenses.According to an April 21 Wall Street Journal report citing people familiar with the matter, Circle, BitGo and others are considering applying for some form of banking license. Other firms cited include the publicly traded US-based crypto exchange Coinbase and the stablecoin issuer Paxos.The US Office of the Comptroller of the Currency granted a preliminary conditional approval for a US bank charter to Paxos in 2021. The report comes as the US continues to reshape stablecoin regulations.US Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell recently said that as digital assets gain mainstream adoption, establishing a legal framework for stablecoins is a “good idea.” Speaking at a recent event in Chicago, Powell recognized that after a “wave of failures and frauds,” the crypto space delivered a consumer use case that “could have wide appeal.”Related: Stablecoins are powering deobanksA stable geniusThe US House Financial Services Committee passed a Republican-backed stablecoin framework bill earlier in April. The bill approved by the committee is the Stablecoin Transparency and Accountability for a Better Ledger Economy (STABLE) Act.This bill is moving forward alongside the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act. The STABLE and GENIUS bills differ in how they would regulate the stablecoin industry.The latter was introduced first and made its way past the US Senate Banking Committee in mid-March. While the STABLE Act emphasizes strict federal oversight, the GENIUS Act seeks a more flexible path that includes state and federal regulation.The STABLE Act enforces a two-year moratorium on issuing collateralized stablecoins backed by self-issued digital assets. It also mandates that stablecoin reserves be held separate from business funds to ensure that customer deposits are not used for operations.The GENIUS Act would establish a legal framework for stablecoin payments and aims to support US-based stablecoin issuers to reinforce the dollar’s global dominance. The bill also includes stricter rules, such as enhanced Anti-Money Laundering (AML) safeguards, reserve and liquidity standards, and sanctions checks.Under the GENIUS Act, stablecoin issuers would be considered financial institutions covered by the Bank Secrecy Act and falling under strict AML rules. User verification and reporting of suspicious activity would also be required.Related: Crypto’s debanking problem persists despite new regulationsWhy a bank charter?The companies cited in the report had not responded to Cointelegraph’s inquiries by the time of publication.A bank charter potentially would allow crypto firms to operate like traditional lenders, taking deposits and making loans.Still, crypto firms that obtain banking charters would be subject to stricter reporting and regulatory oversight. One example is Anchorage Digital, a crypto firm holding a federal bank charter that reportedly spent millions to comply with regulations.Despite this, recent reports indicate that the US Department of Homeland Security’s El Dorado Task Force has reportedly launched an investigation into Anchorage Digital Bank.The news does not come as a complete surprise. In late March, reports indicated that cryptocurrency and fintech companies were increasingly seeking bank charters to expand their businesses under the Trump administration.Magazine: Elon Musk’s plan to run government on blockchain faces uphill battle

by Cointelegraph by Helen Partz on April 21, 2025 at 12:40 pm

Michael Saylor’s Strategy, one of the world’s largest publicly listed corporate Bitcoin holders, added another major purchase to its growing portfolio as the cryptocurrency trades near $85,000.Strategy acquired 6,556 Bitcoin for $555.8 million from April 14–20, at an average price of $84,785 per coin, the firm announced in its latest Form 8-K filing with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.The latest purchase accounts for 1.2% of Strategy’s total Bitcoin holdings of 538,200 BTC as of April 20, acquired for the aggregate amount of $36.5 billion at an average price of $67,766 per BTC.An excerpt from Strategy’s Form 8-K filing. Source: StrategyThe latest Bitcoin purchase was funded using proceeds from the Common ATM and STRK ATM stock offerings, including the sale of 1,755,000 Strategy shares for $547.7 million and 91,213 shares of Series A preferred stock sold for $7.8 million.Strategy expands buying after a pauseThe latest purchase follows Strategy’s 3,459 BTC acquisition reported on April 14, which was the first announced purchase by the firm after March 31.Prior to that, Strategy did not report a Bitcoin buy between March 31 and April 6, breaking its usual cadence as Bitcoin fell below $87,000.Strategy’s Bitcoin acquisitions in 2025 so far. Source: StrategyStrategy has acquired 91,800 Bitcoin so far in 2025, accounting for 17% of its total BTC holdings.Magazine: Your AI ‘digital twin’ can take meetings and comfort your loved ones

by Cointelegraph by Helen Partz on April 21, 2025 at 12:23 pm

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov expressed concerns over a growing threat to private messaging in France and other European Union countries, warning that Telegram would rather exit certain markets than implement encryption backdoors that undermine user privacy.In an April 21 post to his “Du Rove’s channel” on Telegram, he posted a message about the EU’s increasing efforts to weaken messaging encryption by adding backdoors, a method that would allow authorities to bypass encryption and access private user data.Durov cited initiatives from French and EU lawmakers to require messaging apps like Telegram to implement backdoors for police access and stressed Telegram’s commitment to digital privacy.“Telegram would rather exit a market than undermine encryption with backdoors and violate basic human rights,” Durov stated, adding: “Unlike some of our competitors, we don’t trade privacy for market share.”Backdoors can be exploited by criminalsIn his message, Durov highlighted that the biggest problem behind encryption backdoors lies in their accessibility not only by authorities but also by hackers and foreign agents.“It’s technically impossible to guarantee that only the police can access a backdoor,” Durov said, adding that backdoors would put users’ private messages at risk of being compromised.He added that criminals would likely turn to lesser-known apps and use virtual private networks (VPNs) to avoid detection, rendering such regulations ineffective. Telegram “never disclosed a single byte” of private messagesDurov said that while Telegram complies with valid court orders in some jurisdictions, such as disclosing IP addresses and phone numbers found to be involved in criminal activity, it has never exposed any private messages:“In its 12-year history, Telegram has never disclosed a single byte of private messages. In accordance with the EU Digital Services Act, if provided with a valid court order, Telegram would only disclose the IP addresses and phone numbers of criminal suspects — not messages.”He urged privacy advocates to keep communicating with lawmakers and promote encryption as a protection tool of privacy and safety for ordinary people, rather than see it as a criminal tool. “Losing that protection would be tragic,” Durov said.“The battle is far from over”Although the French National Assembly rejected a proposal to allow hidden access to private messages in March, Durov said the EU’s war on digital privacy is far from over.Durov cited the European Commission’s “ProtectEU” proposal from early April. The proposal aims to find “technological solutions to enable lawful access to data by law enforcement authorities in 2026.”An excerpt from the EC’s ProtectEU proposal. Source: EUThe proposal has been heavily criticized by digital privacy advocates and some European lawmakers, with Finnish MEP Aura Salla suggesting that introducing encryption backdoors “fundamentally undermines the very cybersecurity principles ProtectEU aims to uphold.”Related: EU could fine Elon Musk’s X $1B over illicit content, disinformation“No country is immune to the slow erosion of freedoms. Every day, those freedoms come under attack — and every day, we must defend them,” Durov concluded.Durov’s warning about threats to privacy and freedom in the EU comes amid an ongoing legal case in France against the Telegram CEO involving allegations of facilitating a platform that enables illicit transactions.According to French prosecutors, Durov faces up to 10 years of prison time in addition to a $550,000 fine if convicted.Magazine: Altcoin season to hit in Q2? Mantra’s plan to win trust: Hodler’s Digest, April 13 – 19

by Cointelegraph by Ezra Reguerra on April 21, 2025 at 12:00 pm

Crypto casinos generated more than $81 billion in revenue in 2024, even as regulators in key jurisdictions continued to block access to the platforms, according to a new report.Citing data from the anti-online-crime platform Yield Sec, the Financial Times reported that wagers paid in crypto in 2024 generated $81.4 billion in gross gaming revenue (GGR). This metric refers to the difference between bets taken and winnings paid out.  Yield Sec data also showed that the annual revenue for crypto casinos has increased five times since 2022, despite gambling sites being blocked in the United States, China, the United Kingdom and the European Union. Crypto casino Stake rivals traditional betting platformsBetting platform Stake reported that its GGR in 2024 was around $4.7 billion, up 80% since 2022. This puts it on a par with some of the biggest gambling groups, such as Entain and Flutter. Entain reported $5 billion, while Flutter reported $14 billion in revenue in 2024. Stake offers traditional casino games, including blackjack, roulette and slots. The platform also allows users to bet on sports. Users on the betting platform generally transact in crypto, with account balances being deposited and withdrawn directly into crypto wallets. In 2023, the crypto betting platform was hacked, with $41 million withdrawn from its wallets. On Sept. 4, 2023, security firms flagged suspicious outflows from the platform. The company then confirmed the hack through social media, saying there were unauthorized transactions from its Ethereum and BNB Chain hot wallets. On Sept. 7, 2023, the US Federal Bureau of Investigation said the $41 million hack was executed by the notorious North Korean hacking group Lazarus. Related: XRP ETF ‘obvious’ as Polymarket bettors up approval odds to 85%Gamblers access illegal sites through VPNsEven though crypto gambling sites are officially blocked in many jurisdictions, users can access them by bypassing geo-blocking restrictions with VPNs, which allows users to place bets on sites blocked in their country. Former players and crypto users told the FT that many online guides show people how to bypass geo-blocking restrictions to access a crypto gambling platform. Cointelegraph confirmed that some influencers offer online tutorials that teach people how to access blocked gambling sites. “Ready-to-gamble” crypto casino accounts are also reportedly being sold on social media platforms, according to Sanya Burgess, journalist at The i Paper.Source: Sanya BurgessUsers sell accounts that have already passed through betting sites’ registration processes. On Jan. 31, Sky News reported that some users sell pre-verified crypto casino accounts for as little as $10. These ready-to-gamble accounts are reportedly sold on social media sites like Facebook.Magazine: Your AI ‘digital twin’ can take meetings and comfort your loved ones

on April 21, 2025 at 11:36 am

The death of Pope Francis has set in motion the centuries-old process of electing a new pope.

by Cointelegraph by Zoltan Vardai on April 21, 2025 at 11:22 am

Investors seeking Bitcoin exposure may be running out of time to purchase below a six-figure price, as US Treasury buybacks may signal the next leg up for the world’s first cryptocurrency.This might be the “last chance” to buy Bitcoin (BTC) below the $100,000 mark, according to Arthur Hayes, co-founder of BitMEX and chief investment officer of Maelstrom.“Seriously fam, this might be the last chance you have to buy $BTC post, hinting at incoming “treasury buy backs” as the “Bazooka” for Bitcoin’s price trajectory.Source: Arthur HayesTreasury buybacks refer to the US Treasury Department repurchasing its outstanding bonds from the open market to increase liquidity, manage federal debt or stabilize interest rates.These operations can inject liquidity into the financial system, often benefiting risk assets like Bitcoin.Related: Bitcoin up 33% since 2024 halving as institutions disrupt cycleOther analysts predicted that the growth of the fiat money supply will be Bitcoin’s main catalyst in 2025.BTC projection to $132,000 on M2 money supply growth. Source: Jamie CouttsThe growing money supply may push Bitcoin’s price above $132,000 before the end of the year, according to Jamie Coutts, chief crypto analyst at Real Vision.However, global trade war concerns may limit investor appetite until the US and China reach a trade agreement.Related: Metaplanet tops $400M Bitcoin holdings with new $28M purchaseUS dollar sinks to 2022 low, Bitcoin gains momentumBitcoin briefly rose above $87,700 for the first time in nearly three weeks, since US President Donald Trump announced reciprocal import tariffs on April 2.“Looks like Bitcoin is pumping on continued Dollar weakness,” wrote André Dragosch, the European head of research at Bitwise, adding that the US Dollar Index “just touched the lowest level since March 2022.”BTC, DXY, 1-year chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThe weakening US dollar may reinforce Bitcoin’s appeal as a safe-haven asset, Ryan Lee, chief analyst at Bitget Research, told Cointelegraph, adding:“Strong volume and technical confirmation from a descending wedge breakout suggest a potential test of the $90,000 resistance, with macro factors like a weakening dollar and rising gold correlation reinforcing BTC’s appeal as a hedge.”Despite the recent correction, Japanese and UK-based investment firms are investing hundreds of millions into Bitcoin, signaling continued institutional adoption that may accelerate Bitcoin’s four-year cycle.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.Magazine: SCB tips $500K BTC, SEC delays Ether ETF options, and more: Hodler’s Digest, Feb. 23 – March 1

by Cointelegraph by Yashu Gola on April 21, 2025 at 10:45 am

XRP (XRP) has dropped nearly 40% since hitting its multi-year high of $3.40 three months ago. Still, its ability to hold above key technical support levels, combined with a potentially market-shifting derivatives listing, has prompted some analysts to maintain a bullish outlook for the months ahead.XRP/USD daily price chart. Source: TradingViewCoinbase XRP futures may launch on April 21From a fundamental perspective, XRP may receive a boost from the anticipated launch of XRP futures contracts on the Coinbase Derivatives platform, scheduled for April 21 under the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s (CFTC) oversight.Source: XThis development may inject fresh liquidity and institutional interest into the market, helping catalyze the technical breakouts projected above.XRP price chart painting Wyckoff reaccumulation XRP’s ongoing consolidation phase resembles a classic Wyckoff reaccumulation pattern, according to technical analyst Charting Guy.The Wyckoff reaccumulation pattern is a mid-cycle structure that often precedes the next leg of a broader uptrend. It suggests that smart money is absorbing supply during the cooldown, setting the stage for a potential breakout.XRP established support and began consolidating in late 2024, marking Phases A and B of the Wyckoff reaccumulation pattern. In early April 2025, the price formed a “Spring” followed by a successful “Test,” signaling seller exhaustion.XRP/USD daily price chart. Source: TradingView/Charting GuyAs of April 21, XRP is attempting to break above the descending “Creek” trendline. A breakout would confirm a “Jump Across The Creek” (JATC) and entry into Phase D. If confirmed, XRP could enter Phase E and rally 70% toward $3.55 in the coming weeks, a level aligning with the pattern’s Last Point of Support (LPS).XRP/USD weekly price chart. Source: TradingViewA Fibonacci retracement graph drawn from $3.55-swing-high to $0.14-swing-low presents $5.65 as the upside target for June if XRP price breaks above $3.55.Falling wedge aligns with XRP’s bullish outlookThe upside outlook aligns with XRP’s prevailing falling wedge pattern, as spotted by chartist “Jobcfx” on X.Notably, the bullish reversal structure has been narrowing since February 2025. A breakout above the wedge’s upper trendline, currently around the $2.20-2.40 area, would signal the start of a new rally.XRP/USD daily price chart. Source: TradingViewFalling wedge breakouts typically target a move equal to the pattern’s maximum height. In XRP’s case, if it breaks above $2.20, the projected upside target for May lands near $4.00, aligning with the Wyckoff reaccumulation’s Phase E breakout zone.Related: XRP price analysts project $10 next, ‘optimistic’ target of $20Interestingly, Bitcoin (BTC) is also forming a falling wedge pattern on its chart. If confirmed, a bullish breakout in Bitcoin could act as a catalyst for the altcoin market, potentially accelerating XRP’s upward momentum as well.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 Ezra Reguerra on April 21, 2025 at 10:01 am

The Ethereum Foundation, the nonprofit organization developing the Ethereum ecosystem, is shifting its focus to user experience and layer-1 scaling challenges following its March leadership reshuffle. On April 21, the Ethereum Foundation co-executive director Tomasz Stańczak shared an X post detailing how the organization has changed since its change in leadership structure. Stańczak said the change aims to give Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin more time for research and exploration rather than dealing with day-to-day tasks and crisis management. “Each time Vitalik shares insights or communicates a direction, he accelerates major long‑term breakthroughs,” he wrote. Stańczak added that Buterin’s recent posts had advanced promising avenues and helped realign the community around the organization’s core values. Vitalik Buterin tackles Ethereum privacy and speedOn March 1, the Ethereum Foundation announced that its core researcher Hsiao-Wei Wang and Stańczak, the CEO of Nethermind, would become the co-directors of the organization from March 17. Since the changes in the organization’s leadership structure, Buterin has stepped back from daily operations. He has since published proposals addressing the Ethereum network’s privacy and performance limitations.On April 11, the Ethereum co-founder unveiled a privacy roadmap for the network. In the post, Buterin proposed having features that anonymize user transactions. Buterin said the features should be “ideally turned on by default.” Besides the privacy of transactions, Buterin also shared a post addressing Ethereum’s speed and efficiency. On April 20, Buterin proposed a change in the Ethereum Virtual Machine’s (EVM) contract language to improve the efficiency and speed of the blockchain’s execution layer. Stańczak said that while Buterin’s proposals will “always carry weight,” they are supposed to start conversations and encourage progress in different research areas. The executive said the community can either refine or reject the ideas. Related: Debate as Solana briefly flips Ethereum in staking market capFoundation targets near-term protocol upgradesThe Ethereum Foundation will shift much of its research to “near-term” goals, including addressing user experience and scaling challenges in upcoming protocol upgrades, Stańczak said. Stańczak added that the foundation will concentrate on layer-1 scaling, support for layer-2 scaling, and user experience improvements such as interoperability in the Pectra, Fusaka and Glamsterdam upgrades. While the focus shifted to near-term results, the executive said the team is also looking into ways to bring in more long-term projects. “Posts from our top researchers help some of them to ship within one or two years through initiatives such as next‑generation execution and consensus layers,” Stańczak said. Cointelegraph contacted the Ethereum Foundation for comment but did not receive a response by publication.Magazine: Memecoin degeneracy is funding groundbreaking anti-aging research

by Jessica Riga on April 21, 2025 at 9:40 am

Before he became Pope Francis, he was Jorge Mario Bergoglio. Born in Argentina to the son of Italian immigrants, he would become the first pope to be born or raised outside Europe in centuries.

by Samantha Dick on April 21, 2025 at 9:29 am

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says all Australian government flags will fly at half mast on Tuesday after the Vatican confirmed Pope Francis has died at the age of 88. 

by Cointelegraph by William Suberg on April 21, 2025 at 9:16 am

Bitcoin (BTC) is eyeing new April highs as macro instability suddenly delivers a tailwind for BTC price performance.Bitcoin is on the way up, nearing $88,000, but few market participants are willing to trust the strength of snap price moves.A new macro week dawns in the shadow of the US trade war, with Federal Reserve speakers lining up to take to the stage.Gold is shattering all-time highs again, but this time Bitcoin is starting to react.US dollar weakness exhibits historic traits as three-year lows spark bullish predictions for Bitcoin and commodities.The newest BTC hodlers are already profiting from the latest move, but speculators are waiting for a reclaimation of $91,000.BTC price spike met with skepticismBitcoin is starting the week off right with a 3% rise on the back of fresh macroeconomic turmoil amid the US-China trade war.BTC/USD reached $87,705 after the April 20 weekly close, data from Cointelegraph Markets Pro and TradingView shows, its highest in nearly three weeks.BTC/USD 1-hour chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewReacting, however, traders have been cautious, highlighting the unreliable nature of volatile moves that begin during non-TradFi trading hours on weekends.“Nice breakout, but it’s on low volume,” trading resource Stockmoney Lizards wrote in part of a response on X. “WIll definitely need confirmation. In any case, you shouldn't be too euphoric yet.”Never like to trust a Sunday pump - lots of false breakouts here by the looks of it. Lets see what next week brings pic.twitter.com/cVE1j1Gh63— Honeybadger (@HoneybadgerC) April 21, 2025Fellow trading account IncomeSharks shared similar views, saying that BTC price strength must continue in the face of weak equities.“Nice to see the downtrend breakout but the timing is important,” it said.“Sunday is not a day to celebrate a low volume pump while stock markets are closed. If you want to see a bullish moves lets see stocks open red tomorrow and keep this candle green. Then we can have fun.”BTC/USD 1-day chart. Source: IncomeSharks/XCrypto trader, analyst and entrepreneur Michaël van de Poppe continued the lukewarm reaction to the upside on both Bitcoin and gold, predicting that they “probably will give it back.”“Needs to get above $88,804 to break the series of lower highs and lower lows,” trader, analyst and podcast host Scott Melker, known as the “Wolf of All Streets,” added. “Is it time?”Fed policy in spotlight as officials speakThe coming days will see the Federal Reserve take the spotlight as senior officials comment on the current macroeconomic landscape.A total of eight Federal Reserve presidents will shed fresh light on what is an increasingly contentious status quo for the US, with the Fed at odds with demands from President Donald Trump.Last week, Trump even called for Fed Chair Jerome Powell to be fired, a move that sparked concerns over US economic stability.Powell has repeatedly come out hawkish on financial policy, hinting at being in no rush to lower interest rates as Trump’s trade war fuels inflation concerns.The latest data from CME Group’s FedWatch Tool reflects this, with traders seeing a rate cut likely only at the Fed’s June meeting.Fed target rate probabilities for June FOMC meeting. Source: CME GroupWith little by way of new macro data due for release, however, markets will continue to focus on the trade war itself, along with the volatility it often creates.The start of the week has been no exception so far; China issuing warnings over collaboration with the US to isolate it immediately sent stock futures tumbling while gold soared to new all-time highs.Bitcoin, in a break with recent tradition, managed to copy gold’s optimism instead of following equities lower.“Gold has hit its 55th all-time high in 12 months and Bitcoin is officially joining the run, now above $87,000,” trading resource The Kobeissi Letter responded in part of an X post on the topic. “The narrative in both Gold and Bitcoin is aligning for the first time in years: Gold and Bitcoin are telling us that a weaker US Dollar and more uncertainty are on the way.”Gold nears record $3,400 on trade war fearsGold remains the standout bullish story for 2025.Amid the uncertainty wrought by the trade war and its potential long-term impact on inflation and global assets, XAU/USD has exploded nearly 30% year-to-date.The pair is currently circling a record $3,400 per ounce, and while some have warned that a “blow-off top” is due, momentum refuses to slow down.XAU/USD 1-day chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewKobeissi suggested that Trump’s latest trade-war post on social media, in the form of a “non-tariff cheating” sheet, helped reignite gold’s relentless march higher.“President Trump’s ‘non-tariff cheating’ list is arguably one of the best things to happen to gold all year,” it argued.“Gold knows what's coming next.”Kobeissi revealed that gold had, in fact, outperformed the S&P 500 since the COVID-19 cross-market crash in March 2020.For Bitcoin, however, change appears to be afoot. As Cointelegraph reported, BTC/USD has finally begun to mimic gold’s reaction to macro uncertainty after spending months in a downtrend.As that downtrend is slowly left behind, talk is turning to historical precedent. In the past, Bitcoin breakouts have lagged gold by around three months.“After futures opened it didn’t take long for $BTC and $GOLD to move up quickly as equities moved down,” trader Daan Crypto Trades told X followers. “Pretty interesting move which is now compounding on the relative strength BTC has already been showing for weeks.”BTC/USD vs. XAU/USD 1-day chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewDollar strength plumbs new 3-year lowsAdding to the mix is fresh US dollar weakness, something that hedge fund creator Andreas Steno Larsen described as a “good early sign for Bitcoin.”“We ain’t seen nothing yet, if this continues (and if Powell is laid off),” he argued on X alongside a chart of BTC versus USD returns. Bitcoin vs. USD returns. Source: Andreas Steno/XThe US Dollar Index (DXY), which tracks greenback strength against a basket of major US trading partner currencies, was down another 1.3% on April 21 at the time of writing. This, in turn, brought the year-to-date downside to nearly 10%.Now at its lowest levels since March 2022, DXY is being heralded as the powder keg to spark a giant bull run in both Bitcoin and commodities.“The US Dollar has gone ‘no bid,’ teetering on a historic 14-yr uptrend breakdown from 2011,” trading resource Rock Bottom Entries told X followers. “Forget 2016 & 2020—this will ignite a 2000s-style commodity supercycle.”US Dollar Index (DXY) 1-month chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewBitcoin traditionally outperforms to the upside during periods of rapid DXY suppression, an inverse correlation that has been lacking in recent times.“Contrary to what you hear on social media, Bitcoin has been in lockstep with DXY for a couple of years,” analyst Joe Dean thus commented on the phenomenon. “DXY overshot to the upside, then the downside, and will likely find its way back to the mean. $BTC will likely follow.”US dollar index (DXY) vs. BTC/USD chart. Source: Joe Dean/XBitcoin newbies back in the blackShort-term BTC price moves are already making a tangible difference to certain Bitcoin investor cohorts.Related: Bitcoin prepares for launch from $85K, BNB, HYPE, TAO and RNDR could followNew research from onchain analytics platform CryptoQuant reveals that even a tap of $87,000 has placed the most recent set of buyers in the black, with an average 3.7% profit.“This is a short-term bullish signal, showing renewed confidence and reduced panic risk among the newest market entrants,” CryptoQuant contributor Crazzyblockk wrote in one of its “Quicktake” blog posts.The move comes in contrast to the large short-term holder (STH) cohort, comprised of buyers up to six months old, which has an aggregate cost basis of $91,000.As Cointelegraph reported, STH cost bases can act as both support and resistance for extended periods as speculative hodlers react to sudden price swings.“Until BTC closes above the $91K threshold, Short-Term Holders remain in loss. This may sustain latent sell pressure, especially if price momentum weakens — reinforcing the importance of a decisive breakout above STH realized price to neutralize this overhang,” CryptoQuant added.Bitcoin STH profitability (screenshot). Source: CryptoQuantThis 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 21, 2025 at 9:08 am

Japanese investment firm Metaplanet increased its Bitcoin holdings to more than $400 million after its latest purchase.Metaplanet acquired 330 Bitcoin (BTC) for $28.2 million at an average price of $85,605 per BTC, bringing its total holdings to 4,855 Bitcoin worth $414 million, according to an April 21 post from Simon Gerovich, the CEO of Metaplanet.The firm’s Bitcoin yield surpassed 119% year-to-date after its latest investment.Source: Simon GerovichMetaplanet issued 2 billion Japanese yen ($13.3 million) of bonds to buy more Bitcoin on March 31, Cointelegraph reported.Related: UK firm buys $250M Bitcoin as analysts eye quiet Easter weekendThe $414 million in Bitcoin holdings make Metaplanet Asia’s largest and the world’s 10th-largest corporate Bitcoin holder, Bitbo data shows.Source: Bitbo According to Enmanuel Cardozo, a market analyst at the asset tokenization platform Brickken, the growing institutional presence of firms, such as Strategy and Tether, is accelerating the four-year Bitcoin cycle.“That puts the bottom around Q3 this year and a peak mid-2026, but I think we might see things move it a bit sooner because the market’s more mature now with more liquidity,” the analyst told Cointelegraph.Related: $1T stablecoin supply could drive next crypto rally — CoinFund’s PakmanMetaplanet plans to reach 21,000 BTCThe latest acquisitions are part of Metaplanet’s plans to accumulate 21,000 BTC by 2026, aligning with its mission to drive Bitcoin adoption across Japan.Often dubbed “Asia’s MicroStrategy,” Metaplanet has drawn comparisons to Michael Saylor’s company Strategy, which continues to top the list of public Bitcoin holders.Metaplanet’s investment was announced a week after the latest purchase by Strategy, the world’s largest corporate Bitcoin holder.Source: Michael SaylorStrategy bought 3,459 BTC for $285.5 million at an average price of $82,618 per BTC, bringing its total holding to 531,644 BTC acquired for a cumulative $35.92 billion, Cointelegraph reported on April 14.Despite tariff uncertainty limiting risk appetite among traditional and crypto investors in the short term, analysts are optimistic about Bitcoin’s price trajectory for the next decade.Bitcoin may surpass $1.8 million by 2035, driven by its growing recognition as a superior savings technology, set to rival or surpass gold’s $21 trillion market capitalization, Joe Burnett, director of market research at Unchained, told Cointelegraph during the  Chainreaction live show on X.Magazine: SCB tips $500K BTC, SEC delays Ether ETF options, and more: Hodler’s Digest, Feb. 23 – March 1

by Sean Rubinsztein-Dunlop, Kyle Taylor, Maddy King, and Michael Workman on April 21, 2025 at 9:00 am

Australia's domestic spy agency, ASIO, was repeatedly warned about a potential attack on a Sydney bishop almost two years before it happened, according to explosive claims by a former undercover agent.

by Cointelegraph by Dominic Schwenter on April 21, 2025 at 9:00 am

Opinion by: Dominic Schwenter, chief operating officer of LiskThe US is in the middle of a crypto boom. Exchange-traded fund approvals have opened the door to institutional adoption, liquidity is increasing, and regulatory clarity is beginning to take shape under a more crypto-aligned administration. Filings from the Securities and Exchange Commission referencing blockchain hit an all-time high in February 2025, signaling a broader shift in how seriously the technology is being taken at the highest levels.This momentum is good for the industry. US-based crypto companies have spent nearly a decade building through regulatory uncertainty, and they deserve the attention and rewards that are finally arriving. Is institutional support finally showing up? It’s overdue — and well-earned.Zooming in on the US too much, however, puts the industry at risk of missing what’s happening elsewhere. Some of the most important crypto adoption today takes root in places far outside the spotlight.The most exciting crypto adoption isn’t happening on Wall Street. It is unfolding in high-growth markets where people use crypto not to speculate but out of necessity. These communities didn’t wait for headlines. They built through every cycle and are now setting the pace for where Web3 is going next.High-growth markets are leading in adoptionFifteen of the top 20 countries on Chainalysis’s 2024 Global Crypto Adoption Index are in high-growth regions such as Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines and Nigeria. These aren’t just speculative hotspots. In many of these countries, crypto is part of daily life. Unlike boom-and-bust markets, adoption here hasn’t wavered. It is grounded in utility.In many of these economies, crypto helps families facilitate remittance, offers a safer way to store value when local currencies aren’t stable, and lets small businesses move money without friction. In the West, crypto still carries the sheen of a high-risk investment. In high-growth markets, it’s already embedded into daily life. That’s what real adoption looks like.Builders are shifting to high-growth marketsAs steady, practical usage rises, builder activity follows. Currently, the global developer map is changing fast. According to the 2024 Electric Capital Developer Report, Asia now accounts for 32% of active crypto developers — a massive jump from just 12% in 2015. Over the same period, the US share dropped sharply, from 38% to 19%. The blockchain talent pool isn’t shrinking. It’s moving to where the momentum is.Additionally, 41% of all new crypto developers now come from Asia, illustrating a growing pipeline of builders emerging outside of traditional tech hubs. These aren’t just hobbyists but the next wave of founders, architects and engineers choosing to build closer to the problems crypto can solve.Recent: Bitcoin’s role as an inflation hedge depends on where one lives — AnalystThis shift isn’t limited to Central Asia. Africa, South America and Southeast Asia are all seeing steady increases in developer activity, while North America and Europe continue to decline in relative share. The message is clear: Web3 innovation is no longer anchored to a single geography. It’s being driven by builders who are closer to real-world needs — and who are designing for them.Blockchain solves real problemsThe surge in developer activity and adoption across high-growth markets isn’t happening in a vacuum. Instead, it’s tied to real-world effects. A clear example is PepsiCo South Africa’s use of blockchain for supply chain tracking in the informal trade sector. In a region where traditional infrastructure is often fragmented or absent, this implementation does what blockchain was meant to do: solve problems.Using a blockchain-powered end-to-end digital payments solution like Lov.cash, PepsiCo enables cashless payments between small, often unbanked retailers and wholesalers. The system also gave wholesalers a clear view into what was selling and where — helping them plan smarter and cut down on waste. There’s no token speculation here, no shiny non-fungible tokens — just a real solution to a real supply chain problem.Stories like this rarely get top billing, but they’re where the technology actually delivers. In places where basic infrastructure is lacking, blockchain isn’t an experiment. It’s a workaround. If the industry keeps chasing hype while ignoring this influence, it’ll miss the most significant chance to make a difference.A call to action for Web3 buildersWhat’s happening in the US is worthy of celebration — but it’s not the whole story. Real-world adoption, momentum from builders, and real use cases are accelerating in high-growth markets, where crypto is already making a difference.This is where Web3’s long-term effect will be shaped. Builders and investors should stop waiting for validation from Washington or Wall Street and start paying attention to the places where the tech is solving real problems right now.Crypto didn’t wait for the US to matter. If the goal is to build something truly global, it’s time to follow the people already using it to make things work.Opinion by: Dominic Schwenter, chief operating officer of Lisk. 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.

on April 21, 2025 at 8:31 am

The Vatican confirms the death of Pope Francis, who sat at the head of a church encompassing more than 1 billion worshippers worldwide. Follow live.

by Siobhan Marin and Rebecca Armitage on April 21, 2025 at 8:16 am

From the clerical sexual abuse crisis to financial scandals in the Vatican, Pope Francis oversaw one of the most tumultuous periods in the Church's modern history.

on April 21, 2025 at 8:13 am

Pope Francis, the head of the Roman Catholic Church and sovereign of Vatican City, has died aged 88. 

by Cointelegraph by Tobias Vilkenson on April 21, 2025 at 7:55 am

Crypto, stocks and bonds: Are they the same? When you dive into investing, you’ll find three frequently utilized investment options: Crypto is the risky thrill-seeker’s choice, stocks offer a middle ground with growth potential, and bonds are for those who prefer a steadier, more predictable path. While both stocks and crypto offer growth potential, regulation makes stock market investments more structured and predictable, and crypto aims for decentralization and remains less regulated.CryptoCryptocurrency is a digital currency built on blockchain technology, a decentralized, transparent and secure system that records all transactions. No entity, such as a bank, directly controls it. Crypto is known for massive swings — big gains (and losses) can happen fast, making it exciting for those who want to play the high-risk game. Although cryptocurrency has been available for a while, its adoption has surged in recent years, gaining traction among retail investors, institutions and even some governments. Cryptocurrency is not universally regulated and can be accessed through various channels, including crypto exchanges, brokers, ATMs and fintech apps.StocksStocks represent ownership in a company — when you buy a stock, you’re purchasing a share of that business. If the company performs well and earns profits, shareholders may benefit through dividends and capital gains. On the flip side, poor performance or negative market sentiment can lead to losses.Stocks are typically regulated by government agencies, such as the US Securities and Exchange Commission, making them generally less risky than cryptocurrencies. However, they are still influenced by factors such as company performance, market conditions, economic trends and global events — making them potentially volatile.You can purchase stocks through traditional stock exchanges (like the NYSE or Nasdaq) or online brokerage platforms.BondsBonds are essentially loans that investors give to governments or companies. In exchange, the issuer pays regular interest over a set period and returns the full loan amount — known as the principal — when the bond reaches its maturity date, which can range from a few months to 30 years.Bonds are often considered less volatile than stocks, making them a popular choice for conservative investors. However, they are not without risks. Rising interest rates can lower a bond’s market value, inflation can erode purchasing power, and corporate bonds carry the risk of default if the issuer experiences financial trouble.The trade-off for this relative stability is usually lower returns, which may not appeal to those seeking high-growth investments. Bonds are regulated financial instruments and can typically be purchased through brokers or directly from government agencies. Is crypto more profitable compared to stocks and bonds? While crypto can offer diversification benefits, its relationship with traditional assets is complex and evolving.For instance, ​in 2024, Bitcoin (BTC), the most popular cryptocurrency, demonstrated remarkable profitability, achieving a 121% return and outperforming traditional assets like the Nasdaq 100, which gained 25.6%, and the S&P 500, which rose by 25%. Gold also saw a significant increase of 26.7%, while US large-cap stocks experienced a 24.9% gain.Bonds, on the other hand, offered a more modest return: The 10-year US Treasury bond, known for its fixed interest payments, ended the year with a yield of approximately 4.57%.Historically, Bitcoin has exhibited a low correlation with the S&P 500, averaging 0.17 over the past decade. However, this correlation has fluctuated, reaching as high as 0.75 before declining toward zero in early 2025, indicating periods of both alignment and independence from traditional markets. Tariff fallout: Which is more profitable now — Crypto, stocks or bonds? The tariffs introduced by US President Donald Trump on April 2, 2025, have had an unprecedented impact on both traditional and crypto markets. But the effects have followed the above pattern consistently — stocks experienced a sharp price reduction.According to the Guardian, the Nasdaq Composite entered a bear market by the close of trading on April 3, falling more than 20% below its most recent peak on Dec. 16, 2024. In the meantime, European indexes such as the FTSE 100 fell over 11%, and the S&P 500 dropped at least 12% since the introduction of tariffs.Crypto had an even stronger downturn, which was once seen as a hedge against market volatility but has not been immune. Bitcoin’s price dropped by over 6% and Ether’s (ETH) by more than 12% within 24 hours of the tariff announcement, as global markets reacted with fear. The unpredictability of tariff policies contributes to market jitters, affecting all asset classes, from stocks to bonds and crypto, in unique ways.Bonds have experienced only a small return rate increase, given that a higher return means a lower price for a bond. According to CNBC, in response to President Trump’s tariff announcements, global bond yields sharply dropped as investors sought safe havens amid stock market turmoil. For example, Germany’s 10-year bond yield fell from 2.72% to below 2.6%, and US Treasury yields also hit their lowest levels in months, signaling heightened demand for government debt, though economists warn this rally may not be sustainable if inflation concerns persist. Trading and investing in crypto, stocks and bonds: What sets them apart? All asset classes — crypto vs. traditional investments — involve identifying patterns, but the timeframes, dynamics and tactics differ significantly.Crypto and stock trading share similar patterns, like sensitivity to macroeconomic trends andtechnical patterns, but their market structures contrast sharply. Stock markets operate within set hours, such as the NYSE’s hours of 9:30 am–4:30 pm ET, while crypto markets run 24/7. Bonds are typically traded during regular market hours, similar to stocks, but the exact trading hours can depend on the type of bond, such as Treasurys or corporate issues.Crypto trading involves pairs using common tokens like Bitcoin or Ether as base currencies, while stocks are typically bought with fiat, and bonds are traded in fixed denominations, often with a minimum investment threshold. Liquidity issues can affect all three: Crypto can face challenges with small-cap tokens, stocks with micro-cap companies and bonds with less-traded long-term or corporate issues.Timeframes for market patterns highlight further distinctions. Crypto market patterns thrive on short-term volatility, demanding rapid decisions and frequent trades, while stock patterns often track longer-term trends tied to company performance and broader economic cycles. Bonds move the slowest, with price shifts driven primarily by interest rates, and offer stable, predictable patterns.Price drivers also set them apart. Crypto values hinge on market trends, adoption and utility; stocks rely on company fundamentals, research and earnings; and bonds depend on interest rate movements and issuer creditworthiness, prioritizing stability over growth. Entry barrier to crypto, stocks and bonds Stock issuance is governed by company laws, blockchain protocols with hard caps control crypto supply, and bonds are issued based on creditworthiness.To invest in stocks and bonds, you generally need to be at least 18 years old and have a brokerage account to invest in the stock and bond markets. Some stocks may require a higher income or level of experience, while most stocks only allow accredited or wealthy investors to participate.Buying stocks and bonds means going through regulated brokers and exchanges. Crypto, on the other hand, lets you jump in with just a wallet — no intermediary, no paperwork. Centralized crypto exchanges require Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, but decentralized platforms let you trade freely with only your private keys.Did you know? Stocks represent company equity with dividends; crypto represents digital assets with varying uses; and bonds are loans offering fixed-interest payments. Regulatory differences between crypto, stocks and bonds While stocks and bonds follow strict rules, crypto is still figuring things out, making buying, selling, holding and taxes a whole different experience.In most countries, investing in stocks and bonds is legal and regulated. Still, some governments, like North Korea and Cuba, impose strict restrictions or outright bans on private investment in these assets. Crypto faces a patchwork of regulations worldwide, ranging from full bans in countries like China and Egypt to partial restrictions in places like India, where regulations limit banking support but don’t outlaw trading. Meanwhile, crypto-friendly nations like El Salvador embrace digital assets with clear legal frameworks and government support.Holding stocks and bonds is straightforward. The shares sit safely with a brokerage, and bonds pay you interest at fixed intervals. Holding crypto, however, comes with risks. You can self-custody in a wallet, but if you lose your private keys, your funds are gone forever. If you keep crypto on an exchange, there’s always a risk of hacks or platform failures.Taxes add another layer of complexity. Stocks and bonds typically fall under capital gains and dividend tax rules, with clear guidelines based on how long you’ve held them. Crypto tax laws vary widely by country. Some countries treat it like property, others like a commodity, and a few don’t tax it at all. Keeping track of every transaction is crucial, as even swapping one crypto for another can be taxable. Crypto vs. stocks vs. bonds: Which one should you buy in 2025? Choosing between crypto, stocks and bonds in 2025 depends on your personality, risk appetite and financial goals.If you love the adrenaline and believe in the future of decentralized finance (DeFi), then a crypto-focused portfolio might be for you. For example, a high-risk, high-reward portfolio could be 70% crypto, 20% stocks and 10% bonds.If you prefer a more structured approach but still want growth, stocks balance risk and return. A portfolio, for instance, with 60% stocks, 30% crypto and 10% bonds could give exposure to innovation while keeping things grounded.For those who sleep better knowing their money is safe, bonds provide stability. For example, a conservative mix could contain 70% bonds, 20% stocks and just 10% crypto, ensuring steady returns with a taste of market excitement.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 Aisling Brennan and Peter Sanders on April 21, 2025 at 6:46 am

A Queensland high school student killed in a e-scooter crash on Easter Saturday is being remembered as a caring young girl whose smile would light up a room.

by Cointelegraph by Stephen Katte on April 21, 2025 at 6:18 am

Synthetix founder Kain Warwick has threatened SNX stakers with “the stick” if they don’t take up a newly launched staking mechanism to help fix the protocol’s ongoing sUSD (SUSD) depeg.Warwick said in an April 21 post to X that it has now implemented a sUSD staking mechanism to address the depeg, but admitted it is currently “very manual” without a proper user interface. However, once the UI goes live, Warwick said, if there isn’t enough momentum, then they may have to “ratchet up the pressure” on the stakers in the sUSD 420 pool.The sUSD 420 Pool was a new staking mechanism introduced on April 18 by Synthetix that would reward participants with a share of 5 million SNX tokens over 12 months if they locked their sUSD for a year in the pool. “This is very solvable and it is SNX stakers responsibility. We tried nothing which didn’t work, now we have tried the carrot and it kind of worked but I’m reserving judgement,” he said.“I think we all know how much I like the stick so if you think you will get away with not eating the carrot I’ve got some bad news for you.”Source: Kain WarwickSynthetix sUSD is a crypto-collateralized stablecoin. Users lock up SNX tokens to mint sUSD, making its stability highly dependent on the market value of Synthetix (SNX).Synthetix’s stablecoin has faced several bouts of instability since the start of 2025. On April 18, it tapped $0.68, down almost 31% from its intended 1:1 peg with the US dollar. As of April 21, it’s trading at around $0.77, according to data from CoinGecko.SNX stakers are the key to fixing depeg“The collective net worth of SNX stakers is like multiple billions the money to solve this is there we just need to dial in the incentives,” Warwick said.“We will start slow and iterate but I’m confident we will resolve this and get back to building perps on L1.”A Synthetix spokesperson told Cointelegraph on April 18 that sUSD’s short-term volatility was driven by “structural shifts” after the SIP-420 launch, a proposal that shifts debt risk from stakers to the protocol itself. Other stablecoins have depegged in the past and recovered. Circles USDC (USDC) depegged in March 2023 due to the stablecoin issuer announcing $3.3 billion of its reserves were tied up with the collapsed Silicon Valley Bank.Related: How and why do stablecoins depeg?In recent times, Justin Sun-linked stablecoin TrueUSD (TUSD) fell below its $1 peg in January after reports that holders were cashing out hundreds of millions worth of TUSD in exchange for competitor stablecoin Tether (USDT).Stablecoin market capitalization has grown since mid-2023, surpassing $200 billion in early 2025, with total stablecoin volumes reaching $27.6 trillion, surpassing the combined volumes of Visa and Mastercard by 7.7%. Magazine: Uni students crypto ‘grooming’ scandal, 67K scammed by fake women: Asia Express

by Brett Worthington on April 21, 2025 at 6:17 am

With first votes to be cast tomorrow the parties have released how-to-vote cards. Albanese says Labor isn't getting complacent while Clive Palmer is hoping to inflict pain on both major parties. 

by Phoebe Pin on April 21, 2025 at 6:09 am

A proposal to transform a "neglected" Swanbourne "dust bowl" into an oasis for terminally ill children draws the ire of some who want the site to remain in hands of the local council. 

by Cointelegraph by Martin Young on April 21, 2025 at 5:54 am

Crypto exchange Bybit co-founder and CEO Ben Zhou says more than two-thirds of the digital assets stolen from the platform in February by North Korea’s Lazarus Group still remain traceable. In an executive summary on hacked Bybit funds posted on X on April 21, Ben Zhou said that of the total $1.4 billion hacked, 68.6% “remains traceable,” 27.6% has “gone dark,” and 3.8% has been frozen.The untraceable funds primarily flowed into mixers, then through bridges to peer-to-peer and over-the-counter platforms, he added. In February, hackers associated with the Lazarus Group exploited vulnerabilities in Bybit’s cold wallet infrastructure, stealing $1.4 billion in the largest crypto exchange hack to date.“Recently, we have observed that the mixer mainly used by the DPRK [Democratic People's Republic of Korea] is Wasabi,” Zhou said before stating that following the Wasabi washing of BTC, “a small portion of it entered CryptoMixer, Tornado Cash, and Railgun.”Zhou confirmed that 944 Bitcoin (BTC) worth around $90 million went through the Wasabi mixer. Multiple crosschain and swap services were carried out through platforms such as THORChain, eXch, Lombard, LI.FI, Stargate and SunSwap before the loot eventually entered P2P and OTC services, he added. Another 432,748 Ether (ETH), around 84% of the total worth roughly $1.21 billion, has been transferred from Ethereum to Bitcoin via THORChain. Around two-thirds of that — around $960 million worth of Ether — has been converted into 10,003 BTC across 35,772 wallets, he added. Around $17 million worth of Ether remains on the Ethereum blockchain across 12,490 wallets, Zhou reported. Around $1.2 billion worth of stolen crypto is still being tracked. Source: Lazarus BountyBybit pays around $2.3 million in bountiesZhou also revealed that only 70 of 5,443 bounty reports received over the past 60 days were valid. Bybit launched the Lazarus Bounty program in February, offering a total of $140 million in rewards for information leading to funds being frozen.To date, it has paid out $2.3 million to 12 bounty hunters. Most of this went to one entity, the Mantle layer-2 platform, whose efforts resulted in $42 million worth of frozen funds. Related: Lazarus Group’s 2024 pause was repositioning for $1.4B Bybit hack“We welcome more reports, we need more bounty hunters that can decode mixers, as we need a lot of help there down the road,” Zhou said. On April 17, the eXch crypto exchange announced it would cease operations on May 1 after reports alleged the firm was used to launder funds from the Bybit hack.Magazine: Altcoin season to hit in Q2? Mantra’s plan to win trust: Hodler’s Digest

by Emily Anderson and James Tugwell on April 21, 2025 at 5:51 am

Every week, Sunday night six o'clock, Australians settled down to watch a show so famous even King Charles III made an appearance.

by Cointelegraph by Brayden Lindrea on April 21, 2025 at 5:40 am

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman says users sending “please” and “thank you” messages to ChatGPT is costing the company tens of millions of dollars.“Tens of millions of dollars well spent -- you never know,” Altman said on April 16 after being asked to estimate the cost on X.Source: Sam AltmanAltman’s response sparked discussion about what drives users to interact with AI models in a polite manner.Some AI users say they interact politely with the bots in case AI becomes sentient and starts treating people based on how they interacted with it in the past.Source: ZvbearOthers, such as engineer Carl Youngblood, claim they’re motivated to treat the AI well for personal development:“Treating AIs with courtesy is a moral imperative for me. I do it out of self-interest. Callousness in our daily interactions causes our interpersonal skills to atrophy.”A December 2024 survey by Future found that 67% of American users are polite to AI assistants, with 55% doing so because it's the right thing to do, and the other 12% doing so out of fear that mistreating the bots could come back to haunt them.Debate over ChatGPT’s electricity consumptionA September 2023 research paper from Digiconomist founder and Bitcoin mining critic Alex de Vries states that a single ChatGPT query requires around three watt-hours of electricity.However, data analyst Josh You from AI research institute Epoch AI argues the figure is an overestimate, and is closer to 0.3 watt-hours due to more efficient models and hardware compared to 2023. One responder to Altman’s post wondered why ChatGPT doesn’t have a solution to save electricity costs on courtesy words like please and thank you.Altman recently stated that the cost of AI output has been falling tenfold every year as AI models become more efficient.Related: AI tokens, memecoins dominate crypto narratives in Q1 2025: CoinGeckoMeanwhile, OpenAI expects to more than triple its revenue this year to $12.7 billion, despite an uptick in competition from the likes of China’s DeepSeek and others making rapid progress.OpenAI does not expect to be cash-flow positive until 2029, when it expects its revenue to top $125 billion.Magazine: Your AI ‘digital twin’ can take meetings and comfort your loved ones

by Madeleine Stuchbery on April 21, 2025 at 5:24 am

Authorities have ended a search for a Chinese national who was swept into the ocean near a popular Victorian tourist town on Good Friday.

on April 21, 2025 at 5:12 am

China has warned countries against striking a broader economic deal with the United States at its expense, ratcheting up its rhetoric in a spiralling trade war between the world's two biggest economies.

by Jessica Black on April 21, 2025 at 4:54 am

A woman has been killed and a man shot after a string of alleged carjackings on the Sunshine Coast. 

by Cointelegraph by Martin Young on April 21, 2025 at 4:50 am

The number of addresses holding more than a thousand Bitcoin has surged in April as whales continue to accumulate. More than 60 new wallets holding over 1,000 Bitcoin (BTC) have appeared since early March, a signal of increasing whale activity. The number of these whale wallets has increased from 2,037 in late February to hit a four-month high of 2,107 on April 15, according to Glassnode. This has returned the metric to levels seen in two spikes in whale addresses in November and December, when crypto markets were surging following the election of US President Donald Trump. The all-time high for Bitcoin whale addresses was in February 2021, when it came just short of 2,500.Number of addresses with a Bitcoin balance of over 1,000 BTC. Source: Glassnode The number of addresses holding over 100 BTC has also climbed marginally this year, reaching 18,026 on April 20, according to Glassnode. However, smaller holders with less than 10 coins have been in decline over the past few months. Whales continue stackingOn April 18, Cointelegraph reported that Bitcoin whales were absorbing the asset at record rates of over 300% of the yearly issuance while exchange balances were falling. Bitcoin whales holding over 10,000 coins remain in strong accumulation territory as the dip buying continues, according to Glassnode. “Whales are accumulating massive amounts of Bitcoin, they know what comes next,” said Bitcoin trader ‘Mister Crypto’ on April 20.Bitcoin whale position change. Source: Mister Crypto Related: Bitcoin price falls toward range lows, but data shows ‘whales going wild right now’Meanwhile, Bitcoin prices appear to be breaking out of a sideways channel that began in early March. The asset climbed more than $3,000 on the day to reclaim $87,400 on April 21 for the first time since March 28. Bitcoin’s breakout from a multimonth falling wedge chart pattern signals a potential bullish reversal that could drive its price back toward six figures by May, according to analysts. Magazine: Altcoin season to hit in Q2? Mantra’s plan to win trust: Hodler’s Digest

by Dean Bilton and Marnie Vinall on April 21, 2025 at 4:35 am

Geelong hangs on for a thrilling seven-point win against Hawthorn in front of an Easter Monday record crowd of at the MCG.

by Sundance on April 21, 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 21st – 2025 Presidential Politics – Trump Administration Day 92 appeared first on The Last Refuge.

by Sundance on April 21, 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 Monday April 21st – Open Thread appeared first on The Last Refuge.

by Susan Oong on April 21, 2025 at 3:43 am

Hot cross buns have long heralded the start of Easter in the western world, with the marked cross on top a symbol of Christian faith — but they actually started as part of pagan rituals.

by Cointelegraph by Brayden Lindrea on April 21, 2025 at 3:40 am

The Solana network briefly surpassed Ethereum in total staked value of their respective native tokens, SOL and ETH, sparking debate over whether it is actually bullish or bearish for Solana. More than $53.9 billion worth of SOL is now staked on the Solana network from 505,938 unique wallet holders, who are making an 8.31% annualized return, blockchain data shows.The figure briefly overtook the staked ETH market cap on April 20, which now has $53.93 billion worth of value secured from 34.7 million staked tokens, Beaconcha.in data shows.Source: Alex SvanevikA contributing factor behind the flippening has been SOL’s strong price performance relative to ETH over the last two years, which has seen the SOL/ETH price ratio rise nearly tenfold from 0.0088 to 0.0866 since June 12, 2023, CoinGecko data shows.High SOL staking return is stifling Solana DeFi, pundits sayHowever, the “risk-free” 8.31% return for SOL stakers at the network level — significantly higher than ETH’s 2.98% — may be attracting Solana users away from DeFi activities, such as providing liquidity to automated market makers and lending protocols in exchange for token rewards.“Solana having 65% of its marketcap staked means there's no other use of it's token, it’s actually bearish,” Builda Protocol developer and X user “JC” said.DefiLlama data shows that there are $21.5 billion worth of liquid staked ETH tokens on Ethereum compared to just $7.22 billion of liquid staked SOL on Solana.Multicoin Capital managing partner Tushar Jain previously said that Solana DeFi has been stifled because it’s not rational to make an investment in something that produces a lower return than the “risk-free” investment.“It doesn’t make sense for you to provide liquidity on a SOL/USDC AMM when that might earn you 5% but staking earns you 7%.”Ethereum also dominates in terms of DeFi total value locked at $50.4 million compared to Solana’s $8.85 billion.Industry pundits also pointed out that there are still far more validators securing the Ethereum network at 1.06 million compared to Solana’s 1,243.Solana staking isn’t really staking, Ethereum researcher arguesOne Ethereum researcher said Solana staking isn’t really securing the Solana network because there isn’t a mechanism to penalize bad actors for malicious behavior.“It's very ironic to call it ‘staking’ when there is no slashing. What's at stake?” Dankrad Feist said in an April 20 X post. “Solana has close to zero economic security at the moment.”Solana Labs said slashing is already possible, but it’s not automatic, and the attacker’s assets can only be slashed by restarting the entire network.Related: Ethereum price in ‘cursed’ downtrend which could continue well into 2025 — AnalystSolana is looking to roll out a more comprehensive slashing solution later this year, according to Multicoin Capital Managing Partner Kyle Samani.Solana Labs CEO Anatoly Yakovenko said he’s pushing for a “correlated slashing” mechanism, where the penalty would be equal to the square of the difference between a validator’s faulty stake in an epoch and the median network staked validator.Source: Anatoly YakovenkoMeanwhile, Ethereum developers and researchers have been exploring ways to decentralize Ethereum staking. Many Ethereum stakers have resorted to liquid staking protocols over the last few years due to the high 32 ETH ($50,750) minimum needed to run an independent validator. However, this shift has led to the Lido protocol capturing an 88% share in Ethereum’s liquid staking market, adding another layer to Ethereum’s staking centralization concerns.Magazine: Comeback 2025: Is Ethereum poised to catch up with Bitcoin and Solana?

by Kenith Png on April 21, 2025 at 3:11 am

Wrestling star and actor John Cena will headline a three-day WWE event in Perth in October that is being touted as a major tourism draw for Western Australia.

by Cointelegraph by Stephen Katte on April 21, 2025 at 3:01 am

A doomsday-themed Solana NFT project is looking to sell 100,000 non-fungible tokens (NFTs) to buy a Cold War-era nuclear bunker in Rutland, England.Dead Bruv, the creators of the narrative-driven NFT project Meatbags, plan to mint 100,000 NFTs, with Meatbags holders being airdropped 10,000. The the rest will be sold off starting April 21, starting at $14 a pop, according to a post on the Meatbags X account. Holders will gain entry into a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO), called the Billionaire Bunker Club, a “fully decentralized, community-governed real-world asset onchain,” which will vote on what happens with the bunker if the effort to buy it is successful. Source: MeatbagsA few ideas floated by the NFT project include a “members-only survival resort with Doomsday DJ,” a location to hold end-of-the-world festivals, or “an Airbnb with caviar tastings and canned bean room service.” UK online auctioneer SDL Property Auctions has the bunker Dead Bruv is hoping to buy listed for a guide price of 650,000 British pounds ($862,257), and an auction date scheduled for April 24. The real estate listing says the bunker is located on 1.4 acres near a former reservoir and already has the relevant permissions for the winning bidder to convert it into a house. The bunker was built in 1960 to act as a monitoring post during the Cold War and was decommissioned in 1968. It was one of 1,500 tasked with reporting any nuclear bursts and monitoring any radioactive fallout, according to SDL Property Auctions.Cointelegraph contacted SDL Property Auctions for comment. Nuclear bunker buy began as a jokeRobert, the pseudonymous co-founder of Dead Bruv, said in an April 18 statement to X that the initiative was about trying to “make NFTs fun again” and was sparked by a joke that turned into a “lightbulb moment.” “There’s not much to compare this to, but these are the kinds of things that made me fall in love with NFTs in the first place. Taking risks. Getting creative. Pushing the boundaries of what this tech can do to create something completely new, absurd, and incredible,” he said. “When something comes from a place of, this is completely insane, we gotta do it, that’s when I know we’re onto something,” Robert added. Source: RobertThis isn’t the first time a DOA has turned to crowdfunding to buy an expensive item. ConstitutionDAO managed to raise about $47 million in Ether (ETH) in 2021 to purchase an original copy of the United States Constitution, which was going under the hammer at auctioneer Sotheby’s. Related: NFT sales plunge 63% in Q1, but Pudgy Penguins, Doodles buck trendUltimately, they were unsuccessful. The winning bid was $43.2 million, and the DAO was limited to a bid of $43 million by Sotheby’s to factor in taxes and the costs required to protect, insure and move the Constitution. Meanwhile, LinksDAO secured the winning bid to purchase Scotland-based Spey Bay Golf Club in May 2023. The DAO claims it added the US-based Hillcrest Country Club to its holdings in February. Magazine: Altcoin season to hit in Q2? Mantra’s plan to win trust: Hodler’s Digest, April 13 – 19

on April 21, 2025 at 3:01 am

Scans reveal Sam Darcy's ACL is intact but he has suffered an impaction fracture in his knee, which will require surgery for the young Bulldogs star.

by Cointelegraph by Jody McDonald on April 21, 2025 at 2:59 am

Ethereum-based real-world asset (RWA) tokenization platform Blocksquare has partnered with a Florida-based real estate company to offer fractional ownership in a pipeline of US commercial properties valued at over $1 billion. Announcing the deal on April 18, Blocksquare and Vera Capital said a marketplace would launch in the coming weeks to enable global investors to buy tokenized shares in “dozens of properties” located across seven US states. The first tokenized properties that will be up for grabs are part of Vera Group’s existing holdings, which include a three-storey office building in Fort Lauderdale and a retail plaza in Dania Beach, according to two properties listed on Vera Capital’s website.Source: Vera Capital“All our assets are already part of the group, so with the Vera Fund they’ve already been purchased, and they are owned by us, managed by us and we are only improving them,” Vera Group CEO Nick Polyushkin said.Vera Capital is a subsidiary of Vera Group, which also runs a South Florida real estate agency, real estate management company, and a real estate investment fund with over $100 million invested through commercial property acquisitions, land development and residential developments.Polyushkin said the $1 billion figure comes from the company’s roadmap, which includes tokenizing existing assets and raising funds for development projects. He said future properties the company plans to tokenize include two unit complexes valued at between $70 and $100 million.“This is ambitious numbers if you’re looking at this from the perspective of residential use in investments, but from a commercial standpoint, this is a very realistic number and not just achievable, it’s over-achievable,” he said.Related: RWAs rise to $17B all-time high, as Bitcoin falls below $100KTokenized real estate still needs legal clarity in US To date, Blocksquare has been used to tokenize around 150 properties in 28 countries, at a value of over $145 million. The platform launched an EU-compliant framework in February 2025 to enable property owners to tokenize economic rights tied to real estate through notarized agreements. Blocksquare CEO Denis Petrovic said once the Vera Group partnership was in progress, Blocksquare started to research to “see if the framework we have from Luxembourg will also be applicable for the US.”“There’s always the option obviously of launching tokens directly without the Luxembourg entity getting involved, but just having it there it’s an additional convenience for a marketplace based out of the US like Vera Group,” he said.Magazine: Have your stake and earn fees too: Tushar Aggarwal on double dipping in DeFi

by Jason Walls on April 21, 2025 at 2:32 am

A litigation funder will pocket one-sixth of a $180 million settlement in a historic Northern Territory stolen wages class action while the Aboriginal workers themselves will get "at least $10,000" each.

by Emma Wynne on April 21, 2025 at 2:32 am

Six generations of Noongar and Yamatji women are celebrated on the walls of the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art as the institution showcases Indigenous art from all over WA. 

by Cointelegraph by Martin Young on April 21, 2025 at 2:15 am

Bitcoin prices appear to be breaking out of an extended period of consolidation as the asset climbs to its highest level since late March. Bitcoin (BTC) surged above $87,400 on April 21, its highest price since March 28, according to TradingView. It has climbed by more than $3,000 from an intraday low of just over $84,000 on April 20. The asset has now gained 16% since its 2025 low of just below $75,000 on April 9, and the distance from its peak price has been reduced to 20%. While a 2.4% daily gain is not out of the ordinary for Bitcoin, it has moved the asset to the upper bounds of a range-bound channel that began in early March. “Bitcoin is breaking out,” while Nasdaq futures are down 1%, observed Scott Melker, aka “The Wolf Of All Streets.” BTC/USD 4-hour chart. Source: TradingviewBitcoin and gold correlation strengthens“The narrative in both gold and Bitcoin is aligning for the first time in years,” commented the Kobeissi Letter on X, observing gold’s recent all-time high and Bitcoin’s breakout. “Gold has hit its 55th all-time high in 12 months and Bitcoin is officially joining the run,” it stated before adding: “Gold and Bitcoin are telling us that a weaker US Dollar is more uncertainty is on the way.”The US dollar Index (DXY), which is a measure of the greenback against a basket of six major currencies, has declined 10% since the beginning of this year as global trade tensions escalate. Related: Bitcoin gets $90K short-term target amid warning support 'isn't safe'The move was also observed by “Geiger Capital,” which also observed the decline in tech futures and the USD, adding that Bitcoin was “decoupling.”- Tech futures down- Dollar down- Gold new ATH- Bitcoin breaking out/decouplingRealize where we are. pic.twitter.com/XqZRlEHj39— Geiger Capital (@Geiger_Capital) April 21, 2025Some analysts had predicted a fall to $83,000 over the Easter weekend, citing exchange order books, but BTC appears to have defied them. On April 19, analyst ‘Rekt Capital’ observed that Bitcoin hasn’t just broken the downtrend, it “successfully retested it as support for the first time since downtrend formation.”Magazine: Altcoin season to hit in Q2? Mantra’s plan to win trust: Hodler’s Digest

by Declan Durrant on April 21, 2025 at 1:40 am

A luxury cruise ship will stop in Wallaroo in 2027, carrying almost 500 passengers, renewing the town's hope of benefiting from the cruise industry.