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The majority of the crypto community is pinning their hopes on Donald Trump’s incoming administration as a game-changer for the industry. Much of this optimism is due to the promises made during his campaign, which many believe could herald a new era of policy favorable to cryptocurrency adoption and innovation. 

Although the administration has yet to officially begin, recent market trends have offered a preview of the excitement it could bring to the sector. This preview comes in the form of Donald Trump’s newly launched memecoin, OFFICIAL TRUMP, which has attracted a wave of enthusiasm that rivals that of the 2021 bull market. The coin has not only created headlines but has also raised questions about the future of the industry from here.

Record-Breaking Debut For Trump Coin

On January 17, 2025, Donald Trump made a surprise announcement on social media platform X, revealing the release of $TRUMP, a memecoin tied to his name and legacy.

According to the meme coin’s official website, the meme coin was created in recognition of Trump’s “Courage & Strength” on July 13, 2024. Initially, there was skepticism regarding the legitimacy of $TRUMP, but official confirmations soon followed and investors started buying in massive amounts. 

The meme coin, which was launched on the Solana network, was immediately listed on major crypto exchanges, including Bybit, KuCoin, and Bitget. This saw its value surge massively in a few hours and quickly climb the ranks of cryptocurrencies in market cap.

A few crypto analysts have voiced concerns surrounding the meme coin’s allocation, as 80% of the 1 billion $TRUMP tokens created were allocated to the issuers. However, this wasn’t enough to deter buyers, as both old and new crypto investors continued to pour in.

At the time of writing, the Official Trump meme coin is trading at $42.2 with a market cap of $9.39 billion, a fully diluted value of $46.93 billion, and a 24-hour trading volume of $11.24 billion. The scale of these numbers was unprecedented, and the meme coin has officially broken previous records for trading activity and volume among newly launched cryptocurrencies

The meme coin has also sparked a demand for Solana, its parent blockchain. This, in turn, has seen the price of Solana surging by double digits in the past 24 hours to now trading at an all-time high above $275.

Where Does The Crypto Industry Go From Here?

A US president-elect creating a meme coin was unprecedented, but it undoubtedly shows the positive lean of Trump towards cryptocurrencies. As such, the impact of $TRUMP’s launch is expected to extend beyond its immediate success. It could be the much-needed primer needed for a return of bullish momentum like that of the 2021 bull market.

The meme coin’s launch has also highlighted the growing intersection between politics and cryptocurrencies. Recent discussions around creating a Bitcoin reserve and prioritizing US-based digital currencies, such as Solana and XRP, have further emphasized the role digital assets may play in shaping financial policy under Trump’s leadership. 

Interestingly, the meme coin’s success hasn’t taken away from Bitcoin’s current rally. The leading cryptocurrency has continued its path upwards above the $100,000 mark alongside inflows into Official Trump ($TRUMP). 

Featured image from Axios, chart from TradingView

Bitcoin is once again flirting with all-time highs after a rollercoaster of a week that showcased the cryptocurrency’s trademark volatility. The price briefly crashed to $89,100, a move that shook market confidence before staging an impressive comeback. In less than six days, Bitcoin surged over 18%, reaching a local high of $105,900 and reigniting bullish sentiment across the market.

Top analyst Daan shared a technical analysis on X, highlighting Bitcoin’s clean retest of its prior yearly high—a crucial level that has now transformed into strong support. According to Daan, this retest on the 4-hour chart is a textbook bullish signal, suggesting that BTC has the momentum to push higher in the coming days.

This latest move positions Bitcoin at the forefront of investor interest as it approaches uncharted territory. With market sentiment turning positive and technical indicators aligning, many are optimistic that BTC could soon break past its all-time high and enter price discovery. 

Bitcoin About To Enter Uncharted Territory

Bitcoin has reached a critical milestone, breaking above the $100,000 mark for the first time and signaling the potential for entering price discovery. This pivotal move has sparked a wave of optimism among investors, many of whom now expect BTC to surge beyond its all-time high (ATH) in the coming days. The cryptocurrency’s recent performance underscores its dominance and ability to lead the market during bullish cycles.

Daan shared a detailed technical analysis on X, highlighting Bitcoin’s strong market structure. According to Daan, BTC recently completed a clean retest of its prior yearly high—a critical resistance level that has now turned into solid support. He noted that as long as BTC holds above the $102.7K level, the path to its ATH remains clear. “Bitcoin looks good for a move to the all-time high next week,” Daan stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining support at these levels.

Adding to the bullish sentiment is the broader macroeconomic backdrop. With President-elect Donald Trump set to assume office on Monday, expectations are growing for a pro-crypto administration that could further catalyze Bitcoin’s rally. Many believe that regulatory clarity and institutional adoption under Trump’s leadership will provide an additional boost to BTC and the broader cryptocurrency market.

As BTC approaches price discovery, its ability to sustain momentum above $100K will be closely watched. Investors are eager to see how far the leading cryptocurrency can climb, with many predicting that the next leg up could usher in a transformative phase for Bitcoin. With technical strength and bullish sentiment aligning, Bitcoin is poised to continue its ascent, making the coming days critical for its next major move.

BTC Testing Fresh Supply: Can It Hold?

Bitcoin (BTC) is trading at $104,600, following days of significant volatility and market uncertainty. The cryptocurrency has rebounded strongly, with bulls now firmly in control as BTC edges closer to setting a new all-time high above the $108,000 mark. This impressive recovery has bolstered investor confidence, with many anticipating that BTC’s momentum will soon lead to an explosive rally.

To sustain this bullish trend, holding above the $102,500 level is crucial. This support zone has become a critical benchmark for short-term strength, providing the foundation needed for BTC to continue its ascent. Maintaining this level would reinforce market confidence, signaling that buyers remain in control and are prepared to drive prices higher.

If Bitcoin continues its upward trajectory, a breakout above the $108,000 mark could trigger a massive rally, propelling the entire cryptocurrency market alongside it. As the leading digital asset, BTC’s performance often sets the tone for broader market sentiment, making its next moves pivotal.

With bulls dominating the market and technical indicators pointing to strength, Bitcoin appears poised for further gains. Traders and investors are closely watching for signs of a breakout as BTC nears new highs, potentially entering a transformative phase in its ongoing rally.

Featured image from Dall-E, chart from TradingView

A day before officially becoming the 47th President of the United States, Donald Trump is making waves in the cryptocurrency landscape – not for his upcoming inauguration on January 20 – but for launching a controversial meme coin he named after himself.

Launched on January 17, the crypto token dubbed as the TRUMP meme coin has sparked a considerable amount of discussion and is currently facing a backlash for what critics said was a questionable venture for the incoming President.

Critics Condemn TRUMP Meme Coin Launch

While everyone is anticipating Trump’s incoming takeover of the White House, the US President-elect surprised the cryptocurrency community by launching his own meme coin on the Solana blockchain. This move has now sparked a firestorm of criticism which questioned if it is ethical for an American president to launch his meme coin.

Popular YouTuber Stephen Findeisen, also known as Coffeezilla, believes that the launching, which is only days before Trump’s inauguration is off-timing, considering Trump will be appointing the new Chair of the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

> dropping TRUMP memecoin 2 days before becoming president is nasty work > new SEC/DOJ guarantees no prosecution > 80% of tokens vest to insiders DURING the presidency > most ppl losing money will be MAGA who aren’t crypto native > *should* be a crime but crime is legal now ig?

— Coffeezilla (@coffeebreak_YT) January 18, 2025

“Dropping TRUMP memecoin 2 days before becoming president is nasty work. New SEC/DOJ guarantees no prosecution,” Findeisen said in his X post.

Other critics questioned Trump’s new venture which in their opinion somewhat blurred the boundaries of government and business.

Even Trump’s former aide, Anthony Scaramucci slammed the new meme coin describing it as a form of “corruption”, arguing that the Trump token could adversely affect the broader digital asset market.

The Trump meme coin stuff is bad for the industry. Don’t delude yourself. It’s Idi Amin level corruption.

— Anthony Scaramucci (@Scaramucci) January 18, 2025

Profiteering Move?

Campaign Legal Center executive director Adav Noti accused Trump of using the presidency for his personal gain, saying the TRUMP meme coin could be considered a profiteering effort.

According to reports, about 80% of the tokens will be distributed to individuals within the circle of the incoming president.

“It is literally cashing in on the presidency — creating a financial instrument so people can transfer money to the president’s family in connection with his office. It is beyond unprecedented,” Noti told the New York Times.

The new meme coin also does not sit well with some personalities in the cryptocurrency industry seeing it as a dirty tactic.

“Trump owning 80 percent and timing launch hours before inauguration is predatory and many will likely get hurt by it,” former Coinbase executive Nick Tomaino said in a post.

TRUMP Coin Soars

Analysts said that the new Trump-based token needed only 15 minutes to reach a market capitalization of $400 million, saying the meme coin also pushed Solana’s native token SOL to an all-time high of $267.

Ok yeah the new Trump memecoin website is deployed almost identically to his previous NFT website.

Same cloudflare setup, same deployment with Heroku, same SSL certificate issuer.

Very similar HTML structure as before. pic.twitter.com/u1zLD7Vcv7

— cygaar (@0xCygaar) January 18, 2025

Despite the backlash, data also showed that the new meme coin recorded over 12,000% adoption since it was launched.

Market observers said that the coin’s value almost hit $35 before settling at about $29, adding that several crypto traders recorded gains with one investor reportedly making $50,000 to $1.1 million within a few hours.

However, it is too early to tell what the future of the token will be considering only 20% of the 1 billion TRUMP coins are in circulation. The remaining 80% of the tokens will be released in the next three years.

Featured image from The Nation, chart from TradingView

The crypto market is buzzing with excitement as $XRP and $BTC set the tone for what could be an epic bull run. 

But the spotlight isn’t just on these heavyweights – meme coins are creating a stir too. 

From record-breaking presales to innovative use cases, here are the five meme coins that are turning heads:

1. $WEPE
2. $MIND
3. $DOGE
4. $FLOCK
5. $TRUMP

Wall Street Pepe ($WEPE)

$WEPE is stealing the show with a jaw-dropping $52M raised in its presale.

Now that the milestone has been hit, the team has added a 30-day countdown timer to the website, marking the final leg of the presale. 

But here’s the kicker: countdowns have a history of turbocharging sales. If the daily raise rate spikes, the presale could wrap up long before the 30 days are over. 

$WEPE’s backstory and Wall Street-inspired branding have struck a chord with meme lovers and serious investors alike. It’s not just a token – it’s a movement, riding the cultural zeitgeist of financial memes. 

Don’t miss the last chance to buy $WEPE at the current price of $0.0003665.

Mind of Pepe ($MIND)

$MIND is on a meteoric rise.

The token, designed to power a suite of AI-driven crypto tools, raised over $1.8M in just two days during its presale. 

As of now, that figure has soared past $2.4M, making $MIND one of the fastest-growing projects in the meme coin sector.

$MIND isn’t just a fun token. It’s built to help crypto enthusiasts navigate the wild world of investments. Think portfolio management tools and staking rewards, all infused with AI wizardry. 

If you’re looking for a meme coin with both charm and utility, $MIND has you covered.

Dogecoin ($DOGE) 

The OG of meme coins, $DOGE, never stays out of the spotlight for long.

With Elon Musk teasing potential new use cases for Dogecoin as he reshapes Twitter, excitement around $DOGE is bubbling up once more. 

From payments to tipping, and even integrating into Musk’s rumored “everything app,” $DOGE is poised for a resurgence. 

Its massive community and Musk’s unpredictable influence ensure it’s always a wildcard in the meme coin universe. 

Flockerz ($FLOCK)

$FLOCK is gearing up to soar as its presale enters the final stretch. With just 2 days left, this V2E (vote-to-earn) token has already raised $10M, capturing the imagination of meme coin enthusiasts.

What makes Flockerz different? It’s not just about memes, it’s about governance. 

The platform combines meme culture with decentralized decision-making, letting holders vote on the future direction of the project. 

With exchange listings around the corner, Flockerz could be flying into wallets everywhere soon. 

Official Trump ($TRUMP)

Love him or hate him, Trump-themed tokens continue to dominate headlines – and none more so than the Official Trump coin. 

As Trump’s inauguration day approaches, $TRUMP has entered uncharted territory. 

In the past 24 hours, $TRUMP has surged by over 800%, catapulting its price to approximately $63 per token. This meteoric rise has caught the attention of crypto enthusiasts and political supporters alike, with trading volumes exceeding $200M in just one day. 

What makes $TRUMP unique is its ability to blend meme culture with political identity, creating a token that feels like both a rallying cry and an investment opportunity. 

However, as with any meme coin, the hype-driven market brings risk alongside the rewards. 

Whether $TRUMP is a moonshot or a bubble waiting to burst, one thing is clear: it’s the talk of both the crypto and political arenas.  

Meme Coins Set to Dominate 2025

As $XRP and $BTC pave the way for a bullish 2025, these five meme coins offer a mix of humor, innovation, and potential profits. 

Whether you’re chasing presales or holding for long-term gains, there’s never been a better time to dive into the meme coin mania. 

It’s been an interesting past 24 hours for the cryptocurrency industry and market, with the United States president-elect Donald Trump launching his own meme coin “Official Trump” (TRUMP). The Solana-based meme coin’s value has skyrocketed by more than 500% in the past 24 hours, with a market cap of over $5 billion.

Ethereum (ETH) price, on the other hand, has struggled to keep up pace with the market, failing to capitalize on its newly found bullish momentum. What can investors expect from the “king of altcoins” in the first few months of 2025?

Overview Of ETH’s Historical Q1 Performance 

In a recent post on the social media platform X, prominent crypto analyst Ali Martinez shared an insight into how the price of Ethereum could perform in the first quarter of 2025. Based on historical price data, the second-largest cryptocurrency by market cap could witness a resurgence before the end of March 2025.

Historically, the Ethereum price has almost always put up its strongest performance in the first three months of the year. Since 2017, the average return of the altcoin in the first quarter stands at around 82.69%; this is followed by the second quarter’s average return of nearly 67%.

According to price action data, the only two times Ethereum failed to register a positive performance were at the beginning of the 2018 and 2022 bear seasons. The price of ETH was down by almost 50% and 11% by the end of March in 2018 and 2022, respectively.

Meanwhile, the altcoin recorded its best Q1 performance in 2017, skyrocketing by more than 500% in the first three months. This is followed by the 160% surge experienced at the beginning of 2021 — the final year in the four-year crypto cycle.

If history is anything to go by, the Ethereum price might be gearing up for an upswing before the end of March 2025. Besides its history of Q1 rallies, ETH might be in the final year of its cycle, which has often coincided with the strongest performances for altcoin.

Ethereum Price Overview

As of this writing, the price of Ethereum sits just beneath $3,300, reflecting an almost 6% decline in the past 24 hours. This single-day action has pushed the altcoin into a loss on the daily timeframe, with the ETH price down by more than 1%.

If the ETH price is going to continue its pattern of robust Q1 performances, a sustained close above the psychological $3,500 level might be the first step. Since mid-December, the cryptocurrency has mostly been consolidating beneath the $3,500 region.

With the January 20 inauguration looming, Bitcoin is generating a buzz across markets, reflecting renewed optimism in crypto as a whole. 

This positive sentiment is spilling over into the meme coin sector, where $MEMEX has captured attention with its presale reaching the $2.5M milestone.

If you’re looking to diversify your portfolio during this pivotal time, $MEMEX might be worth a closer look.

Bitcoin Buzz Set the Stage for Meme Coins

As Bitcoin dominates the headlines leading up to Trump’s inauguration, it’s pulling meme coins into the spotlight once again. 

Historically, Bitcoin’s bull runs have often coincided with a ripple effect in the meme coin ecosystem. 

For instance, during the 2021 Bitcoin surge, meme coins like $DOGE and $SHIB experienced exponential growth, capturing the attention of both retail and institutional investors. 

This pattern suggests that Bitcoin’s performance could pave the way for renewed interest in high-risk, high-reward assets. 

With Bitcoin (and by extension, meme coins) expected to climb, the challenge for investors lies in identifying opportunities that balance potential gains with manageable risk. 

For investors weighing their options, Meme Index stands out for its creative approach and promising returns. 

The $2.5M Presale Milestone

$MEMEX is no ordinary meme coin. Its unique selling point is providing a diversified exposure to the meme economy, enabling investors to manage risk while enjoying the potential for massive gains.

Crossing $2.5M in its presale is no small feat. It signals strong community backing and growing market confidence. 

Early participants in the presale enjoy a staggering 901% staking APY – an offer hard to ignore for crypto enthusiasts eager for high yields.

Why $MEMEX Matters

For those wondering why $MEMEX is gaining traction, its appeal lies in the mix of humor and practicality.

The project positions itself as the “ETF (exchange-traded fund) of memes,” offering a single token that tracks the performance of a basket of popular meme coins. 

By aggregating these coins into one token, it simplifies investing in the meme coin market while also giving holders exposure to a diverse range of assets that reflect the broader meme economy. 

Whether you’re bullish on $DOGE or intrigued by newer players like $MIND, $MEMEX aims to simplify the complexities of navigating the meme coin world. 

Think of it like investing in a Netflix subscription – sure, you might only watch one or two shows, but having access to everything gives you flexibility. 

$MEMEX operated similarly, balancing high-risk meme coin exposure with strategic diversification. 

A Timely Opportunity

The current crypto landscape is primed for bold moves.

With Bitcoin and meme coins poised to soar, $MEMEX offers a timely chance to ride the wave of enthusiasm while potentially mitigating risk. 

And let’s not forget the 901% staking APY for early adopters, which provides an additional incentive to dive in. 

As the inauguration nears and market excitement builds, Meme Index is quickly becoming a favorite among investors looking for fun, profit, and new opportunities in the crypto market. 

So, will you join the meme economy revolution before it’s too late? 

 

With the January 20 inauguration looming, Bitcoin is generating a buzz across markets, reflecting renewed optimism in crypto as a whole. 

This positive sentiment is spilling over into the meme coin sector, where $MEMEX has captured attention with its presale reaching the $2.5M milestone.

If you’re looking to diversify your portfolio during this pivotal time, $MEMEX might be worth a closer look.

Bitcoin Buzz Set the Stage for Meme Coins

As Bitcoin dominates the headlines leading up to Trump’s inauguration, it’s pulling meme coins into the spotlight once again. 

Historically, Bitcoin’s bull runs have often coincided with a ripple effect in the meme coin ecosystem. 

For instance, during the 2021 Bitcoin surge, meme coins like $DOGE and $SHIB experienced exponential growth, capturing the attention of both retail and institutional investors. 

This pattern suggests that Bitcoin’s performance could pave the way for renewed interest in high-risk, high-reward assets. 

With Bitcoin (and by extension, meme coins) expected to climb, the challenge for investors lies in identifying opportunities that balance potential gains with manageable risk. 

For investors weighing their options, Meme Index stands out for its creative approach and promising returns. 

The $2.5M Presale Milestone

$MEMEX is no ordinary meme coin. Its unique selling point is providing a diversified exposure to the meme economy, enabling investors to manage risk while enjoying the potential for massive gains.

Crossing $2.5M in its presale is no small feat. It signals strong community backing and growing market confidence. 

Early participants in the presale enjoy a staggering 901% staking APY – an offer hard to ignore for crypto enthusiasts eager for high yields.

Why $MEMEX Matters

For those wondering why $MEMEX is gaining traction, its appeal lies in the mix of humor and practicality.

The project positions itself as the “ETF (exchange-traded fund) of memes,” offering a single token that tracks the performance of a basket of popular meme coins. 

By aggregating these coins into one token, it simplifies investing in the meme coin market while also giving holders exposure to a diverse range of assets that reflect the broader meme economy. 

Whether you’re bullish on $DOGE or intrigued by newer players like $MIND, $MEMEX aims to simplify the complexities of navigating the meme coin world. 

Think of it like investing in a Netflix subscription – sure, you might only watch one or two shows, but having access to everything gives you flexibility. 

$MEMEX operated similarly, balancing high-risk meme coin exposure with strategic diversification. 

A Timely Opportunity

The current crypto landscape is primed for bold moves.

With Bitcoin and meme coins poised to soar, $MEMEX offers a timely chance to ride the wave of enthusiasm while potentially mitigating risk. 

And let’s not forget the 901% staking APY for early adopters, which provides an additional incentive to dive in. 

As the inauguration nears and market excitement builds, Meme Index is quickly becoming a favorite among investors looking for fun, profit, and new opportunities in the crypto market. 

So, will you join the meme economy revolution before it’s too late? 

 

Bitcoin (BTC), the flagship crypto asset, presently trades above $104,000 following a significant 10.98% price rally in the last week. Despite recent sideways movements after a rejection in the $105,700 zone, certain trading indicators signal this uptrend is likely to continue leading to new price discovery.

Bitcoin Growth Hinges On Two Critical Resistance Levels

In a recent post on X, renowned crypto analyst Burak Kesmeci shared an interesting forecast on the BTC market based on the Bitcoin Gold Ratio Multiplier.

As the name implies, the Bitcoin Gold Ratio Multiplier measures the relation between BTC’s price and the value of gold, offering a perspective on market sentiment and price momentum.  It is used to assess the valuation of BTC relative to gold and can also identify potential mean reversion points by leveraging historical relationships and trends between both assets.

According to Kesmeci, the Bitcoin Gold Ratio Multiplier has pinpointed $111,000 as the next major resistance level for the premier cryptocurrency due to historical trading patterns. Therefore, investors should anticipate a major price pullback as BTC approaches this price zone. However, strong market catalysts such as a strong institutional demand aa currently seen may sustain a price rally beyond this resistance. 

On either side, this prediction indicates that Bitcoin potentially has more room to run despite recently facing rejection at $105,700. In addition, the current uptrend is likely to push BTC past its current all-time high of $108,268 leading to uncharted price zones.

While $111,000 is seen as a critical short-term hurdle, the Bitcoin Gold Ratio Multiplier also identifies a long-term resistance at $139,000 represented by a red trend line. 

In this context, the red trend level represents the line separating the current bull market phase from ah explosive growth phase. Burak Kesmeci postulates that the “real fun” will start if BTC bulls can push past $139,000 indicating the potential for a parabolic rally in comparison to previous price surges.

BTC Price Overview

At press time, Bitcoin trades at $104,887 after a 0.84% price decline in the last 24 hours. In addition, the asset’s daily trading volume has crashed by 29.30% falling to around $50.6 billion. Optimism around the leading cryptocurrency remains high as 2025 represents the final year of the bull cycle in which massive price surges have been historically recorded.

This notion combined with the expectations of US pro-crypto policies following the inauguration of Donald Trump adds to the excitement around Bitcoin at the moment. Therefore, analysts continue to peg lofty price expectations for the crypto asset ranging from $145,000 to as high as $350,000.

Cardano co-founder Charles Hoskinson has gone public with a surprising revelation that 78.5% of incoming US President Donald Trump’s net worth of $29.6 billion is in digital assets, which include the red-hot TRUMP memecoin.

Such a disclosure brings up conversations regarding the future regulations and policies based on the possible influence of Trump’s crypto wealth.

Trump’s Wealth And Crypto

Hoskinson’s disclosure shows that cryptocurrencies are becoming more important in traditional banking. He thinks that the way regulators see digital currencies in the coming months or years will depend on how involved Trump is in crypto. This comes at a time when politicians and banks are paying more attention to the crypto market.

The nice part of Trump newfound enormous crypto wealth will be changes to the IRS’s interpretation of capital gains and fair market value of crypto https://t.co/aH5Wleh4nm pic.twitter.com/j06WwE3oXA

— Charles Hoskinson (@IOHK_Charles) January 18, 2025

Impact Of The TRUMP Memecoin

According to sources, the TRUMP memecoin, which has been on a roll over the past few weeks, plays an important role in Trump’s crypto portfolio. The new crypto has elicited significant attention for being rather speculative and explosive in the market.

Some people hold it against the incoming president that the exponential price increase may be based on political maneuvers and strategic investments in the crypto space.

Within hours of its launch, the meme coin’s market valuation reached $8 billion. According to reports, Trump’s business, CIC Digital LLC, controls 80% of the coin’s supply, making it an attractive business opportunity.

Cryptocurrency And Regulatory Challenges

Trump’s substantial cryptocurrency holdings may make it difficult for regulators to create fair and transparent regulations. According to Hoskinson, the US government may need to modify how it taxes cryptocurrency ownership, especially in regards to asset value and capital gains. As cryptocurrencies develop and make their way into the traditional banking system, this issue is seen to persist.

“The nice part of Trump newfound enormous crypto wealth will be changes to the IRS’s interpretation of capital gains and fair market value of crypto,” Hoskinson said.

Bill Morgan, a lawyer for Ripple, has also offered his thoughts on how Trump’s advocacy of the TRUMP memecoin may impact current legal and regulatory disputes. Trump’s promotion of a speculative digital asset, according to Morgan, may make the SEC’s legal strategy more difficult, especially in its action against XRP and Ripple.

The @Ripple appeal of Judge Torres finding against Ripple’s defense that there must be a contract or post sale obligations is looking good.

After all the President of the USA thinks a token with no post sale obligations to buyers can be issued and promoted without being… https://t.co/OByrCesd8j

— bill morgan (@Belisarius2020) January 18, 2025

The Future Of Crypto Regulations

As Trump’s wealth in crypto continues to be a talking point, many experts anticipate that it could lead to changes in how the government handles digital assets. It’s clear that the increasing prominence of cryptocurrencies, driven in part by influential figures like Trump, will have a lasting impact on regulatory frameworks worldwide.

Featured image from WIRED, chart from TradingView

Crypto analyst Burak Kesmeci has recently shared another bullish prediction on Bitcoin (BTC), indicating the maiden cryptocurrency may be on an uptrend for the foreseeable future.  In the meantime, BTC continues to hover around $104,000 showing no significant movement over the past day following a strong price recovery in the past week.

Bitcoin NVT Golden Cross Nears Local Bottom, Price Uptrend Secured 

In an X post on January 18, Kesmeci provided valuable insights on the Bitcoin market using the Bitcoin NVT Golden Cross metric. For context, the Bitcoin Network Value to Transaction (NVT) is a basic ratio of the asset’s market cap to its transaction volume. It is used to gauge whether the market price is overvalued or undervalued based on network activity.

However, the Bitcoin NVT Golden Cross is a more advanced version of NVT that incorporates the use of short-term and long-term moving averages. It is particularly effective for identifying market cycle tops and bottoms by tracking changes in momentum.

Over the past year, Kesmeci notes that the Bitcoin NVT Golden Cross has reached its local bottom zone i.e. ≤ -1.6 points some five times. At each time this occurred, BTC prices rebounded and produced an uptrend. Most notably during the US election week, Bitcoin prices soared as the NVT Golden Cross touched its local bottom.

Currently, Kesmeci notes this NVT Golden Cross is at -1.44 having been on a downtrend over the past 47 days. A continuous fall to the local bottom zone (≤-1.6) would confirm the validity of BTC’s recent recovery leading to a sustained uptrend. 

For long-term investors, the crypto analyst shares that the Bitcoin NVT Golden Cross has been forming higher local bottoms since July 2024, indicating the premier cryptocurrency has gathered a strong upward momentum backing its potential for further gains.

BTC Bulls Charge As Bull Run Intensifies

In other news, the Bitcoin market bulls are making big moves following the asset’s price gain in the past week. According to CryptoQuant analyst Crazzyblockk, data from Binance shows that the monthly Taker Buy-Sell Ratio gained by 18+%, a percentage change last recorded in June 2022.

In trading, the Taker Buy-Sell Ratio compares the number of market buy orders to market sell orders. The reported positive gain in the Taker Buy-Sell Ratio indicates buyers are the more aggressive market participants over the last month reflecting a strong bullish sentiment.

At the time of writing, BTC trades at $104,541 after a 1.02% gain in the past day. The premier cryptocurrency is also in profits on larger timeframes reflecting gains of 15.14% and 8.54% in the last seven and 30 days, respectively.

The Dogecoin price looks set to witness a significant explosion to the upside based on a recent analysis by crypto analyst Trader Tardigrade. The analyst revealed a bullish pattern that could send Dogecoin to as high as $5.  

Dogecoin Price Set To Explode To As High As $5

In an X post, Trader Tardigrade predicted that the Dogecoin price could explode to as high as $5. This came as he noted that Dogecoin is set to finish the final stage of its bull run. The crypto analyst added that the Chande Momentum Oscillator (ChandeMO) indicates that DOGE still has a long way to go before reaching the top in this cycle. 

The crypto analyst’s accompanying chart showed that the Dogecoin price could rally to as high as $5 based on this ChandeMO indicator. There was also the possibility of the foremost meme coin even rallying further to $9 in this market cycle. Trader Tardigrade has continued to provide a bullish outlook for the meme coin in his analyses, suggesting that DOGE could indeed witness a parabolic rally. 

Before now, the crypto analyst mentioned that the Dogecoin price is aligning with the 50 Arnaud Legoux Moving Average (ALMA). He further remarked that this pattern is perfectly synchronized with the last cycle from 2018 to 2020. Based on this development, he added that DOGE is in the midst of a surge. 

The crypto analyst had also previously predicted that the Dogecoin price could reach double digits in this market cycle. According to him, if the meme coin mirrors the 2021 bull cycle, it could rally to as high as $30. Meanwhile, he predicted that DOGE could rally to $8.7 if it mirrors the 2017 bull run. 

DOGE Closes Above The Macro .786 Fib

In an X post, crypto analyst Kevin Capital revealed that the Dogecoin price has officially closed a daily candle above the macro .786 Fibonacci level. In line with this, the crypto analyst remarked that the goal now is to see a follow-through to the upside. He added that is this happens, then the previous highs at the macro golden pocket around $0.48 is next. 

The crypto analyst previously revealed that the Dogecoin price closed a daily candle outside of a falling wedge pattern and mentioned that $0.41 was the next important price level. With Dogecoin reaching this level, the $0.48 target is the next level to keep an eye on, as the crypto analyst suggested. 

In an X post, crypto analyst Titan of Crypto stated that the Dogecoin price is aiming for $0.66. He remarked that DOGE would take off after breaking out of the symmetrical triangle. The crypto analyst added that bullish momentum is building. 

At the time of writing, the Dogecoin price is trading at around $0.4, down almost 4% in the last 24 hours, according to data from CoinMarketCap. 

The crypto industry, particularly brokers, is getting a big lift from Texas Senator Ted Cruz this week. According to an Axios report, Cruz will use the Congressional Review Act (CRA) in the next few days to challenge an existing IRS tax rule on crypto income reporting. This IRS reporting rule has generated plenty of pushback from the crypto community, leading to the filing of charges.

The rule requires full reporting of income generated from cryptos and expands the “broker’ definition, which, according to critics, doesn’t reflect the true nature of decentralization.

Cruz’s reported plan to challenge this IRS rule was met with enthusiasm by the crypto community and seen by many as a principled stand against government interference.

IRS Tax Rule And ‘Broker’ Definition Stifle Innovation, Critics Say

Senator Cruz’s latest move is based on the crypto community’s lingering complaints over the IRS’s unfair tax crypto rules. Critics slammed the agency’s use and definition of “broker” under the Administrative Procedure Act, which they see as arbitrary and too general. This arbitrary definition and the IRS overreach into the blockchain industry were met with resistance by top crypto players and companies.

In response, three groups, the DeFi Education Fund, the Blockchain Association, and the Texas Blockchain Council, have sued the agency over these changed rules.

The petitioners argued that the rule failed to appreciate the decentralized nature of cryptocurrency and blockchain. They added that many crypto participants have no access to the data that the agency is requesting.

Cruz To Use The CRA To Challenge These IRS Rules

Many see Sen. Cruz’s plan to use the CRA as a welcome development and signal the community’s rejection of the government’s interference. The CRA allows policymakers to stop federal regulations through a simple majority in both houses, which must be completed within 60 business days. According to the same Axios report, Cruz is confident the rule will be challenged and thrashed.

The plan has gained plenty of support from Republican senators, including Senator Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming, Tim Sheehy of Montana, and Bill Hagerty of Tenessee. Senator Lummis is a well-known supporter of Bitcoin and the blockchain and filed a bill last year recommending the creation of a Bitcoin stockpile.

A Questionable Reporting Rule

The crypto community’s complaints and cases are based on an IRS reporting rule in the 2021 infrastructure bill. According to the tax rule, crypto brokers must report their income from digital assets like Bitcoin. For many crypto supporters, the rule effectively forced them to serve the state with money earned from innovation.

According to Ron Hammond of the Blockchain Association, the rule has become politically charged and was a rallying point for many individuals. For Senator Cruz, the challenge represents his support for individual rights against the government’s intrusion.

Featured image from Pexels, chart from TradingView

The Bitcoin price has shown a notable recovery this week and is now back above $100,000 with renewed confidence and inflows. This has sent a wave of another bullish sentiment to the crypto market, considering that Bitcoin has spent the majority of the last two months around this level and bullish investors have been trying to break above it substantially while also preventing a break below $90,000.

Thinking from a long-term perspective,the  Bitcoin price still has room to break above $100,000. Many analysts have predicted price peaks above $200,000, and some predictions are even as high as $1 million. According to crypto analyst Xanrox, Bitcoin is currently in its last bullish wave to reach its cycle peak and a correction phase could be close.

Road To Bitcoin Peak And Key Targets

According to the crypto analyst, Bitcoin’s current bullish cycle began in 2022 when it was trading at $15,632 and is likely to peak in 2025 at around $125,000. While this predicted price peak is very small compared to other predictions, it is undoubtedly a good return for early investors. However, those entering at present levels face a riskier environment, especially given the recent market behaviour. 

Xanrox’s projection of a $125,000 peak is rooted in Elliott Wave Theory, a technical analysis framework that identifies market cycles through five impulsive and three ABC corrective waves. Counting impulse waves from the 2022 bear market low puts the beginning of the fifth wave around Q4 2024, which is the last impulse wave before the ABC correction phase.

Two technical analysis tools were used to determine this Bitcoin price peak, which are the long-term trendline and the Fibonacci extension. The trendline, which runs through previous peaks of $20,000 in 2017 and $65,000 in 2021, projects that the Bitcoin price could reach $122,069 in 2025 before hitting resistance. Additionally, the 1.618 Fibonacci extension from the 2022 bear market low aligns exactly with this price peak target.

What Comes After Bitcoin Price Reaches Its Peak?

Keeping the $125,000 price peak in focus, the analyst noted that Bitcoin should experience a steep correction after it peaks, as seen in historical playouts after the 2017 and 2021 rallies. These corrections are the Elliot wave ABC corrections, which led to 84% and 77% crashes in 2018 and 2021, respectively.

Although such declines are less likely due to Bitcoin’s growing market capitalization and increased institutional adoption, the analyst noted that a 60% correction is still a plausible scenario. This downturn is anticipated to unfold in a huge bear market and crisis between late 2025 and 2026. If the price hits $125,000 in 2025, a 60% correction could bring the Bitcoin price down to $50,000 by 2026.

At the time of writing, Bitcoin is trading at $103,190 and is up by 9.7% in the past 24 hours.

Cryptocurrency firms operating in member states of the European Union will be required to beef up their cybersecurity and risk management as the economic bloc implements a new regulation.

EU authorities recently announced that the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) took effect on January 17, a comprehensive and harmonized regional regulatory framework that will govern the digital operational resilience of financial institutions and crypto firms in member nations.

The New Regulation

EU authorities consider the DORA policy as a crucial step to enhance the digital operational resilience framework of financial institutions operating in the countries that are part of the regional bloc, saying that the new regulation aims to address the inconsistencies and gaps in the cyber risk management within the bloc.

The DORA regulation does not only apply to financial institutions and banks because it also covers crypto-asset service providers, insurance companies, investment firms, and management companies.

Cryptocurrency businesses in the European Union are subject to new cybersecurity regulations as DORA takes effect on January 17.

How Will It Impact VASP?

Analysts see that the cybersecurity and resilience practices of virtual asset service providers (VASP) in the European bloc will be greatly affected by the imposition of DORA.

Legal intelligence JD Supra stated that one of the provisions under the new EU rule is developing and reviewing ICT third-party risk management strategies such as having mandatory provisions in contracts with ICT service providers and “a registry of information documenting all existing contractual arrangements.”

This DORA provision would affect VASPs in the region because financial entities in the EU will be compelled to have a comprehensive register of their contractual arrangements with third-party IT service providers.

An official of the crypto exchange Gemini believes that DORA is essential to improve the financial sector’s operational resilience against ICT-related risks.

“In readiness for DORA, we have implemented a Digital Operational Resilience Strategy, an ICT risk management framework, ensured clear governance structures, and adopted best practices to ensure the continuity, security and resilience of our services,” Gemini head of Europe Mark Jennings explained.

Expanding MiCA Rule

Crypto analysts said that the new EU regulation is seen to expand the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA), saying that the goal of DORA is to enhance the resiliency of crypto firms against disruptions and cyberattacks, protecting investors and boosting market integrity.

An executive of the crypto infrastructure firm MoonPay said that the new regulation would have a considerable impact on MiCA-licensed crypto companies.

“All crypto asset service providers licensed under MiCA are subject to the DORA requirements,” MoonPay’s deputy general counsel and head of Ireland Matt Sullivan said.

Sullivan revealed that their crypto infrastructure firm is already taking steps to become a DORA complaint entity. MoonPay got its MiCA license from the Dutch Authority for the Financial Market only last December 30, 2024.

A Challenge To Small Service Providers

Wormhole Foundation general counsel Cathy Yoon said that VASPs can deal with the provisions of DORA and have more likely implemented strict cybersecurity measures to maintain their compliance with the new regulation.

However, Yoon worried that startups and smaller service providers might find it difficult to get their DORA compliance.

“Taking a proactive approach to security and building out cybersecurity measures in line with DORA may have significant implications for smaller service providers, especially startups with limited capital to comply with DORA,” Yoon said.

Featured image from Dataddo Blog, chart from TradingView

The Dogecoin price has recently broken out of a Symmetrical Triangle pattern, signaling a potential for a bullish momentum. Interestingly, this breakout occurred just three days before Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration. Due to the timeline, a crypto analyst has issued a bullish price prediction, forecasting that Dogecoin could reach new all-time highs soon. 

Dogecoin Price Breaks Out Of Bullish Chart Pattern

In an X (formerly Twitter) post on Friday, Master Kenobi, a prominent crypto analyst, presented a technical analysis of Dogecoin using historical data and technical patterns to forecast the meme coin’s future price. The analyst’s chart shows a Symmetrical Triangle, a bullish pattern often appearing when two converging trend lines meet. 

According to Master Kenobi, Dogecoin has recently broken out of this Symmetrical Triangle, signaling a potential for a strong bullish move in the breakout direction. The red threshold highlighted on the analyst’s Dogecoin price chart shows the meme coin’s next key resistance level at $0.56.

Achieving a price beyond this resistance area at $0.44 suggests that Dogecoin will likely reach an all-time high of $0.74 as its ultimate target. Moreover, Master Kenobi revealed that Dogecoin’s recent breakout from its Symmetrical Triangle occurred three days before Trump’s Presidential inauguration on January 20, 2025. 

Based on this timeline, Master Kenobi believes Dogecoin could hit a new ATH in three days, skyrocketing from its market value of $0.39 to $0.74. This considerable price surge presents a massive 89.7% increase from current prices. Looking at the chart, the analyst also indicated that Dogecoin’s projected surge will be gradual, potentially surging past $0.44 to reach a new resistance level at$0.56 and then rising to an ATH price level of $0.74.

Although Master Kenobi has maintained confidence in his bullish Dogecoin price projection, he also acknowledges the inherent uncertainty in his price predictions, advising investors to remain flexible in their strategies and hold their opinions.

Despite Dogecoin’s recent bullish performance ahead of Trump’s inauguration, the analyst’s technical analysis remains speculative and emphasizes the volatility of the crypto market. Nevertheless, the Dogecoin price is rising exponentially, jumping by 18.8% earlier this week and retesting the $0.4 psychological level. 

Analyst Says Dogecoin Bull Run Incoming

According to prominent crypto analyst Trader Tardigrade, Dogecoin’s trend pattern in 2017 closely mirrors its current movement. The analyst has shared a chart providing a comparative analysis of Dogecoin’s price action in 2017 and its projected movement in 2025. 

Both Dogecoin charts show a prolonged period of price consolidation after achieving significant local peaks. In both 2017 and 2025, Dogecoin experienced long-term downward pressure, building support near the horizontal blue line in the chart.

Additionally, the charts show a downward-sloping red trendline forming during Dogecoin’s consolidation phase. Based on Trader Tardigrade’s analysis, if Dogecoin can break above this trendline, it could signal the start of a massive bull run, potentially pushing the price of the meme coin above $3 and marking a new ATH. 

Featured image from Business Insider, chart from TradingView

Bitcoin has dropped below the critical $104,268 level, signaling the start of a market correction after an extended period of bullish performance. This pullback has caught many traders off guard as they had expected BTC’s upward trend to continue. 

The shift in sentiment is driven by profit-taking, caution from institutional investors, and broader economic concerns affecting risk assets. Also, the breach of the $104,268 support level raises concerns about further declines, with lower support zones now in focus. 

While the correction may feel unsettling, it is a natural part of Bitcoin’s volatile price movements. The next few weeks will determine whether the asset can regain stability and reclaim key support levels or if bearish momentum will persist, potentially leading to a more significant downturn.

Bearish Momentum Builds: Bitcoin Struggles Below $104,268

Bitcoin is currently trading below the critical $104,268 level, which increases the likelihood of more declines. BTC’s price action is showing signs of negative movement, with selling pressure outweighing buying interest. As BTC remains below this key support threshold, the risk of deeper corrections grows.

However, it’s also important to remember that corrections are a natural part of BTC’s price action, often presenting buying opportunities for long-term investors. If the asset finds support at these lower levels and stabilizes, there’s still potential for a rebound. However, the market remains cautious for now, with bearish momentum continuing to build as Bitcoin struggles to break back above the $104,268 mark.

Furthermore, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) aligns with Bitcoin’s current price action, reflecting a cooling of market momentum. As the RSI moves from overbought levels toward neutral territory, it suggests that buying pressure is diminishing. 

Typically, this shift coincides with the pullback below the $104,268 support level, indicating that the previous bullish strength may be fading. With the RSI trending lower, the market appears to be cooling, suggesting the possibility of further downward movement unless buying interest returns.

Can BTC Recover After Dropping Below $104,268?

BTC’s recent drop below the $104,268 level has raised concerns about its near-term outlook, but the road ahead remains uncertain. Traders will be closely monitoring how the asset reacts to this key support breach.

A successful recovery above $104,268 could signal a potential rebound, causing a move toward the current all-time high of $108,311 for a retest. In contrast, failure to reclaim this level might lead to more drops, testing lower support zones such as the $100,000 mark. Bitcoin’s ability to stabilize and regain upward movement will be crucial in determining whether the recent pullback is a temporary setback or the start of a deeper correction.

The countdown to January 20 is on, and the crypto world is buzzing.

With President Trump’s inauguration around the corner, Bitcoin is holding strong, XRP has surpassed Bitcoin in key Coinbase metrics, and anticipation is sky-high.

But the spotlight isn’t just on the big names – several altcoins are gearing up for their moment in the sun.

Here are the five best cryptos to consider adding to your portfolio before the inauguration shakes things up:

1. $XRP
2. $DOGE
3. $WEPE
4. $MIND
5. $MEMEX

$XRP – the Overachiever Taking on Bitcoin

$XRP has been on a hot streak, catching the attention of investors and analysts alike.

A key driver of this renewed interest was a recent meeting between Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse and U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to discuss broadening the scope of crypto reserves to include assets beyond Bitcoin.

According to on-chain data from CoinGecko, $XRP’s trading volume on Coinbase has surged past Bitcoin’s.

At press time, the $XRP/USD pair recorded a 24-hour trading volume of approximately $12.04B, surpassing Bitcoin on Coinbase in trading activity. 

XRP’s trading volume highlights increased investor interest, with a live price of $3.21 and a market cap of $184.49B, securing its position as the third-largest cryptocurrency by market cap. 

Bitcoin’s trading activity on Coinbase remains significant but fell short of XRP’s surge, reflecting the shifting dynamics in U.S. investor preferences.

This remarkable leap underscores growing confidence in $XRP’s low fees and lightning-fast transaction speeds, making it a top choice for cross-border payments.

If $XRP were a boxer, it would be the nimble contender ready to outmaneuver Bitcoin’s heavyweight style.

$DOGE – Elon Musk’s Playground

$DOGE has a history of surprising even the most seasoned traders, and this time is no different.

If you’ve been following crypto news, you know that Dogecoin has been riding a wave of popularity. With Elon Musk’s influence on the coin, it’s clear that $DOGE isn’t just a meme anymore.

The coin is up big, with bullish momentum showing no signs of slowing. Speculation about Elon Musk’s potential role in shaping $DOGE after the inauguration has only added fuel to the fire.

Recent analysis points to a possible retest of the $0.40 mark, making this meme coin a serious contender for gains in the short term.

Dogecoin may have started as a joke, but it’s proving to be no laughing matter. If Elon drops a tweet or two, $DOGE could go to the moon – again.

$WEPE – On the Rise with Big Potential

$WEPE continues making some serious noise.

The token recently surpassed a $50M market cap, and promises to deliver jaw-dropping 100x returns for early investors.

This explosive growth has caught the attention of both retail and institutional investors, with trading volume reaching record highs as more people jump on board.

Backed by a vibrant community and strategic partnerships, $WEPE’s potential goes beyond just hype.

Analysts are eyeing its innovative tokenomics, which include deflationary mechanisms and rewards for long-term holders, making it a compelling choice for both traders and HODLers.

While mainstream media hasn’t fully caught on yet, insiders are already calling $WEPE one of the year’s most promising altcoins.

Think of it as that indie band everyone’s going to be raving about soon – if you want to be ahead of the curve, now’s your chance.

$MIND – $2M Presale Milestone Hits the Headlines

The MIND of Pepe AI token presale has officially surpassed $2M, and the hype is real.

This AI-powered project is attracting attention for its innovative approach to combining artificial intelligence with decentralized finance.

$MIND’s presale success is a strong indicator of its future potential, as investors flock to what could be the next big thing in crypto.

If you’re looking for a high-risk, high-reward play, this token could be your golden ticket.

$MEMEX – Where Memes Meet Serious Gains

$MEMEX has just hit a major milestone, with its Meme Index crossing the $2.5M mark.

For a coin that thrives on community support and the power of internet culture, this is a huge achievement.

 

As the inauguration approaches, $MEMEX is poised to ride the wave of meme-driven investment trends. It’s the perfect coin for those who believe in the serious potential of not-so-serious things.

Remember, the meme economy doesn’t have to be just fun – it can also be profitable.

Time to Diversify Your Portfolio

As the January 20 inauguration approaches, the crypto market is brimming with opportunities.

Whether it’s $XRP defying expectations, $DOGE riding Musk’s coattails, or newer projects like $MIND and $MEMEX making headlines, there’s no shortage of exciting investments.

Don’t wait until it’s too late – these five cryptos could set you up for significant gains in the weeks to come. Which one will you add to your portfolio?

Bitcoin experienced a highly volatile yet bullish week, capturing market attention with dramatic price movements. The cryptocurrency dropped to as low as $89,100 on Monday, only to stage an impressive recovery and reach a new local high around $105,900 by Friday. This sharp rebound has reignited investor optimism, with many expecting BTC to continue its upward trajectory in the coming weeks.

The post-halving year is historically a period of strong performance for BTC, often delivering high returns as the market aligns with cyclical patterns. Investors are banking on this trend, positioning themselves for what could be a transformative phase for the leading cryptocurrency.

Renowned analyst Axel Adler has shared key insights supporting this bullish outlook. According to Adler, the average Funding Rate remains firmly in positive territory at 0.010, a clear indication that bulls are dominating the BTC futures market. This metric highlights growing confidence among leveraged traders, suggesting that market sentiment remains skewed toward further price appreciation.

As Bitcoin holds above key support levels and technical indicators signal strength, market participants are closely watching for confirmation of a sustained rally. With bulls in control and momentum building, the stage is set for an exciting phase in Bitcoin’s ongoing journey toward new heights.

Bitcoin Prepares To Rally

Bitcoin is on the brink of entering its final and most bullish phase, fueled by a combination of political and market dynamics. As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to assume office, his pro-crypto stance has sparked optimism across the cryptocurrency market. Many investors believe his administration will usher in a more favorable regulatory environment, further driving institutional adoption and mainstream confidence in BTC. This bullish backdrop aligns with Bitcoin’s cyclical trend, setting the stage for a potentially explosive rally.

The price action reflects this growing optimism, with Bitcoin maintaining a strong upward trajectory. Fundamentals also reinforce the bullish outlook. CryptoQuant analyst Axel Adler recently shared insights on X, revealing that the average Funding Rate remains firmly in positive territory at 0.010. This indicates that bulls have maintained dominance in the BTC futures market throughout the bullish cycle, which began in January 2023. Such sustained bullish momentum in the derivatives market is a powerful signal of market confidence.

If the current trend continues, BTC is poised to break out into price discovery, a phase where it explores new all-time highs with no historical resistance to cap its growth. Investors are closely monitoring these developments, anticipating that the combination of favorable fundamentals and political support will catalyze a significant surge.

As Bitcoin approaches this critical phase, the market is abuzz with anticipation. The coming months could mark a transformative period for the cryptocurrency, driven by bullish market dynamics and the prospect of a more crypto-friendly administration. If BTC clears key resistance levels, it could solidify its position as the centerpiece of the digital asset market, with the potential for unprecedented growth. The stage is set for BTC to make history once again.

BTC Testing Crucial Liquidity Levels 

Bitcoin (BTC) is currently trading at $103,600, following a strong move that saw it reach a local high of $105,900 earlier this week. The price action suggests that bulls are firmly in control, driving optimism for further gains. With BTC now hovering near critical levels, market participants are eyeing the next logical target: a push above its all-time high (ATH).

For Bitcoin to maintain its bullish momentum, holding above the $102,000 support level is crucial. This level serves as a key short-term indicator of strength and provides a foundation for the ongoing uptrend. A sustained hold here would signal that buyers remain confident, reinforcing the long-term bullish outlook for the cryptocurrency.

If Bitcoin can keep its momentum and reclaim the $105,900 level, the path toward new ATHs becomes clearer. Breaking into price discovery would likely trigger heightened market activity as investors capitalize on Bitcoin’s upward trajectory.

As BTC consolidates near these pivotal levels, the market is watching closely for signs of the next breakout. The combination of strong bullish sentiment and solid technical support sets the stage for Bitcoin to challenge its previous records, reaffirming its status as the dominant force in the cryptocurrency market.

Featured image from Dall-E, chart from TradingView

At the end of 2024, the cryptocurrency industry was projected to undergo a complete transition, especially in relation to traditional finance. And with the imminent inauguration of crypto-friendly Donald Trump, the US regulatory landscape is expected to become a tad more favorable for the industry.

Interestingly, asset managers are not waiting till power changes hands before taking advantage of the shift, as they sent in a flurry of applications for crypto-related exchange-traded funds (ETFs) this week. Here’s an overview of the latest ETF applications related to digital assets.

Crypto ETFs Take Center Stage

On Friday, January 17, various asset management firms filed applications for at least half a dozen crypto exchange-traded funds with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Most notably, asset manager ProShares applied for leveraged & inverse XRP and Solana ETFs.

For context, a leveraged exchange-traded fund is designed to amplify the performance of its underlying asset (XRP, in this case). Meanwhile, an inverse ETF offers exposure to the opposite performance of an asset.

ProShares also filed for XRP and Solana futures exchange-traded funds with the SEC. These investment products offer investors exposure to XRP’s and Solana’s price movements through futures contracts (agreements to buy or sell an asset at a predetermined price in the future).

According to Nate Geraci, Valkyrie also applied for CoinShares Digital Asset ETF, which would provide exposure to the 10 largest digital assets by market capitalization. Meanwhile, investment firm Tidal submitted a filing for Oasis Capital Digital Asset Debt Strategy ETF, which would invest in the debt of companies involved in digital asset-related activities.

This latest flurry of ETF filings comes on the back of applications from Canary Capital and VanEck. On Thursday, January 16, Canary submitted an amended S-1 form for the Litecoin ETF.

Meanwhile, asset manager Van Eck had also earlier filed for an “Onchain Economy” exchange-traded fund on Wednesday, January 15. According to the filing, the ETF will invest in companies across the crypto industry.

2025 Taking Shape?

2025 was always expected to usher in a wave of new crypto-related exchange-traded funds, and it has kicked just as anticipated. With SEC chairman Gary Gensler expected to leave office on January 20, the more crypto-friendly Paul Atkins has been nominated to take over.

The former SEC Commissioner who served under President George W. Bush has built a reputation for advocating less stringent regulations on financial markets. These incoming shifts in the regulatory landscape are anticipated to set the stage for more institutional adoption in 2025.

Ethereum has navigated a week of intense volatility, capturing the attention of traders and investors alike. The cryptocurrency experienced a sharp drop below the $3,000 level early in the week before staging an impressive recovery to reach highs of $3,500. Now, Ethereum sits at a pivotal price point around $3,300, as market participants assess the next potential move.

Adding to the intrigue, top analyst Ali Martinez shared data highlighting significant accumulation activity in the Ethereum market. According to Martinez, whales have accumulated over 330,000 ETH in the past week alone, signaling strong confidence from large holders. This trend suggests that institutional and high-net-worth investors are positioning themselves for future gains, reinforcing bullish sentiment.

The combination of price recovery and notable accumulation activity has created a sense of anticipation for Ethereum’s next phase. As the asset remains above critical support levels, many analysts are optimistic about the potential for a sustained rally. With whale activity signaling growing confidence and Ethereum’s role as a leader in decentralized finance (DeFi) and NFTs still dominant, the cryptocurrency’s outlook continues to inspire interest across the market. As the week progresses, all eyes are on Ethereum to see if it can capitalize on this momentum and push higher.

Smart Money Making Big Moves

Ethereum (ETH) has faced sustained selling pressure over the past six weeks, fueling speculation about whether the asset might underperform in this market cycle. Despite this bearish sentiment, data suggests a contrasting narrative: smart money continues to accumulate ETH, signaling confidence in its long-term potential. Many analysts now expect Ethereum to stage a significant recovery in the coming weeks.

Prominent analyst Ali Martinez recently shared compelling data on X, revealing that whales have accumulated over 330,000 ETH in the past week. This substantial purchase, valued at more than $1 billion, underscores strong demand from large holders, often referred to as “smart money.” Such accumulation activity is typically seen as a bullish indicator, as it reflects confidence among experienced investors in Ethereum’s future price performance.

This accumulation has sparked renewed optimism among ETH investors, who view it as a sign of underlying strength despite recent challenges. The coming weeks will be pivotal as Ethereum tests key demand levels. Holding these levels will be crucial to reversing the downward trend and regaining upward momentum.

Market participants are closely watching Ethereum’s price action, with many anticipating a potential rally fueled by increasing demand and improving sentiment. If ETH can sustain its support levels and capitalize on the whale accumulation trend, it could set the stage for a strong recovery, reasserting its position as a leading force in the crypto market.

Ethereum Testing Crucial Demand

Ethereum (ETH) has had a turbulent week, with sharp price swings keeping traders on edge. After Friday’s strong surge, ETH has dropped by over 6% in just a few hours, bringing the price down to test the key demand level around $3,300. This level is crucial for bulls, as holding it could provide the foundation needed to reverse the recent downturn and reignite a potential rally.

The $3,300 level is not only a technical support but also a psychological one, signaling whether buyers can step in to stabilize the market. If Ethereum fails to hold this level, the asset risks deeper corrections that could dampen bullish sentiment. On the other hand, maintaining support here would show resilience and potentially attract renewed buying interest.

For Ethereum to regain momentum, reclaiming the $3,500 mark is essential. This level represents a significant hurdle, and a decisive move above it would signal strength and set the stage for further upside. Until ETH reclaims $3,500, the market may remain cautious, with investors closely monitoring price action for signs of a shift.

Featured image from Dall-E, chart from TradingView