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The Australian Securities and Investments Commission’s (ASIC) most recent action against Binance Australia marks a significant advancement in cryptocurrency regulation. The cryptocurrency community is in disbelief over this case, which will likely have a lasting impact on how digital currencies are governed in Australia and other nations.

The Regulatory Measures of ASIC

The main Australian financial regulator, ASIC, has become more vigilant in monitoring the cryptocurrency industry. The recent prosecution against Binance Australia is part of a broader effort to enforce compliance with contemporary financial norms.

The commission has accused Binance of violating several laws related to counter-terrorism financing (CTF) and anti-money laundering (AML). This action demonstrates ASIC’s commitment to safeguarding investors from potential cryptocurrency risks and upholding the financial system’s integrity.

Implications for Binance Australia

This regulatory decision could have significant effects on Binance Australia. The business may face hefty fines, operational limitations, or even the suspension of its Australian operating license. Such outcomes could impact Binance’s brand and investor confidence internationally and its operations in the region.

ASIC’s Deputy Chair, Sarah Court, criticized Binance’s compliance systems as “woefully inadequate,” stating that many clients suffered significant financial losses due to the lack of appropriate consumer protections.

The ongoing legal proceedings could result in substantial penalties, declarations, and adverse publicity orders against Binance Australia. Such outcomes may adversely affect Binance’s brand reputation and investor confidence in Australia and internationally.

This case serves as a clear warning to all cryptocurrency exchanges about the critical importance of adhering to legal requirements and implementing robust compliance procedures to protect investors and maintain market integrity.

Broad Effects on Crypto-Regulation

This historic case is likely to set a precedent in cryptocurrency regulation. Authorities closely monitor Australia’s actions worldwide, which may influence how cryptocurrencies are regulated globally. If ASIC’s prosecution is successful, it could encourage other regulators to target cryptocurrency exchanges that operate similarly within their jurisdictions. Supporters argue that the development and stability of the cryptocurrency market depend on a more consistent and stringent regulatory environment, which this case might help establish.

What To Expect Next For Australia’s Crypto Regulation

This lawsuit will likely significantly impact how cryptocurrencies are regulated in Australia in the future. According to industry analysts, ASIC will continue enhancing its regulatory framework to address the challenges posed by virtual currencies.

Cryptocurrency exchanges may face stricter AML and CTF regulations, improved customer due diligence, and greater operational transparency as part of additional compliance obligations. These measures aim to protect investors, prevent illegal activities, and ensure the sustainable growth of the Australian cryptocurrency market.

Furthermore, ASIC‘s case against Binance Australia is a landmark moment in cryptocurrency regulation. It highlights the increasing need for robust regulatory frameworks to manage the rapidly evolving world of digital currencies. The outcome of this case will be closely observed by regulators, investors, and cryptocurrency enthusiasts, as it has the potential to reshape the trajectory of cryptocurrency regulation in Australia and beyond.

Featured image was created with DALL.E, chart was from Tradingview.com

This year, crypto hacks increased in the total value stolen and the number of attacks compared to last year. According to a recent report, the industry lost over $2 billion in the past 12 months, with over half of the funds allegedly being stolen by North Korean hackers.

Crypto Industry Loses $2.2 Billion To Hacks

As the crypto industry grows, the number of hacks and total value lost have also increased. 2024 marks the fourth consecutive year in which the funds stolen from crypto hacks exceeded the billion-dollar mark and the fifth year overall to surpass this figure.

Chainalysis’ recent report revealed that hacks remained persistent in 2024, increasing 21.07% year-over-year (YoY). The total value stolen surged to $2.2 billion, $400 million more than in 2023 and the third-largest year by this metric.

Moreover, 2024 became the year with the most individual hacks, reaching 303 incidents by December. This figure represents a 7% increase from 2023’s 282 attacks, but Chainalysis highlights a notable shift halfway through the year.

According to the report, the intensity of crypto hacks reduced after July, when the cumulative value stolen since January had already hit $1.58 billion. This figure was approximately 84.4% higher than the value stolen over this same period in 2023.

Based on this, Chainalysis analysts considered that “the ecosystem was easily on track for a year that could rival the $3 billion+ years of 2021 and 2022.” Nonetheless, 2024’s uptrend slowed considerably by the end of July, remaining relatively steady for the rest of the year.

Centralized exchanges (CEXs) were the most targeted platforms in Q2 and Q3, recording some of the largest incidents in the industry’s history. The DMM Bitcoin and WazirX hacks took around $540 million between May and July, with the former being the third-largest crypto heist in history.

Decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms accounted for the largest share of stolen assets in Q1, like most quarters between 2021 and 2023. Meanwhile, Private key compromises were the largest compromise type, accounting for 43.8% of the incidents.

The report also noted private key hackers turned to bridges and mixing services to launder the ill-gotten funds, while hackers from other attack vectors preferred Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs).

North Korean Hacks Take 60% Of Stolen Funds

According to Chainalysis, hackers from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) stole more from crypto platforms in 2024 than in other years. This year, the total value stolen increased by 102.88% from 2023, going from $660.5 million to $1.34 billion.

The number of incidents surged from 20 to 47 in 2024. These figures represent 20% of the total incidents and 61% of the total value stolen this year. Additionally, crypto attacks linked to North Korean hackers are becoming more frequent and yielding larger profits.

Attacks between $50 million to $100 million, and above this price range, were more frequent this year, “suggesting that the DPRK is getting better and faster at massive exploits,” the report adds.

It’s worth noting that in the previous two years, North Korean exploiters obtained less than $50 million in ill-gotten funds per incident:

When examining the DPRK’s activity in comparison to all other hacks we measured, it is clear that the DPRK has been consistently responsible over the last three years for most large-size exploits. Interestingly, the DPRK’s dominance of the high end of the exploitation ladder continued in 2024, but there is also a growing density of DPRK hacks at lower amounts, most notably around $10,000 in value.

Chainalysis highlights that North Korean IT workers have increasingly infiltrated crypto and Web3 companies, compromising networks, operations, and integrity. However, it notes that most DPKR-related exploits occurred at the beginning of the year, with overall hacking activity stagnating in Q3 and Q4.

Ultimately, the report suggested prioritizing “thorough employment due diligence (…) while maintaining robust private key hygiene to safeguard critical assets, if applicable.”

Amid yesterday’s crypto market slump, the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved the first-ever dual Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) index exchange-traded funds (ETFs) from Franklin Templeton and Hashdex. The ETFs are scheduled for launch in January 2025.

SEC Approves First Dual Bitcoin-Ethereum Index ETFs

For the first time, the US financial regulator has approved hybrid Bitcoin-Ethereum index ETFs. Hashdex’s Crypto Index ETF will trade on Nasdaq, while Franklin Templeton’s Crypto Index ETF will be listed on the Cboe BZX Exchange.

Both ETFs will hold spot BTC and ETH in proportions reflecting their respective market capitalizations, currently resulting in an 80:20 ratio favoring Bitcoin. However, the ETFs may expand to include other cryptocurrencies in the future, pending regulatory approval.

The SEC highlighted that Franklin Templeton’s December 18 filing received expedited approval. Commenting on the development, Nate Geraci, President of The ETF Store, said:

Will be interesting to see if BlackRock or others attempt to piggyback on this and launch similar ETFs. Regardless, I expect there will be meaningful demand for these products. Advisors love diversification. Especially in an emerging asset class such as crypto.

Geraci emphasized the potential rationale behind the SEC’s decision to approve the crypto index ETFs, pointing to their similarities with the previously approved spot Bitcoin and spot Ethereum ETFs in terms of the trusts’ structure and the operation terms.

The SEC added that proposals for both the ETFs aligned with the criteria set forth by the Exchange Act. For the uninitiated, the Exchange Act requires issuers to implement safeguards against fraud, manipulation, and risks to investors.

Details About The Crypto Index ETFs

Asset manager Hashdex first amended its S-1 filing with the SEC in October, and submitted a second amended application on November 25. Franklin Templeton filed its S-1 for the crypto index ETF in August.

In Hashdex’s November filing, the company stated that other digital assets, such as Avalanche (AVAX), Chainlink (LINK), and Litecoin (LTC), may meet its eligibility criteria and could be added to the ETF in the future with regulatory approval. Franklin Templeton’s ETF also leaves room to add other cryptocurrencies, but did not specify any by name.

Notably, Hashdex’s ETF will rely on custodial services from Coinbase, BitGo, Fidelity, and Gemini. Similarly, Franklin Templeton’s ETF will use BitGo and Coinbase as its primary custodians.

The crypto ETF space is becoming increasingly competitive, thanks to their resounding success since their launch earlier this year. Experts opine that US-based crypto spot ETFs may soon overtake spot gold ETFs in terms of net assets held.

Following the US, other countries in the world are also steadily warming up to the idea of regulated crypto ETFs. At press time, BTC trades at $95,824, down 4.8% in the past 24 hours.

Michael Saylor, co-founder and chairman of business intelligence firm MicroStrategy, has unveiled a comprehensive crypto framework aimed at further integrating Bitcoin and other digital assets into the US economy. 

Shared via social media on Friday, Saylor’s proposal comes at a time of increasing institutional interest in cryptocurrencies and aims to position the United States as a leader in the 21st-century digital economy. 

Bitcoin And Crypto Framework To Strengthen US Dollar

Saylor emphasizes that a well-structured digital asset policy could significantly strengthen the US dollar, mitigate national debt, and empower millions of businesses. He believes that by establishing a clear and universally understood taxonomy of digital assets, the US can foster innovation and create trillions in value. 

Saylor’s framework categorizes digital assets into several key classes, including digital commodities like Bitcoin, which are backed by their own digital power, and digital securities that represent ownership in equities and derivatives. 

Other categories include digital currencies linked to fiat money, fungible digital tokens offering specific utilities, unique non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and digital assets tied to physical commodities like gold or oil.

To ensure the legitimacy of these assets, Saylor insists that a robust framework defining the rights and responsibilities of all market participants is essential. 

This system aims to establish a trustworthy environment where issuers have the right to create assets while ensuring fair disclosure, exchanges are responsible for safeguarding client assets and maintaining transparency, and owners are empowered to manage their assets in compliance with local laws. 

Central to this framework is the foundational principle that all participants must act ethically, with civil and criminal accountability for their actions.

Transform Digital Markets And Offset National Debt

Saylor also advocates for a regulatory approach that prioritizes efficiency and innovation over “bureaucratic hurdles.” He proposes standardized disclosures and industry-led compliance measures that enable exchanges to assist in data collection and publication. By limiting compliance costs and streamlining the issuance process, he envisions rapid asset creation, potentially reducing timelines from months to mere days. 

This empowerment of exchanges to facilitate integrated services for all market participants aims to enhance the overall efficiency of digital asset transactions, fostering a competitive and innovative marketplace.

Looking ahead, Saylor envisions a transformative opportunity for US capital markets, projecting that a strategic digital asset policy could unleash trillions in value creation. 

The potential benefits include the rapid issuance of digital assets, which would drastically reduce the time and cost involved, and the expansion of access to capital markets for millions of businesses, democratizing investment opportunities. 

Saylor also argues that by establishing the US dollar as the global reserve digital currency, the nation could catalyze a massive expansion in digital currency markets, growing from $25 billion to an estimated $10 trillion. 

Furthermore, Michael Saylor predicts that the global digital capital market could swell from $2 trillion to $280 trillion, with US investors capturing a significant portion of this wealth. 

By establishing a strategic Bitcoin reserve, Saylor believes the US Treasury could generate between $16 trillion to $81 trillion in wealth, providing a viable pathway to offset national debt.

At the time of writing, Bitcoin is trading at $97,360, down 4% on the weekly time frame. 

Featured image from DALL-E, chart from TradingView.com 

Tether appears to have now been affected by regulatory adjustment in Europe. Particularly, with the EU’s new Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulations scheduled to fully take effect in its member states by the end of the year, the crypto landscape is being reshaped.

Intended to increase oversight as well as eliminate illegal practices, MiCA requires stablecoins traded on centralized exchanges to be issued by firms with an e-money license. Several crypto exchanges operating in the EU have responded by delisting the world’s leading stablecoin, Tether’s USDT.

This development has fed fears about liquidity and investor appeal due to the USDT delisting.

Tether Delisted: Implications For EU Crypto Markets

USDT is a stablecoin and a key part of the crypto ecosystem as it is an important tool for trade and settlement of cryptocurrency transactions.

Banning access to Tether across the continent could backfire on the region as it may push traders away from vanity-centric territories or cause traders to turn to illiquid trading pairs.

Usman Ahmad, CEO of Zodia Markets, highlighted the decision’s significant impact, describing it as both “exclusionary and disruptive” for EU-based clients. Usman noted:

I understand why it’s been done to a certain extent, but it’s quite exclusionary and quite limiting for EU clients themselves because [USDT] is the most liquid stablecoin by a country mile

Notably, the removal of Tether from EU exchanges has already caused shifts in trading patterns. According to Bloomberg, with fewer USDT trading pairs available, some exchanges report an increase in fiat trading pairs as traders adapt.,

Erald Ghoos, CEO of OKX Europe, noted that fiat currencies are increasingly being used for trading in the absence of Tether, a development that reflects changing market dynamics.

Europe Falling Behind In The Crypto Race?

Although the aim of MiCA is to fortify regulatory standards, critics have pointed out that it may actually impair the EU’s competitiveness as a crypto hub. Pascal St-Jean, CEO of crypto asset manager 3iQ Corp said:

A vast proportion of cryptoassets trade in a pair against Tether’s USDT. So the cost to investors having to trade out of a USDT pair, just to buy the same asset trading against another stablecoin, will cause disruption.

Bloomberg reported that the restrictions come as other regions, especially North America, are experiencing a flurry of crypto activity. PitchBook data shows that venture capital investment in European crypto startups is on course to decline to a four-year low in 2024, adding to the region’s woes.

Meanwhile, the United States, by contrast, now seems to be moving in a more crypto-friendly direction. President-elect Donald Trump’s administration has appointed several pro-crypto advocates to key positions, signaling a potential light-touch approach to regulation.

Featured image created with DALL-E, Chart from TradingView

Bitcoin has faced a significant correction, dropping 15% from its all-time high of $108,300. This price decline marks a sharp shift in market sentiment, which has quickly transitioned from an extremely bullish outlook to one of uncertainty and caution. As altcoins experience heavy losses, Bitcoin’s correction has raised concerns about the sustainability of the recent rally.

Top analyst Maartunn recently highlighted that this correction aligns with the most significant Coinbase selling activity since October 26, when BTC was trading at $66,000. This increase in selling pressure is a clear signal of a shift from a bullish market to one filled with fear and hesitation. The combination of reduced buying activity and rising selling pressure suggests that the market is struggling to maintain its upward momentum.

As BTC navigates this volatile phase, investors are watching closely to see if the market can stabilize or if further declines are imminent. The next few days could be crucial in determining whether the recent correction marks the beginning of a larger downtrend or if Bitcoin can regain its bullish footing.

Bitcoin Sentiment Shifts

Market sentiment, a key driver of price action, has shifted rapidly from bullish to fearful, with Bitcoin now testing the $92,000 mark to find support. While the price itself hasn’t experienced an aggressively sharp decline, the broader market is seeing heavy losses, particularly among altcoins. This suggests that the risk of a more significant correction is increasing as market participants scramble to adjust to the change in sentiment.

CryptoQuant analyst Maartunn highlighted the Bitcoin Coinbase premium gap, showing that selling activity on Coinbase has surged to its highest level since October 26, when BTC was trading at $66,000.

This spike in selling pressure signals that many investors are taking profits or potentially exiting positions as the market sentiment turns negative. The significant selling volume indicates a possible shift from optimism to caution, with the potential for further downside if the market does not regain confidence soon.

Despite this, the outlook remains uncertain. Many analysts believe BTC still has room to rise, with some suggesting that recent price action may not necessarily indicate that the top has reached. The market is caught in a delicate balance as the price approaches critical support levels, and the next few days could be crucial in determining whether Bitcoin can bounce back or if further correction is in store.

Price Action Challenging Bullish Structure

Bitcoin is currently trading at $92,200, a critical level that must hold for bulls to maintain control over the price action. This level represents key support, and the price structure remains strong above it, suggesting that the recent retrace could merely be a shakeout rather than the start of a trend shift. If BTC can close above this mark in the coming days, there’s a strong chance for recovery, as it would confirm that the bulls are still in control.

However, if Bitcoin fails to hold above $92,200 and loses this level, the situation will become more dire. A breakdown below this support could trigger a cascade of selling, taking Bitcoin to lower prices and potentially signaling the start of a deeper correction. 

Related Reading: The Bitcoin Cycle Top ‘Could Hit In October 2025’ – Analyst Explains Why

The next few days are crucial in determining Bitcoin’s direction, as holding this level would help preserve the bullish momentum while losing it could set the stage for a more significant pullback. For now, traders and investors are closely watching how BTC reacts to this critical support level to gauge the market’s next move.

Featured image from Dall-E, chart from TradingView

The crypto presale world is buzzing right now, with some projects already securing millions in funding.

If you’re looking to dive into the next big opportunity, here are four presales worth keeping an eye on.

1. Wall Street Pepe
2. iDEGEN
3. SOLX
4. Dogizen

Whether you’re a meme-coin enthusiast, an AI visionary, or just love a good community-driven project, this list has something for everyone.

Wall Street Pepe – The Meme Coin with Real Utility and a Massive Presale Surge

Move over $DOGE, there’s a new meme coin on the block, and it’s flexing its numbers. Wall Street Pepe has raised over $13M in presale funding in just 24 hours, with more than $5.5M pouring in during the final stretch.

It’s not just another meme coin: $WEPE combines the spirit of the Wall Street Bets movement with the internet’s beloved frog. Think of it as the finance and meme love child.

Investors are drawn to its mix of humor, utility (staking and governance), and nostalgia. If you want to join the underdog rebellion, this could be your ticket.

iDEGEN – Revolutionizing Crypto Trading with AI-Driven Insights and Automation

AI meets crypto with iDEGEN, a platform bringing advanced trading algorithms to everyday investors.

After releasing its upgraded AI v2, this project pulled in an impressive $1M in just 24 hours.

Imagine having a Wall Street-grade trading bot in your pocket, minus the suit and tie. iDEGEN promises to level the playing field for crypto traders with predictive insights and automated tools.

If you’re tired of staring at charts and want tech to do the heavy lifting (like generating insights, trading strategies and recommendations), this one’s for you.

Solaxy – Powering the Future of Clean Energy with Blockchain Innovation

Solaxy is turning heads with its decentralized solar energy marketplace. It connects energy producers and buyers through blockchain, creating a seamless and efficient way to trade clean power.

$SOLX isn’t just about clean energy. It’s about democratizing access to it. The eco-friendly mission is a major draw for early backers, and the numbers don’t lie – $SOLX raised $3M in its first week of presale.

With renewable energy gaining global traction, $SOLX is positioning itself as a shining opportunity for green-conscious investors.

If sustainability and tech excite you, this presale might be worth a look.

Dogizen – The Meme Coin with Purpose, Utility, and Big Exchange Buzz

Why settle for just another meme coin when you can have one with serious buzz and utility? Dogizen combines the playful spirit of meme coins with ambitious plans, capturing both the fun and the fundamentals of crypto investing.

Dogizen has already raised $1.8M, fueled by rumors of a Binance listing. It blends meme culture and community rewards, including staking, revenue sharing for $DOGIZ holders, and ecosystem expansion.

The buzz isn’t just about the memes, it’s about potential.

Think of Dogizen as $DOGE’s younger, tech-savvier sibling, who has both charm and utility. Plus, with whispers of major exchange support, the hype train isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

Crypto Presales: The Fast Track to Potential Gains – Are You Ready to Join the Ride?

Crypto presales are like early-bird tickets to the next big show.

Whether you’re betting on the internet’s love of memes, the future of AI, or renewable energy, these projects show why early adoption can pay off big.

But as always, do your research and invest responsibly – because in crypto, what soars can also flop just as fast.

From a viral sensation to a hotly anticipated meme coin, “Hawk Tuah Girl” is now the subject of a legal battle.

The digital asset developers named after the viral social media meme are now facing a legal battle filed in the US District Court for the Eastern District of New York.

At the center of the legal storm is the “$HAWK” token, which surged in value immediately after its launch and briefly hit a $490 million market valuation Wednesday before dropping  91%, with an updated market cap of $41.7 million.

More than a dozen investors immediately filed the complaint, with Alex Larson Schulz, Overhere Limited, Clinton So, and the Tuah The Moon Foundation as defendants.

$HAWK Started Strong, Then Crashes By 91%

The complaint filed by investors of the Hawk Tuah Girl-inspired meme coin was for violations of the existing federal securities laws.

Haliey Welch, the Tennessee woman who became a viral sensation, inspired the meme coin and was not included in the suit. Welch’s viral video attracted attention and millions of followers on social media.

Her popularity led to her developing podcasts, for which she invited many high-profile guests, including Wiz Khalifa and Mark Cuban.

Welch’s claim to fame was the basis for a cryptocurrency coin, $HAWK, introduced to the market last December 4th, with an initial market cap of $16.69 million.

Hours after its launch, the meme coin breached the $490 million market cap. However, the surge was momentary, as it plunged by 91%, dropping to a market valuation of just $41.7 million the next day.

Hawk Tuah: Following The Meme Coin Template

Meme coins have emerged as a popular category within the cryptocurrency sector. They are defined by their connection to viral posts, internet humor, and community engagement.

One reason for meme coins’ popularity is their accessibility, giving retail traders and first-time investors the chance to participate in the community.

According to reports, many of the $HAWK’s investors were first-time crypto buyers inspired by Welch’s viral popularity. The lawsuit pointed out that the steep decline in the token’s market value caused financial damages to investors.

The suit filed in a New York court has produced claims of insider trading and that some developers purposely abandoned the project after raising and gaining from the token’s price.

‘Hawk’ Token An Unregistered Security?

The complainants argued that the token showed the characteristics of an unregistered security based on previous legal decisions and cases.

They added that the project’s developers used Welch’s popularity and social media engagement to market the token and create unique branding.

The complainants further argued the token’s initial success was based on Welch’s entrepreneurial skills and almost zero investor participation.

Meanwhile, market commentators say that the $HAWK’s collapse and allegations of insider trading may undermine current and future crypto projects.

According to George Georgiades of Borderless Innovations Lab Inc., meme coins have raised specific issues that the Securities and Exchange Commission has not addressed in the past.

Featured image from Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu; Kanawatth/Getty Images, chart from TradingView

The Shiba Inu price has crashed below $0.000022, declining by more than 20% in just one week. This massive crash has left 43% of SHIB investors facing losses. Moreover, the recent drop in the Shiba Inu price comes alongside a broader meme coin market decline, with top coins like Dogecoin, Pepe, and Bonk also experiencing a price crash. 

Investors In Loss As Shiba Inu Crashes Below $0.000022

The Shiba Inu price is struggling to maintain stability after experiencing devastating declines recently. The meme coin’s fall to $0.000020 has been a significant blow to its investors, marking one of the steepest declines in recent months.

While many analysts had forecasted price surges for Shiba Inu, the meme coin has instead been shedding gains. This downturn has been heavily influenced by the broader bearish market conditions and the recent declines in Bitcoin, which continue to weigh on the entire crypto market. 

For investors who entered the market during price highs, the recent crash has been a sobering experience and a reminder of the crypto market’s inherent volatility. Specifically, meme coins, known for their highly speculative nature, are prone to erratic and sharp declines that typically take the market unawares. 

According to data from IntoTheBlock, 43% of Shiba Inu investors are at a loss, while only 53% have seen profits. Additionally, ITB’s on-chain signals indicate that Shiba Inu is mostly bearish, with key indicators like Net Network Growth, large transaction volume, and concentration in the negative.  

CoinMarketCap reports that Shiba Inu is on a downward trajectory, losing 12.6% of its value in the past 24 hours. Over the last week, the doggy-themed meme coin plummeted by a staggering 25%, compounding its losses from the past month, when it recorded a 15% decline. 

Amidst the declining SHIB price, whales are also selling off their holdings rapidly. Blockchain wallet tracker LoonOnChain revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that an anonymous whale recently sold 250 billion SHIB valued at $6.05 million. The whale had initially spent $3,800 to buy 15.28 trillion SHIB as early as August 6, 2020, making gains of up to $109 million from his investment. 

Meme Coins See Sharp Decline; Analyst Calls Bottom

According to Bitfate on X, meme coins have entered the red zone this week, with sharp declines driven primarily by panic selling among holders. Coingecko has also disclosed that the meme coin market cap has experienced a 16% decline, spiraling down to $97.4 billion. 

Nick Garcia, a crypto analyst, has called a potential meme coin bottom, highlighting that large-cap meme coins are currently lagging while mid-tier cryptocurrencies have seen one of the worst declines. 

Furthermore, a crypto trader, Isak, commented on the bearish performance of meme coins, highlighting that the recent decline in Bitcoin has significantly influenced this downturn. The trader revealed that most meme coins are 90% down from their ATH, while altcoins have plummeted significantly. Consequently, Isak has suggested that the bear market is in full swing, signaling the end of the bull market.

Days back, Dogecoin, the largest dog-themed meme coin, witnessed a notable setback, causing a sharp drop in its price to critical support levels. Despite the recent waning performances, several key developments suggest that DOGE might be preparing for its next major rally to new heights in the short term.

A Robust Rally To Higher Levels Incoming For Dogecoin

Although Dogecoin is struggling to move upward, seasoned market expert and investor Kevin foresees a bullish outlook for DOGE in the near term. In his analysis, Kevin cited crucial indicators that point to the time frame that the much-anticipated next surge could begin for the meme coin.

Referencing past cycle trends and present price conditions, the expert’s prediction implies that the current consolidation phase might be ending shortly. With key indicators showing rising momentum, the expected upswing may fuel a much larger rally, pushing the meme coin to unprecedented levels.

Examining Dogecoin’s current price action, Kevin highlighted that DOGE has risen above the crucial level of 43 on the daily Relative Strength Index (RSI). According to the expert, Dogecoin never dropped below level 43 on the daily RSI during the last bull market. 

Specifically, the 43 level on the daily RSI is critical since this was the bounce zone that resulted in three consolidation phases that led to new highs. Recent data shows that the meme coin‘s daily RSI has increased to level 47.

Furthermore, Kevin noted that throughout the last bull market, Dogecoin never lost the zero line on the daily Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD). This robust maintenance at the crucial indicator also served as a springboard to greater height when reached. Meanwhile, looking at the present price trend, the chart shows that the market will hit the zero line in about 3 to 4 days.

Should the ongoing cycle mirror these past cycle trends, the market expert contends the current consolidation period is likely coming to an end in at least a week. As a result, Kevin is confident that DOGE’s next rally toward higher levels may begin around Christmas. Thus far, investors and traders are monitoring key support levels for a potential rebound as they anticipate the next significant leg-up.

A Rebound On The Horizon?

Dogecoin could be regaining its upside momentum once more as Trader Tradigrade, a crypto analyst, has predicted a potential recovery, noting that DOGE’s daily RSI has entered a critical rebound zone. Trader Tardigrade forecast is based on a previous scenario that triggered notable price spikes.

The last time DOGE‘s daily RSI reached the zone in September this year, the meme coin experienced a local bottom at $0.095. Following the development, DOGE rose significantly to the $0.48 price level. Given the same degree of gain prediction, Trader Tardigrade believes Dogecoin might surge to $1.35 from the zone.

Crypto analyst Trader Tardigrade has provided insights into the current Dogecoin price action. The analyst revealed that Dogecoin is currently stuck in a range amid the recent crypto market crash and suggested what could happen if the foremost meme coin breaks out of this range. 

Dogecoin Price Stuck In A Range, What Could Happen Next?

In an X post, Trader Tardigrade stated that the Dogecoin price is moving in a range. The analyst added that a breakout of the range could continue the DOGE uptrend. The analyst’s accompanying chart showed that Dogecoin could finally reach the much-anticipated $1 psychological price level when this uptrend continues. 

This will mark a new all-time high (ATH) for the Dogecoin price, whose current ATH is at around $0.73. The chart also showed that this projected rally to $1 could happen before the year ends. This will undoubtedly cap a perfect ending to the year for Dogecoin, which has already enjoyed a year-to-date (YTD) gain of over 245%.

In an X post, the crypto analyst explained why a bullish reversal could be imminent for the Dogecoin price. He stated that Dogecoin’s daily Relative Strength Index (RSI) has fallen back to a potential rebound zone. The analyst further noted that at this RSI level, DOGE hit a local bottom at $0.095 earlier in September, followed by a parabolic rally to $0.48. If the foremost meme coin were to replicate this price gain, then it could reach $1.35 from its current level. 

Trader Tardigrade continues to provide a bullish outlook for the Dogecoin price. In another X post, he stated that Dogecoin’s surge in every cycle follows a two-step jump fashion. In line with this, the crypto analyst stated that the reasonable projection for the Dogecoin top in this market cycle is between $3 and $4. 

An Analysis Of DOGE’s Price Correction

In an X post, crypto analyst Kevin Capital provided an in-depth analysis of the Dogecoin price correction, which has extended for over a month. The analyst noted that Dogecoin had the weekly golden cross towards the election period but never experienced a pullback as it did in the 2021 bull run when this weekly golden cross happened. 

Kevin Capital believes that the current pullback is the one that the Dogecoin price should have witnessed back then, which is common when they receive these golden crosses. The analyst further noted that Dogecoin recorded three 50% corrections in the last bull run on its way to a cycle top. 

As such, historically, the crypto analyst stated that if the Dogecoin price taps the macro structured support and the macro golden pocket, that would represent about a 45% correction and would just be enough for DOGE to resume its uptrend. The analyst added that he would only start to worry if Dogecoin loses the $0.26 level on a weekly close. 

At the time of writing, the Dogecoin price is trading at around $0.30, down over 14% in the last 24 hours, according to data from CoinMarketCap. 

In a livestream broadcast on December 19, 2024, Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson delivered new remarks on the conflict with the Cardano Foundation, structural complications, and strategic priorities moving into 2025.

“It’s About Governance”

Hoskinson began by acknowledging the shift from “governance on paper” to “governance reality” throughout 2024, referencing a series of “deep and significant governance conversations” during the December Constitutional Convention. He highlighted the historical trajectory of the Cardano Foundation’s board composition and jurisdictional issues dating back to 2014, as well as disputes that arose in 2021 and earlier.

He described the Foundation’s origins, including the initial founding by Michael Parsons on the Isle of Man and the subsequent relocation to Switzerland. According to Hoskinson, the legal entity known as a “Stiftungsrat” (foundation) had been repurposed from a structure not originally intended for decentralized cryptocurrencies: “The stiff tongue structure, the structure that the Foundation is, was never intended for cryptocurrency foundations.” He noted that attempts were made to transition the Foundation’s jurisdiction to a members-based organization better suited to community oversight and decentralized governance, but these efforts were ultimately thwarted by internal board conflicts and regulatory intervention.

Hoskinson further detailed a period in which the majority of the Foundation’s board advocated relocating and restructuring the entity. He stated that a minority faction opposed these moves, initiating a legal dispute. Following a ruling in favor of the majority, an administrator appointed by the Swiss regulator (Eidgenössische Stiftungsaufsicht, ESA) intervened to force board changes. This intervention, according to Hoskinson, effectively allowed the Swiss government, through its administrator, to determine the new board composition. Although he acknowledged potential semantic debates, Hoskinson Cardano Foundation Under Swiss Government Control, Charges Hoskinson: “To me that sounds like the Swiss government appointed the board.”

In Hoskinson’s view, the current Foundation structure lacks the most critical element of decentralized governance—community accountability. “I do not believe something that calls itself the Cardano Foundation should be structured in a way where its board can never be held accountable by the Cardano community and its board chooses its own successors,” he stated, adding, “You can never recover from that original sin until you correct it.” Hoskinson added, “My complaint is not about people, it’s about governance.”

He described various efforts to create more suitable governance bodies and entities, including the development of Intersect and outreach to other ecosystem contributors. According to Hoskinson, Input Output Global (IOG) encouraged the Foundation to join new organizational structures conducive to community oversight, funding, and inclusive decision-making. However, the Foundation launched its own initiatives, such as Pragma, without providing IOG a corresponding opportunity to participate.

Cardano’s Path For 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, Hoskinson underscored two remaining steps for Cardano’s governance transformation: ratifying a community-approved constitution and establishing an annual on-chain budget. Both steps, he noted, would allow for broader participation and resource allocation to ecosystem developers who have been historically underfunded. “We are in a very competitive industry and we have to have the cognizance that we need to spend as an ecosystem to grow and thrive,” he said, urging the community to consider the importance of distributing treasury funds to core builders, innovators, and infrastructure projects.

He conveyed concern that the Cardano Foundation, if it voted “no” on the forthcoming budget, could hinder long-term ecosystem growth. While he stated that this would not directly affect IOG’s operations or technology initiatives, it could impact developers and community participants in need of stable, sustainable funding: “If they were subject to community oversight… maybe it’s not a good thing to have so much ADA accumulated voting no for absolutely necessary funds for the ecosystem to grow.”

Despite these governance challenges, Hoskinson remained optimistic about Cardano’s trajectory. He reaffirmed IOG’s commitments to adoption, interoperability, and technological advancement independent of on-chain governance outcomes. He highlighted the upcoming Bitcoin integration, enhancements to the Lace wallet, and the anticipated impact of the privacy-focused Midnight sidechain. “Midnight will be the single biggest economic event for the Cardano ecosystem in its history. It’s going to airdrop to more than a 100 million people and build bridges with all the major networks and bring people together,” said Hoskinson.

To further strengthen Cardano’s position, IOG plans to enhance core ecosystem functionalities, improve critical tooling and standards, and secure necessary integrations with custodians, wallets, and other platforms. Hoskinson emphasized that IOG would not seek treasury funding for these moves, instead choosing to invest its own resources: “We’re going to get Bitcoin to work with Cardano and we’ll be there at Bitcoin 2025 with a great demo.”

At press time, ADA traded at $0.79.

With the market on the verge of another altcoin season, experts have selected XRP, Dogecoin, and RCO Finance as the top cryptocurrencies vying for the highest ROI by 2025. This analysis examines the unique features and recent developments of each token, providing insights to help determine which one may deliver the most impressive gains by the end of the decade.

RCO Finance: Outshining XRP Price and DOGE?

Amid the recent excitement surrounding the anticipated XRP price rally and Dogecoin, RCO Finance emerges as a compelling alternative for investors seeking substantial returns in 2025. More than just a trading platform, RCO Finance represents a gateway to the future of cryptocurrency trading, highlighted by its distinctive features.

One of the noteworthy features is its AI-powered robo advisor, which offers personalized financial services that could revolutionize the trading experience. This intelligent software is able to perform the necessary mathematical calculations for tailoring of trading strategies to specific requirements and targets.

The AI trading tool gradually learns trading patterns whether for novice traders or seasoned ones to provide better suggestions. This type of system works without human oversight, allowing users to promptly respond to market fluctuations.

Additionally, RCO Finance plans to introduce debit cards post-launch, giving users access to a range of DeFi projects. These cards will allow investors to engage with various DeFi initiatives, unlocking exciting new avenues for earning.

The DeFi trading platform prioritizes investor security by conducting thorough audits of its smart contracts through SolidProof, a leading security firm. This commitment to safety boosts investor confidence, ensuring users that their funds are protected against potential risks.

The XRP Price Surges As RLUSD Takes Off

Ripple has launched its stablecoin, Ripple USD (RLUSD), available on Ethereum and the XRP Ledger. Initially fluctuating 20% from its $1 target, RLUSD has now stabilized. Ripple’s CTO, David Schwartz, cautioned about a potential temporary shortage that could affect RLUSD and also the XRP price.

Following the launch, the XRP price dipped slightly to $2.63, likely due to users exchanging XRP for RLUSD. However, the XRP price is now on the rebound, having risen by 31% over the past week. If this upward trend continues, market experts predict that the XRP price could achieve a new all-time high by Q1 2025.

Dogecoin’s “Age Consumed” Metric Hits Record High Amid Price Rally

Currently trading around $0.40, Dogecoin is up 7% over the past week after a significant rise in early November. The “Age Consumed” metric, which tracks old coins traded, reached 1 trillion coins on December 16, its highest since October. Experts note that the activity spike on December 16 aligns with DOGE’s price surge. 

Transaction volumes have also increased since late October, peaking mid-November and again on December 16, exceeding 5.5 billion transactions. Some experts also suggest that the movement of old coins may influence DOGE’s price, potentially leading to a rise to $0.45 in 2025.

RCOF Presale: Your Last Chance to Buy Now! 

As investors speculate on which token—XRP, Dogecoin, or RCO Finance—will yield the best returns by 2025, the RCOF token presale is gaining significant attention. The RCOF token price is steadily climbing as more investors participate, resulting in impressive profits for early adopters.

Currently in Stage 4 of its presale, RCOF is priced at $0.0777 per token. The final stage is projected to increase the price to $0.0214, reflecting a remarkable 174% rise. Analysts anticipate that RCOF could reach between $0.40 and $0.60 by the end of the presale, representing a potential growth of 670%.

Additionally, holding RCOF tokens could lead to exciting price surges after the launch. The project operates on a deflationary model, meaning the total supply of tokens will decrease over time. This scarcity is expected to significantly enhance the tokens’ value, with projections suggesting increases of up to 10,000x by 2025.

With a limited-time 25% discount available using the promo code RCOF25, now is the perfect opportunity to invest in RCOF!

For more information about the RCO Finance (RCOF) Presale:

Visit RCO Finance Presale

Join The RCO Finance Community

The Bitcoin price movements in the past 24 hours have sent the entire crypto market into another state of disarray and liquidations. Particularly, Bitcoin has witnessed a price crash of about 5% in the past 24 hours, which has seen it breaking below the $100,000 psychological price threshold again. Although Bitcoin eventually seems to be finding support around $96,000, the leading cryptocurrency is nonetheless down by about 10% in the past three days.

Interestingly, a technical analyst on the TradingView platform suggested that the Bitcoin decline is due to a broader trend in the investment markets, while also pointing to a potential price bottom during the current decline.

Bitcoin Price Declining Between Support Zones In Fibonacci Retracement Levels

Bitcoin’s current price action aligns closely with the Fibonacci retracement levels often used by traders to determine support and resistance. According to the TradingView analysis, the Bitcoin price is now within a retracement zone in the 4-hour timeframe between the 0.618 and 0.786 retracement levels from its recent all-time high of 108,135 which it achieved just three days ago. 

Historically, this range has acted as a strong support zone where Bitcoin has demonstrated a tendency to bounce back. The analyst highlights that Bitcoin’s love of bouncing up at the 0.786 level suggests the cryptocurrency might find a temporary bottom near this range, which is situated just below the $95,000 price level. 

As stated earlier, the Bitcoin price found support at $96,000, but Fibonacci retracements suggest it could further continue on the downside. The analyst suggested it could go down to around $93,800 as an overshoot. Any move lower, however, could risk a more significant collapse.

Correlation With Stock Index Sell-Offs

A key factor influencing Bitcoin’s recent decline is the sell-off in major U.S. stock indexes. Although the nature of the crypto industry is against that of the traditional finance world, the advent of Spot Bitcoin ETFs has led to a close relationship between the two. This has caused Bitcoin to become more sensitive to movements and sentiment in traditional markets.

As noted by the analyst, the S&P 500 Futures, Nasdaq Futures, and Dow Jones Futures all recently experienced a significant pullback from the 1.618 Fibonacci reverse extension levels on the weekly candlestick timeframe. This connection is further emphasized by data showing substantial outflows from Spot Bitcoin ETFs based in the United States. According to data from SosoValue, these ETFs witnessed $680 million in outflows on December 19 to break the trend of 15 consecutive days of inflows.

At the time of writing, the Bitcoin price is trading at $97,950, hovering just above the critical $96,000 support level. However, as stock indexes remain under bearish pressure, there is a risk that the Bitcoin price will continue to track these declines and maybe even bottom around $93,800 before regaining another momentum upwards.

Market experts have been heavily fixated on two altcoins awaiting their bullish trajectories. These are Dogwifhat (WIF) and IntelMarkets (INTL), which also draw in XRP investors. The bearish price trajectory of Ripple has compelled XRP investors to shift to these altcoins as they promise better gains than Ripple. Dogwifhat (WIF) is set to provide massive gains while INTL’s presale raise of $5 million acts like a magnet.

Ripple News: Is XRP Still A Good Investment?

Ripple’s native cryptocurrency, XRP, has been a standout performer in the crypto market, surging nearly 500% from $0.50 to $2.60 in recent months. Despite this remarkable growth, Ripple has come under fire in a video titled “Everything That’s Wrong With XRP,” sparking debate within the crypto community.

The author argued that XRP’s original role as a bridge currency for cross-border payments has been overshadowed by stablecoins, which offer more stability. Ripple’s recent launch of its stablecoin, RLUSD, has added fuel to this claim.

Ripple currently holds over 38 billion XRP tokens and has been selling them to fund operations. This centralization, according to the author, poses risks to XRP’s long-term value. The recent slump in the Ripple price has pulled the XRP token down by over 5%, making the experts believe that the XRP token is going to touch the $2 level.

Dogwifhat (WIF) Could Bounce From Support

Dogwifhat (WIF) is currently trending bearish, with key support levels at $3.00 and $2.89 and resistance zones at $3.20, $3.29, and $3.40. Technical indicators show Dogwifhat’s (WIF) Relative Strength Index (RSI) is at 43.2630, which is considered neutral.

WIF’s Commodity Channel Index (CCI) stands at -105.3984, signaling a buying opportunity for Dogwifhat (WIF), while its momentum is at −0.6793 and MACD level of −0.0634, hinting sell indications.

Meanwhile, Dogwifhat’s (WIF) growth to 100% depends on the coin’s ability to sustain bullish momentum, amplify its strong market interest, and ride the positive sentiment around Solana’s market performance.

Some analysts suggest that with Trump’s incoming administration in January 2025, the new term could most likely give a significant boost to the cryptocurrency market, as the president-elect is reportedly taking a pro-crypto stance.

Meme coins like Dogwifhat (WIF) have already proved they are strong contenders in the market, and with the potential “meme supercycle” approaching next year, Dogwifhat (WIF) could unlock more possibilities.

IntelMarkets (INTL): The AI Marketplace on Everyone’s Radar

IntelMarkets (INTL) is one of the most innovative projects this year through its AI-powered platform. IntelMarkets leverages artificial intelligence to bring traders real-time insights, predictive analysis, and automated strategies in trading. The Intell-M self-learning trading robots will allow users to process high volumes of data across multiple asset classes, giving them the edge over their competitors.

With features like up to 1000x leverage trading, automated robots, and exclusive trading opportunities, IntelMarkets is positioned as a powerhouse for traders looking for advanced solutions. Additionally, by using the INTL token, traders can get access to exclusive deals and copy trades from experts while paying lower fees.

One of the best performers in the year’s second half has been IntelMarkets. With over $5 million raised in the ongoing presale, its community of traders and investors is growing at a rapid pace. It exploded 700% from the initial price of INTL tokens, $0.009, to $0.073 in the 8th presale stage, outperforming other new ICOs. The platform’s AI-driven marketplace could transform the $264 billion crypto trading industry, with some experts predicting a 5x rally post-launch.

 

Discover More About IntelMarkets:

Presale: https://intelmarketspresale.com/

Buy Presale: https://buy.intelmarketspresale.com/

Telegram: https://t.me/IntelMarketsOfficial

Twitter: https://x.com/intel_markets

 

 

 

Shiba Inu has entered into a strategic partnership with Chainlink, according to a press release published in SHIB Magazine. This alliance will see Shibarium, Shiba Inu’s layer-2 (L2) blockchain network, integrating Chainlink’s Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP) as its canonical infrastructure for cross-chain communication, alongside the adoption of the Cross-Chain Token (CCT) standard for its native assets SHIB, BONE, and LEASH.

What The Shiba Inu And Chainlink Means

“We’re excited to announce that Shiba Inu and Chainlink are partnering to grow the Shiba Inu ecosystem,” reads the official press release. “Shibarium has integrated the Chainlink standard for blockchain interoperability as its canonical cross-chain infrastructure.” The move enables Shiba Inu ecosystem assets to be deployed across 12 blockchains.

Shibarium is built on top of Ethereum with a focus on scalability, speed, and cost efficiency. By adopting the CCT standard, the Shiba Inu ecosystem can now facilitate token transfers using a “lock-and-mint” mechanism for bridging from Ethereum and a “burn-and-mint” mechanism for cross-chain transfers beyond Ethereum. These approaches aim to ensure a controlled, secure, and verifiable means of moving value across multiple networks, all underpinned by Chainlink’s CCIP.

Johann Eid, Chief Business Officer at Chainlink Labs, emphasized the importance of the partnership in expanding cross-chain capabilities for Shibarium. “We’re excited to enter a partnership with Shiba Inu and grow its ecosystem together,” Eid stated. “The integration of Chainlink CCIP as Shibarium’s canonical cross-chain solution and Shiba Inu’s adoption of the CCT standard will enhance its capabilities and drive wide adoption of its ecosystem.”

Kaal, a Shiba Inu core developer, underscored the significance of adopting CCIP and the CCT standard: “Partnering with Chainlink, we’re not just choosing an industry standard—we’re setting a bold new course for the Shiba Inu ecosystem. By integrating CCIP and the CCT standard, SHIB, LEASH, and BONE will, for the very first time, span multiple chains with unparalleled security, reliability, and inbuilt burn mechanisms.”

From a technical perspective, Chainlink’s CCIP is designed to provide decentralized cross-chain messaging, secure token transfers, and programmability. The protocol’s security model leverages Chainlink’s decentralized oracle networks (DONs) to safeguard tokens and data as they move across chains. According to the release, Chainlink’s infrastructure has historically secured over $75 billion in DeFi total value locked (TVL) at its peak and facilitated more than $17 trillion in on-chain transaction value since the start of 2022.

In addition, Shiba Inu will also integrate Chainlink Data Streams for premium, high-frequency, low-latency market data. “Chainlink Data Streams supply premium high-frequency data […] with advanced features such as liquidity-weighted bid-ask spreads and sub-second execution speed,” the press release states. The objective is to enable more sophisticated decentralized finance (DeFi) applications on Shibarium, potentially attracting traders and liquidity providers seeking reliable, transparent data feeds.

As detailed in a related article by SHIB Magazine, the overarching vision behind this move is to create a more dynamic, interconnected blockchain environment. By leveraging Chainlink’s CCIP, Shibarium aims to connect with a broader “crypto universe” and facilitate the secure transfer of its ecosystem tokens across multiple chains. Notably, this cross-chain expansion also introduces a deflationary mechanism through which transaction fees across various supported chains are consolidated and utilized to “burn” tokens, potentially influencing the tokenomics of SHIB, BONE, and LEASH over the longer term.

Chainlink’s CCIP capabilities, including arbitrary messaging and programmable token transfers, allow developers to build cross-chain-native applications that can handle NFTs, lending protocols, and other data-driven functionalities. This technological convergence represents a bid to transform Shibarium from a single-chain solution into a robust, multi-chain network that can host diverse and sophisticated DeFi markets.

The ultimate impact of this multi-chain expansion will depend on developer adoption, user engagement, and the broader DeFi market’s response. While the outcome remains to be seen, the partnership’s stated goal is clear: to foster innovation, encourage widespread adoption of Shibarium’s tools, and establish the Shiba Inu ecosystem as a pioneering force in cross-chain interoperability and decentralized finance.

As Kaal noted, “This milestone paves the way for more innovative multi-chain applications, driving broader adoption and igniting a new era of growth and possibility for the Shiba Inu ecosystem.”

At press time, SHIB traded at $0.00002218.

Ripple (XRP) has long been a leader in the crypto space, with ambitious goals of reaching a $10 price point. However, shifting market trends and changing investor interests have cast doubt on whether XRP can achieve this milestone. Enter Lightchain AI (LCAI), a rising competitor that’s turning heads with its innovative approach and promising potential.

Currently priced at just $0.003, LCAI is gaining momentum, and many believe it could hit the $10 mark before XRP. With the Lightchain AI Presale already underway, investors are flocking to this new project, eager to get in on the ground floor. But what gives LCAI the edge over XRP? Let’s dive into the key factors driving its rapid ascent.

Ripple’s Roadblocks to Reaching $10

XRP is not new to big price hopes, with its group often wishing for large jumps. But, som͏e problems are in the way of XRP hitting the sought-after $10 spot

Rules doubt stays a big wall, as lasting law fights, mostly with the SEC, keep on putting a shadow over XRP’s time ahead. Also, the rising fight in crypto market brings another test.

With many new rules giving like or better payment and settling ways, XRP sees more market crowding. Also, XRP’s use relies much on banks’ wish to use its cross-border deal tech which has a slower take-up time.

This slow rise plan can soften the fast price increase many buyers wish for. Though hitting $10 is not unlikely, the way ahead is hard and unclear, making XRP less attractive to short- and middle-term buyers looking for big profits.

The Path from $0.003 to $10 Why LCAI Could Win the Race

For a token priced at $0.003, even incremental successes can trigger massive returns. While XRP would need a massive influx of capital and regulatory clarity to jump from its current price into double digits, LCAI enjoys a ground-floor advantage. Here’s why LCAI might get there first.

• Early-Stage Growth Potential If LCAI rises to $10 from $0.003, it represents an astronomical ROI. Such leaps are far easier for low-market-cap assets with untapped markets.
• AI Market Tailwinds AI adoption is accelerating globally, and a blockchain protocol that can facilitate AI-driven solutions is likely to gain rapid traction and enterprise interest.
• Investor Confidence in Utility Unlike speculative assets that ride on hype, LCAI’s focus on tangible use cases builds investor confidence. As milestones like mainnet launches and industry partnerships materialize, price appreciation could follow swiftly.
• Decisions by the People, for the People With Decentralized Governance Integration, we mix AI smarts with community-driven decision-making. Because two heads (or thousands) are better than one. 
• Built to Scale, Born to Perform Lightchain AI’s architecture is like a rocket—designed to handle massive transactions and computations without breaking a sweat. Perfect for any industry ready to launch. 
• Privacy Meets Fort Knox Your data is sacred. With top-tier privacy and security, Lightchain AI won’t just protect it—it’ll guard it like a treasure chest in healthcare and finance. 
• Global Brainpower Lightchain AI thrives on community. Developers worldwide contribute to constantly sharpen its AI game. Think of it as a giant brainstorm session—but with code.

How LCAI’s Technology Ushers in a New Era

As the crypto market matures, mere speed and low fees no longer suffice. Investors seek tokens that blend innovation, scalability, and real-world application—attributes that define LCAI. By uniting blockchain’s transparency and security with AI’s transformative power, LCAI sets the stage for a new class of dApps that could redefine what’s possible in decentralized ecosystems.

This broader scope allows LCAI to tap into diverse revenue streams and partnerships, expanding its influence beyond just payments and into the core operations of multiple industries. The resulting demand for LCAI tokens can drive price growth that not only matches but potentially outpaces the lofty ambitions set for XRP.

Shift in Investor Priorities

While XRP continues to eye $10, the market’s changing priorities and the rise of AI-powered solutions have paved the way for Lightchain AI (LCAI) to seize the spotlight. Its low initial price, practical applications, and advanced consensus model offer a compelling narrative for investors seeking exponential returns.

As technological and market conditions evolve, LCAI stands a strong chance of reaching $10 long before XRP manages to double its current price. For those who missed out on earlier crypto booms, this under-the-radar AI-blockchain hybrid could be the next big opportunity in a rapidly transforming digital landscape.

Don’t wait until it’s too late; get in on the LCAI presale now and join the revolution!  By investing in LCAI, you are not only supporting a groundbreaking project but also potentially positioning yourself for significant financial gains.

https://lightchain.ai

https://lightchain.ai/lightchain-whitepaper.pdf

https://x.com/LightchainAI

https://t.me/LightchainProtocol

 

Data shows the Bitcoin Coinbase Premium Index has plunged into the negative territory alongside the latest asset price downturn.

Bitcoin Coinbase Premium Index Is Currently In The Red Zone

As explained by an analyst in a CryptoQuant Quicktake post, the Coinbase Premium Index has seen a decline recently. The “Coinbase Premium Index” refers to an indicator that keeps track of the percentage difference between the Bitcoin price listed on Coinbase (USD pair) and that on Binance (USDT pair).

The value of this metric tells us how the buying or selling behaviors differ between the userbases of the two cryptocurrency exchange giants.

To be more specific, Coinbase’s main traffic is US investors, especially the large institutional entities, while Binance has users from around the world, so the indicator compares the behavior of the American whales with the global ones.

Now, here is a chart that shows the trend in the Bitcoin Coinbase Premium Index over the past week:

The above graph shows that the Bitcoin Coinbase Premium Index has observed a sharp plunge into the negative territory during the last 24 hours. Coinciding with this drawdown in the indicator has been the crash in the cryptocurrency’s value itself.

The negative indicator suggests the asset is observing a higher amount of selling pressure on Coinbase than on Binance. Thus, given the timing of the trend, it would appear the selling from the Coinbase users has been driving the price decline.

This pattern has been observed throughout 2024; the price has shown notable correlation with the Coinbase Premium Index. As such, the Coinbase users, or the American institutional investors, have been in the driving seat.

If the indicator’s value continues to be negative in the coming days, then it’s possible that Bitcoin would only see an elongation to its decline. It only remains to be seen, though, what the US-based whales decide to do next.

In some other news, the institutional holders haven’t been the only ones participating in selling recently, as another analyst has pointed out in a Quicktake post that the Bitcoin Binary Coin Days Destroyed (CDD) has spiked.

The Binary CDD keeps track of whether dormant tokens are on the move. Aged coins belong to the HODLers of the market, so whenever the indicator spikes, it’s a sign that the long-term holders have potentially decided to sell their coins.

The chart shows that the Bitcoin Binary CDD has recently been flashing this signal, meaning that the asset has been facing selling pressure from the diamond hands.

BTC Price

At the time of writing, Bitcoin is floating around $100,400, down more than 3% over the past day.

Bitcoin (BTC) tumbled from a high of $108,135 on December 17 to $99,500, following US Federal Reserve (Fed) Chair Jerome Powell’s hawkish remarks yesterday. However, some crypto analysts are pinning their hopes on a potential decline in Bitcoin Dominance (BTC.D) that may pave the way for an altseason.

What Caused The Crypto Market Crash?

Since yesterday, the total crypto market cap has fallen by more than 6%, with the bulk of the losses recorded in altcoins. In absolute terms, over $200 billion has been wiped out from the crypto market in the past 24 hours.

Powell’s hawkish statements triggered the decline in the crypto market, which suggested that the Fed’s battle against inflation is not over yet. Powell indicated that there might only be two interest rate cuts in 2025 instead of three.

Additionally, the Fed has raised the 2025 inflation forecast from 2.1% to 2.5%. Even the 2026 forecast is pegged at 2.1%, higher than the central bank’s goal of 2%. The Fed sees inflation as an issue that might persist for another two years, resulting in interest rates remaining high for longer than initially anticipated.

The crypto market reacted negatively to Powell’s statements, resulting in liquidations exceeding $850 million in the past 24 hours. Nevertheless, some crypto analysts view the fall as an opportunity to accumulate altcoins, expecting BTC.D to decline in the coming days.

Is Bitcoin Dominance About To Collapse?

According to the following chart, during the weekly timeframe, Bitcoin Dominance has been on a continual uptrend for the past two weeks, rising from 56.24% to 58.50% at the time of writing. Some analysts are confident that BTC.D is forming a lower high, which may be followed by a steep decline leading to a full-fledged altseason.

Bitcoin analyst Eric Crown took X to share his thoughts on the BTC.D chart. The analyst noted that the metric may fall to 54% after a small surge to 59%. 

Another crypto analyst @CryptoGoos noted that BTC.D top is already in. The trader added that the altcoin season will likely continue after BTC.D gets rejected from resistance levels between 58% and 59%.

Similarly, Bitcoin and stock market analyst Seth highlighted BTC.D’s behavior during the last two market cycles. He stated that BTC.D might follow a similar trajectory this cycle, consolidating at a key support level of around 58% before an eventual crash.

That said, former BitMEX exchange CEO Arthur Hayes recently shared his crypto market outlook, predicting a “harrowing dump” around US President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025. BTC trades at $100,978 at press time, down 3% in the past 24 hours.

Parcl ($PARCL) has taken a knock, with a price decline of -13.10% in the past seven days. As a real estate trading DEX, PARCL provides traders with the option of major city indices, among them New York, Los Angeles, and Dubai. Parcl is built on a smart contract platform on Solana.

Parcl was recently included on crypto exchange Coinbase, prompting a price spike, albeit a short-lived one. Parcl’s native token reached $0.586 on December, 17 but has since dropped to around $0.35.

It’s not unusual for a token price to rise and drop following a new exchange listing. And $PARCL’s price -13.10% is still favorable compared to similar DeFi currencies, which are down -17.60% in the same period.  Solana, too, has also been seeing a downward trend for close to a month now. But that’s expected to see a turnaround, on the back of $SOLX.

Is $SOLX Stealing Parcl’s Limelight?

The Solaxy ($SOLX) presale is in full swing, with investors racing to secure tokens at an early bird price. $SOLX’s massive investor appeal lies in its building of a Solana Layer 2 blockchain, with plans to be a vastly improved version of the Solana ecosystem. 

Solana’s high transaction volumes (close to 179M in the past week alone) are prone to congestion and failed transactions. And these are the issues Solaxy will tackle, along with scalability. 

It’s not just Solana that’s set to score. Solaxy is a multi-chain solution, which is good news for Ethereum as well as for Binance. But it also means the Solaxy presale is drawing investors from Solana, Ethereum, and BNB, which isn’t great news for the PARCL DEX, or $PARCL’s price.

Solaxy Presale Is Grabbing Investor Attention 

Since launching just over five days ago, the Solaxy presale raised $350K in its first 24 hours. As at the time of writing, that figure has already skyrocketed to an eye-watering $3.46M. It’s an exciting space to watch, as the investor frenzy gathers momentum, buoyed by 1092% annual returns. So far, an estimated 1051B $SOLX has already been staked.

Investors can get their hands on $SOLX through Solaxy’s official presale site, with $ETH, $BNB, $USDT, and card among the payment options. Buying $SOLX with $BNB in the presale, however, means holders won’t be eligible for the 1092% annual returns. 

Buying $SOLX by card requires a crypto wallet, like MetaMask or Best Wallet. Both are free, although the mobile-first Best Wallet app is also 100% non-custodial. This is always a plus if you want a crypto wallet that doesn’t belong to a centralized exchange or company. 

Solana Set for a Comeback with $SOLX

In this current presale stage, 1 $SOLX costs $0.00158. But, of course, being a presale, a price rise is imminent. The next increase will happen within just more than a day. So, the clock is ticking if you want to buy $SOLX at entry level prices. 

Be sure to first DYOR, as this article does not constitute financial advice. Check out the $SOLX whitepaper for more information and for updates, keep an eye on the $SOLX X feed.