XRP is trading above $1.90 after several weeks of pressure that pushed the token below the $2 psychological level. The pullback comes amid a broader crypto market downturn that has erased roughly $200 billion in total market capitalization since early January.

Related Reading: Dogecoin (DOGE) Rebound Looks Fragile With Multiple Hurdles Ahead

For XRP, the decline has been accompanied by a sharp deterioration in retail sentiment, even as some on-chain analysts and ecosystem participants argue that the current range carries longer-term significance.

While price action remains fragile, the debate around XRP has shifted from short-term momentum to questions of positioning, ownership structure, and adoption-driven fundamentals.

XRP Validator Highlights Accumulation Window Below $2

Crypto investor and XRPL validator 24HRSCRYPTO argues that XRP’s price below $2 represents a narrowing window for accumulation rather than a reflection of weakening fundamentals.

The commentary focuses on affordability and timing, noting that earlier market participants were able to build large positions with relatively modest capital, a dynamic that becomes harder as prices rise.

On-ledger data shows that more than 500,000 XRP Ledger accounts already hold over 10,000 XRP. Since these figures represent accounts rather than individuals, actual concentration may be higher.

According to the validator, this suggests that sizeable XRP holdings are becoming structurally harder to achieve for new entrants, especially if prices move higher.

The analysis also highlights cash flow constraints. Using fixed monthly investment scenarios, 24HRSCRYPTO explains that rising prices mathematically reduce the number of XRP units investors can accumulate over time. From this perspective, scarcity is not framed as sentiment-driven, but as a function of price appreciation.

Retail Sentiment Hits “Extreme Fear” Territory

Data from Santiment shows that XRP retail sentiment has slipped into “extreme fear” for the third time this year. The ratio of positive to negative sentiment dropped below 1.873 on January 20 and has continued to weaken. Historically, similar sentiment lows have coincided with short-term price rebounds, although outcomes have varied.

XRP has already staged a modest recovery, rising from around $1.89 to near $1.95. However, analysts caution that fearful sentiment alone does not guarantee sustained upside, especially in a market shaped by geopolitical uncertainty and declining risk appetite.

From a technical standpoint, XRP’s monthly candle has turned bearish, with strong selling noted near the $2.70–$3.00 zone. Analysts point to $1.90 as a key pivot, warning that a monthly close below this level could open the door to deeper supports near $1.60.

Related Reading: Chainlink Drops To $12.50, But Largest Whales Are Accumulating

Similarly, developments within the Ripple ecosystem continue to unfold. The recent Binance listing of RLUSD has expanded liquidity and access to Ripple’s stablecoin infrastructure, while executives maintain that 2026 could mark a shift toward broader institutional use of blockchain-based payments.

Cover image from ChatGPT, XRPUSD chart on Tradingview

Dogecoin (DOGE) is once again testing investors’ patience as it trades near the $0.12 level, a zone that has become a focal point after weeks of volatility.

The meme coin has shed more than 20% from its recent highs near $0.15, but recent price action suggests selling pressure may be easing. At the same time, on-chain data and new developments around token usage are adding fresh context to DOGE’s short-term outlook.

As of January 22, Dogecoin is hovering between $0.12 and $0.13, with daily trading volumes still elevated compared to earlier this month. Market participants are closely watching whether this consolidation marks the start of a recovery or merely a pause before another leg lower.

DOGE Accumulation Signals Emerge Around Key Support

On-chain liquidity data indicates gradual accumulation near the $0.12–$0.127 range. Analysts note that DOGEhas repeatedly defended this support zone, suggesting buyers are stepping in incrementally rather than aggressively.

This pattern often appears during early accumulation phases, where larger players avoid driving prices sharply higher.

Technical indicators present a mixed picture. Dogecoin is trading slightly above its 50-day moving average, while the Relative Strength Index sits near neutral levels, leaving room for movement in either direction.

Trading volume has increased over the past week, pointing to renewed interest, but resistance remains firm around $0.13 to $0.14. A confirmed break above this range could open the door to a move toward $0.14, while a loss of $0.12 may expose downside levels near $0.115 or lower.

Broader Market and Sentiment Factors

Market sentiment continues to weigh on Dogecoin’s trajectory. The Crypto Fear & Greed Index remains in “fear” territory, reflecting cautious positioning across digital assets. Bitcoin’s dominance is another variable to watch.

Historically, periods of declining Bitcoin dominance have coincided with capital rotation into altcoins like DOGE.

Macroeconomic signals and regulatory developments also remain relevant. Any shift toward a clearer or more favorable regulatory stance in the U.S. or Europe could improve risk appetite, while renewed uncertainty may pressure speculative tokens.

Token Utility Expands With Payment App Plans

Beyond price action, Dogecoin’s fundamentals are evolving. The House of Doge has confirmed plans to launch a Dogecoin payment app, “Such,” in the first half of 2026. The app is designed to support wallets, DOGE purchases, and direct payments, with a focus on small businesses and peer-to-peer commerce.

While the announcement has not yet translated into price momentum, it highlights ongoing efforts to expand Dogecoin’s real-world use. Over time, increased utility could help DOGE move beyond short-term trading narratives. Currently, Dogecoin remains largely driven by sentiment, technical levels, and broader market trends.

Cover image from ChatGPT, DOGEUSD chart on Tradingview

At the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos, crypto moved away from price cycles and ideological debates toward a more practical focus: how blockchain is being used inside the global financial system.

Across panels, side events, and executive interviews, tokenization of real-world assets (RWAs) emerged as the clearest signal of where crypto is heading next. With the value of tokenized assets now exceeding $22 billion, Davos framed tokenization less as an experiment and more as infrastructure in active use.

The shift was evident in both the tone and the participants. Rather than startups pitching concepts, conversations featured central bank officials, large asset managers, and executives from firms in the tokenization space. The emphasis shifted from whether blockchain belongs in finance to how quickly it can be scaled.

Tokenization Moves From Concept to Financial Infrastructure

Panels such as “Is Tokenization the Future?” underlined how assets traditionally seen as illiquid, bonds, equities, funds, and real estate, are increasingly represented on-chain.

Executives from Coinbase and Ripple, alongside European Central Bank officials, described tokenization as a way to reduce settlement times, improve liquidity, and allow fractional ownership without rebuilding the financial system from scratch.

Institutions including BlackRock, BNY Mellon, and Euroclear confirmed they have moved beyond pilot programs and are deploying tokenized instruments at scale.

Data shared during the forum showed that the total value locked in tokenized RWAs has passed $22 billion, reflecting broader asset coverage and growing institutional participation. Ethereum currently hosts more than 65% of these assets, underlining its role as the main settlement layer for tokenization activity.

Regulation and Stablecoins Shape the Next Phase

Regulatory clarity was repeatedly cited as the key factor behind this momentum. Frameworks finalized in 2025 in the US and parts of Europe provided banks and custodians with clearer rules on issuance, custody, and compliance.

In Davos, US President Donald Trump reinforced this direction by pointing to the GENIUS Act, which established a federal framework for payment stablecoins.

Stablecoins were described as the “plumbing” connecting traditional finance, decentralized finance, and tokenized assets. Rather than competing with banks, they are increasingly used for settlement, treasury operations, and cross-border transfers.

For investors, Davos 2026 suggested that crypto’s next growth phase may be less speculative and more structural.

Consulting firms such as McKinsey and Boston Consulting Group estimate that tokenized assets could reach between $2 trillion and $16 trillion by 2030. The focus on regulated products, institutional adoption, and market infrastructure points to a longer-term shift.

Tokenization’s rise at Davos indicates that crypto’s role in global finance is being defined less by volatility and more by utility, an important signal for how the sector may evolve in the years ahead.

Cover image from ChatGPT, BTCUSD chart from Tradingview

Ethereum (ETH) has stabilized above the $3,000 mark after a sharp sell-off earlier this week, as large holders increased their exposure during the dip. The recovery follows a volatile period in which ETH briefly fell below key technical levels, triggering liquidations and renewed caution across the broader crypto market.

On January 22, Ethereum was trading around $3,003, up roughly 1.3% over 24 hours. The rebound came after ETH dropped nearly 13% between January 19 and 21, touching the $2,900 area for the first time in four weeks.

That decline coincided with heightened macro uncertainty, ETF outflows, and the liquidation of over $480 million in bullish leveraged positions.

Ethereum Accumulation Contrasts With Cautious Positioning

On-chain data shows that large Ethereum holders accumulated aggressively during the recent downturn. Whale balances increased by roughly 290,000 ETH over a two-day period, representing purchases worth close to $360 million at current prices.

This behavior suggests that some long-term investors view the recent pullback as a buying opportunity. However, other indicators point to a more cautious stance among experienced traders.

The smart money index remains below its signal line, a level that has historically been crossed ahead of stronger upside moves. In previous instances, such confirmations preceded double-digit gains, but no such signal has emerged so far.

Derivatives data support this wait-and-see approach. ETH perpetual futures funding rates briefly turned negative, indicating reduced confidence among leveraged traders. Options markets have also shown increased demand for downside protection after repeated rejections near the $3,400 level over the past two months.

From a technical perspective, Ethereum is trading within a symmetrical triangle on the daily chart.

Momentum indicators show a bullish divergence, the relative strength index has formed higher lows while the price made lower lows between November and mid-January. This pattern suggests that selling pressure may be weakening, though confirmation is still lacking.

The immediate level to watch on the upside is $3,050, a former support zone that ETH lost during the recent sell-off. A sustained daily close above this level would indicate short-term stabilization.

Above that, the $3,146–$3,164 range represents a dense supply zone, where approximately 3.4 million ETH have been accumulated. This area is expected to act as a strong resistance.

Related Reading: Bitcoin Took Top Spot In 2025 Crypto Payments, Litecoin Third-Most Used: CoinGate

On the downside, failure to hold the triangle’s lower boundary near $2,910 could open the door to a deeper move toward the $2,610 support area.

Cover image from ChatGPT, ETHUSD chart on Tradingview

Solana Mobile has rolled out its long-awaited SKR token airdrop for Seeker smartphone users and select developers, adding a fresh ecosystem catalyst as SOL trades near a critical technical support zone.

Related Reading: What the Triple-Tap At $1.80 Means For The XRP Price

The launch comes at a time when Solana’s price is hovering around $120–$130, an area analysts see as decisive for the token’s medium-term direction. SKR debuted at around $0.006 and climbed above $0.01 within hours of launch, pushing its market capitalization past $70 million.

More than 100,000 users are eligible to claim the airdrop through the Seeker phone’s built-in wallet over a 90-day window. Any unclaimed tokens will be returned to the general distribution pool.

Solana SKR Airdrop Targets Users and Developers

Solana Mobile allocated 30% of SKR’s fixed 10 billion token supply to airdrops and early unlocks. Nearly 2 billion SKR are being distributed to Seeker phone owners and developers who deployed “quality apps” in the Solana dApp Store during Season 1.

The company said the token underpins governance, incentives, and economic activity within the Solana Mobile ecosystem. SKR can be staked directly from the Seed Vault wallet, with inflation events occurring every 48 hours. The annual inflation rate starts at 10% and declines by 25% each year until it stabilizes at 2%.

The airdrop coincides with the start of Seeker’s Season 2 campaign, which introduces a refreshed app catalog, rewards programs, and a focus on sectors such as DeFi, gaming, payments, trading, and decentralized physical infrastructure (DePIN).

Community reaction has been mixed. Some users reported receiving several thousand dollars’ worth of SKR, while others reported allocations closer to $50–$100. Some users expressed disappointment, citing delays in phone delivery and additional shipping costs.

While SKR draws attention to Solana’s mobile strategy, the SOL token itself is facing a technical test. After breaking below $136, SOL has slipped into the $120–$127 zone, where an ascending trendline from the 2023 lows meets historical horizontal support.

This area has previously acted as both resistance and support, making it a closely watched “flip zone” for traders. A sustained hold above $120 could open the door to a recovery toward the $135–$150 range. A breakdown, however, may expose downside targets near $110 or even $100.

Related Reading: Trove’s New Token Craters 95%, Sparking Investor Revolt

Short-term indicators show some stabilization. SOL recently bounced from around $124 to near $128, supported by renewed ETF inflows of roughly $3.08 million and spot market accumulation of about $9.31 million. These flows suggest buyers are stepping in at current levels.

Cover image from ChatGPT, SOLUSD chart on Tradingview

The Bitcoin price showed a sharp pullback this week caught many traders off guard. After hovering near record highs, the world’s largest crypto slid below the $90,000 mark as a wave of leveraged positions was forced out of the market.

Related Reading: Ripple President Long Unveils Her 2026 Crypto Predictions

The drop came amid rising global uncertainty, with investors reacting to geopolitical tensions, bond market stress, and renewed risk aversion across traditional assets.

By Tuesday, the Bitcoin price had fallen to around $87,800 before staging a modest rebound to around $89,000. While the move erased recent gains, market participants say the decline reflects more than just short-term volatility. It highlights how fragile sentiment can become when macro pressures and heavy leverage collide.

Leverage Unwinds Trigger Sharp Sell-Off

Data from CoinGlass showed that roughly $1.08 billion in crypto positions were liquidated over 24 hours, affecting more than 183,000 traders. Long positions made up about 92% of those liquidations, indicating that many traders had been positioned for further upside.

The largest single forced closure was a $13.52 million BTCUSDT position on Bitget, underscoring how crowded bullish bets had become. As prices slipped, automated liquidations accelerated the decline, pushing Bitcoin through key psychological levels.

This unwinding followed weeks of relative calm in crypto markets, during which the Bitcoin price had consolidated near its highs. Once selling pressure began, it quickly exposed how dependent recent price stability had been on leveraged positioning rather than fresh spot demand.

Macro Risks Weigh on Risk Assets

The crypto sell-off unfolded alongside broader market stress. U.S. President Donald Trump’s renewed tariff threats against European nations, tied to disputes over Greenland, revived fears of a trade war. Similarly, a sell-off in Japanese government bonds pushed global yields higher, tightening financial conditions.

U.S. equities also suffered their worst session since October, with major indices dropping more than 2%. Crypto-related stocks such as Coinbase, Strategy, and Circle posted steep losses, reflecting a wider shift away from risk-sensitive assets.

While the Bitcoin price and altcoins fell, gold and silver moved in the opposite direction. Gold traded near record highs above $4,800 per ounce, and silver also reached new peaks. The contrast suggested that investors were rotating into traditional safe havens as uncertainty grew.

Despite the volatility, Bitcoin has shown early signs of stabilization. Prices rebounded toward the $89,000–$90,000 area as pressure in bond markets eased and U.S. equity futures ticked higher. Still, analysts caution that the move looks more like a pause after forced selling than a clear return of risk appetite.

Technical indicators highlight the $87,000–$88,000 range as a critical support zone. A break below this level could open the door to further declines toward $85,000 or lower. On the upside, Bitcoin price faces resistance near $92,000 and $95,000.

Related Reading: XRP Holders Quietly Build Positions In A Pattern That Echoes Earlier Cycles

For now, traders are closely watching macro developments, including Trump’s speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos and ongoing signals from global bond markets. Whether dip buyers step in with conviction may determine if Bitcoin can reclaim lost ground, or if the recent slide has further to run.

Cover image from ChatGPT, BTCUSD chart on Tradingview

XRP has slipped below the $2 mark, extending a week-long decline that has unsettled traders and renewed questions about the token’s short-term outlook.

The drop comes amid heavy outflows from XRP exchange-traded funds (ETFs), broader market weakness tied to U.S. tariff developments, and fresh debate over Ripple’s growing focus on stablecoins for global payments.

After briefly recovering to around $2.20 in mid-January, XRP fell as low as $1.85 over the weekend following what market commentators described as a liquidity sweep.

XRP ETF Outflows Add to Selling Pressure

XRP-linked ETFs recorded their largest daily outflow since launching in November 2025. On January 20, investors pulled roughly $53 million from these products, with the Grayscale XRP ETF accounting for most of the losses. Cumulative net inflows have now fallen back to levels last seen in early January.

The outflows mirrored a wider risk-off move across U.S. markets. Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs also saw heavy redemptions, while only Solana and Chainlink products attracted fresh capital.

The sell-off followed renewed concerns over Trump’s tariff threats against Europe and Greenland, which triggered the biggest intraday market drop since October 2025.

Technical and On-Chain Signals Remain Weak

From a technical standpoint, XRP is trading below key moving averages, including the 50-day and 200-day levels, with resistance forming near the $2 zone.

Indicators such as the Percentage Price Oscillator and MACD suggest continued bearish momentum. Analysts note that $1.85–$1.90 is now a critical support range, with further downside possible if selling pressure persists.

On-chain data also points to rising stress among longer-term holders. According to Glassnode, investors who bought XRP six to twelve months ago are holding at higher cost bases than recent buyers. This dynamic, similar to patterns seen in early 2022, can encourage selling into small rallies as underwater holders look to exit positions.

Adding to uncertainty is Ripple’s recent emphasis on stablecoins as the future of global settlement. Company president Monica Long has said regulated stablecoins like Ripple USD (RLUSD) are likely to become foundational in global payments over the next five years, particularly in business-to-business transactions.

While Ripple executives continue to say XRP and the XRP Ledger remain central to the company’s infrastructure, the lack of direct references to the token in recent statements has unsettled some holders.

RLUSD’s market capitalization has grown rapidly, and stablecoin activity on the XRP Ledger has increased, but investors are watching closely to see how this translates into sustained demand for XRP itself.

Cover image from ChatGPT, XRPUSD chart on Tradingview

The White House is urging U.S. lawmakers to move quickly on legislation to reform the crypto market structure as political timelines tighten and digital asset markets face renewed volatility.

With the Senate struggling to secure bipartisan support and more than $1 billion in recent crypto liquidations, officials say the window for passing a workable regulatory framework may be closing.

Patrick Witt, executive director of the President’s Council of Advisors for Digital Assets, has warned that expecting the crypto industry to operate without clear rules is unrealistic. He argues that some form of legislation is “inevitable” and that delays could leave the sector exposed to harsher policies in the future.

White House Presses for Action on Crypto Rules

The proposed Senate bill would define how the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) oversee crypto markets, including stablecoins and decentralized finance protocols. However, disagreements over key provisions have slowed progress.

Both the Senate Banking and Agriculture Committees recently postponed markups as lawmakers worked to resolve disputes and gather enough support to advance the bill. Witt has been blunt in his message to the industry: accept compromise now or risk facing a less favorable outcome later.

He criticized Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong for withdrawing support for the current version of the bill, after Armstrong said the company would “rather have no bill than a bad bill.”

Midterm Elections Add Pressure

The push for speed is also tied to the November U.S. midterm elections, which could reshape Congress. All House seats and 35 Senate seats are up for grabs, and polling and prediction markets suggest Democrats have a strong chance of flipping the House.

A divided Congress would likely slow or stall crypto legislation altogether. Witt has cautioned that the political alignment needed to pass a market structure bill may not be in place after the elections, making the coming months critical for any deal.

The policy debate comes as markets reel from a sharp deleveraging event. Today, more than 182,000 traders were liquidated in a single day, with total losses of over $1.08 billion. Most of the damage came from long positions in Bitcoin and Ethereum, as falling prices triggered cascading margin calls across major exchanges.

Bitcoin alone saw over $427 million in long liquidations, while Ethereum accounted for roughly $374 million. Technical indicators show many altcoins trading with RSI levels below 50, suggesting continued selling pressure.

Rising Japanese bond yields and renewed global risk-off sentiment have also tightened liquidity, prompting investors to shift away from volatile assets like crypto. Although Bitcoin later stabilized near $90,000, analysts say the recent rebound looks more like a pause after forced selling than a clear return to bullish momentum.

Cover image from ChatGPT, BTCUSD chart on Tradingview

Solana is testing investor confidence as the SOL price slips back toward key support levels, even as the network continues to expand across multiple fronts. After briefly pushing above $147 earlier this week, the token failed to hold its gains and is now trading below $145.

The pullback comes at a time when Solana is seeing rising institutional interest, growing real-world asset adoption, and new user-focused initiatives, creating a contrast between short-term price pressure and longer-term ecosystem growth.

SOL Price Tests Critical Support Zone

SOL has entered a short-term correction after failing to clear the $150 resistance area. The price dropped below the $146 and $145 levels, moving under the 100-hour simple moving average. On the downside, technical analysts are watching the $141–$140 zone, where a bullish trend line and Fibonacci support converge.

If the SOL price breaks below $140, the next support sits near $132, with further downside risk toward $124. On the upside, resistance remains near $146 and $148. A confirmed move above $148 could open the door to a retest of $155 and potentially $162.

Momentum indicators reflect cautious sentiment. The hourly RSI remains below 50, and the MACD continues to show bearish pressure. Despite a healthy trading volume of around $5 billion in 24 hours, SOL is still down roughly one-third from its price a year ago and well below its previous peak near $293.

Regulatory Developments and Solana ETF Inflows

Beyond price action, regulatory news in the U.S. may influence Solana’s medium-term outlook.

The draft bill known as the “Clarity Act,” released by the Senate Banking Committee, proposes reclassifying certain cryptocurrencies with exchange-traded products as “non-incidental” assets starting in 2026. This would ease some SEC disclosure requirements for assets like SOL.

If passed, the proposal could place Solana in a similar regulatory category to Bitcoin and Ethereum, potentially improving institutional access. Early signs of interest have already appeared.

On January 15, U.S. spot Solana ETFs recorded $23.57 million in net inflows, the highest in four weeks. However, ETF assets still represent only about 1.5% of SOL’s market capitalization, limiting their immediate impact on price.

While the SOL price struggles, Solana’s network continues to expand. In 2025, the blockchain processed $1.6 trillion in trading volume, accounting for roughly 12% of the crypto market. Its DeFi ecosystem remains anchored by platforms like Jupiter, Raydium, Orca, and Kamino, with TVL holding steady near $11.5 billion.

A major milestone came as Solana’s real-world asset (RWA) ecosystem reached a record valuation of $1.15 billion, driven by tokenized U.S. Treasuries, equities, and institutional funds. This signals growing use of Solana as a settlement layer for traditional assets.

Related Reading: Bitcoin Tailwind: Cathie Wood Sees ‘Reaganomics On Steroids’ Ahead

User engagement initiatives are also expanding. Solana’s Seeker phone is rolling out a large SKR token airdrop to over 100,000 users, while Interactive Brokers has enabled 24/7 USDC deposits via the Solana network, improving access for global traders.

Cover image from ChatGPT, SOLUSD chart from Tradingview

Bitcoin (BTC) is holding above the $95,000 level after a recent pullback from two-month highs, as U.S. regulatory uncertainty and softer risk sentiment weigh on the broader crypto market.

Related Reading: Ethereum Treasury Bitmine Makes $200M Bet On MrBeast’s Company

The pause follows the U.S. Senate Banking Committee’s decision to delay markup on a proposed crypto market structure bill, a move that has cooled enthusiasm after Bitcoin briefly approached $97,000 earlier this week.

Despite the setback, analysts largely view the price action as consolidation rather than a reversal. Trading volume has declined, open interest has eased, and liquidations have risen, suggesting that some leverage is being cleared from the market.

Bitcoin ETF Flows Remain Supportive

Institutional demand through U.S. spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) continues to provide a key source of support.

According to Farside Investors, Bitcoin ETFs recorded roughly $100 million in net inflows on January 15, marking four consecutive days of positive flows. BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) led the day with $315.8 million in inflows, while Fidelity’s FBTC and Grayscale’s GBTC saw outflows.

Since the start of the year, U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs have attracted nearly $1.5 billion in net inflows. Analysts say this pattern suggests that institutional buyers have absorbed much of the selling pressure that followed Bitcoin’s breakout above $88,000.

Regulatory Delays Add Uncertainty

The delayed Senate vote followed public opposition from Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong, who criticized parts of the proposed bill related to decentralized finance, tokenized equities, and regulatory oversight. Lawmakers postponed discussion of the bill, leaving questions about the future regulatory framework for digital assets.

The lack of clarity has contributed to short-term caution across crypto markets. Shares of crypto-related companies such as Coinbase and Strategy also fell after the news. Analysts note that while clearer regulation could support long-term adoption, uncertainty in the near term can pressure prices.

Technical analysts say Bitcoin has reclaimed the $95,000 zone, with the next major resistance around $97,500, near the 50-week exponential moving average. Some market watchers believe a push toward $100,000 remains possible if Bitcoin can hold above current support levels and ETF inflows continue.

Related Reading: LMAX Group Adds Ripple’s RLUSD Stablecoin For Global Exchange After $150 Million Deal

For now, the market appears to be in a cooling phase rather than a downturn. Whether Bitcoin can regain momentum will likely depend on regulatory developments, institutional flows, and broader risk sentiment in global markets.

Cover image from ChatGPT, BTCUSD chart on Tradingview

As Iran’s economy continues to strain under heavy sanctions, high inflation, and a weakening currency, many citizens are turning to crypto as an alternative financial lifeline.

Recent blockchain data shows a sharp rise in Bitcoin withdrawals and transfers to personal wallets, particularly during periods of unrest and internet restrictions. For many Iranians, digital assets now serve both as a hedge against currency collapse and a way to move funds beyond government-controlled systems.

The Iranian rial has lost around 90% of its value against the U.S. dollar since 2018, while inflation has hovered between 40% and 50%. In response, crypto usage has grown steadily, with Iran’s total cryptocurrency activity reaching an estimated $7.78 billion in 2025, according to Chainalysis.

Bitcoin Use Rises During Protests and Internet Blackouts

Crypto activity surged during mass protests that began in late December 2025, triggered by rising living costs and currency devaluation. As demonstrations spread, authorities imposed internet shutdowns and tightened financial controls.

During this period, blockchain data showed higher average daily transaction values and a notable increase in transfers from Iranian exchanges to self-custodied Bitcoin wallets.

Smaller withdrawals, often associated with individual users, recorded some of the strongest growth. Medium and large transfers also increased, suggesting that both households and businesses were seeking to move funds out of local platforms.

Bitcoin’s appeal lies in its ability to be stored and transferred without relying on domestic banks or state oversight. For Iranians facing restrictions on access to cash, foreign currency, or international transfers, crypto offers a way to preserve value and maintain some financial mobility.

Crypto’s Dual Role: Citizens and State Actors

While ordinary Iranians are using cryptocurrencies to protect savings, state-linked actors are also active in the digital asset space.

Wallets associated with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) accounted for more than half of the country’s crypto transaction value in the final quarter of 2025. These wallets received over $3 billion during the year, up from around $2 billion in 2024.

Western authorities believe the IRGC uses cryptocurrencies to bypass sanctions, move funds across borders, and support regional operations. Chainalysis notes that these figures likely underestimate the true scale, as many affiliated wallets and networks remain unidentified.

At the same time, spikes in Iranian crypto activity have closely followed major political and security events, including the Kerman bombings in 2024, missile strikes in October 2024, and a 12-day conflict in June 2025 that disrupted Iran’s largest crypto exchange and a major state bank.

For many Iranians, cryptos have become more than a speculative asset. They are increasingly used as a tool for financial survival in an economy marked by inflation, sanctions, and limited access to global markets. Bitcoin’s censorship resistance and portability make it especially attractive during periods of unrest or capital controls.

As economic pressures persist and geopolitical tensions remain high, blockchain analysts expect crypto usage in Iran to continue rising. Whether as a means of preserving personal wealth or navigating sanctions, digital assets are now a central part of Iran’s financial landscape.

Cover image from ChatGPT, BTCUSD chart from Tradingview

The XRP price is pulling significant attention on low timeframes, but not for the reason many investors might expect. While exchange-traded funds (ETFs) linked to the token continue to attract steady inflows, the price of XRP has moved in the opposite direction.

Over the past 24 hours, the asset slipped toward the $2.07 level, extending a short-term pullback that has puzzled traders watching strong institutional demand in the background.

This divergence between ETF activity and price performance reflects a mix of broader market weakness, technical resistance, and profit-taking after XRP’s earlier rally from the $1.80 area. Rather than reacting to negative headlines, the token’s recent decline appears driven by short-term trading dynamics.

ETF Inflows Remain Strong, But XRP Price Lags

XRP ETFs have continued to record consistent inflows since their launch. Data shows that these products have accumulated more than $1.26 billion in net inflows, with no recorded outflow days so far. On January 15 alone, XRP ETFs attracted about $17 million, outperforming Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana ETFs.

Institutional interest also appears stable beyond ETFs. Exchange-held XRP balances have fallen below 2 billion tokens, down from over 4 billion in late 2025. This suggests fewer tokens are readily available for selling, a trend often associated with longer-term accumulation.

Despite these supportive factors, XRP’s price has struggled to gain momentum. The token reached $2.39 earlier in January but has since slipped back toward the $2.00–$2.10 range. Over the past week, it is down roughly 3%, even as ETF inflows remain steady.

Key Resistance at $2.13 Caps Upside

Short-term technical levels are playing a major role in the XRP price behavior. The $2.13 area has acted as a strong resistance zone, with traders repeatedly selling into rallies near that level.

During the latest session, XRP fell from around $2.15 to $2.07 after being rejected near $2.13 on above-average volume. A brief spike in selling pushed the XRP price to a low near $2.059 before buyers stepped in, leading to a modest rebound.

Market structure shows a series of lower highs and lower lows, a pattern that reflects short-term bearish control. As long as XRP remains below $2.13, rallies are likely to attract selling rather than sustained buying.

The wider crypto market has also been under pressure, with the global market cap recently shedding tens of billions of dollars in a single day. In this environment, traders tend to reduce risk, even in assets with strong institutional inflows.

Adding to the cautious tone, some technical indicators have turned less supportive. On the weekly chart, the XRP price has moved below its SuperTrend line, a signal often interpreted as a shift toward bearish conditions. This has contrasted with renewed “super cycle” talk circulating on social media.

While XRP’s long-term outlook may benefit from regulatory progress in Europe and continued ETF demand, short-term price action remains driven by technical resistance and profit-taking. For now, the token appears to be consolidating rather than starting a new upward trend.

Cover image from ChatGPT, XRPUSD chart from Tradingview

Ethereum (ETH) is significantly drawing attention from both institutional investors and everyday users, as on-chain data shows rising participation across staking, treasury accumulation, and wallet creation.

Related Reading: Ethereum New Addresses Hit Record Levels: What’s Driving The Growth?

Similarly, price forecasts remain mixed. While major banks and market analysts see room for further upside, others caution that macro conditions, ETF flows, and technical resistance levels could limit near-term gains.

With ETH trading near the $3,300–$3,400 range in mid-January, the network’s foundation appears stronger than in previous quarters. Yet the question remains whether these developments will translate into a sustained price rally.

Ethereum Staking and Treasury Demand Signal Long-Term Commitment

Ethereum staking has reached a record value of about $118 billion, with roughly 35.8 million ETH locked on the Beacon Chain. This represents close to 30% of the circulating supply, suggesting a growing preference among holders to earn yield rather than sell.

Network participation is also increasing. Active validators now exceed 976,000, while around 2.3 million ETH is queued for future staking. Lido Finance remains the largest staking provider, holding roughly a quarter of all staked ETH.

Corporate treasury activity has added to this trend. BitMine Immersion, one of the largest Ethereum treasury firms, recently staked an additional 154,304 ETH, worth roughly $514 million at current prices. The company’s total ETH holdings now exceed 4 million tokens.

Institutional Forecasts Point to Higher Targets

Several financial institutions have revised their outlook for Ethereum in 2026. Standard Chartered has recently raised its year-end ETH price target to $7,500, up from a previous estimate of $4,000. The bank cited growing demand from corporate treasuries, spot ETH investment products, and expectations for network fee growth.

According to analysts, treasury firms and ETF-related flows have absorbed close to 4% of Ethereum’s circulating supply since mid-2025. Treasury buyers alone reportedly acquired around 2.3 million ETH in just over two months, a pace the bank compares favorably with past Bitcoin accumulation phases.

Standard Chartered also suggested Ethereum could outperform Bitcoin if real-world usage, stablecoin activity, and tokenized asset adoption continue to expand on its network. Longer-term scenarios project costs of up to $25,000 by 2028 and $40,000 by 2030, although these projections rely on optimistic assumptions.

Ethereum’s user base is also expanding. In early January, the network recorded nearly 393,600 new wallet addresses in a single day, with a weekly average of over 327,000 new addresses.

Analysts link this surge to the Fusaka protocol upgrade, which reduced data costs for Layer-2 networks, as well as record stablecoin transfer volumes of roughly $8 trillion in late 2025.

Related Reading: Boycott Urged For CLARITY Act Draft: Expert Raises Concerns Over Banks Manipulation

Despite stronger fundamentals, price action remains cautious. ETH recently tested the $3,400 resistance level, with key hurdles near $3,550 and $3,650 based on long-term moving averages. Support is forming around $3,000, and a failure to hold that level could expose ETH to further downside.

Cover image from ChatGPT, ETHUSD chart from Tradingview

Washington’s long-running effort to bring regulatory clarity to the U.S. crypto market has entered a more uncertain phase. The Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, known as the CLARITY Act, was expected to move closer to a Senate vote this week.

Instead, a sudden withdrawal of support from Coinbase and a last-minute pause by Senate leadership have exposed deep divisions within the industry and among lawmakers. While the White House insists the bill is still on track, the debate over how digital assets should be regulated is becoming more fragmented.

Coinbase Withdrawal Triggers Legislative Pause

The immediate turning point came when Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong announced that the company could no longer support the current draft of the CLARITY Act.

Armstrong argued that the bill would be worse than the existing regulatory uncertainty, citing concerns over limits on tokenized equities, restrictions on crypto rewards, and expanded government access to financial data.

Shortly after, Senate Banking Committee Chair Tim Scott introduced a brief pause in the bill’s progress, cancelling a scheduled markup.

Scott described the delay as procedural rather than political, stating that negotiations were ongoing and bipartisan talks continued. A new markup date has been set for January 27, once updated bill language is released.

Despite the setback, White House AI and crypto czar David Sacks reiterated that the administration still backs the legislation. He said the pause should be used to resolve remaining issues and push forward a framework that allows innovation while strengthening oversight.

Industry Split Over SEC and CFTC Roles

At the core of the dispute is the division of regulatory authority between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) as outlined in the CLARITY Act.

Crypto exchanges generally favor the CFTC’s approach, which treats many digital assets as commodities. The SEC, by contrast, applies securities laws that impose stricter compliance requirements.

Critics argue the bill shifts too much power to the SEC, particularly over tokenized equities and certain crypto products. Coinbase has warned that the proposed rules could effectively block the development of on-chain stock trading and limit user reward programs.

Other industry leaders, including executives from Ripple, a16z, and Kraken, have taken a more cautious stance. While acknowledging flaws in the draft, they argue that passing some form of market structure legislation is better than leaving the sector in regulatory limbo.

Another contentious issue is stablecoin regulation. The CLARITY Act would make it difficult for crypto platforms to offer yield or interest-like rewards on stablecoin holdings. Banks support these restrictions, saying they protect financial stability.

Lawmakers also point to past failures, such as the FTX collapse, as evidence that clearer rules are needed to protect consumers and national security. However, frustration is growing behind the scenes.

Senate sources indicate that some committee members were dissatisfied with Coinbase’s timing, perceiving the withdrawal as disruptive to months of negotiations.

Cover image from ChatGPT, BTCUSD chart from Tradingview

Zcash (ZEC) is back on investors’ radar after U.S. regulators ended a long-running investigation into the Zcash Foundation without enforcement. The decision removes a key source of uncertainty that had followed the privacy-focused cryptocurrency since 2023.

Related Reading: XRP Price Is Approaching A Key Decision Zone, But Structure Is Still Firmly Bullish

Markets reacted quickly, with ZEC posting double-digit gains in some sessions and stabilizing above the $400 level. While regulatory clarity has helped improve sentiment, questions around governance and long-term development remain.

SEC Closes Two-Year Zcash Investigation

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission confirmed it has concluded its review of the Zcash Foundation, which began with a subpoena issued on August 31, 2023.

The inquiry focused on potential securities law concerns tied to Zcash’s funding model, governance structure, and token distribution. According to the foundation, the SEC does not intend to recommend enforcement action, fines, or operational changes.

This outcome marks a notable shift for privacy-focused cryptocurrencies, which have often faced heightened regulatory scrutiny due to concerns about illicit use. The decision suggests that Zcash’s privacy features alone were not deemed sufficient grounds for action under existing securities laws.

The closure also aligns with a broader trend of the SEC withdrawing from several high-profile crypto investigations in recent months under new leadership. For Zcash, the end of the probe removes a regulatory overhang that had weighed on investor confidence for nearly two years.

Market Reaction and Price Projections

Following the announcement, ZEC surged between 5% and 14% across major exchanges, briefly testing the $440–$450 resistance zone. Currently, the token is trading around $427–$442, holding above the $400 psychological support level.

Technically, ZEC remains in a consolidation phase after falling from its January high near $535. Resistance is clustered around $450–$470, while support sits near $400, with a deeper floor around $350 if sentiment weakens.

Some analysts point to a symmetrical triangle pattern on longer timeframes, often viewed as a continuation structure after strong rallies. A confirmed breakout above the upper trendline could open the door toward higher levels, including a potential retest of the $1,000 mark later in 2026.

Despite the regulatory win, internal challenges persist. Earlier this month, the full development team at Electric Coin Company (ECC), which has led core Zcash development, resigned following a dispute with its nonprofit board.

Former ECC leaders cited deteriorating working conditions and have since announced plans to launch a new privacy-focused wallet, cashZ, based on Zcash technology.

Related Reading: Arthur Hayes Bets On MSTR, Metaplanet And Zcash As Bitcoin Liquidity Turns

The Zcash Foundation has stated that network operations and protocol stability remain unaffected by the personnel changes. Still, the departures have raised concerns about governance stability, development continuity, and long-term coordination within the ecosystem.

Cover image from ChatGPT, ZECUSD chart from Tradingview

XRP has been one of the most actively traded cryptocurrencies in recent weeks, despite its price continuing to face resistance following a short-lived rally.

While trading volumes across several markets have climbed, the token has struggled to maintain levels above key support zones, reflecting a growing gap between investor activity and price performance.

Data from multiple exchanges shows that interest in XRP remains strong, particularly in regions such as Australia, where it recently overtook Bitcoin as the most traded digital asset on BTC Markets. However, this surge in trading has not translated into sustained upward price momentum.

XRP Trading Volume Rises as Investor Behavior Shifts

According to BTC Markets’ 2025 Investor Study Report, XRP surpassed Bitcoin in trading activity for the first time in four years. The exchange cited strong community engagement and its role as a Ripple On-Demand Liquidity (ODL) partner as key drivers behind the shift.

Despite Bitcoin recording a 70% price increase in 2025 and reaching a new all-time high, Australian traders increasingly focused on XRP during the financial year. XRP itself saw notable price movements, reaching $3.34 in January 2025 and peaking near $3.66 by July before falling roughly 50% to around $1.80 by year-end.

The report also projected a maturing investor base. Average trade sizes rose by 25%, daily trading volumes increased by 17%, and participation expanded among older investors, women, and self-managed super funds. This suggests that crypto activity is becoming more structured rather than purely speculative.

Price Pullback Follows Brief Rally

While trading activity has remained elevated, XRP’s price has struggled to hold recent gains.

After briefly trading near the $2.20 level, the token slipped below $2.10, posting a daily decline of over 2%. Analysts attribute the pullback to regulatory uncertainty, whale distribution, and reduced optimism following delays to U.S. crypto market structure legislation.

Market observers note that XRP is currently consolidating between $2.00 and $2.15, with $2.08 acting as a key support zone. Technical indicators indicate that the token is trading above its 50-day moving average but below its 200-day average, suggesting mixed momentum in the short term.

Some analysts view the current phase as a period of consolidation rather than a full-fledged trend reversal. However, resistance near $2.20 remains a hurdle for any renewed upside.

Ripple has continued to position itself in the institutional market, recently highlighting its prime brokerage arm, Ripple Prime, on its homepage. The company also secured an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) license in Luxembourg, allowing it to expand regulated payment services across the European Union under MiCA rules.

Following the licensing news, XRP briefly climbed to around $2.14, supported by a 74% jump in trading volume. Even so, the price has yet to establish a stable breakout above higher resistance levels.

Longer-term discussions around XRP’s supply dynamics and transaction burn mechanism have also resurfaced, with analysts noting that over 2.5 million XRP have been permanently removed from circulation in recent years.

Cover image from ChatGPT, XRPUSD chart from Tradingview

After months of steady declines and fading enthusiasm, Dogecoin (DOGE) is showing signs of renewed life. The meme-based cryptocurrency has recently stabilized near the $0.14–$0.15 range, breaking out of a short-term downtrend and attracting fresh speculative interest.

Related Reading: Crypto Users Hit By 1,400% Surge In Impersonation Scams, Research Shows

While broader crypto markets remain mixed, DOGE’s price action suggests that selling pressure has eased, creating room for short-term momentum to build.

Dogecoin is trading around $0.148, supported by higher trading volumes and improving technical indicators. The move comes as traders rotate into high-beta assets, such as meme coins, particularly when Bitcoin trades sideways, and macro catalysts are limited.

Selling Pressure Eases as Dogecoin Price Finds Support

Dogecoin’s recent stabilization follows a prolonged selloff from October highs, which pushed the price toward the $0.13 zone. That decline flushed out leveraged positions and cooled speculative activity.

In recent sessions, however, DOGE has reclaimed short-term support near $0.14 and briefly touched $0.147, signaling a slowdown in aggressive downside momentum.

On the daily chart, the price remains below key long-term moving averages, indicating a cautious broader trend. Still, DOGE has moved back above its 20-day and 50-day averages, levels many short-term traders watch for early signs of trend shifts.

Momentum indicators also point to stabilization. The RSI has climbed from oversold territory into neutral levels, suggesting buyers are returning without pushing the market into overheated conditions. While spot outflows continue, derivatives data show rising open interest, indicating traders are positioning for near-term volatility.

Speculative Interest Returns to Meme Coins

The recent rally is not limited to Dogecoin. Other meme tokens, including Pepe, have also posted sharp gains, reflecting a broader return of speculative appetite. CoinGecko’s GMCI Meme Index has climbed in tandem with rising trading volumes, suggesting the move is driven by active participation rather than thin liquidity.

Investors note that meme coins often outperform when Bitcoin trades within a range, and traders seek faster-moving opportunities. DOGE’s breakout above a weeks-long descending trendline has shifted short-term bias in favor of buyers.

Holding above the $0.138–$0.140 area maintains the rebound, with $0.15 serving as the next key level of resistance. A sustained move above $0.15–$0.155 could open the door to a test of the declining 50-day average near $0.16. Failure to hold current levels, however, would likely send the price back toward the $0.13 base.

Beyond technical factors, potential ecosystem developments are adding to Dogecoin’s visibility.

Discussions around expanding DOGE-related initiatives in Japan, focused on real-world asset tokenization and regulated Web3 applications, highlight growing interest in compliant blockchain use cases within a tightly regulated market.

Related Reading: Ripple Calls XRPL Permissioned Domains A ‘Gamechanger’ As Go-Live Nears

In the U.S., a proposed spot Dogecoin ETF from 21Shares is also drawing attention. If launched, the product would track DOGE’s spot price without leverage or derivatives, giving traditional investors a regulated way to gain exposure. While ETF inflows are not guaranteed, the listing itself could increase market participation and liquidity.

Cover image from ChatGPT, DOGEUSD chart from Tradingview

Russia is preparing a transition in their crypto market regulations, with a new draft bill expected to reach the State Duma during the spring 2026 parliamentary session.

The proposal, led by Financial Markets Committee chairman Anatoly Aksakov, would remove digital assets from the country’s “special financial regulation” category and allow wider participation in crypto markets. While the move signals broader acceptance of crypto in everyday finance, it also introduces clear risk limits.

If approved, the legislation would represent one of Russia’s most significant policy changes regarding digital assets in recent years, reshaping both domestic trading and cross-border cryptocurrency use.

Retail Access Gets Clear Investment Limits

Under the draft bill, non-qualified investors, those who do not meet professional or institutional standards, would be allowed to buy cryptocurrencies worth up to 300,000 rubles (about $3,800). The cap is designed to mitigate financial risk for everyday users while still providing them with access to the market.

Qualified and professional participants, including financial firms, would not face similar restrictions. This two-tier system reflects the government’s approach to striking a balance between market access and investor protection.

Regulators are also considering a risk-awareness test for retail participants. The Bank of Russia previously proposed that non-qualified investors undergo a basic assessment before trading digital assets, ensuring they understand the potential volatility and associated financial risks.

Similarly, the central bank has reaffirmed its opposition to anonymous and privacy-focused cryptocurrencies. These assets would remain restricted under the new framework to maintain transparency and regulatory oversight.

Cross-Border Payments and Regulatory Implications

Beyond domestic trading, the bill could expand the use of crypto for international settlements. Aksakov has stated that the framework may enable Russian-issued digital tokens to be used in foreign markets, potentially facilitating cross-border payments.

This aligns with Russia’s earlier decision to legalize cryptocurrency for certain international transactions, following Western sanctions that limited access to traditional banking systems. Digital assets are increasingly viewed as an alternative tool for trade and financial transfers where conventional channels are restricted.

Officials have also discussed recognizing crypto mining as an export-related activity, given its impact on foreign currency inflows despite the lack of physical cross-border movement.

For retail investors, the overhaul means regulated access to crypto within defined limits. The 300,000-ruble cap and potential testing requirements aim to reduce systemic and personal financial risk while still allowing participation in digital asset markets.

For the broader market, the change signals a shift toward integrating cryptocurrency into standard financial systems, rather than treating it as a niche or experimental asset class.

Russia is also advancing its digital ruble project, with a full rollout across state financial systems expected by September 2026. Together, these developments suggest a wider push toward modernizing the country’s digital financial infrastructure.

Cover image from ChatGPT, BTCUSD chart from Tradingview

Bitcoin (BTC) surged sharply this week, surpassing the $96,000 mark as renewed institutional demand and easing inflation concerns boosted sentiment across crypto markets.

The action followed a strong inflow into U.S. spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and a softer-than-feared U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, which reduced expectations of aggressive interest rate tightening by the Federal Reserve.

The rally ended a prolonged consolidation phase that had kept Bitcoin trading sideways for more than a month. As prices broke through key resistance levels near $94,000–$95,000, short sellers were forced to close positions, adding further momentum to the upside.

Bitcoin ETF Inflows Signal Institutional Return

U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded $753.7 million in net inflows on Tuesday, the largest single-day total since October. Fidelity’s FBTC led with $351 million, followed by Bitwise’s BITB with $159 million and BlackRock’s IBIT with $126 million, according to data from SoSoValue.

The surge suggests institutional investors are rotating back into crypto-linked products after year-end portfolio adjustments and tax-related selling weighed on the market in late 2025. Ether-focused ETFs also saw renewed interest, with $130 million in net inflows across five products.

Bitcoin rose around 3% following the data, trading near $94,600 at the time, while Ethereum gained more than 6% to around $3,320. Broader crypto markets followed, lifting total market capitalization above $3.3 trillion.

Inflation Data Supports Risk Assets

The latest U.S. CPI report showed inflation holding steady at 2.7% year-on-year, largely in line with expectations. The absence of an inflation surprise reduced fears of further rate hikes and reinforced views that the Federal Reserve could pivot toward rate cuts later in the year.

Lower real-rate expectations typically support risk assets, including cryptocurrencies, by reducing the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets, such as Bitcoin. U.S. equities also advanced, suggesting the crypto rally was part of a broader shift in risk sentiment rather than an isolated move.

As Bitcoin surged past $96,000, bearish positions were wiped out. Data from Coinglass shows more than $290 million in Bitcoin short positions were liquidated within 24 hours, compared with about $24 million in long liquidations. Across the broader cryptocurrency market, short liquidations totaled close to $700 million.

Strong spot buying, rising open interest, and technical breakouts contributed to the move. Bitcoin is now testing former resistance levels as support, with chart patterns indicating a possible continuation toward the $105,000–$110,000 range if momentum persists.

While short-term consolidation remains possible near the $98,000–$100,000 zone, sustained ETF inflows, reduced selling pressure from long-term holders, and continued corporate accumulation suggest underlying demand remains firm.

Cover image from ChatGPT, BTCUSD chart from Tradingview