Institutional investors increased their exposure to spot Ethereum exchange-traded funds (ETFs) by more than 388,000 ETH in the second quarter. Among this class, investment advisors are now the biggest holders of Ethereum ETFs by a large margin. Bloomberg analyst James Seyffart disclosed this on X, noting that advisors now have almost double the exposure to ETH ETFs that hedge funds now have. According to Seyffart , investment advisors now hold 539,757 ETH through their exposure to Ethereum ETFs, translating into $1.351 billion in value. In the second quarter alone, they added 219,668 ETH. This was more than any other category of investors added within that period, with hedge funds coming second by adding 140,287 ETH in the same period. Following the hedge funds’ increase in exposure, they now hold a combined 274,758 ETH worth $687.94 billion. Meanwhile, brokerage firms and private equity came in third and fourth in terms of ETH ETF holdings, with the two holding 101,058 ETH ($253 million) and 24,857 ETH ($62.24 million), respectively. Completing the top five were holding companies with 24,238 ETH exposure worth $60.688 million. Top Ether ETF holders by category. Source: James Seyffart Interestingly, all the top five ETH ETF holders increased their exposure during Q2, but it was not the same for all the categories. For instance, the data also shows that trusts, pension funds, and banks reduced their ETH ETF exposure during that period, with the three selling a combined 3,116 ETH. The dominance of investment advisors with Ethereum ETFs is similar to Bitcoin ETFs, where they hold 161,909 Bitcoins valued at over $17 billion as of the end of Q2. However, Seyffart noted that the 13F data does not provide a snapshot into which category of investor is holding Ethereum and Bitcoin ETFs. He acknowledged that it does not necessarily provide the full picture, as the data is based on 13F filings of these firms with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). He explained that 13F data only accounts for around 25% of all Bitcoin ETF shares, while 75% is owned by those who do not file with the SEC. Seyffart explained that this group is mostly made up of retail traders. Goldman Sachs leads the institutional acquisition of Ethereum ETFs Meanwhile, a breakdown of the 13F filings by institutions shows that Goldman Sachs is the leading holder of Ethereum ETFs. According to its filing, the bank currently holds 288,294 ETH worth $721.8 million. This was after a massive accumulation of 160,072 ETH through the ETFs during Q2. Other firms with sizable exposure also included Jane Street with 76,044 ($190.4 million), Millennium Management with 74,677 ETH ($186.96 million), and Capula Management with 58,841 ETH ($147.32 million). So far, every other firm with disclosures has below $100 million worth of ETH exposure. However, several new firms gained exposure to Ethereum ETFs in Q2. These include Logan Stone Capital with $38 million worth of ETH ETF shares, BlueCrest Capital Management with $28 million, and Almitas Capital and Clear Street. Interestingly, many market observers believe that the data from the 13F filings are already old because they ended in June, whereas Ethereum ETFs only started seeing massive inflows in Q3, with the products recording an all-time high in net flows and trading volume over the past two months. ETH retests $4,600 as Standard Chartered calls asset undervalued The increasing exposure from Wall Street firms highlights how ETH is rapidly becoming a darling for institutional investors. This is likely due to its recent performance , which has seen the token rise by more than 75% in value over the past few weeks. While it has seen brief price corrections over that period, ETH looks set to solidify itself above $4,600 after testing that level multiple times over the past month. It is currently up by around 1% to trade $4,604 according to CoinMarketCap, and all signs suggest it could rise further in value. This is likely the reason behind the strongly positive sentiments around the asset, as evidenced by a recent note by Standard Chartered analysts that ETH and the Ethereum treasury companies are currently undervalued. The bank’s Geoffrey Kendrick believes that ETH could still finish the year at $7,500 and projects that the asset could be worth $25,000 by 2028. Get up to $30,050 in trading rewards when you join Bybit today
A 35-year-old former crypto trader was kidnapped and held captive between Paris and Saint-Germain-en-Laye before being released Wednesday morning after his captors failed to extract a €10,000 ransom from his contacts. The victim was found walking home around 4:00 am with facial swelling and injuries after being strangled during his confinement, marking the latest in a surge of crypto-related kidnappings plaguing France. Investigation Underway as France Leads Crypto Kidnapping Case According to leParisien , police launched an immediate investigation Tuesday night after receiving a disturbing call from Algeria, where the victim’s acquaintance had received a photo showing Alexandre on his knees with his hands tied. The kidnappers demanded €10,000 from the contact in exchange for the former trader’s release, prompting authorities to geolocate his phone to Paris’s 10th arrondissement. Anti-crime squad officers recognized Alexandre returning home Wednesday morning, describing him as “shocked” with visible facial injuries from strangulation attempts by his attackers. Forensic technicians collected traces and evidence from his clothing and skin to identify the perpetrators, while investigators work to verify his statements about the incident circumstances. The case represents just the tenth crypto-linked kidnapping reported in France during recent months, contributing to a global surge that has seen at least 32 “wrench attacks” in 2025, according to Bitcoin security advocate Jameson Lopp. Nearly one-third of these incidents have occurred in France, so far establishing the country as a dangerous hotspot for crypto-related violent crime. Organized Crime Networks Target French Crypto Elite Through Systematic Violence French authorities have identified coordinated criminal networks systematically targeting crypto entrepreneurs and their families through increasingly brutal tactics. In May, prosecutors charged 25 suspects linked to multiple abduction plots, including attempts on Paymium CEO Pierre Noizat’s daughter, using fake delivery vans as cover. With a powerful sweep, Paris authorities charged 25 suspects, including six minors, cracking down on a surge of violent crypto abductions shaking the city’s streets. #CryptoKidnap #France https://t.co/P3F5Wz2GNl — Cryptonews.com (@cryptonews) June 2, 2025 The January kidnapping of Ledger co-founder David Balland marked a turning point in violence escalation, with attackers severing one of his fingers while demanding crypto ransoms. Twelve suspects were later arrested in connection with that case, revealing an international network operating between France and Morocco. Multiple high-profile incidents have involved attackers disguising themselves as delivery workers using stolen or counterfeit branded vans from services like UPS and Chronopost. In May, four men kidnapped a poker player’s father in Paris , severing his finger and filming the mutilation to coerce his son into transferring €5-7 million. As a result, in June, Moroccan authorities arrested Franco-Moroccan suspect Badiss Mohamed Amide Bajjou in Tangier following an Interpol Red Notice, identifying him as a key organizer coordinating operations from outside France. Investigators believe a second Franco-Moroccan organizer remains at large, using social media to recruit young French nationals for execution roles. The criminal networks used sophisticated intelligence gathering, with victims apparently selected based on detailed knowledge of their crypto holdings and daily routines. Global Crypto Kidnapping Epidemic Spreads Beyond French Borders The violence extends across multiple continents, with Belgium sentencing three men to 12 years for kidnapping crypto investor Stephane Winkel’s wife in December 2024. The attackers were intercepted near Bruges after forcing her into a French-registered van, though the masterminds behind the operation remain unidentified. Similarly, Australian crypto billionaire Tim Heath narrowly escaped kidnapping in Estonia when attackers using GPS tracking devices attempted to transport him to a rented sauna house for forced cryptocurrency transfers. One attacker lost part of his finger when Heath fought back during the assault. Recent US cases include two NYPD officers placed on modified duty over alleged involvement in a 17-day crypto kidnapping and torture case involving an Italian national in Manhattan. Source: X/@TimMcNicholas Six men were also charged in connection with kidnapping four Chicago residents and forcing them to transfer $15 million in cryptocurrency. Due to the looming threat of theft cases, security firm Infinite Risks International reports a surge in demand for 24/7 protection services from crypto executives, with clients specifically citing fears of kidnapping and extortion. European authorities continue investigating what they describe as expanding networks behind targeted kidnappings, with Belgian police confirming ongoing investigations into broader criminal organizations. The post French Crypto Trader Kidnapped Near Paris, Released After Refusing €10K Ransom: Report appeared first on Cryptonews .
BitcoinWorld Bitcoin Selling Pressure: Crucial Analysis Reveals Short-Term Holder Impact The world of cryptocurrency is constantly evolving, presenting both exciting opportunities and significant challenges. Currently, a key dynamic is influencing the market: substantial Bitcoin selling pressure . Understanding this pressure, especially from short-term holders, is absolutely crucial for anyone involved in the crypto space. On-chain analytics firm Glassnode has recently provided insightful data that sheds light on why BTC might be struggling to gain significant upward momentum at its current levels. What’s Driving the Intense Bitcoin Selling Pressure? According to Glassnode’s comprehensive analysis, Bitcoin (BTC) is currently trading within a very specific and challenging price corridor. This range, spanning approximately $113,600 to $115,600, isn’t just arbitrary; it represents the average purchase price for a significant cohort of short-term holders. These are individuals who acquired their Bitcoin relatively recently, typically within the last one to three months. For these newer investors, the current market price means their investments are effectively “underwater” – they are holding Bitcoin at a loss compared to their initial cost basis. This situation creates a powerful, almost gravitational, market dynamic: Break-Even Motivation: As BTC’s price attempts to rebound and approaches this critical range, many short-term holders are motivated to sell. Their primary goal is often to “break even” on their investment or to cut their losses before they deepen. Supply Overhang: This collective desire to exit or reduce exposure at cost creates a substantial “supply overhang.” Essentially, there are many sellers waiting at these specific price points. Resistance Formation: Consequently, this range acts as a formidable resistance level. Any upward price movement is met with a wave of sell orders, making it incredibly difficult for Bitcoin to push through and establish higher highs in the short term. This persistent Bitcoin selling pressure from short-term holders is a significant factor limiting immediate upside potential. Why Do Short-Term Holders Influence BTC So Much? The actions of short-term holders carry considerable weight in the market, especially during periods of price consolidation. Unlike long-term holders, who possess a stronger conviction and often ride out market volatility, short-term holders are generally more reactive. Their investment strategies are often focused on quicker gains or minimizing short-term losses. When a large segment of this group finds their positions in the red, their collective sentiment can quickly shift from optimism to a desire for capital preservation. This isn’t necessarily a sign of weakness in Bitcoin itself, but rather a natural market cleansing process. It highlights the importance of understanding market psychology and the different investor cohorts at play. The current Bitcoin selling pressure illustrates how crucial it is to monitor these on-chain metrics. Navigating This Challenging Market: What Can Investors Do? For both seasoned and new investors, understanding the implications of this analysis is key to making informed decisions. The current environment, marked by significant Bitcoin selling pressure , calls for a strategic approach. Consider these actionable insights: Exercise Patience: Expect potential volatility and constrained upward movement in the short term. Significant rallies may require sustained buying volume to absorb the existing supply. Leverage On-Chain Analytics: Tools from firms like Glassnode offer unparalleled visibility into market internals. Monitoring metrics related to holder behavior, cost basis, and supply distribution can provide a clearer picture than price charts alone. Re-evaluate Risk Tolerance: If you are a short-term trader, be particularly mindful of these resistance levels. Long-term investors might view such periods as opportunities for strategic accumulation, but always within your defined risk parameters. Identify Potential Catalysts: While internal market dynamics are at play, external factors could shift the narrative. Keep an eye on major macroeconomic news, regulatory developments, or significant institutional announcements that could provide the necessary impetus for a breakout. This phase is a test of market resilience. It underscores the importance of a well-thought-out investment strategy rather than impulsive reactions. Conclusion: The Path Forward for Bitcoin Amidst Pressure The analysis revealing substantial Bitcoin selling pressure from short-term holders around the $113,600 to $115,600 range provides a critical lens through which to view the current market. This dynamic, while limiting immediate upside, is a natural part of market cycles. It forces a period of consolidation and the absorption of overhead supply. Investors who stay informed, exercise patience, and employ robust risk management strategies will be better positioned to navigate these challenging waters and capitalize on Bitcoin’s long-term potential. Understanding these fundamental forces is paramount for a clearer perspective on Bitcoin’s journey ahead. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. What is “short-term holder cost basis”? It refers to the average price at which short-term Bitcoin holders (those who bought BTC 1-3 months ago) initially purchased their assets. If the current price is below this, they are at a loss. 2. Why do short-term holders sell at a loss? Often, short-term holders sell when the price approaches their cost basis to “break even” or minimize further losses, especially if they believe the price might drop further. This creates selling pressure. 3. How does this Bitcoin selling pressure affect BTC’s price? This pressure creates strong resistance levels. As Bitcoin’s price tries to rise, it encounters a significant number of sell orders from these holders, which can cap upward movement and lead to consolidation or minor pullbacks. 4. What can investors do during periods of high Bitcoin selling pressure? Investors can practice patience, monitor on-chain data for insights, reassess their risk tolerance, and look for potential catalysts that could shift market sentiment and overcome the selling pressure. 5. Is this a bearish sign for Bitcoin’s long-term outlook? Not necessarily. While it indicates short-term resistance, such periods of consolidation and supply absorption are a natural part of market cycles. They can help build a stronger foundation for future growth, testing investor resolve. Did this analysis help you understand the current Bitcoin market better? Share this article with your fellow crypto enthusiasts on social media to spread awareness and foster informed discussions! To learn more about the latest Bitcoin trends, explore our article on key developments shaping Bitcoin price action. This post Bitcoin Selling Pressure: Crucial Analysis Reveals Short-Term Holder Impact first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team
Hemi has closed a $15 million growth round led by YZi Labs (formerly Binance Labs), Republic Digital and HyperChain Capital, bringing total project funding to $30 million as the company positions itself as an infrastructure layer for Bitcoin programmability within EVM-compatible decentralized finance. The startup says its Hemi Virtual Machine embeds a full Bitcoin node
BitcoinWorld KuCoin Pay Partners with 2Game Digital to Expand Web3 Utility in Global Gaming PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos Islands, Aug. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — KuCoin, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, today announced that its crypto payment arm, KuCoin Pay , has entered into a strategic partnership with 2Game Digital , a global leader in gaming ecommerce, esports, and competitive gaming ecosystems under GCL Global Holdings (Nasdaq: GCL). This collaboration marks a significant step in bringing seamless cryptocurrency payments to mainstream gaming audiences. As part of its long-term vision, 2Game Digital is actively investing in Web3 integration across its platforms, including the development of the 2Game Token — a blockchain-based utility token designed to power loyalty programs, competitive play, and token-gated rewards for gamers worldwide. Kumiko Ho, Head of Payment Business at KuCoin , said: “This partnership with 2Game Digital is another milestone in our mission to make cryptocurrency a frictionless part of everyday life. Gaming is one of the most dynamic industries embracing Web3, and by integrating KuCoin Pay into 2Game’s ecosystem, we’re enabling millions of gamers to enjoy a more seamless, secure, and borderless payment experience.” Sebastian Toke, Group CEO of GCL , said: “We’re proud to be the first in our industry to offer this groundbreaking crypto payment solution. This partnership not only opens the door to a new era of secure, instant, and seamless transactions, it also allows us to tap into a thriving global crypto community. By integrating KuCoin’s technology, we’re expanding our reach and giving millions of users new ways to engage with our platform. And for those who choose to pay with crypto, we’re unlocking exclusive perks – from special discounts to early access to 2Game Digital’s highly anticipated Token ICO. This is more than just a payment method; it’s a major step forward in redefining digital commerce.” To celebrate the partnership launch, KuCoin Pay and 2Game Digital are offering exclusive promotions starting August 29, 2025. Receive a 20% instant discount on eligible purchases across 2game.com/Kucoin Receive new release discounts Get access to biweekly exclusive offers, bundles, limited drops for KuCoin Pay users Early access whitelisting for the highly anticipated 2Game Token ICO Please see more details in the official announcement . About KuCoin Pay KuCoin Pay is a pioneering merchant payment solution that enables businesses to integrate cryptocurrency transactions for both online and offline sales. Supporting over 50 cryptocurrencies including KCS, USDT, USDC, and BTC, KuCoin Pay delivers fast, secure, and borderless payments to a global audience. Learn more about KuCoin Pay: https://www.kucoin.com/pay About GCL Global Holdings GCL Global Holdings Ltd. unites people through immersive games and entertainment experiences, enabling creators to deliver engaging content and fun gameplay experiences to gaming communities worldwide with a strategic focus on the rapidly expanding Asian gaming market. Drawing on a deep understanding of gaming trends and market dynamics, GCL Group leverages its diverse portfolio of digital and physical content to bridge cultures and audiences by introducing Asian-developed IP to a global audience across consoles, PCs, and streaming platforms. Learn more at http://www.gclglobalholdings.com About 2Game Digital Part of GCL Global Holdings, 2Game Digital operates: 2Game.com – Official global ecommerce store specializing in digital games and products. 2Game Esports – Global esports division with professional teams competing in Valorant and FGC (Fighting Game Community) titles, including Street Fighter 6. 2Game Pro – Platform combining gamified loyalty, competitive play, and play-to-earn mechanics. 2Game Digital is dedicated to redefining digital gaming commerce, engagement, and community-building through its unique ecosystem. For more details, visit: www.2game.com This post KuCoin Pay Partners with 2Game Digital to Expand Web3 Utility in Global Gaming first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by chainwire