The altcoin market shows potential for further gains, according to Grayscale’s insights. Bitcoin’s support continues to strengthen as it hovers near $120,000. Continue Reading: Altcoin Bulls Surge as Bitcoin Breaches New Heights The post Altcoin Bulls Surge as Bitcoin Breaches New Heights appeared first on COINTURK NEWS .
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Ethereum exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have crossed the $5.5 billion threshold in inflows since their debut, with more than $3.3 billion flowing into these Ether investment vehicles since mid-April alone. Bloomberg ETF Analyst James Seyffart disclosed in a July 17 X post that these substantial inflows stem primarily from the basis yield on Ethereum, which has climbed back into double-digit territory for the first time since December 2024, alongside increased open interest in CME Ethereum futures contracts. Part of this is almost certainly from the Basis yield on Ethereum jumping back up and into double digits but its definitely not the whole story pic.twitter.com/rXAAOIGLZH — James Seyffart (@JSeyff) July 17, 2025 Ethereum’s valuation has responded favorably to this institutional purchasing pressure, reaching a six-month high of $3,481.58 before stabilizing at around $3,427 at the time of publication. BlackRock’s ETHA Dominates Ethereum ETFs Record Inflows With $489M Single-Day Buy According to SosoValue data , BlackRock’s iShares Ethereum Trust (ETHA) emerged as the primary catalyst, achieving its strongest performance ever with $489 million in inflows on July 17. BLACKROCK RECORD BUY: HALF A BILLION USD OF ETH BlackRock just set a new daily record, buying $499.2M ETH in one day yesterday. BlackRock currently holds $6.94 Billion USD of Ethereum. pic.twitter.com/o1c2mNal6D — Arkham (@arkham) July 17, 2025 Throughout the previous five trading sessions, ETHA alone captured $1.25 billion, accounting for nearly 20% of its total accumulation since its launch. BlackRock’s current Ethereum holdings now total $6.94 billion USD. The momentum extended beyond BlackRock’s offering. Collectively, all U.S. Ethereum ETFs registered record daily inflows of $726.74 million , surpassing the previous benchmark of $430 million. Source: SosoValue Fidelity’s FETH contributed $113.31 million, while Grayscale’s mini trust added $54.18 million, both achieving their strongest performance in months. Supply-Demand Dynamics: ETFs Control 4.02% of Total Ethereum Market Cap With ETFs currently managing 5 million ETH (representing 4.02% of Ethereum’s $413 billion market capitalization), demand strongly exceeds available supply. Ethereum-focused treasuries hold $5.3 billion worth of ETH and are acquiring tokens at a rate 36 times the daily ETH production rate. Additionally, ETH investment funds have maintained 12 consecutive weeks of positive inflows, including $996 million in the most recent week alone. SharpLink Gaming, currently the largest corporate Ethereum holder, recently purchased an additional $68.4 million of Ethereum , elevating its total holdings to $1.10 billion worth of ETH. En-route to our first stop: 1,000,000 $ETH pic.twitter.com/hzlwD4x2Sp — SBET (SharpLink Gaming) (@SharpLinkGaming) July 17, 2025 Meanwhile, Bit Digital liquidated its entire Bitcoin position , redirecting those funds into an Ether allocation. President Trump-affiliated World Liberty Financial (WLFI) has also recently acquired $4.99 million worth of ETH. While Ethereum lacks Bitcoin’s scarcity characteristics, potentially diminishing its store-of-value proposition, its staking reward capability makes institutional adoption particularly appealing to certain firms. New SEC crypto guidance just dropped: certain staking activities aren't securities transactions — but not everyone’s on board. https://t.co/Igzg1Nm7zX — Cryptonews.com (@cryptonews) May 30, 2025 With the SEC apparently relaxing its stance on staking-as-a-service enforcement , companies are increasingly comfortable incorporating ETH staking into their treasury strategies without regulatory concerns. Analysts Signal $4,000 Price Target Crypto investor and OKX exchange partner Ted Pillows notes that ETH is following a similar trajectory to the 2016-17 market cycle. History doesn't repeat itself, but it often rhymes. $ETH is following the same path as the 2016-17 cycle. Just the breakout above $4,000 and you'll see an even bigger rally. pic.twitter.com/ckwNXo7g19 — Ted (@TedPillows) July 17, 2025 Following the recent $3,200 breakout, he anticipates a $4,000 price recovery in the near term, followed by a more substantial rally thereafter. Prominent market maker Wintermute has also indicated that minimal ETH remains available through OTC desks, suggesting demand is overwhelming supply. When such conditions emerge, price movements typically accelerate rapidly, which many view as another catalyst supporting the $4,000 target. Technical Analysis: Rising Channel Confirms Bullish Structure The ETH/USD chart displays upward momentum supported by an ascending channel formation. Following a decisive breakout within the channel, Ethereum is currently experiencing minor consolidation below the $3,519 resistance level. Source: TradingView Price action maintains position above the Ichimoku cloud, indicating bullish momentum and underlying support, with the cloud providing a foundation around $3,200. Technical analysis suggests two potential scenarios: a brief retracement toward the previous breakout zone (approximately $3,400), followed by a recovery, or a direct continuation to challenge the $3,519–$3,664 resistance range. Ethereum 9.65% away from massive 4-year breakout targeting $3,500 before weekend as BlackRock accumulates $5B and Sharplink explodes to $974M ETH portfolio dominance. #Ethereum #ETH https://t.co/2EiTKiqcHW — Cryptonews.com (@cryptonews) July 16, 2025 Provided the price remains above the cloud and the ascending channel structure holds, the bullish perspective remains valid, with probable targets around $3,650–$3,664 in the short term. A sustained breach below $3,300 would threaten the bullish configuration and potentially reactivate the $3,100 support zone. The post Ethereum ETFs Surge Past $5.5B in Record Inflows – Can ETH Break $4,000 Next? appeared first on Cryptonews .
Data from Fidelity Investments suggests that Bitcoin is still mid-cycle in its adoption curve as institutional interest and inflows signal asset maturity.
BitcoinWorld Digital Ruble Set to Revolutionize Russian Payments by 2026: A Major Shift The financial world is constantly evolving, and a significant tremor has just been felt from Russia. A groundbreaking law has been approved, mandating the rollout of the digital ruble and universal QR payments across the nation, with a firm start date of September 1, 2026. This isn’t just another payment update; it’s a foundational shift that could redefine how money moves within the Russian financial system , echoing ripples across the global economic landscape. What is the Digital Ruble and Why is Russia Embracing it Now? For those familiar with the fast-paced world of cryptocurrencies, the term ‘digital currency’ might conjure images of Bitcoin or Ethereum. However, the digital ruble is fundamentally different. It’s a form of Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), meaning it’s issued and backed by the Central Bank of Russia, just like physical cash or traditional bank deposits. Unlike decentralized cryptocurrencies, a CBDC is centralized and represents a direct liability of the central bank. So, why is Russia pushing for this now? The motivations are multifaceted, blending economic efficiency with strategic autonomy. For years, nations have explored CBDCs to modernize their payment infrastructure, reduce transaction costs, enhance financial inclusion, and gain greater control over monetary policy. For Russia, these benefits are amplified by its unique geopolitical context. A state-backed digital currency can offer a more resilient and independent payment system, potentially mitigating the impact of external financial pressures and sanctions. It’s a move towards bolstering financial sovereignty and innovation within the Russian financial system . Unpacking the Universal QR Payments Mandate: A Seamless Future? Alongside the digital ruble, the new law introduces a universal QR payments code. This is a crucial element of the grand design, aiming to simplify and standardize digital transactions across the board. Imagine a single QR code that works everywhere, regardless of your bank or the merchant’s bank. That’s the vision. Standardization: The mandate requires all banks and merchants to join the digital ruble platform and utilize this universal QR code. This means an end to fragmented payment systems where different apps or codes are needed for various merchants. Ease of Use: For consumers, making payments will become incredibly straightforward. Simply scan the universal QR code with your smartphone, confirm the amount, and the transaction is complete. No Client Fees: A particularly attractive feature is that banks cannot charge clients for using this QR code. This incentivizes adoption and reduces the cost of digital transactions for everyday users, making the digital ruble an appealing option for domestic transfers. Facilitating Digital Ruble Transfers: The QR code is designed to be the primary interface for initiating and receiving digital ruble transactions, ensuring widespread usability for the new currency. This universal approach to QR payments is a clear signal that Russia intends to create a highly integrated and efficient digital payment ecosystem, making the transition to the digital ruble as smooth as possible for its citizens and businesses. The Ambitious Rollout: A Phased Approach to Russia CBDC Implementing a nationwide digital currency system is no small feat. Recognizing the complexity, Russia has outlined a phased rollout strategy to ensure a stable and successful transition for its Russia CBDC initiative. According to Interfax, the timeline is clear: Phase Timeline Participants Key Action Phase 1 Starting September 1, 2026 Major Banks & Merchants Must support digital ruble transactions and universal QR payments. Phase 2 By 2028 Smaller Banks Gradual integration into the digital ruble platform. This staggered approach allows major financial institutions to iron out any technical kinks and gather user feedback before the system is fully expanded. It’s a pragmatic way to manage the massive undertaking of integrating a new form of money into the existing Russian financial system . The initial focus on major banks ensures that a significant portion of the population and commercial activity is covered from the outset, paving the way for broader adoption. How Will This Impact the Central Bank Digital Currency Landscape? Russia’s move into the realm of Central Bank Digital Currency is part of a broader global trend, yet it carries unique implications. While countries like China have already launched their digital yuan, and the European Central Bank is actively exploring a digital euro, Russia’s geopolitical position adds a distinct layer to its CBDC strategy. Globally, CBDCs are seen as a way for central banks to retain relevance in an increasingly digital world, offer a sovereign alternative to private digital currencies, and enhance the efficiency of payment systems. Russia’s digital ruble could serve as a blueprint or a cautionary tale for other nations considering similar paths, particularly those seeking greater financial autonomy. The development of a robust Russia CBDC system could also influence discussions around cross-border CBDC payments, though initial focus will undoubtedly be on domestic use. As more countries explore or implement their own digital currencies, the potential for new international payment corridors and agreements becomes a fascinating area to watch. Navigating the Future: Benefits and Challenges for the Russian Financial System The introduction of the digital ruble and universal QR payments holds significant promise for the Russian financial system , but like any major technological and regulatory overhaul, it comes with its own set of challenges. Key Benefits: Enhanced Efficiency: Instantaneous settlements, 24/7 availability, and reduced intermediaries can make payments faster and more streamlined. Reduced Costs: Eliminating certain fees and the need for physical cash handling can lower operational costs for banks and businesses, potentially benefiting consumers through lower transaction fees. Financial Inclusion: A digital currency can reach unbanked or underbanked populations more easily, provided they have access to a smartphone and basic digital literacy. Monetary Policy Control: The central bank gains greater visibility and potentially more granular control over money supply and circulation, allowing for more targeted economic interventions. Resilience and Sovereignty: A domestically controlled digital payment system offers a degree of insulation from external pressures and strengthens national financial independence. Potential Challenges: Privacy Concerns: As a centralized digital currency, transactions on the digital ruble platform could be traceable by the central bank, raising questions about individual privacy. Public Adoption: Overcoming inertia and building public trust in a new form of money will be critical. Education and seamless user experience will be key. Technological Infrastructure: Ensuring the robustness, scalability, and security of the underlying technology to handle nationwide transactions without glitches is a monumental task. Cybersecurity Risks: A centralized digital system presents a single point of failure that could be targeted by cyberattacks, necessitating top-tier security measures. Impact on Commercial Banks: There’s a potential for disintermediation, as some functions traditionally performed by commercial banks might shift to the central bank, requiring banks to adapt their business models. The success of this initiative will hinge on how effectively Russia navigates these challenges while maximizing the inherent benefits for its economy and citizens. It’s a delicate balance between innovation, control, and user acceptance. What Does This Mean for the Crypto World and Beyond? For enthusiasts of decentralized cryptocurrencies, the rise of CBDCs like the digital ruble often sparks debate. While both are digital, their fundamental philosophies diverge. Cryptocurrencies champion decentralization, anonymity (to varying degrees), and freedom from central authority. CBDCs, conversely, represent the ultimate form of centralized digital money, reinforcing the power of the state’s financial institutions. This move by Russia underscores a global trend: governments are increasingly embracing digital money, but on their own terms. It’s less about adopting blockchain’s decentralized ethos and more about digitizing fiat currency for efficiency and control. This could lead to a future where CBDCs coexist with, or even compete with, private digital payment systems and traditional banking. It highlights the growing digital transformation of money, pushing both traditional finance and the crypto space to adapt. The approval of the digital ruble and universal QR payments marks a pivotal moment for Russia. By 2026, the nation is poised to operate a modern, efficient, and centrally controlled digital payment system. This ambitious undertaking aims to strengthen the Russian financial system , enhance its resilience, and offer its citizens a seamless way to transact. While challenges remain, the commitment to this digital transformation is clear, positioning Russia as a significant player in the evolving global landscape of Central Bank Digital Currency . To learn more about the latest crypto market trends, explore our article on key developments shaping the future of digital finance. This post Digital Ruble Set to Revolutionize Russian Payments by 2026: A Major Shift first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team
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Russian bank Sberbank plans to offer custody services for the country’s crypto assets. With more foreign banks embracing crypto custody, Anatoly Pronin, the Executive Director of Sberbank’s Alternative Payment Solutions Department, said they presented a proposal to the central bank on domestic crypto asset regulation. Lately, Russia’s central bank has been more open to pro-crypto policies. Last year, they permitted companies to trade in crypto to bypass Western sanctions implemented due to the Ukraine war. Russia’s Sberbank says it wants to regulate digital assets like the funds in bank accounts At a crypto regulation discussion, Pronin explained that Sberbank would want to oversee crypto assets like it does customer deposits, to ensure token security . He added that their custody service would include mechanisms to freeze assets upon suspicion of illegal activity and promote secure, accessible user transactions. Russia’s central bank disclosed it would allow financial institutions to provide crypto investment products in late May. It detailed that the new rules would cover instruments, including derivatives and tokenized instruments, tied to crypto value changes. However, investors can only engage in non-deliverable contracts, meaning they can’t hold or receive cryptocurrencies. The bank also stated that financial institutions must follow a risk-averse assessment strategy before launching crypto instruments to avoid compromising financial stability. However, the CBR never specified whether it would allow crypto custody services. Sberbank came up with a workaround to bypass Western sanctions Sberbank has been trying to make transactions easier for its users. In June, the bank devised a workaround that routes wire transfers to European banks via intermediaries, avoiding Western sanctions and the SWIFT bans. The bank’s clients can now transfer rubles through its mobile app to European cardholders at Revolut or N26. However, on the recipient’s side, the transfers do not display Sberbank’s name; instead, they show the name of a individual, a regional city, or a payment processing entity. So far, about 500,000 rubles, roughly $6400, can be transferred per transaction to European banks, with a monthly threshold of 3 million rubles, worth about $38,200. However, both N26 and Revolut distanced themselves from the alleged transfer scheme, insisting they prohibit any transactions that contravene sanctions. N26 said it routinely conducts compliance assessments, and Revolut warned users that such activity could lead to account restrictions. Regardless, one of the bank’s staff remarked, “It’s not dangerous. The bank has always had transfers like that.” Sberbank moves to expand crypto access for elite Russian investors Just recently, Sberbank said it would become a market maker providing liquidity for regulated platforms that will give qualified Russian investors access to cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, a high-ranking executive unveiled. In an interview with business news outlet RBC, the head of Sberbank’s Global Markets Department, Alexander Zozulya, praised the Bank of Russia’s “important step” to announce the development of an experimental legal regime (ELR) for crypto transactions and emphasized: “We expect the emergence of a legal ‘sandbox,’ an analogue of a regulated crypto platform, where super-qualified investors will be allowed to operate directly with cryptocurrencies.” Zozulya’s remarks followed recent comments by Central Bank of Russia (CBR) Governor Elvira Nabiullina, who acknowledged earlier this month that direct investment in crypto assets would necessitate regulatory reforms and the development of dedicated infrastructure. During her appearance at the “Russian Stock Market—2025” conference in mid-May, Nabiullina also clarified that such transactions should be carried out exclusively within the ELR framework and available only to “highly qualified” investors. In March, the Central Bank introduced the special regime and the “ highly qualified investors ” category. Under the ELR, Russian companies will be permitted to use and exchange cryptocurrencies in foreign trade, providing a way to sidestep restrictions linked to the war in Ukraine. Cryptopolitan Academy: Coming Soon - A New Way to Earn Passive Income with DeFi in 2025. Learn More
Bitcoin Standard Treasury Company (BSTR) will become a publicly traded company through a merger with special-purpose acquisition company Cantor Equity Partners I, Inc. (Nasdaq: CEPO), the companies announced on Thursday. Cantor SPAC Deal Values BSTR Bitcoin Treasury at $10/Share The combined company is expected to list on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “BSTR” in the
Semler Scientific has added to its already large Bitcoin holdings as the premier crypto shatters new all-time highs — taking its total holdings to 4,846 BTC.