BitMine, a Bitcoin mining company listed on the New York Stock Exchange, made a new statement regarding its Ethereum (ETH) purchases. Accordingly, the company announced that they have reached the $1 billion ETH level with the purchases they have made so far. It was stated that the company's goal is to continue purchasing until it reaches 5% of the ETH supply. $1 Billion in Ethereum! Bitmine stated in its official statement that as of July 17, they had a total of 300,657 ETH worth $1 billion. BitMine Chairman and Fundstrat co-founder Tom Lee said: “At BitMine, we surpassed $1 billion in Ethereum holdings just seven days after completing our initial $250 million private placement. We are making steady progress towards achieving our goal of purchasing and staking 5% of the total ETH supply. “Acquiring $1 billion in ETH is a clear demonstration of our belief in the long-term value of Ethereum,” said BitMine CEO Jonathan Bates. “We are committed to the continued growth of Ethereum and look forward to advancing our Ethereum treasury strategy.” On the first of July, US-based Bitcoin mining company BitMine announced that it has made Ethereum its primary reserve asset. BitMine's move follows the recent ETH acquisitions by SharpLink Gaming, a subsidiary of Ethereum's MicroStrategy. With its recent purchases, SharpLink Gaming has become the world's largest ETH holder. Related News: Historic Ethereum (ETH) Decision Comes from Bitcoin Mining Company! Wall Street Giant Tom Lee Speaks Assertively! *This is not investment advice. Continue Reading: Bitcoin Mining Company Purchases $1 Billion in Altcoin in Just Seven Days! "Our Goal is to Buy 5% of the Total Supply!"
Westpac Institutional Bank has partnered with Chainlink and Imperium Markets to implement blockchain-based tokenized asset settlement capabilities through Project Acacia. The Chainlink Runtime Environment will orchestrate secure Delivery vs. Payment (DvP) settlement of tokenized assets across blockchain markets and Australia’s existing PayTo domestic payments system. We are excited to announce that Westpac Institutional Bank ( @Westpac ) and Imperium Markets are implementing Chainlink in Project Acacia, a new joint initiative between the Reserve Bank of Australia and Digital Finance CRC (DFCRC). https://t.co/pLh1i6Vqzy The Chainlink Runtime… pic.twitter.com/hO84SJnVqh — Chainlink (@chainlink) July 17, 2025 Australia’s central bank has estimated that tokenization could save asset issuers up to AUD $12 billion annually in Australian markets. The initiative builds on the RBA’s broader six-month pilot program announced in July , which selected 24 industry participants to conduct 19 real-money transactions and five proof-of-concept simulations across multiple asset classes. Westpac Extends PayTo Infrastructure for Tokenized Asset Transactions Westpac’s proof of concept seeks to demonstrate that the existing PayTo infrastructure can handle the settlement and clearing of large wholesale banking payments required for tokenized asset transactions. PayTo, launched by Westpac in 2024, operates as a digital-first alternative to direct debit payments that enables real-time transactions with enhanced visibility and control for customers. The system settles transactions using banks’ existing exchange settlement accounts with the RBA while offering rich transaction data, verified authorization, and secure storage capabilities. Jeff Byrne, Managing Director of Global Transaction Services at Westpac Institutional Bank, said the bank is “helping the RBA explore what digital currencies could look like in the real world, while giving our customers access to new payment options safely and securely.” Beyond the immediate settlement capabilities, the project extends Westpac’s PayTo capabilities to emerging technologies such as asset tokenization while demonstrating ways to unlock new value while protecting customers. The proof of concept also provides Westpac with an opportunity to test post-quantum cryptography in financial systems, using advanced encryption algorithms designed to resist potential future quantum computer attacks. David Walker, Westpac’s Chief Technology Officer, described the initiative as “a real-world opportunity to learn and create something that will be incredibly important in the future, and something we might need to apply at scale.” Westpac maintains a long-term equity investment in Australian cybersecurity company QuintessenceLabs, which has developed quantum-enhanced cryptography solutions already deployed in defense and large organization applications. Walker stated that “creating the next generation of payments architecture requires the strategic involvement of all the banks, telcos, retailers and governments working together.” The Australian Securities and Investments Commission has granted regulatory relief to facilitate the testing, with project findings expected in the first quarter of 2026. Global Financial Institutions Accelerate Blockchain Infrastructure Development Chainlink has positioned itself at the center of a potential $260 trillion market opportunity through partnerships with major financial institutions to unlock the untokenized assets market via its Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol. Earlier this year, Chainlink partnered with Abu Dhabi Global Market to develop blockchain standards and explore tokenization frameworks within regulated environments. RedStone’s market analysis also reveals that the tokenized real-world assets market reached $24.31 billion by June 2025, driven by a 260% surge from $8.6 billion at the start of the year, with private credit claiming more than half of the total market value at $14 billion. #Tokenized #RWA space has reached an ATH of $24.31 billion, moving from a “buzzword into a multi-billion-dollar financial system,” per @redstone_defi , @gauntlet_xyz , and @RWA_xyz . #crypto #blockchain https://t.co/bdsQCS4mwd — Cryptonews.com (@cryptonews) June 26, 2025 Notably, Australia’s approach contrasts with the restrictive stances some of its major banks have taken toward crypto platforms, with the National Australia Bank blocking payments to certain crypto exchanges in 2023, citing concerns about scams. Project Acacia’s focus on regulated institutional applications could generate AU$19 billion annually in economic gains, according to Professor Talis Putnins from the Digital Finance Cooperative Research Centre. Organizers have described Australia’s real-money settlement testing on third-party platforms as a world-first for the country in the digital finance industry. The post Westpac and Australia’s RBA Launch Chainlink-Based Tokenized Asset Settlement Project appeared first on Cryptonews .
BitcoinWorld Bitcoin’s Incredible Surge: BTC Price Breaks $119,000 Barrier The cryptocurrency world is buzzing with excitement as Bitcoin (BTC) has once again captured headlines, soaring past the significant $119,000 mark. This impressive climb, observed on major exchanges like Binance, where BTC is trading at $119,017.7 on the USDT market, has ignited widespread speculation and optimism across the entire cryptocurrency market . What does this latest surge mean for investors, and what factors are truly propelling Bitcoin to these new heights? Let’s dive deep into the forces at play and explore the broader implications for both seasoned and aspiring crypto investors . Understanding the Bitcoin Phenomenon: What’s Driving This Powerful BTC Price Rally? The recent ascent of Bitcoin above $119,000 isn’t just a random fluctuation; it’s a testament to a complex interplay of fundamental and technical factors. For many, this milestone signals renewed confidence in digital assets and underscores Bitcoin’s growing maturity as a global financial instrument. But what exactly is fueling this impressive BTC price rally? Key Drivers Behind Bitcoin’s Ascent: Institutional Adoption: One of the most significant catalysts has been the increasing influx of institutional capital. Major financial players, from hedge funds to corporate treasuries, are allocating portions of their portfolios to Bitcoin, viewing it as a legitimate store of value and an inflation hedge. The approval and launch of Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) in various jurisdictions have provided easier, regulated access for traditional investors, bridging the gap between conventional finance and the digital asset space. Companies like MicroStrategy continue to aggressively accumulate BTC, signaling long-term conviction. Halving Event Impact: Historically, Bitcoin’s halving events – which reduce the supply of new BTC entering the market by half – have preceded significant bull runs. While the most recent halving occurred some time ago, its long-term effects on supply scarcity continue to exert upward pressure on the BTC price . Less new supply against sustained or increasing demand naturally leads to higher prices. Macroeconomic Factors: In an era of global economic uncertainty, high inflation, and quantitative easing by central banks, Bitcoin is increasingly seen as a hedge against currency debasement. Investors are seeking alternative assets that are not directly tied to traditional financial systems, and Bitcoin, with its decentralized and finite supply, fits this narrative perfectly. Growing Retail Interest and FOMO: As Bitcoin’s price climbs, it naturally attracts more attention from retail investors. The Fear Of Missing Out (FOMO) can create a self-reinforcing cycle, drawing new money into the market and pushing prices even higher. Social media sentiment and mainstream media coverage also play a crucial role in amplifying this effect. Technological Advancements and Network Security: Continuous development within the Bitcoin ecosystem, such as improvements to the Lightning Network for faster and cheaper transactions, and protocol upgrades like Taproot, enhance Bitcoin’s utility and scalability. The robustness and security of the Bitcoin network, backed by its vast mining power, also instill confidence in investors. These factors collectively create a powerful tailwind for Bitcoin , pushing its valuation higher and reinforcing its position as the leading cryptocurrency. Understanding these drivers is crucial for anyone looking to navigate the volatile yet rewarding world of digital assets. Decoding Cryptocurrency Market Dynamics: A Look Beyond the Numbers While Bitcoin often sets the tone, the broader cryptocurrency market is a complex ecosystem influenced by a myriad of factors. To truly understand the significance of Bitcoin’s rise, we must look at the underlying dynamics that govern this innovative yet often unpredictable financial landscape. The market’s behavior is not solely dependent on Bitcoin’s movements; it’s a tapestry woven with technological innovation, regulatory shifts, global economic sentiment, and investor psychology. Key Aspects of Cryptocurrency Market Dynamics: Market Volatility: Cryptocurrencies are known for their extreme price swings. While this presents opportunities for high returns, it also carries significant risks. Understanding historical volatility patterns and how they relate to market news or macroeconomic events is key. Correlation with Traditional Markets: Increasingly, the crypto market shows correlations with traditional financial markets, particularly tech stocks. However, during times of extreme stress in traditional markets, Bitcoin can sometimes act as a safe haven, demonstrating its ‘digital gold’ properties. On-Chain Metrics: Beyond price charts, on-chain data provides deep insights into the health and activity of a blockchain network. Metrics like active addresses, transaction volume, miner revenue, and exchange flows can signal underlying demand or supply pressures. For example, a decrease in BTC held on exchanges might suggest a bullish sentiment as investors move assets to cold storage for long-term holding. Derivatives Market Influence: The futures and options markets for Bitcoin and other major cryptocurrencies exert considerable influence on spot prices. Funding rates, open interest, and the put/call ratio can indicate whether traders are predominantly bullish or bearish, affecting short-term price action in the cryptocurrency market . To provide a clearer picture, here’s a simplified look at some key indicators and what they might suggest about the market’s health: Indicator Description Potential Market Signal Trading Volume Total amount of a cryptocurrency traded over a period. High volume during price moves confirms strength; low volume suggests weak conviction. Open Interest (OI) Total number of outstanding derivative contracts (futures/options) that have not been settled. Rising OI with rising price is bullish; falling OI with rising price can signal caution. Funding Rates Payments between long and short positions in perpetual futures contracts. Positive rates (longs pay shorts) suggest bullish sentiment; negative rates suggest bearish. Bitcoin Dominance Bitcoin’s market capitalization as a percentage of the total crypto market cap. Rising dominance often signals capital flowing into BTC from altcoins; falling dominance can indicate ‘altcoin season’. Understanding these intricate dynamics is vital for any participant in the cryptocurrency market , allowing for more informed decisions rather than simply reacting to price movements. Navigating the Surge: Actionable Insights for Crypto Investors The exhilarating climb of Bitcoin past $119,000 naturally sparks excitement, but for crypto investors , it also demands a disciplined and strategic approach. While the temptation to chase gains is strong, successful navigation of a surging market requires prudence, risk management, and a clear understanding of one’s investment goals. This isn’t just about buying low and selling high; it’s about building a resilient portfolio in a rapidly evolving space. Essential Strategies for Crypto Investors: Do Your Own Research (DYOR): Never invest based on hype or social media trends alone. Thoroughly research any cryptocurrency project, understanding its technology, use case, team, roadmap, and competitive landscape. For Bitcoin, this means understanding its monetary policy, network security, and adoption trends. Dollar-Cost Averaging (DCA): Instead of trying to time the market, which is notoriously difficult, consider investing a fixed amount regularly (e.g., weekly or monthly). This strategy averages out your purchase price over time, reducing the risk associated with market volatility and helping you accumulate assets steadily, regardless of the BTC price . Risk Management and Position Sizing: Only invest what you can afford to lose. Cryptocurrencies are high-risk assets. Determine a comfortable percentage of your overall portfolio to allocate to crypto. Utilize stop-loss orders to limit potential losses on trades, and consider taking partial profits as your investments grow to secure gains. Diversification (with Caution): While Bitcoin is the market leader, diversifying into other promising altcoins can spread risk and capture growth from emerging sectors like DeFi, NFTs, or Web3. However, avoid over-diversification into too many speculative assets. A core holding in Bitcoin and Ethereum, complemented by a few high-conviction altcoins, is a common strategy. Avoid Emotional Trading: The crypto market is highly susceptible to fear (FUD) and greed (FOMO). Making impulsive decisions based on short-term price swings or news headlines can lead to significant losses. Stick to your pre-defined investment plan and resist the urge to buy at the peak of excitement or sell during a panic. Security Best Practices: For crypto investors , protecting your assets is paramount. Use strong, unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all exchange accounts, and consider hardware wallets for storing significant amounts of cryptocurrency offline. Be wary of phishing scams and fraudulent websites. By adhering to these actionable insights, crypto investors can approach the market with greater confidence, mitigating risks while positioning themselves to potentially benefit from Bitcoin’s continued growth and the overall expansion of the cryptocurrency market . The Road Ahead for BTC Price: What Can We Expect? With Bitcoin now comfortably above $119,000, the natural question on everyone’s mind is: what’s next for the BTC price ? Predicting the future in the volatile crypto space is challenging, but we can analyze potential scenarios based on current trends, technical indicators, and fundamental developments. The journey for Bitcoin is far from over, and its path will likely be shaped by a confluence of evolving factors. Potential Scenarios and Future Outlook: Continued Bullish Momentum: If institutional adoption accelerates, coupled with favorable macroeconomic conditions (e.g., continued inflation concerns, weakening fiat currencies), the BTC price could see further upward movement. Key resistance levels might be tested and broken, potentially paving the way for new all-time highs. A strong breakout above significant psychological barriers often leads to rapid price discovery. Market Consolidation and Corrections: No asset moves up in a straight line. After significant rallies, it’s common for Bitcoin to enter a period of consolidation, where prices trade sideways, or experience healthy corrections. These pullbacks are natural market cycles that shake out weaker hands and allow for new accumulation before the next leg up. Identifying strong support levels is crucial during these phases. Regulatory Landscape Evolution: The global regulatory environment for cryptocurrencies is constantly evolving. Clear and favorable regulations could provide more certainty for institutions and mainstream adoption, acting as a tailwind. Conversely, restrictive or uncertain regulations in major economies could introduce headwinds and temporarily impact the BTC price . Technological Innovation and Competition: While Bitcoin remains dominant, the broader crypto ecosystem is vibrant with innovation. The development of scalable layer-2 solutions, advancements in decentralized finance (DeFi), and the emergence of new blockchain technologies could indirectly influence Bitcoin’s position. However, Bitcoin’s core value proposition as a decentralized, secure store of value is unlikely to be fundamentally challenged by these developments. Energy Consumption Debate: Bitcoin’s energy consumption remains a topic of debate. While the industry is moving towards more sustainable mining practices, negative perceptions or increased regulatory pressure on energy usage could create temporary FUD (Fear, Uncertainty, Doubt) around the BTC price . Ultimately, the long-term outlook for Bitcoin remains largely positive for many analysts who view it as a revolutionary digital asset. Its scarcity, decentralization, and growing network effect position it uniquely in the global financial landscape. While short-term volatility is to be expected, the fundamental case for Bitcoin as a transformative technology and a hedge against traditional financial instability continues to strengthen. Unpacking Market Trends: How Broader Economic Forces Impact Digital Assets The rise of Bitcoin above $119,000 is not an isolated event; it’s intricately linked to broader global market trends . The cryptocurrency space, once considered a niche, is increasingly intertwined with traditional finance and macroeconomic indicators. Understanding these connections is crucial for any discerning investor, as external forces can significantly influence the trajectory of digital assets. Interplay of Macroeconomics and Crypto Market Trends: Inflation and Monetary Policy: One of the most powerful drivers for Bitcoin has been its narrative as a hedge against inflation. When central banks engage in quantitative easing or governments print more money, the purchasing power of fiat currencies can erode. Bitcoin, with its capped supply of 21 million coins, is seen by many as a deflationary asset, making it an attractive alternative during inflationary periods. Conversely, aggressive interest rate hikes by central banks to combat inflation can sometimes make riskier assets like crypto less appealing in the short term. Geopolitical Events: Global instability, conflicts, and political uncertainties can prompt investors to seek safe-haven assets. While gold has traditionally filled this role, Bitcoin is increasingly being considered a ‘digital gold.’ During times of geopolitical tension, we often see capital flow into decentralized assets, reflecting a desire for assets outside the control of any single government or entity. Technological Adoption and Web3: Beyond financial speculation, the underlying technology of blockchain and cryptocurrencies is driving significant innovation. The growth of Web3, decentralized applications (dApps), and the metaverse creates new use cases and demand for digital assets. As more industries integrate blockchain technology, the overall utility and value of the cryptocurrency market expand, fostering positive long-term market trends . Institutional Investment Flow: The increasing acceptance of cryptocurrencies by institutional players (banks, asset managers, corporations) legitimizes the asset class and brings substantial capital. Their investment decisions are often based on macroeconomic forecasts and risk assessments, directly impacting liquidity and price discovery within the cryptocurrency market . Commodity Prices and Energy Costs: Given Bitcoin mining’s energy requirements, fluctuations in global energy prices can affect mining profitability and, by extension, the security and supply dynamics of the Bitcoin network. While this is a more indirect influence, it’s a factor that impacts the underlying infrastructure supporting the BTC price . The interconnectedness of the crypto market with these broader market trends means that staying informed about global economic shifts is as important as understanding on-chain data or technical analysis. As digital assets mature, their responsiveness to traditional economic indicators will likely continue to evolve, making comprehensive analysis more critical than ever for crypto investors . The recent surge of Bitcoin above $119,000 is a powerful indicator of its enduring strength and growing prominence in the global financial landscape. This milestone is not merely a number but a reflection of increasing institutional confidence, strategic macroeconomic positioning, and the relentless innovation within the cryptocurrency market . While volatility remains a hallmark of this exciting asset class, the fundamental drivers behind Bitcoin’s ascent appear robust. For crypto investors , this moment underscores the importance of informed decision-making, disciplined risk management, and a long-term perspective. As market trends continue to evolve, Bitcoin stands poised to play an even more significant role in the future of finance, offering both incredible opportunities and the necessity for careful navigation. To learn more about the latest Bitcoin trends, explore our article on key developments shaping Bitcoin price action. This post Bitcoin’s Incredible Surge: BTC Price Breaks $119,000 Barrier first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team
Bitcoin liquid staking platform Lombard Finance has revealed its roadmap to build the full stack of Bitcoin infrastructure it needs to bring Bitcoin Capital Markets onchain. According to the press release shared with Cryptonews , the team will introduce a suite of tools that will hasten the development of Bitcoin Capital Markets. This, they say, includes a natively cross-chain Bitcoin wrapper that will enable BTC trading onchain. Additionally, it’ll include a software development kit (SDK) for native BTC deposits to “any app on any chain,” as well as several BTC yield products to onboard BTC. Lombard Finance The announcement names a suite of ‘Bitcoin Middleware’ as a core part of this roadmap. This suite will connect Bitcoin liquidity with “any platform, chain, or application that can put it to work.” It will comprise a new Bitcoin primitive and the Lombard SDK. Moreover, Lombard Finance will launch tokenized and structured products this year. This will include a basis trade vault and a tokenized options vault. Overall, the roadmap introduces a cross-chain, wrapped BTC, fully backed 1:1 with BTC. It will be “an ecosystem-neutral public good with permissionless minting and no mint and redeem fees.” Further, it introduces a variety of tokenized and institutional products; Lombard Ledger as a Bitcoin Bridge; a BTC yield marketplace that covers DeFi, CeFi, and TradFi strategies; and the LBTC SDK toolkit. LBTC is the protocol’s liquid staking token. This toolkit will enable “any chain, protocol, or wallet to embed native BTC deposits and yield directly into their applications.” The team argues that, by developing the assets, infrastructure, and onboarding tools to bring Bitcoin onchain, $500 billion can be created from onboarding BTC and $6 trillion in exponential value with developers innovating further. ▍▍▍▍▍▍▍Loading… pic.twitter.com/UEMnq3e3aG — Lombard (@Lombard_Finance) July 16, 2025 “Lombard aims to make Bitcoin ubiquitous throughout all major ecosystems, enabling developers to build the next generation of Bitcoin trading, lending, and payments applications with the simplicity users expect,” the announcement says. You may also like: Lombard Finance Reveals BTC-DeFi Integration Toolkit, Bybit and Binance Already In Bitcoin liquid staking platform Lombard Finance has announced the launch of its novel production-ready toolkit LBTC SDK. The product enables wallets, exchanges, mining pools, and decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms to integrate BTC staking and minting of LBTC, a yield-bearing token directly tied to BTC.According to the press release shared with Cryptonews, the launch is a step in Bitcoin's transition beyond a store of value. Now it’s turning into a more flexible asset that opens new... ‘DeFi Protocols Prioritizing BTC Integrations for the First Time’ Lombard Finance states that their latest moves follow “the unprecedented success of LBTC.” The coin reached $1 billion total value locked (TVL) in 92 days. The protocol currently has $1.731 billion in TVL , per DeFiLlama. Moreover, Lombard onboarded over $2 billion in net-new BTC liquidity, it claims. DeFi uses 82% of this amount. This “helped lead a movement where, for the first time ever, top protocols including Aave , Pendle , Morpho , and EigenLayer prioritized BTC integrations.” The team recently said that they would launch yield-bearing LBTC on 22 July. Today, LBTC is a 1:1 liquid staked version of Bitcoin — integrated across DeFi and redeemable for BTC at any time with yield claimable separately. With this upgrade, LBTC will accrue yield directly — without any requirements to claim. — Lombard (@Lombard_Finance) July 15, 2025 “Bitcoin barely participates in the on-chain revolution it sparked,” says co-founder Jacob Phillips. Lombard is now launching “a comprehensive stack for developers to innovate with Bitcoin on any chain, alongside powerful onboarding tools to empower and ignite the entire ecosystem.” Phillips continues. The protocol aims to be “the driving force” for Bitcoin onchain as Tether and Circle are for stablecoins. “With the infrastructure in place, we’re convinced the Bitcoin community will become a leader in onchain innovation,” he concluded. Meanwhile, in July 2024, Lombard said it had raised $16 million in a funding round led by Polychain Capital . Lombard announced its production-ready toolkit LBTC SDK in April 2025. It enabled partners to offer one-click Bitcoin staking and direct deployment of LBTC into DeFi yield strategies, and it created revenue streams from staking activities. Crypto exchanges Bybit and Binance had already integrated the LBTC SDK by that point, with more in the pipeline. Lombard has launched the LBTC SDK – the easiest way for wallets, exchanges, and staking platforms to integrate liquid Bitcoin staking. Leading exchanges Bybit & Binance already offer it to users via their Web3 wallets. Now, so can you. pic.twitter.com/5ZkAGCsZOM — Lombard (@Lombard_Finance) April 17, 2025 Also, in February this year, Lombard announced its Security Consortium , a collective of fourteen digital asset institutions. These include OKX , Galaxy , DCG , Wintermute , Amber Group , Figment , Nansen , and P2P , among others. You may also like: Polychain-Backed Lombard Raises $16M to Scale Bitcoin Yield Solutions Yield-bearing liquid Bitcoin solution Lombard on Tuesday announced it raised $16m in a funding round led by Polychain Capital.Joining the round were investors including BabylonChain, dao5, Franklin Templeton, Foresight Ventures, and Mirana Ventures. Crypto exchanges including Bitget, Bybit, and OKX also participated, likely aiming to attract new users by offering this yield-bearing Bitcoin solution.Founders and executives from Allora, Altlayer, Babylon, BeraChain, Euler, Gearbox, and... The post Lombard Finance Readies to ‘Make Bitcoin Ubiquitous Throughout All Ecosystems’ appeared first on Cryptonews .
Nearly 70 nominees and officials in the Trump administration reportedly hold crypto or investments in blockchain companies, with holdings ranging from modest sums to over $120 million. Key Takeaways: Nearly 70 Trump administration officials and nominees hold crypto, with stakes up to $120 million. Several former crypto leaders who supported Trump’s 2024 campaign have secured government positions. The administration’s hands-off regulatory approach has coincided with a surge in Bitcoin’s price. The group includes Vice President JD Vance and seven Cabinet members or nominees, who collectively disclosed at least $2 million in crypto assets, according to a detailed investigation by The Washington Post . President Donald Trump himself has declared a personal stake of at least $51 million in digital assets amid the administration’s deep financial ties to the industry. Crypto Leaders Behind Trump’s Campaign Secure Key Government Roles Many of these officials are former tech and crypto leaders who supported Trump’s 2024 campaign before securing influential positions. Some examples include Scott Kupor, managing partner at Andreessen Horowitz who is now head of the Office of Personnel Management, and Jonathan Gould, former chief legal officer at blockchain firm Bitfury and current leader of the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. Others include ambassadors and regulators, with some holding among the largest individual crypto portfolios. These include Ken Howery, Trump’s ambassador to Denmark with at least $122 million in digital assets. Tilman Fertitta, ambassador to Italy and owner of the Houston Rockets, and Bill Pulte, director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, also reported between $1 million and $2 million in cryptocurrencies. The widespread presence of crypto holdings among Trump’s appointees marks a notable shift in how digital assets are viewed at the highest levels of government. The timing coincides with a largely hands-off regulatory approach from the administration toward digital currencies. Policies supported by the crypto sector, including legislation on stablecoins, have advanced in Congress. The SEC has paused or dropped litigation against numerous crypto firms, reversing the aggressive scrutiny of the previous administration. Bitcoin’s price has surged to new highs during this period, doubling since last year, benefiting officials with holdings. While some appointees have divested or plan to do so shortly after confirmation, the disclosures reveal a complex relationship between government officials and the crypto industry. Critics warn that this creates potential conflicts of interest and normalizes risky crypto investments among public servants. Trump is making millions dumping crypto on retail while simultaneously gutting regulation And to think Jimmy Carter put his peanut farm in a blind trust to avoid conflict of interest pic.twitter.com/l7yz34WiE5 — BuccoCapital Bloke (@buccocapital) June 15, 2025 A New Era for Digital Assets Meanwhile, the administration’s embrace of digital assets signals a new era where cryptocurrencies are firmly entrenched in government policy and personal portfolios. High-profile officials with crypto assets include Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent , who divested before taking office, and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., holding between $1 million and $5 million. The tech sector’s integration into government continues with figures like Scott Kupor and Jonathan Gould taking top roles. Ambassadors such as Ken Howery , with $122 million in crypto holdings, underscore the asset’s popularity among Trump allies. The post Nearly 70 Trump Officials Hold Crypto, Some With up to $120M in Investments: Report appeared first on Cryptonews .
TL;DR FARTCOIN breaks three-month range with 28% weekly gain, led by meme sector momentum. Whale nets $963K selling 1.45M FARTCOIN after July 16 price breakout and strong demand. Open interest hits $1.05B, rising $250M in two days, signaling rising trader participation. FARTCOIN Pushes Higher After Extended Range Fartcoin (FARTCOIN) rose 23% over the past day, trading at $1.51. The token gained 28% this week, peaking at $1.53. This marks a move out of a price zone that held between $1.20 and $1.33 for nearly three months. Meanwhile, the rally appears aligned with renewed interest across the meme coin sector, where tokens like FLOKI and BONK have also recorded double-digit gains. According to market watcher Unipcs, “Fartcoin has been consolidating in the same range for 3 months, and now it finally looks ready to rip hard.” several memecoins have been taking off and adding crazy valuations to their market caps but it seems many have forgotten what a true #FARTCOIN pump looks like they’re about to be reminded fartcoin has been consolidating in the same range for 3 months and now it finally looks… https://t.co/FKxMZKz0ny pic.twitter.com/QhGk6V02kA — Unipcs (aka ‘Bonk Guy’) (@theunipcs) July 17, 2025 Chart Patterns Show Strength The Relative Strength Index is now at 67. This level reflects strong buying but could approach overbought territory. Price action shows $1.53 as a key level to break, with $1.60 as the next target. Support rests at $1.33, with lower zones around $1.20 and $1.00. The Accumulation/Distribution line has started to rise again, suggesting a shift in buyer activity. A clean move and hold above $1.53 may open the door to another short-term leg higher. Source: TradingView Whale Profit, FARTCOIN OI Soars Daily volume reached $556 million, showing strong interest. Momentum started earlier in the week after a stretch of sideways trading, pushing prices sharply higher on July 16. CryptoPotato reported a major whale transaction involving 1.459 million FARTCOIN, sold for 10,509 SOL, valued at approximately $1.57 million. The wallet acquired the tokens three months ago for 5,171 SOL ($606,000), locking in a profit of roughly $963,000. CoinGlass data shows that Fartcoin’s open interest has reached a new all-time high of $1.05 billion. This is up from $802.6 million just two days prior, signaling increased participation and capital flow into Fartcoin’s derivatives market. Source: Coinglass The post FARTCOIN Ready to Rip? Price Surges 23% in 24 Hours appeared first on CryptoPotato .
Washington’s “Crypto Week” has brought digital assets into focus on Capitol Hill, with several industry experts weighing in on what the proposed legislation could mean for the future of crypto. Now, with three major bills—the GENIUS Act, the CLARITY Act, and the Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act— advancing through Congress , ambiguity could soon give way to a more structured regulatory environment. GENIUS Act, Anti-CBDC Act, and CLARITY Act pass crucial procedural vote 215-211 in Congress after Trump's decisive Oval Office intervention rescues stalled crypto agenda. #GeniusAct #Trump https://t.co/Lm2tCBbimp — Cryptonews.com (@cryptonews) July 16, 2025 Turning Point in U.S. Crypto Regulation Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget, called the week “a turning point,” noting that the GENIUS Act delivers the first federal framework for stablecoin licensing, reserves, and disclosures. Meanwhile, the CLARITY Act seeks to resolve longstanding jurisdictional turf wars between the SEC and CFTC by offering concrete definitions for digital assets: whether they fall under the category of securities, commodities, or stablecoins. The Anti-CBDC Act sends an equally clear message—by prohibiting the Federal Reserve from issuing a retail central bank digital currency, lawmakers are affirming a stance on financial privacy. These proposals show more than policy evolution—they indicate the beginning of a new phase where crypto is no longer treated as an outsider asset class. Crypto exchanges and investors are already repositioning for a future shaped by regulatory frameworks, not just code and community. Behind the Optimism: Global Context and Institutional Pressure While U.S. crypto stakeholders are celebrating legislative momentum, not everyone sees this as a leading achievement. For example, Manthan Davé, co-founder of Ripple-backed custodian Palisade, argues the GENIUS Act represents progress—but only in the context of the U.S. playing catch-up. Europe’s MiCA framework , Davé notes, already demonstrates how regulation can empower rather than constrain innovation. By contrast, the GENIUS Act risks building a fragmented stablecoin structure that fails to interoperate with decentralized finance protocols. Without pathways for regulated entities to issue stablecoins that are fully composable within on-chain financial systems, the U.S. could miss a key opportunity to shape the future of tokenized finance. Davé points out that if U.S. stablecoins evolve into tightly controlled, non-interoperable digital dollars, they’ll resemble traditional money more than they will transformative Web3 infrastructure. The true value of stablecoins lies not only in their backing, but in their ability to serve as programmable, borderless collateral, integral to lending, settlement, and tokenised Treasury markets. He argues that without this flexibility, institutional capital will flow to jurisdictions where composability is enabled and innovation doesn’t face unnecessary roadblocks. Markets Respond to Policy Momentum Investor sentiment has already turned bullish in anticipation of a regulatory breakthrough. Bitcoin surged past $120,000 on Monday, briefly touching $123,000—marking a new record high and reinforcing the view that legal clarity could serve as a major catalyst for digital asset inflows. At the time of publication, Bitcoin is trading at $118,144. Analysts attribute the recent surge to growing confidence that regulation could unlock sidelined institutional capital. With defined categories for tokens, stablecoin compliance measures, and a halt to retail CBDC development, the market is interpreting this shift as a green light for scaled participation. Bitget’s Gracy Chen notes that institutional appetite is closely tied to certainty. Clear licensing paths for stablecoins, plus delineated regulatory responsibilities, could improve market integrity and lower barriers to entry. While smaller firms may face pressure from compliance costs, the long-term trajectory points toward a rules-based market where crypto can operate on the same footing as traditional finance. As Congress prepares for floor votes on all three bills, the tone has shifted. Crypto is no longer an experimental frontier—it is fast becoming a regulated asset class in the eyes of U.S. law. Whether this transformation keeps pace with the rest of the world is still unclear. The post U.S. Crypto Week Brings Regulatory Shift: What the GENIUS, CLARITY, and Anti-CBDC Acts Really Mean appeared first on Cryptonews .
XRP has officially smashed through its old ceiling. On Thursday, it hit $3.40, matching its all-time high from 2018, with a 10% price jump in just 24 hours and a 35% rally across the week. The market cap surged to $192,321,496,870, making XRP one of the most explosive tokens in a week filled with aggressive bets and growing institutional interest. One of those players is a whale who opened a $15 million long position on Hyperliquid, showing clear belief in more upside. That wasn’t an isolated bet either. Trading data shows that XRP now holds the highest long-short ratio among major cryptocurrencies, meaning traders are loading up on bullish positions far more than shorts. That kind of imbalance, though, can cut both ways. While it shows widespread confidence, it also hints at excessive leverage that could trigger a sudden pullback if sentiment turns. Carlos Guzman, an analyst at GSR, told DL News that “XRP tends to perform quite well when crypto as a whole rallies.” That trend has held up this week as XRP caught wind from broader market momentum. But this isn’t just another round of retail pump-and-dump. The demand is looking a lot more structural this time. Companies and ETF managers pour in as XRP trades near record Institutional demand is one of the main drivers behind XRP’s current push. Companies like VivoPower and Webus have now adopted XRP as a treasury reserve asset, proving real corporate balance sheet use, not just speculation. VivoPower is a clean energy firm, while Webus runs a ride-hailing app. Both firms have quietly added XRP to their reserves, betting on the token’s stability and future growth. On the investment side, Teucrium’s leveraged XRP ETF has pulled in more assets than all of its agricultural offerings combined. The ETF’s share price doubled in July, jumping from $24 to $48.20, which is a 50% gain within just a few weeks. The scale of that inflow shows how deep institutional interest has become. And the wave isn’t slowing down. ProShares is launching three XRP funds this week, each focused on derivatives or futures. These vehicles will give investors tools to bet on XRP’s movement without directly holding the crypto. That includes traders who want more flexible exposure or simply want to take a position in ways that aren’t possible through direct buying. KEY Difference Wire helps crypto brands break through and dominate headlines fast
Whichever way bitcoin goes, it’s not going to be a small move. With every cycle, the target for the moon gets higher.