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最新ニュース Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust (BTC) Common units of fractional undivided beneficial interest (ARCA:BTC)

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Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust (BTC) is solely and passively invested in Bitcoin. Its investment objective is to reflect the value of Bitcoin held by the Trust, less expenses and other liabilities.

Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust

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BACTOLAC PHARM INC by Bactolac Pharmaceutical, Inc.

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Biotricity Inc

BitcoinZ

Markets in the U.S. will pause on Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, even as political and financial tensions mount ahead of<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/donald-trump"> Donald Trump's presidential inauguration.</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">US Stock And Bond Markets Are Closed</h3>
The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq will not operate on Monday, in line with standard market holidays. Trading will restart on Tuesday with regular hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET.
Last Friday, the S&amp;P 500 index — tracked by the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) — closed 1% higher at 5,996 points, now hovering at less than 2 percentage points below record highs.
The Treasury market is also closed, leaving investors to digest potential policy shifts from the incoming administration without access to U.S. government bond trading.
Futures markets will observe an early close at 1:00 p.m. ET. 
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Commodities Futures On Alert Amid Trump Measures</h3>
Futures on precious metals, such as gold and silver, will wrap up slightly later at 1:30 p.m. ET.
Energy contracts, including crude oil and natural gas, will follow normal trading hours. Futures on the West Texas Intermediate light crude traded 0.4% higher to $78 a barrel during early morning trading in New York. 
Energy markets will be on high alert as President-elect Trump announces his first economic policies.
 The incoming administration is expected to roll back regulations on U.S. oil and gas production, potentially unleashing a surge in domestic output, while also adopting a more aggressive stance against Iran and Russia.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">FX Traders On Edge As Trump Eyes Tariff Blitz</h3>
Currency trading remains open, with forex traders preparing for potential dollar swings. 
Trump has signaled a hardline <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/01/42988641/trump-wants-trade-partners-to-start-paying-announces-external-revenue-service-for-tariffs">stance on trade policies</a>, with the possibility of steep tariffs on Chinese goods — up to 60% — and additional levies of 10% to 20% on imports from other countries, including neighbors such as Canada and Mexico.
The dollar's reaction could set the tone for global markets in the weeks ahead. Should Trump confirm his aggressive trade agenda, analysts expect increased demand for the greenback.
The U.S. dollar slightly weakened by 0.4% against the euro, while inching 0.1% higher vis-à-vis the Japanese yen. 
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Bitcoin Hits Record High As Crypto Speculation Heats Up</h3>
Unlike equities and bonds, the cryptocurrency market never sleeps. 
Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) surged to an all-time high of $109,350 overnight, riding a wave of speculation that Trump's administration may usher in an era of deregulation for the crypto sector.
Adding fuel to the fire, Trump floated the idea of a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve, a controversial move that has drawn both praise and skepticism from market participants. 
According to CFTC-regulated platform Kalshi, betting markets price in a 63% chance that Trump will create a National Bitcoin Fund by the end of the year.
Over the weekend, the President-elect launched his own meme coin, TRUMP (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">TRUMP</a>), which rapidly soared to a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43076559/donald-trumps-meme-coin-trump-rallies-103-in-a-day-creates-billions-out-of-thin-air">$15 billion market capitalization.</a> It has since been on a downtrend, plummeting to a $9.3 billion market cap at last check Monday. 
First Lady Melania Trump also introduced her own digital asset, MELANIA (CRYPTO: MELANIA), which amassed a $2 billion valuation within hours. 
Read Now: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/43068639/betting-markets-brace-for-wave-of-executive-orders-on-trump-day-1-immigration-tariffs-top-issues-on-the-table">Betting Markets Brace For Wave Of Executive Orders On Trump Day 1: Immigration, Tariffs Top Issues On The Table</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

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Commodities

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$BTC

$TRUMP

PowerShares DB US Dollar Index Bullish Fund

Is The Market Open On Martin Luther King Jr. Day? Here's What Investors Need To Know

Jamie Dimon, the CEO of banking behemoth JPMorgan, has maintained a divergent view about cryptocurrencies.&nbsp;
While he frequently disses Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>), the most valued cryptocurrency, he appears to have a favorable view of blockchain technology in general and projects based on smart contracts.
What happened: During an interview with CNBC in January 2023, Dimon made a clear differentiation between the two types of cryptocurrencies.
"There&#8217;s a cryptocurrency which might actually do something. Think of a cryptocurrency that has an embedded smart contract in it and that we can use it to buy and sell real estate and move data. That may have value," the CEO of the world&#8217;s most valuable bank said.&nbsp;
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Though Dimon did not identify a specific cryptocurrency, the word &#8220;smart contract&#8221; possibly referred to Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) and blockchains and decentralized applications built on the network.
Smart contracts are self-executing computer programs that facilitate transactions without a central authority. Ethereum is well-known as the largest smart contract-enabled platform.
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42735744/pharma-bro-martin-shkreli-predicts-doom-for-michael-saylors-microstrategy-as-stock-dips-below-300-in-after-hours-trading"> </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42994641/italys-largest-bank-leaps-into-bitcoin-trading-with-1-million-test-investment-but-ceo-says-he-doesnt-invest-in-btc-personally">Italy&#8217;s Largest Bank Leaps Into Bitcoin Trading With $1 Million &#8216;Test&#8217; Investment But CEO Says He Doesn&#8217;t Invest In BTC Personally</a>
When Dimon made this assertion, Ethereum traded at $2,531.26 a piece. So, if you invested $1000, you&#8217;d have received 0.3950 units of ETH.&nbsp;
Today, one Ethereum was exchanging hands at $3,443.36. This meant that the original investment would have turned $1360.33, reflecting a return of 36%.
Why It Matters: Dimon&#8217;s opinions suggested that he supported cryptocurrency projects that have utility and could solve real-world problems, unlike Bitcoin, which is speculative and relies on expectations of long-term value growth.&nbsp;
Dimon <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42940832/jamie-dimon-says-hes-not-against-blockchains-but-trades-guns-on-bitcoin-again-it-has-no-intrinsic-value-i-just-dont-feel-great-about">reaffirmed this attitude</a> earlier this month, stating that blockchains will have long-term use. In the same breath, he linked Bitcoin with illicit activities like s&#x2A;x trafficking and money laundering.
Interestingly, JPMorgan has invested in Ethereum exchange-traded funds, with a significant stake in Grayscale Ethereum Trust ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ETHE#NYSE">ETHE</a>) and its miniature version, Grayscale Ethereum Mini Trust ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ETH#NYSE">ETH</a>).
Price Action: At the time of writing, Ethereum was exchanging hands at $3,422.62, up 4.43% in the last 24 hours, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard?_gl=1&#x2A;380nj0&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTEyOTAyOTcxMy4xNzEzMzY0NTYy&#x2A;_ga_V7ZK73W7N0&#x2A;MTcxNDk4MzIzMi42LjEuMTcxNDk4OTE0Ni4wLjAuMA..">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42993521/michael-saylors-microstrategy-not-alone-in-bitcoin-acquisition-says-bitwise-chief-investment-officer-its-a-bona-fide-megatrend">Michael Saylor&#8217;s MicroStrategy Not Alone In Bitcoin Acquisition, Says Bitwise Chief Investment Officer: &#8216;It&#8217;s A Bona Fide Megatrend&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>

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Cryptocurrency

$ETH

ETHE

If You Invested $1,000 In Ethereum When Jamie Dimon Said Cryptos With Smart Contracts Have Value, Here's How Much You'd Have Today

Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) tapped a new record high of $109,000 past Sunday midnight ahead of Donald Trump&#8217;s presidential inauguration
What happened: The world&#8217;s largest cryptocurrency briefly touched $109,000, bettering its previous record at $108,135. However, the coin couldn&#8217;t sustain its rally and retraced to the $107,000 zone as of this writing.
The spike spurred a broader market rally, causing large-cap cryptocurrencies like Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) and XRP (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xrp/usd">XRP</a>) to trade in the green.
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42735744/pharma-bro-martin-shkreli-predicts-doom-for-michael-saylors-microstrategy-as-stock-dips-below-300-in-after-hours-trading"> </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42994641/italys-largest-bank-leaps-into-bitcoin-trading-with-1-million-test-investment-but-ceo-says-he-doesnt-invest-in-btc-personally">Italy&#8217;s Largest Bank Leaps Into Bitcoin Trading With $1 Million &#8216;Test&#8217; Investment But CEO Says He Doesn&#8217;t Invest In BTC Personally</a>
Why It Matters: The record-breaking surge comes hours ahead of the presidential inauguration of Trump, who championed the industry's cause during his election campaign.
The market has been brimming with optimism, as reports have indicated that the president-elect would&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43047039/trump-planning-to-declare-cryptocurrency-as-national-priority-increase-engagement-with-industry-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">announce several measures</a>&nbsp;to help the digital asset industry expand, including declaring cryptocurrency a national priority.
The rally also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43078226/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-plunge-as-trumps-official-memecoin-loses-way-analyst-underlines-importance-of-btcs-weekly-close-above-this-resistance-level">reversed losses incurred Sunday evening</a> following the dramatic dump of Trump&#8217;s official meme coin, OFFICIAL TRUMP.
Price Action: At the time of writing, Bitcoin was exchanging hands at $107,955.61, up 3.25% in the last 24 hours, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard?_gl=1&#x2A;380nj0&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTEyOTAyOTcxMy4xNzEzMzY0NTYy&#x2A;_ga_V7ZK73W7N0&#x2A;MTcxNDk4MzIzMi42LjEuMTcxNDk4OTE0Ni4wLjAuMA..">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42993521/michael-saylors-microstrategy-not-alone-in-bitcoin-acquisition-says-bitwise-chief-investment-officer-its-a-bona-fide-megatrend">Michael Saylor&#8217;s MicroStrategy Not Alone In Bitcoin Acquisition, Says Bitwise Chief Investment Officer: &#8216;It&#8217;s A Bona Fide Megatrend&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

$XRP

Bitcoin Hits Record $109,000 Ahead Of Trump's Inauguration, Sparks Market Rally

Leading cryptocurrencies fell sharply Sunday evening amid the launch of meme coins tied to President-elect Donald Trump and his family.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 8:30 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</td>
<td>-3.89%</td>
<td>$100,239.24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>-4.61%</td>
<td>$3,189.30</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>-12.44%</td>
<td>$0.3505</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
What Happened: Bitcoin plummeted from $106,180 to $99,622 in three hours, eroding $130 billion worth of investors' wealth.
Similarly, Ethereum tanked from $3,414 to $3,150, marking a 4.61% decline in the last 24 hours.
The broader market slump coincided with a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43078040/trump-coin-tanks-36-even-as-melania-trump-launches-her-own-token-top-analyst-says-his-short-is-going-very-very-well">significant drop</a> in the OFFICIAL TRUMP token launched a couple of days ago.&nbsp;
The enthusiasm linked with the coin evolved into negativity as incoming First Lady Melania Trump launched her own meme coin on Sunday.
Over $1 billion was liquidated from the cryptocurrency market in the last 24 hours, with long liquidations accounting for $925 million.
Bitcoin's Open Interest fell 2.05% in the last 24 hours to $66.77 billion. That said, the majority of derivatives traders were bullish on the asset, as indicated by the Long/Short Ratio.
That said, more than half of derivatives traders on Binance placed short bets on Bitcoin, expecting a correction.
The market sentiment entered the "Extreme Greed" zone, according to the Crypto Fear &amp; Greed Index, sparking concerns of further market correction.
Top Gainers (24-Hours)
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 8:30 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>OFFICIAL TRUMP (TRUMP)</td>
<td>+74.00%</td>
<td>$46.06</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fartcoin (FARTCOIN)</td>
<td>+9.95%</td>
<td>$1.92</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DeXe (DEXE)</td>
<td>+2.10%</td>
<td>$17.55</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The global cryptocurrency market capitalization stood at $3.45 trillion, contracting by 5.15% in the last 24 hours.
Stock futures edged slightly lower Sunday evening. The Dow Jones Industrial Average Futures fell 30 points, or 0.07%, as of 9 p.m. EDT.&nbsp; Futures tied to the S&amp;P 500 dipped 0.07%, while Nasdaq 100 Futures slipped 0.13%.
The moves come after major averages posted their biggest weekly gain since the presidential elections in November. The Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&amp;P 500 rose 3.19% and 3.40%, respectively.
The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will remain closed on Monday to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
See More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-crypto-scanners">Best Cryptocurrency Scanners</a>
Analyst Notes: Widely followed cryptocurrency analyst Rekt Capital identified $104,500 as a crucial resistance level for Bitcoin.
"Weekly close above red [$104,500] followed by a successful retest would likely confirm the breakout to new ATHs," the analyst stated, adding a caveat.
"However, a weekly close below red and it&#8217;s possible BTC could pullback again, however likely for a shallower retrace compared to the one of mid-December 2024."
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BTC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BTC</a> Bitcoin is trying to assert itself relative to this final major Weekly resistance before new All Time Highs Weekly Close above red followed by a successful retest would likely confirm the breakout to new ATHs However, a Weekly Close below red and it&#39;s possible BTC could… <a href="https://t.co/WTKEEpziNt">pic.twitter.com/WTKEEpziNt</a>
&mdash; Rekt Capital (@rektcapital) <a href="https://twitter.com/rektcapital/status/1881009268293251171?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Meanwhile, Michaël van de Poppe, another popular cryptocurrency market commentator, maintained his bullish view on altcoins.
"I expect that we&#8217;ll see strength on Ethereum, Chainlink, Aave, and a lot of altcoins in the coming week as yields are going down and the DXY becomes weaker," he added. "Great times are ahead of us."
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">A tremendous weekend with <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24TRUMP&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$TRUMP</a> and a cascade on the altcoins. I expect that we&#39;ll see strength on <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24ETH&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$ETH</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24LINK&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$LINK</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24AAVE&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$AAVE</a> and a lot of altcoins in the coming week as Yields are going down and the <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24DXY&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$DXY</a> becomes weaker. Great times are ahead of us.
&mdash; Michaël van de Poppe (@CryptoMichNL) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoMichNL/status/1881090758167474264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Photo by CMP_NZ on Shutterstock
Read Next:    
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43035888/donald-trump-reportedly-open-to-us-crypto-reserve-as-bitcoin-reserve-chatter-gathers-steam">Donald Trump Reportedly Open To US Crypto Reserve As Bitcoin Reserve Chatter Gathers Steam</a></li>
</ul>

Movers

Trading Ideas

$DOGE

Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Plunge As Official Trump Memecoin Loses Way: Analyst Says 'Great Times Are Ahead' For These Coins As Dollar Index Weakens

The cryptocurrency market saw a notable surge on Saturday. Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>), Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) and Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) all experienced a rise in value, as traders anticipate a potential <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42379899/trump-fuels-bitcoin-rally-but-where-will-it-go-next-year">&#8216;Trump bump&#8217; with the upcoming second Donald Trump presidency.</a>
What Happened: The crypto market sprung to life on the final trading day before the Trump&nbsp;administration takes over. Bitcoin spearheaded the rally, surging 2.81% and almost touching&nbsp;$104,987 per token. Ethereum (ETH&nbsp;-0.22%) and Dogecoin (DOGE -0.16%) also saw gains.
There is widespread speculation that President-elect Trump will prioritize cryptocurrency, with rumors of an executive order on his first day in office. This might include the appointment of a more crypto-friendly chairman for the Securities and Exchange Commission.
However, traders are advised to be cautious of the speed of policy changes in Washington. While changes to the industry&#8217;s rules may require congressional action, this doesn&#8217;t necessarily translate to a direct value gain for meme coins and blockchain tokens.
Instead, it could lead to&nbsp;assets like stocks and bonds&nbsp;trading&nbsp;on the blockchain and more&nbsp;business formation taking place on the blockchain.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42499633/exclusive-eric-trump-declares-bitcoin-the-future-details-tax-free-crypto-goals-for-trump-presidency">EXCLUSIVE: Eric Trump Declares Bitcoin The Future, Details Tax-Free Crypto Goals For Trump Presidency</a>
Despite the current speculation-driven surge, the market may face disappointment if the news doesn&#8217;t meet high expectations. 
The Federal Reserve cannot&nbsp;make Bitcoin or any other&nbsp;cryptocurrency a reserve currency without&nbsp;Congressional action, which seems unlikely in the current political climate.
The market movement today is largely driven by speculation that Trump will be beneficial for the crypto market. However, similar speculation in 2021 led to a market crash in 2022, cautioning investors against buying tokens based solely on speculation.
Why It Matters: The potential for a &#8216;Trump bump&#8217; in the cryptocurrency market is significant, given the President-elect&#8217;s rumored focus on this sector. 
However, the history of speculation-driven surges and crashes in the crypto market serves as a warning to investors. The potential for policy changes under the new administration could have far-reaching implications for the industry, but these changes are uncertain and could take time to implement. 
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/07/40001426/trump-aims-to-make-us-crypto-capital-of-the-planet-well-get-it-done" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Aims To Make US ‘Crypto Capital Of The Planet': ‘We'll Get It Done'</a>
Image: Midjourney

Bitcoin, Ethereum and Dogecoin Spike on Optimism Over New Trump Presidency

Benzinga examined the prospects for<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas"> many investors&#8217; favorite stocks</a> over the last week — here&#8217;s a look at some of our top stories.
The Dow, S&amp;P 500, and Nasdaq gained 3.7%, 2.9%, and 2.5% this week, respectively, with all three posting their strongest advances in weeks. 
A December inflation report, showing a 2.9% rise <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/01/43003047/stocks-rise-on-core-inflation-slowdown-banks-rally-after-strong-q4-earnings-treasury-yields-plummet">and softer core inflation</a>, fueled optimism for potential Fed rate cuts this year. Financial stocks surged 6% as major banks reported stellar earnings, with Goldman Sachs jumping 11% to record highs. 
Meanwhile, Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) crossed $100,000 amid optimism surrounding crypto-friendly policies expected under the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43068335/wall-street-rallies-as-inflation-fears-recede-banks-smash-earnings-bitcoin-reclaims-100000-this-week-in-the-markets">incoming Trump administration.</a>
Benzinga provides daily reports on the stocks most popular with investors. Here are a few of this past week&#8217;s most bullish and bearish posts that are worth another look.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Bulls</h3>
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/01/43036902/tesla-stock-valuation-analyst-flags-long-term-growth-opportunities-robotaxis-fsd">Tesla Stock &#8216;Valuation Is Full&#8217;: Analyst Flags Long-Term Growth Opportunities With Robotaxis, FSD</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/chris-katje">Chris Katje</a>, discusses a Goldman Sachs analyst&#8217;s insights on Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), forecasting $115 million in 2027 revenue from robotaxis as Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology advances.
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42993997/dogecoin-to-hit-new-all-time-high-after-trump-is-sworn-in-influencer-says-pattern-nearly-identical-to-last-inauguration">Dogecoin To Hit New All-Time High After Trump Is Sworn In? Influencer Says Pattern &#8216;Nearly Identical&#8217; To Last Inauguration</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/aniket-verma">Aniket Verma</a>, highlights speculation among influencers that Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) could replicate its post-inauguration rally from 2021, with one suggesting DOGE might double to $0.73 if historical patterns repeat.
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/initiation/25/01/43010706/doge-fears-for-defense-contractors-lockheed-martin-northrop-grumman-overblown-analyst-says">DOGE Fears For Defense Contractors Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman &#8216;Overblown,&#8217; Analyst Says</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/erica-kollmann">Erica Kollmann</a>, features an analyst initiating coverage on Lockheed Martin Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) and Northrop Grumman Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOC#NYSE">NOC</a>) with Buy ratings and targets of $579 and $544, dismissing concerns tied to Donald Trump's proposed Department of Government Efficiency as exaggerated.
For additional bullish calls of the past week, check out the following:
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42948649/goldman-sachs-warns-of-90-oil-risk-trump-may-not-ease-sanctions-once-he-takes-office">Oil Could Hit $90, Goldman Sachs Says: &#8216;Trump May Not Ease Sanctions&#8217; On Russia</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42692787/private-prisons-poised-to-prosper-in-second-trump-term">CoreCivic, Geo Group Rally By Double Digits Since Election Day: Why Trump Boosts Private Prison Stocks</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/01/43035566/taiwan-semiconductor-projects-ai-revenue-to-double-in-2025-highlights-advanced-packaging-as-growth-driver-analyst">Taiwan Semiconductor Projects AI Revenue To Double In 2025, Highlights Advanced Packaging As Growth Driver: Analyst</a>
The Bears
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42960291/metas-content-moderation-changes-alarm-advertisers-as-zuckerberg-aligns-with-trump-and-musk">Meta&#8217;s Content Moderation Changes Alarm Advertisers as Zuckerberg Aligns with Trump and Musk</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/anusuya-lahiri-0">Anusuya Lahiri</a>, reports on Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) adopting a &#8220;free speech&#8221; content moderation style inspired by Elon Musk&#8217;s X, raising advertiser concerns over harmful content.
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/short-ideas/25/01/43037214/drone-maker-red-cat-set-to-be-blown-out-of-the-sky-short-seller-claims-management-set-almost-impossible-expectations">Drone Maker Red Cat &#8216;Set To Be Blown Out Of The Sky&#8217;: Short Seller Claims Management Set &#8216;Almost Impossible&#8217; Expectations</a>,&#8221; by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/adam-eckert">Adam Eckert</a>, covers Kerrisdale Capital's short position on Red Cat Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RCAT#NASDAQ">RCAT</a>), arguing the company&#8217;s valuation is inflated by unrealistic expectations surrounding its U.S. Army SRR drone contract, which the firm says bears &#8220;almost no relationship to reality.&#8221;
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42986042/apple-sees-market-share-decline-in-2024-as-chinese-smartphone-brands-surge-globally-idc">Apple Sees Market Share Decline in 2024 as Chinese Smartphone Brands Surge Globally: IDC</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/anusuya-lahiri-0">Anusuya Lahiri</a>, highlights Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) losing global market share to Chinese competitors like Xiaomi Corp. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XIACF#OTC">XIACF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XIACY#OTC">XIACY</a>) as smartphone shipments grew 6.4% in 2024, driven by affordable premium offerings and aggressive pricing in emerging markets.
For more bearish takes, be sure to see these posts:
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42970112/nvidia-order-delays-and-ai-sanctions-threaten-global-sales-offer-growth-opportunity-for-us-tech-giants">US Semiconductor Sanctions Spell Trouble for Nvidia, But May Benefit Big Tech</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/43017875/southwest-airlines-is-sued-by-department-of-transportation-over-chronically-delayed-flights">Southwest Airlines Is Sued By Department Of Transportation Over &#8216;Chronically Delayed&#8217; Flights</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42938301/michael-saylors-microstrategy-will-struggle-when-bitcoins-volatility-falls-says-arthur-hayesi-would-not-trade-mstr-at-all">Michael Saylor&#8217;s MicroStrategy Will Struggle When Bitcoin&#8217;s Volatility Falls, Says Arthur Hayes — I Would Not Trade MSTR At All</a>
Keep up with all the latest breaking news and trading ideas by following<a href="https://twitter.com/Benzinga"> Benzinga</a><a href="http://twitter.com/Benzinga"> on Twitter</a>.
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Long Ideas

Short Ideas

AAPL

RCAT

TSLA

XIACF

XIACY

Benzinga Bulls And Bears: Tesla, Apple, Meta And Dogecoin Influencers See Pattern For Post-2025 Inauguration Rally

Despite his well-known disdain for cryptocurrencies, the &#8216;Oracle Of Omaha&#8217; &#8211; Warren Buffett&#8216;s Berkshire Hathaway Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) has invested in a company that supports the cryptocurrency market and has soared by 27.43% in 2024.
What Happened: Buffett&#8217;s Berkshire had <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/05/39093145/berkshire-hathaway-profits-f[%E2%80%A6]to-despite-warren-buffets-stance-on-not-buying-even-if-all-w">initially</a> invested $500 million in a Series G funding round and subsequently another $250 million in Nu Holdings Ltd (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NU#NYSE">NU</a>). 
Nu, a Brazilian digital banking company launched its cryptocurrency platform, Nubank Cripto, in 2022. Berkshire has since added 0.3% of this company&#8217;s shares in 18 months as of the quarter ended Sept. 30, 2024. 
Berkshire increased its holdings from 0.1% in the fourth quarter that ended Dec. 31, 2022, to 0.4% in the third quarter of fiscal 2025.
Initially supporting Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>), Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>), and Polygon (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/matic/usd">MATIC</a>), the platform, Nubank Cripto, now includes Uniswap (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/uni/usd">UNI</a>) and Chainlink (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/link/usd">LINK</a>). It allows users to send, receive, and convert cryptocurrencies, including stablecoins like USD Coin.
In 2018, during Berkshire Hathaway Inc.&#8217;s annual <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/03/37513063/warren-buffett-says-he-wouldnt-pay-25-for-all-the-bitcoin-in-the-world-he-considers-crypto-rat-poiso">shareholder</a> meeting, Buffett famously described Bitcoin as &#8220;probably rat poison squared&#8221;. On the contrary, Berkshire has profited substantially through its investment in Nu.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42908280/intel-aims-for-cpu-market-share-growth-ai-breakthroughs-citi-reiterates-neutral-as-new-ceo-appointment-expected-in-coming-months">Intel Stock Has Fallen Over 58% In 1 Year, But Citi Maintains &#8216;Neutral&#8217; Rating On Expected Replacement Of Pat Gelsinger In A &#8216;Couple Of Months&#8217;</a> 
Why It Matters: According to its 13F filings, Berkshire held 86.438 million shares of Nu valued at $1.179 billion, as of the end of the third quarter.
With data for the fourth quarter not available at the time of writing, assuming that Berkshire&#8217;s holdings in Nu don&#8217;t change during this period, the value of these shares would have declined by 24.10% as of the quarter ended Dec. 31, when the share price was $10.36, as compared to $13.65 on Sept. 30, 2024.
However, Nu&#8217;s shares have risen by 27.43% in 2024, according to the data compiled by <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13074755/nu-in-2024-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-730370" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13074755/nu-in-2024-1024x576.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13074755/nu-in-2024-300x169.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13074755/nu-in-2024-768x432.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13074755/nu-in-2024-1536x864.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13074755/nu-in-2024.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
While Nu offers cryptocurrency services, one can argue in favor of Buffett that it&#8217;s not primarily a cryptocurrency company.
However, back in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/03/37513063/warren-buffett-says-he-wouldnt-pay-25-for-all-the-bitcoin-in-the-world-he-considers-crypto-rat-poiso">2018</a>, Buffett also said &#8220;In terms of cryptocurrencies generally, I can say almost with certainty that they will come to a bad ending.&#8221;
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/25/01/42938954/michael-saylors-microstrategy-faces-risk-if-mstrs-0-convertible-bond-lenders-recall-non-recourse-loans-due-to-covenant-breach-heres-what-it-means-for-investors">Michael Saylor&#8217;s MicroStrategy Faces Risk If MSTR&#8217;s 0% Convertible Bond Lenders Recall Non-Recourse Loans Due To Covenant Breach: Here&#8217;s What It Means For Investors</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Equities

Financing

Management

$LINK

$MATIC

$UNI

LINK

Warren Buffett Openly Called Bitcoin A 'Rat Poison' In 2018. 7 Years Later, He Is Invested In This Crypto-Linked Stock Which Soared 27% In 2024

Michaël van de Poppe, a highly followed crypto trader, anticipates a significant bullish surge for Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) in the near future, as the apex cryptocurrency crossed the $100,000 mark once again ahead of President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration.
What Happened: Van de Poppe predicted a forthcoming bullish move for Bitcoin. However, he suggests that altcoins, particularly those in the Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) ecosystem, will likely outperform Bitcoin.
"Very likely we&#8217;ll see a new impulse on #Bitcoin in the coming period," he said.
Factors such as lower yields, a weaker dollar, and progressive crypto regulation are propelling the market momentum, according to van de Poppe. He also notes that&nbsp;the current crypto cycle is&nbsp;more &#8220;complex&#8221; than the previous one, a trend that has been ongoing since the last cycle.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Very likely we&#39;ll see a new impulse on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> in the coming period. However, I think it&#39;s more likely that we&#39;ll see <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Altcoins?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Altcoins</a> outperform Bitcoin, especially the <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24ETH&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$ETH</a> ecosystem. Lower yields, weaker Dollar, progressive crypto regulation all fueling the market momentum.
&mdash; Michaël van de Poppe (@CryptoMichNL) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoMichNL/status/1880229332347445430?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Van de Poppe plans to increase his exposure to altcoins, expecting a breakout. He stated, &#8220;At this point: I'd like&nbsp;to be maximally exposed to&nbsp;risk as we're literally on&nbsp;the start of that upwards&nbsp;move for altcoins."
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43073027/trump-plans-crypto-friendly-executive-orders-in-early-days-of-presidency-report">Trump Plans Crypto-Friendly Executive Orders In Early Days Of Presidency: Report</a>
Why It Matters: The crypto market has been <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/01/43047598/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-steady-as-market-expects-trumps-pro-crypto-bonanza-analyst-says-btc-could-hit-all-time-high-if-it-breaks-this-resistance">experiencing a surge of optimism</a> following signals of a pro-crypto policy shift from the incoming administration under Trump.
Key figures and investors in the crypto space have expressed relief at the anticipated policy change, buoyed by appointments of crypto-friendly individuals to prominent positions, including David Sacks as AI and crypto czar, and Paul Atkins as the nominee for SEC Chair.
These moves, coupled with expectations of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43035888/donald-trump-reportedly-open-to-us-crypto-reserve-as-bitcoin-reserve-chatter-gathers-steam">executive orders designed to establish a Bitcoin reserve</a>, signal a new era for the industry in the U.S.
Furthermore, leading coins remained steady on Thursday amid reports that President-elect Donald Trump may announce several pro-cryptocurrency measures after being sworn in. Bitcoin wiggled in the $100,000 region, a day after reclaiming the psychologically important level on softer inflation data.
Price Action: At the time of writing, Bitcoin was trading at $102,403, gaining 0.6% in the last 24 hours, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro data</a>.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42931869/jeff-bezos-amazon-to-pay-40-million-for-melania-trump-documentary-report">Jeff Bezos&#8217; Amazon To Pay $40 Million For Melania Trump Documentary: Report</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Analyst Color

Bitcoin Set For Major Bullish Surge, Says Popular Crypto Analyst As BTC Crosses $100,000 Ahead Of Trump Inauguration

President-elect&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;is reportedly preparing to issue executive orders aimed at fostering a more favorable environment for cryptocurrency firms. These actions are anticipated to occur shortly after he assumes office, marking a significant shift in the regulatory landscape for digital assets.
What Happened:&nbsp; Trump intends to utilize executive powers to ease regulatory burdens on cryptocurrency companies and promote the adoption of digital assets, according to a report by Reuters.
Trump, who has openly supported cryptocurrency,&nbsp;is expected to sign an&nbsp;executive order to establish a crypto advisory council, a concept he initially proposed in July, according to two anonymous sources familiar with the discussions.
Media reports earlier Trump&#8217;s plan to create&nbsp;a crypto council, which would&nbsp;provide guidance on crypto-friendly policies.
The council may consist of up to 20 members, as per one source.
Additionally, Trump&#8217;s advisers are considering an executive order directing the&nbsp;Securities and Exchange Commission&nbsp;to revoke the 2022 accounting guidance &#8220;SAB 121,&#8221; which has been costly for some companies, especially banks, to hold cryptocurrencies for third parties.
Trump is also poised to terminate &#8220;Operation Choke Point 2.0,&#8221; a term used by crypto executives to describe alleged efforts by bank regulators to exclude crypto companies from traditional financial systems. Bank regulators have denied such claims.
If executed, these policy directives could significantly advance cryptocurrency into the mainstream, contrasting with President&nbsp;Joe Biden&#8216;s administration&#8217;s strict regulatory stance.
Why It Matters: The potential executive orders align with Trump&#8217;s broader strategy to prioritize cryptocurrency as a national focus. Trump plans to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43047039/trump-planning-to-declare-cryptocurrency-as-national-priority-increase-engagement-with-industry-report">declare cryptocurrency a national priority</a>, encouraging government agencies to engage with the growing industry.
This comes as Bitcoin&#8217;s (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) market valuation recently surpassed $2 trillion, highlighting the sector&#8217;s increasing significance.
Furthermore,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43062997/exclusive-how-donald-trumps-crypto-plans-will-bitcoin-xrp-solana">cryptocurrency experts</a>&nbsp;are divided on the likelihood of immediate executive orders but remain optimistic about the market&#8217;s near-term outlook.
The potential for Trump to mention cryptocurrency during his inauguration speech is also being speculated, with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43065423/donald-trump-to-mention-bitcoin-or-crypto-at-the-inauguration-polymarket-traders-say-theres-a-chance">Polymarket traders</a>&nbsp;giving it a 31% chance of happening.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42931941/mark-zuckerberg-critiques-culturally-neutered-companies-advocates-for-masculine-energy-as-meta-cuts-dei-programs-post-joe-rogan-appearance">Mark Zuckerberg Critiques &#8216;Culturally Neutered&#8217; Companies, Advocates For &#8216;Masculine Energy&#8217; As Meta Cuts DEI Programs Post-Joe Rogan Appearance</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image created via photos on Shutterstock

Politics

Trump Plans Crypto-Friendly Executive Orders In Early Days Of Presidency: Report

Digital Currency Group (DCG), a prominent player in the cryptocurrency industry, on Friday agreed to settle with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for misleading investors.
What Happened: DCG, founded by&nbsp;Barry Silbert, and its former executive,&nbsp;Soichiro &#8220;Michael&#8221; Moro, will collectively pay $38.5 million to the SEC. This settlement is to resolve charges of providing false information about the financial state of Genesis Global Capital, a crypto lending unit once under DCG.
The SEC&nbsp;found that DCG and Moro&nbsp;misrepresented Genesis&#8217;s financial condition during a period of instability caused by the collapse of FTX in 2022. This included downplaying the impact of a major Genesis borrower&#8217;s default on the company&#8217;s business.
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42735744/pharma-bro-martin-shkreli-predicts-doom-for-michael-saylors-microstrategy-as-stock-dips-below-300-in-after-hours-trading" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42994641/italys-largest-bank-leaps-into-bitcoin-trading-with-1-million-test-investment-but-ceo-says-he-doesnt-invest-in-btc-personally" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Italy's Largest Bank Leaps Into Bitcoin Trading With $1 Million ‘Test' Investment But CEO Says He Doesn't Invest In BTC Personally</a>
The SEC noted that DCG and Moro agreed to pay the penalties without admitting or denying the allegations of violating the Securities Act of 1933. This settlement comes after a separate agreement in May 2024, in which New York Attorney General Letitia James reached a $2 billion settlement with Genesis to compensate defrauded investors.
Why It Matters: The cryptocurrency industry has been under increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies. This settlement comes in the wake of similar actions taken against other financial firms.
Earlier this month,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42971991/robinhood-agrees-to-45-million-sec-settlement-over-past-violations">Robinhood agreed to pay $45 million to the SEC</a>&nbsp;for a series of regulatory violations. The charges were related to failures in trading activity reporting, cybersecurity practices, recordkeeping, and customer communication.
Additionally, a group of financial firms, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/01/42966800/blackstone-kkr-among-12-firms-to-pay-63-million-to-sec-after-recordkeeping-violations">Blackstone and KKR, settled with the SEC for $63.1 million</a>&nbsp;over recordkeeping violations. These firms were accused of using unauthorized communication methods to exchange messages that were required to be preserved under securities laws.
Meanwhile,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43009858/elon-musk-slams-sec-as-totally-broken-organization">Elon Musk criticized the SEC</a>&nbsp;for focusing on trivial cases and ignoring more significant crimes. This came after the SEC sued Musk for allegedly failing to disclose a substantial stake in X (formerly known as Twitter) before his acquisition of the platform.
Price Action: At the time of writing, Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) was exchanging hands at&nbsp;$103,660.11, up 2% in the last 24 hours, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard?_gl=1&#x2A;380nj0&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTEyOTAyOTcxMy4xNzEzMzY0NTYy&#x2A;_ga_V7ZK73W7N0&#x2A;MTcxNDk4MzIzMi42LjEuMTcxNDk4OTE0Ni4wLjAuMA.." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data from Benzinga Pro</a>. During the same period, Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) lost 0.46%, Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) shed 1.39% and Litecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ltc/usd">LTC</a>) was down 8.29%. 
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42993521/michael-saylors-microstrategy-not-alone-in-bitcoin-acquisition-says-bitwise-chief-investment-officer-its-a-bona-fide-megatrend" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Saylor's MicroStrategy Not Alone In Bitcoin Acquisition, Says Bitwise Chief Investment Officer: ‘It's A Bona Fide Megatrend'</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

General

$LTC

Crypto Firm DCG Settles With SEC For $38.5M Over Misleading Investors

Editor&#8217;s note: the story has been corrected to accurately reflect that Wintermute is a market maker, not a hedge fund.
Crypto market maker Wintermute predicts a potential Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) ETF launch in 2025 alongside other potentially revolutionary developments like the establishment of a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43035888/donald-trump-reportedly-open-to-us-crypto-reserve-as-bitcoin-reserve-chatter-gathers-steam">strategic Bitcoin reserve in the United States</a>.
This forecast is part of a broader analysis that forecasts a series of pivotal changes in the digital asset market in 2025, including maturation of the options market and increased institutional participation.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dogecoin ETF And Bitcoin Reserve Coming?</h2>
Wintermute highlights the possibility of "a core asset manager launch a meme coin ETF…our money's on DOGE," reflecting growing institutional acceptance of digital assets and increasingly diversified investment vehicles.
The firm also anticipates significant changes to the regulatory landscape, particularly within the United States.
Wintermute expects "a more business-friendly approach likely to prioritize legislative clarity with bills like the Digital Commodities Consumer Protection Act (DCCPA), classifying cryptocurrencies as commodities" under the next U.S. administration.
The liquidity provider predicts the U.S. to &#8220;begin consultations to create a strategic Bitcoin reserve,&#8221; forcing China, Europe and the United Arab Emirates to follow.
This move, they believe, may reduce regulatory ambiguity and could lead to greater investment in the crypto sector.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Corporation Getting Into Crypto Could Spark MSTR 2.0</h2>
Increased corporate involvement in the market is also expected. 
"As markets mature, both publicly listed companies and SMEs are expected to increasingly incorporate digital assets into their balance sheets,&#8221; Wintermute stated, further noting corporations may include &#8220;cryptocurrency lending and borrowing markets, tokenized assets, and other novel financial mechanisms.&#8221; 
Based on that, the fund predicts a listed corporation to issue debt or shares to acquire Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>), dubbing it MicroStrategy (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>) 2.0.
The report&#8217;s broader predictions encompass other significant market trends.
According to Wintermute, "The introduction of options on Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, along with increased institutional participation in the underlying, is expected to have two key impacts,&#8221; one of which is a decline in volatility, as market participants increasingly use hedging techniques. 
The firm also expects normalization of skew as options on Bitcoin (CRPYTO: BTC) and Ethereum see similar use to those of traditional assets such as S&amp;P 500 options for risk management.
They see this shift driving further institutional adoption and financial market innovation.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43053129/bitcoin-miners-consolidate-power-12-firms-now-control-30-of-network-hash-rate">Bitcoin Miners Consolidate Power: 12 Firms Now Control 30% Of Network Hash Rate</a>
Other predictions from the report include:
<ul>
<li>Stablecoin Expansion:&nbsp;&#8220;Major tech companies and payment networks, such as Visa (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/V#NYSE">V</a>), Mastercard (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NYSE">MSTR</a>), and PayPal (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PYPL#NYSE">PYPL</a>), are increasingly poised to integrate stablecoins into their ecosystems."</li>
<li>Corporate Acquisitions:&nbsp;&#8220;A large corporate event (dividend/acquisition/merger) will be completed and settled in stablecoins.&#8221;</li>
<li>Token Launches and Listings:&nbsp;"The next year is expected to bring a wave of high-profile token launches and significant exchange listings."</li>
<li>Prime Brokerage Integration:&nbsp;"By 2025, crypto could seamlessly integrate with cross-margining solutions, enabling institutions to optimize capital across asset classes."</li>
<li>Spot Cryptocurrency Trading:&nbsp;&#8220;A ‘systemically important' bank will offer spot Cryptocurrency trading to clients."</li>
<li>Structured Product Demand:&nbsp;&#8220;Digital asset dispersion trades become popularised and lead to structured product demand.&#8221;</li>
<li>Non-EVM Layer 1s:&nbsp;"Non-EVM L1/L2s will gain market share, but Ethereum will still be the leader."</li>
<li>DEX Market Share Gains:&nbsp;"DEXs will see strong gains in market share in 2025 if abstraction products get more widely adopted."</li>
</ul>
Wintermute emphasizes that these predictions represent key trends that are expected to shape the future of the cryptocurrency space in the coming year.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43035888/donald-trump-reportedly-open-to-us-crypto-reserve-as-bitcoin-reserve-chatter-gathers-steam">Donald Trump Reportedly Open To US Crypto Reserve As Bitcoin Reserve Chatter Gathers Steam</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

MSTR

PYPL

2025 To See Dogecoin ETF, Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, 'MicroStrategy Of Ethereum,' Crypto Market Maker Predicts (CORRECTED)

Leading coins remained steady on Thursday amid reports that President-elect Donald Trump may announce several pro-cryptocurrency measures after being sworn in.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 8:30 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</td>
<td>+0.31%</td>
<td>$100,211.61</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>-1.77%</td>
<td>$3,340.29</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+0.54%</td>
<td>$0.3789</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
What Happened: Bitcoin wiggled in the $100,000 region, a day after reclaiming the psychologically important level on softer inflation data.&nbsp;
Ethereum also chopped in the $3,300-$3,900 zone as holders waited for the second-largest cryptocurrency to recapture the $4,000 milestone it reached last month.
The cryptocurrency market was brimming with optimism ahead of Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20. The president-elect was reportedly planning to designate cryptocurrency policy <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43047039/trump-planning-to-declare-cryptocurrency-as-national-priority-increase-engagement-with-industry-report">as a national priority</a>.
Over $332 million was liquidated from the cryptocurrency market in the last 24 hours, with long liquidations accounting for $188 million.
About $960 million in upside bets could be liquidated if Bitcoin falls back to $95,000.
Bitcoin's Open Interest rose 2.21% in the last 24 hours. A sideways price movement, coupled with a rising Open Interest, typically precedes upside breakouts.
That said, more than half of derivatives traders on Binance placed short bets on Bitcoin, expecting a correction.
Top Gainers (24-Hours)
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 8:30 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hedera (HBAR)</td>
<td>+23.49%</td>
<td>$0.387</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Algorand (ALGO)</td>
<td>+12.24%</td>
<td>$0.4854</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>EOS (EOS)</td>
<td>+10.61%</td>
<td>$0.9507</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The global cryptocurrency market capitalization stood at $3.52 trillion, increasing marginally by 0.04% in the last 24 hours.
Stocks reversed course on Thursday, erasing gains from the rally a day before. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 68.42 points, or 0.16%, to 43,153.13 The S&amp;P 500 ended a 3-day winning streak, closing 0.21% lower at 5,937.34. The tech-focused Nasdaq Composite lost 0.89% to end at 19,338.29.
Mega tech stocks such as Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) and Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) slipped 3.44% and 1.96%, respectively, likely contributing to the sell-offs.
See More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-crypto-scanners">Best Cryptocurrency Scanners</a>
Analyst Notes: Popular on-chain analyst Ali Martinez highlighted Bitcoin&#8217;s Long Term Holder Net Unrealized Profit/Loss indicator, which revealed a market sentiment ranging from "Euphoria" to "Greed" for long-term investors.
Net Unrealized Profit/Loss is derived from market value and realized value to track investor sentiment over time for a cryptocurrency.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Long-term holders are starting to feel greedy again as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24BTC&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$BTC</a> reclaims $100,000! <a href="https://t.co/RcOo9g5Ohg">pic.twitter.com/RcOo9g5Ohg</a>
&mdash; Ali (@ali_charts) <a href="https://twitter.com/ali_charts/status/1880048640984481985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Crypto Candy, a widely followed X handle dedicated to cryptocurrency analysis and trading ideas, noted that Bitcoin was encountering a strong resistance zone at $101,000-$103,000, breaking which could propel the apex digital asset to all-time highs.
"Otherwise, if it is rejected once more, we might see it fall back to the $93,000-$91,000 level, although this is considered less likely," Crypto Candy gave the bearish thesis.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24BTC&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$BTC</a> • As anticipated, BTC experienced a price decrease in the lower time frame upon encountering a strong resistance zone, and is now attempting to reclaim that resistance. Repeated tests of this zone appear to be weakening it. • If it successfully breaks through the… <a href="https://t.co/EhOYqdGWGv">pic.twitter.com/EhOYqdGWGv</a>
&mdash; Crypto Candy&#x1f525;&#x1f48e; (@cryptocandy24x) <a href="https://twitter.com/cryptocandy24x/status/1880072388551012445?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Photo by Avi Rozen on Shutterstock
Read Next:    
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43035888/donald-trump-reportedly-open-to-us-crypto-reserve-as-bitcoin-reserve-chatter-gathers-steam">Donald Trump Reportedly Open To US Crypto Reserve As Bitcoin Reserve Chatter Gathers Steam</a></li>
</ul>

NVDA

Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Steady As Market Expects Trump's Pro-Crypto Bonanza: Analyst Says BTC Could Hit All-Time High If It Breaks This Resistance

Bitcoin&#8217;s (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) 6% rally over the past seven days has technical analysts cautiously bullish about <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/bitcoin-price-prediction">its near-term prospects.</a>
What Happened: The apex cryptocurrency briefly tapped the $100,000 mark on Wednesday following cooler-than-expected inflation data but remains below the six-figure mark, trading around $97,600 at the time of writing.
Prominent technical analyst Kevin <a href="https://x.com/Kev_Capital_TA/status/1879690896373084400">highlighted</a> on Wednesday that Bitcoin remains in a falling wedge pattern, a bullish structure that necessitates caution until Bitcoin surpasses $104,000
&#8220;It&#8217;s not time to get overly bullish yet; there&#8217;s still a lot of work to do,&#8221; he noted.
Kevin also pointed out that Bitcoin's dominance trend aligns with expectations. 
A sustained breakdown of Bitcoin dominance below 54.51% could mark a turning point, potentially leading to a lasting &#8220;altcoin season.&#8221;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">100% the only analyst who has called <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BTC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BTC</a> Dominance on the macro every step of the way completely accurately. Haven&#39;t missed. Now we just made our third macro lower high. Break 54.51% and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Altcoins?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Altcoins</a> out performance will catch steam like never before. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Crypto?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Crypto</a> <a href="https://t.co/qqw388vCrx">pic.twitter.com/qqw388vCrx</a>
&mdash; Kevin (@Kev_Capital_TA) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kev_Capital_TA/status/1879671065955475678?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
According to CoinMarketCap, Bitcoin dominance, Bitcoin&#8217;s share of the total cryptocurrency market capitalization, currently stands at 56.53%.
On Dec. 9, 2024, when BTC traded at $101,000, dominance was at 53.9%, with Ethereum at 13% and other altcoins at 33.1%.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42998035/bitcoin-adoption-still-early-blackrock-says">Bitcoin Adoption Still Early, BlackRock Says</a>
What's Next: Daan Crypto Trades <a href="https://x.com/DaanCrypto/status/1879623855641149511">observed</a> a recurring cycle for Bitcoin, with explosive rallies in Q1 and Q4 of 2023 and 2024, contrasted by slower, sideways price movements in Q2 and Q3. &#8220;
Unless investors sold near the top, many were sidelined during Bitcoin&#8217;s rapid 50% surges within one to two months,&#8221; he noted.
He emphasized that modest drawdowns made a &#8220;spot &amp; chill&#8221; strategy effective for most Bitcoin investors.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43006771/bitcoin-up-to-99000-is-loving-inflation-data-release-xrp-dogecoin-follow-higher">Bitcoin Up To $99,000 &#8216;Is Loving&#8217; Inflation Data Release, XRP, Dogecoin Follow Higher</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Bitcoin Sitting Under $100,000: What Does Technical Analysis Say?

Leading cryptocurrencies surged Wednesday amid softer-than-expected consumer inflation and a friendlier regulatory environment under Donald Trump.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 7:30 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</td>
<td>+3.08%</td>
<td>$99,743.07</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+5.46%</td>
<td>$3,394.95</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+5.54%</td>
<td>$0.3787</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
What Happened: Bitcoin topped the $100,000 mark for the first time in nearly 10 days as the leading cryptocurrency reacted to key bullish developments. 
While the latest Consumer Price Index data showed hints of slowing inflation, a report raised hopes for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43008666/sec-under-trump-administration-to-revise-crypto-policies-report">clear cryptocurrency regulations under new SEC leadership</a>.&nbsp;
Ethereum, the second-largest cryptocurrency, reentered the $3.400 zone, hitting an intraday high of $3,465.
Over $350 million were liquidated from the cryptocurrency market in the last 24 hours, with 63% accounting for downside bets.
The market was getting overleveraged, and nearly $1 billion in longs risked liquidation if Bitcoin reversed to $93,000.&nbsp;
About 53% of Binance traders expected Bitcoin to correct, as the Long/Short ratio fell below 1.
The "Greed" sentiment increased from 70 to 75 in the last 24 hours, according to the Crypto Fear &amp; Greed Index, indicating a surge in buying pressure.
Top Gainers (24-Hours)
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 7:30 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Virtuals Protocol (VIRTUAL)</td>
<td>+24.02%</td>
<td>$3.70</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fartcoin (FARTCOIN)</td>
<td>+23.04%</td>
<td>$1.26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>XDC Network (XDC)</td>
<td>+19.26%</td>
<td>$0.1328</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The global cryptocurrency market capitalization stood at $3.51 trillion, rising 4.37% in the last 24 hours.
Stocks lifted on Wednesday following the release of consumer inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average popped 703.27 points, or 1.65%, to 43,221.55 The S&amp;P 500 lifted 1.83% to close at 5,949.91. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite erased losses from the previous day, surging 2.45% to 19,511.23.
December's Consumer Price Index report <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/01/43001512/inflation-rises-to-29-in-december-core-slows-yet-rising-energy-costs-put-feds-target-at-risk">revealed core inflation grew slower than expected</a>, sparking excitement in the market and driving the stocks up. Notably, the headline Consumer Price Index matched analysts' expectations.
That said, investors expected the current interest rate range of 4.25%–4.50% to remain unchanged at the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting, <a href="https://www.cmegroup.com/markets/interest-rates/cme-fedwatch-tool.html">according </a>to the CME FedWatch tool.
See More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-crypto-scanners">Best Cryptocurrency Scanners</a>
Analyst Notes: Popular on-chain analytics firm CryptoQuant <a href="https://cryptoquant.com/insights/research/6786ce381001ca2735a9a73c-14-January-2025-2025-Bitcoin-Price-Outlook-Institutional-Flows-Could-Drive-Bitco">projected </a>Bitcoin to hit $145,000-$249,000 in 2025, spurred by substantial institutional capital flows.
A mixture of a positive regulatory environment under a pro-cryptocurrency Trump administration, "accommodative" monetary policy, and the fact that Bitcoin was in the most bullish phase of its 4-year cycle could accelerate momentum, according to the research firm.
Widely followed cryptocurrency trader Michaël van de Poppe predicted the market would shift from this point on as Bitcoin breaks $100,000 and Ethereum confirms a bullish divergence.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> above $100,000. Yields drop 3% on the day (15bps). <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24ETH&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$ETH</a> breaks back upwards and confirms the bullish divergence and higher low.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Altcoins?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Altcoins</a> outperform Bitcoin. The rotation has started. <a href="https://t.co/Mvevi94sdX">pic.twitter.com/Mvevi94sdX</a>
&mdash; Michaël van de Poppe (@CryptoMichNL) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoMichNL/status/1879623548534464876?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
"Dollar will become weaker, rates will go down, altcoins will go up," he remarked.&nbsp;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Now we're getting into the stage where markets are turning, Dollar will become weaker, rates will go down, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Altcoins?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Altcoins</a> will go up. And people won't believe it.
&mdash; Michaël van de Poppe (@CryptoMichNL) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoMichNL/status/1879582423345959210?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Photo by CMP_NZ on Shutterstock
Read Next:    
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43014100/akash-network-founder-reveals-unexpected-ai-energy-crisis">Akash Network Founder Reveals Unexpected AI Energy Crisis Driving Decentralized Cloud Adoption</a></li>
</ul>

Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Rally On Positive Inflation Data, Trump's Pro-Crypto Moves: Analyst Projects BTC Could Top $200K Range In 2025

Leading cryptocurrencies charged higher Tuesday amid softer-than-expected wholesale inflation data.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 7:30 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</td>
<td>+2.53%</td>
<td>$97,071.13</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+2.83%</td>
<td>$3,219.18</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+5.58%</td>
<td>$0.3576</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
What Happened: Bitcoin soared to a weekly high of $97,350 early this morning, holding on to its gains for the remainder of the day.&nbsp;
The dramatic turnaround comes just a day after the leading cryptocurrency slipped below $90,000 for the first time since November 2024.
Ethereum, the second-largest cryptocurrency, reclaimed the $3,200 zone a day after dipping below $3,000.&nbsp;
About $185 million were liquidated from the cryptocurrency market in the last 24 hours, with bearish bets accounting for $122 million.&nbsp;
The percentage of Binance traders going long on Bitcoin dipped from 62% to 55% in the last 24 hours, suggesting that the market was bracing for another correction.
The "Greed" sentiment strengthened from 63 to 70 in the last 24 hours, according to the Crypto Fear &amp; Greed Index
Top Gainers (24-Hours)
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 7:30 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ai16z (AI16Z)</td>
<td>+21.07%</td>
<td>$1.36</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DeXe (DEXE)</td>
<td>+20.48%</td>
<td>$16.41</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kaspa (KAS)</td>
<td>+16.19%</td>
<td>$0.1375</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The global cryptocurrency market capitalization stood at $3.36 trillion, rising by 2.77% in the last 24 hours.
Major stock indexes moved north on Tuesday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 221.16 points, or 0.52%, to 42,518.28. The S&amp;P 500 gained 0.11% to close at 5,842.91. The tech-focused Nasdaq Composite was the outlier, ending 0.23% lower at 19,044.39.
The rise followed<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42979267/markets-rebound-on-cool-inflation-data-experts-await-wednesdays-cpi"> cooler-than-expected</a> Producer Price Index data for December. Focus shifts to the all-important <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/01/42988894/all-eyes-on-december-inflation-betting-odds-signal-risk-of-fed-struggling-to-tame">Consumer Price Index</a> report, due for release on Wednesday, as investors look for signals about whether the Federal Reserve may soften its interest rate policy.
See More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-crypto-scanners">Best Cryptocurrency Scanners</a>
Analyst Notes: Widely followed cryptocurrency analyst Rekt Capital noted the importance of Bitcoin's daily close above $91,000.
"The $91000-$101000 range and early-stage higher low on the RSI have been preserved," the analyst remarked. "The exaggerated bullish divergence remains intact."
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BTC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BTC</a> Daily Close above $91000 secured The $91000-$101000 range and early-stage Higher Low on the RSI have been preserved The exaggerated Bullish Divergence remains intact<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24BTC&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$BTC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Crypto?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Crypto</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> <a href="https://t.co/UVZFMcEbfh">https://t.co/UVZFMcEbfh</a> <a href="https://t.co/GB3qPmyzrE">pic.twitter.com/GB3qPmyzrE</a>
&mdash; Rekt Capital (@rektcapital) <a href="https://twitter.com/rektcapital/status/1879181211412697600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Another popular cryptocurrency trader, Michaël van de Poppe, expressed optimism that sentiment toward altcoins would shift starting this week.
"The sentiment, in a negative manner, has gone through new roofs, people are expecting the bull market to be over. The ideal climate for altcoins to perform well," he added.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">I&#39;m confident the sentiment and climate for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Altcoins?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Altcoins</a> is going to shift from these weeks onwards. The sentiment, in a negative manner, has gone through new roofs, people are expecting the bull market to be over. The ideal climate for altcoins to perform well.
&mdash; Michaël van de Poppe (@CryptoMichNL) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoMichNL/status/1879222698900910080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Photo by CMP_NZ on Shutterstock
Read Next:    
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42935597/mark-cuban-advocates-bitcoin-over-gold-during-economic-turmoil-i-think-it-has-more-value-than-gold">Mark Cuban Advocates Bitcoin Over Gold During Economic Turmoil: &#8216;I Think It Has More Value Than Gold&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>

Bitcoin, Ethereum, And Dogecoin Rebound Sharply On Lighter Inflation Data: Top Trader Says Despite Expectations For Bull Market To Be Over, It's An Ideal Climate For Altcoins.

The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mark-zuckerberg">shareholders</a> of Mark Zuckerberg&#8217;s Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) have reportedly requested its Board of Directors to conduct an assessment and determine if adding Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) to the company&#8217;s treasury will be in the best interest of the company.
What Happened: This request for assessment follows a proposal submitted by the company&#8217;s shareholder Ethan Peck.
Peck is a deputy director for the National Center for Public Policy Research's &#8216;Free Enterprise Project&#8217;, which is the conservative movement's only full-service shareholder activism and education program. The organization has also submitted similar proposals to Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) and Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) as well.
Meta did not immediately respond to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga&#8217;s</a> request for comment.
Tim Kotzman, the CEO and founder of Jubilee Royalty, shared a copy of this proposal in an X post dated Jan. 11.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">A <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> Treasury Shareholder Proposal has been submitted to Meta. The shareholder, Ethan Peck, who is an employee at The National Center for Public Policy Research &#8211; the organization that submitted to <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24MSFT&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$MSFT</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24AMZN&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$AMZN</a> &#8211; informed me he submitted on behalf of his family's shares. <a href="https://t.co/KrAKw7nHwp">pic.twitter.com/KrAKw7nHwp</a>
&mdash; Tim Kotzman (@TimKotzman) <a href="https://twitter.com/TimKotzman/status/1877801644601061406?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Meta, the owner of WhatsApp and Instagram, reported in its third-quarter filing that it holds $72 billion in cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities, including U.S. Treasuries and corporate bonds.
The proposal suggests that some part of this money should be deployed in the &#8220;inflation-resistant store of value&#8221; Bitcoin. It also quotes BlackRock, which is the second-largest institutional investor in Meta, saying that &#8220;a 2% Bitcoin allocation is reasonable&#8221;. 
What Does It Mean For Investors: If Meta diversifies its holdings into Bitcoin, it could help the company earn higher profitability if the cryptocurrency&#8217;s price appreciates. Thus, it boosts the earnings from holding the asset, which will be beneficial for investors and shareholders. The proposal also highlighted that the largest holder of Bitcoin MicroStrategy Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>) has outperformed Meta by 2191% over the last five years
Other U.S corporates like Marathon Digital Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MARA#NASDAQ">MARA</a>), Galaxy Digital Holdings, Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), and Coinbase Global Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>) along with MSTR are the top five public companies that hold Bitcoin reserves.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42908280/intel-aims-for-cpu-market-share-growth-ai-breakthroughs-citi-reiterates-neutral-as-new-ceo-appointment-expected-in-coming-months">Intel Stock Has Fallen Over 58% In 1 Year, But Citi Maintains &#8216;Neutral&#8217; Rating On Expected Replacement Of Pat Gelsinger In A &#8216;Couple Of Months&#8217; </a>
Why It Matters: In May 2021, Zuckerberg named his <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/21/05/21051620/facebook-ceo-mark-zuckerberg-sparks-bitcoin-speculation-as-he-reveals-the-name-of-his-pet-">pet goats</a> &#8216;Bitcoin&#8217; and &#8216;Max&#8217;, which fueled cryptocurrency speculation, particularly on X (formerly Twitter).
While it wasn&#8217;t a direct investment signal, the playful gesture ignited widespread discussion about Zuckerberg&#8217;s potential entry into the Bitcoin market, which ultimately did not occur.
In a 2023 <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LY0iGhv3Jnc">podcast</a> named &#8216;What Bitcoin Did&#8217; by Peter McCormack, the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/22/05/27183376/former-meta-crypto-chief-launches-bitcoin-payments-company">former head</a> of the Facebook Libra project, David Marcus was asked if Zuckerberg had any affinity with Bitcoin. Marcus said, &#8220;He likes Bitcoin."
However, Meta&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/20/12/18599912/the-libra-cryptocurrency-rebrands-as-diem">Diem </a>cryptocurrency project, previously known as Libra, was abandoned in 2022. Diem aimed to be a stablecoin, a type of cryptocurrency pegged to stable assets like national currencies to minimize price fluctuations. 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/25/01/42938954/michael-saylors-microstrategy-faces-risk-if-mstrs-0-convertible-bond-lenders-recall-non-recourse-loans-due-to-covenant-breach-heres-what-it-means-for-investors">Michael Saylor&#8217;s MicroStrategy Faces Risk If MSTR&#8217;s 0% Convertible Bond Lenders Recall Non-Recourse Loans Due To Covenant Breach: Here&#8217;s What It Means For Investors</a></li>
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Image via Shutterstock

Market Summary

AMZN

COIN

MARA

MSFT

Meta Investors Push Mark Zuckerberg To Replace $72B Cash With Bitcoin To Combat Inflation: Here's What It Means For Investors

Jamie Dimon, the CEO of banking behemoth JPMorgan, reiterated his critical stance on Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) while recognizing the importance of blockchain technology.
What happened: In an interview with CBS News on Sunday, Dimon praised blockchain&#8217;s role in facilitating money and data transfers and acknowledged that JPMorgan was also using the technology.
"They'll have uses," he said about blockchains but rued that much of the emphasis in the last 10-15 years has focused solely on Bitcoin.
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Dimon went on to say that while he wasn&#8217;t against cryptocurrency in general,&nbsp; Bitcoin had "no intrinsic value" in his opinion.
Known for his <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/09/40828224/jpmorgan-ceo-jamie-dimon-said-hed-fire-in-a-second-anyone-caught-trading-bitcoin-when-it-w">unhinged takes</a> on the world's leading cryptocurrency, the CEO of the world's most valuable bank added, " It&#8217;s used heavily by s&#x2A;x traffickers, money launderers, and ransomware, so I just don&#8217;t feel great about Bitcoin."
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42735744/pharma-bro-martin-shkreli-predicts-doom-for-michael-saylors-microstrategy-as-stock-dips-below-300-in-after-hours-trading"> </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42936962/shytoshi-kusama-outlines-treat-tokens-usefulness-ahead-of-launch-optimistic-whales-buy-up-shiba-inu">Shytoshi Kusama Outlines TREAT Token&#8217;s Usefulness Ahead Of Launch, Optimistic Whales Buy Up Shiba Inu</a>
Why It Matters: While the use of cryptocurrencies for illicit purposes is not debated, it wasn&#8217;t just Bitcoin that facilitated it.&nbsp;
Unsealed court documents from Nov. 2024 revealed how both Bitcoin and U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin Tether (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">USDT</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42166673/drug-cartels-use-tether-and-bitcoin-to-launder-millions-court-documents-reveal">were used by drug cartels</a> to launder money.
Moreover, the U.S. Treasury Department, in its 2024 National Money Laundering Risk, <a href="https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/2024-National-Money-Laundering-Risk-Assessment.pdf">recognized </a>that the use of virtual assets for money laundering remains far below that of fiat currency.
Meanwhile, JPMorgan, despite its CEO's apprehensions, is exposed to Bitcoin&#8217;s price movements.
As per the latest 13F filings, the bank held roughly $65,000 worth of Bitcoin exchange-traded fund shares, with sizable investments in iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBIT#NASDAQ">IBIT</a>) and Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FBTC#BATS">FBTC</a>).
Price Action: At the time of writing, Bitcoin was exchanging hands at $93,771.79, down 0.59% in the last 24 hours, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard?_gl=1&#x2A;380nj0&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTEyOTAyOTcxMy4xNzEzMzY0NTYy&#x2A;_ga_V7ZK73W7N0&#x2A;MTcxNDk4MzIzMi42LjEuMTcxNDk4OTE0Ni4wLjAuMA..">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
Read Next:&nbsp;
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42935597/mark-cuban-advocates-bitcoin-over-gold-during-economic-turmoil-i-think-it-has-more-value-than-gold">Mark Cuban Advocates Bitcoin Over Gold During Economic Turmoil: &#8216;I Think It Has More Value Than Gold&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Shutterstock

$USDT

Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund

FBTC

IBIT

Jamie Dimon Says He's Not Against Blockchains But Trades Guns On Bitcoin Again—It Has No Intrinsic Value: 'I Just Don't Feel Great About...'

Leading cryptocurrencies gained on Sunday as investors set aside concerns that monetary easing policies will be impacted due to the blowout jobs report.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 7:30 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</td>
<td>+1.35%</td>
<td>$95,764.13</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+1.49%</td>
<td>$3,331.29</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+1.66%</td>
<td>$0.3449</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
What Happened: Bitcoin surged to $95,740 during the evening, capping off a choppy day for the world's leading cryptocurrency. The asset fluctuated between $94,000 and $95,000 for much of the weekend before breaking out to the upside. 
Corrective price action has been in place since Bitcoin's rally to $102,000 last week.
Ethereum followed a similar trajectory, plunging from the highs of $3,700 to $3,00 over the week.
About $149.81 million were liquidated in the last 24 hours, with upside bets accounting for $100 million.&nbsp;
A further drop to $90,000 will liquidate $417 million of long positions.
However, the market seemed hopeful about a comeback, with 61% of Binance traders betting on Bitcoin&#8217;s gain based on the Long/Short ratio.
The market sentiment advanced from "Neutral" to "Greed," according to the Crypto Fear &amp; Greed Index, indicating a surge in risk appetite.
Top Gainers (24-Hours)
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<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 7:30 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hyperliquid (HYPE)</td>
<td>+6.65%</td>
<td>$21.93</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>KuCoin Token (KCS)</td>
<td>+5.62%</td>
<td>$11.42</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Raydium (RAY)</td>
<td>+4.77%</td>
<td>$4.76</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The global cryptocurrency market capitalization stood at $3.3 trillion, falling by 0.50% in the last 24 hours.
Stock futures remained largely unchanged in overnight trading. The Dow Jones Industrial Average Futures rose 22 points, or 0.05%, as of 7:43 p.m. EDT.&nbsp; Futures tied to the S&amp;P 500 dropped 0.09%, while Nasdaq 100 Futures dipped 0.03%.
The December jobs report from last week <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/01/42918778/december-jobs-report-a-wake-up-call-for-anyone-betting-on-rate-cuts-analyst-says">exceeded expectations</a>, with the nonfarm payrolls marking the strongest growth since March. However, it raised concerns over the pace of interest rate cuts, triggering a sell-off.
This week, investors will focus on key inflation data, such as the consumer price index and the producer price index for December.
See More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-crypto-scanners">Best Cryptocurrency Scanners</a>
Analyst Notes: Legendary trader Peter Brandt noted a head and shoulders chart pattern for Bitcoin, suggesting that it could either complete, fail as a bear trap, or morph into a broader pattern.
A bearish pattern shows a baseline with three peaks, with the middle peak being the highest, indicating a reversal of an upward trend.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">This is a classic H&amp;S top pattern. <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24BTC&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$BTC</a> H&amp;S patterns can do one of 3 things: -Complete and trend to target -Fail with bear trap -Morph into larger pattern What do you think? I am only allowing Verified to reply. If you cannot pay a few bucks to X you don&#39;t deserve to be heard. <a href="https://t.co/9dGquEXaUs">pic.twitter.com/9dGquEXaUs</a>
&mdash; Peter Brandt (@PeterLBrandt) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeterLBrandt/status/1878542290483875919?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Ali Martinez, a widely followed cryptocurrency analyst and trader, drew attention to Bitcoin's key resistance levels between $97,000 and $99,500, where more than a million addresses bought 1.22 million BTC.
"Breaking through this level could be pivotal!" Martinez added.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">One of the key resistance zones for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> lies between $97,000 and $99,500, where 1.26 million addresses previously accumulated 1.22 million <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24BTC&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$BTC</a>. Breaking through this level could be pivotal! <a href="https://t.co/WMfSkDFyiE">pic.twitter.com/WMfSkDFyiE</a>
&mdash; Ali (@ali_charts) <a href="https://twitter.com/ali_charts/status/1878504466283892797?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Read Next:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42935597/mark-cuban-advocates-bitcoin-over-gold-during-economic-turmoil-i-think-it-has-more-value-than-gold">Mark Cuban Advocates Bitcoin Over Gold During Economic Turmoil: &#8216;I Think It Has More Value Than Gold&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Rise As 'Greed' Sentiment Takes Over: Top Analyst Says Breaking This Resistance Level Could Be 'Pivotal' For BTC

The past week was a rollercoaster for the cryptocurrency world. From predictions of a Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) supercycle to a groundbreaking Senate subcommittee on digital assets, the crypto landscape is buzzing with activity. Here&#8217;s a quick recap of the top stories that shaped the crypto market over the weekend.
Bitcoin Supercycle on the Horizon?
Economist and trader Alex Kruger has expressed a bullish outlook on Bitcoin, despite the cryptocurrency currently trading 13% below its all-time high. Kruger attributes this optimism to the approval of spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in January 2024, which he suggests may alter Bitcoin's traditional four-year halving cycles.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42931747/bitcoin-supercycle-incoming-says-economist-but-theres-a-catch">Read the full article here.</a>
Crypto&#8217;s Capitol Hill Breakthrough
In a significant development, the Senate Banking Committee announced the creation of its first-ever subcommittee dedicated to cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. This move signifies a shift in the political landscape, indicating a broader acceptance and integration of digital currencies into the mainstream of U.S. governance.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42921493/cryptos-capitol-hill-breakthrough-senate-subcommittee-signals-shifting-political-winds">Read the full article here.</a>
Bitcoin&#8217;s Q1 Prospects
Despite Bitcoin&#8217;s struggle between $90,000 and $100,000, analysts and traders remain upbeat about its prospects in the first quarter of 2025. Asymmetric Fund CEO Joe McCann shared his "tactical short-term bearish" outlook for the cryptocurrency market but remains optimistic about Q1 as a seasonally profitable period.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42919731/bitcoin-to-bounce-back-in-q1-but-beware-20-corrections-analysts-warn">Read the full article here.</a>
Scaramucci&#8217;s Crypto Strategy
Anthony Scaramucci, CEO of investment firm SkyBridge Capital, revealed his take-profit strategy for cryptocurrencies. He stated that he would not sell his Bitcoin but rather target altcoins such as Solana (SOL/USD) in the long run.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42906639/anthony-scaramucci-was-asked-about-his-take-profit-strategy-on-bitcointhis-is-what-he-said">Read the full article here.</a>
Unfortunate Bitcoin Loss
James Howells, known for accidentally discarding a hard drive containing 8,000 Bitcoin, suffered a setback in his quest to reclaim his fortune. A high court ruling dismissed Howells' legal claim to recover the hard drive, citing no "reasonable grounds" for bringing the claim and "no realistic prospect" of winning it.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42901382/man-who-accidentally-threw-away-8000-bitcoin-hard-drive-suffers-new-kick-in-the-teeth-as-uk-court-dismisses-his-claim">Read the full article here.</a>
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Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

Bitcoin's Supercycle, Crypto's Capitol Breakthrough, And More: This Week In Crypto

Economist and trader&nbsp;Alex Kruger&nbsp;has expressed a bullish outlook on Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>), despite the cryptocurrency currently trading 13% below its all-time high.
What Happened: Kruger believes that Bitcoin has significant potential for growth and is far from reaching the peak of its cycle.
He attributes this optimism to&nbsp;the approval of spot Bitcoin&nbsp;exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in January&nbsp;2024, which he suggests may alter Bitcoin&#8217;s traditional four-year halving cycles.
"The&nbsp;introduction of the ETF and&nbsp;the significant flows they bring&nbsp;make the correlation between risk&nbsp;and Bitcoin more sustainable," Kruger said on a recent episode of the Unchained podcast.
He emphasized that current market conditions are evolving, with the halving&#8217;s impact diminishing and the presence of ETFs.
However, Kruger cautioned that a supercycle does not imply continuous upward movement.
He explained, &#8220;We have shorter corrections&#8230;&nbsp;smaller drawdowns that last for&nbsp;shorter periods,&#8221; provided equities and the economy perform well.
As of now, Bitcoin is priced at $94,343, approximately 13% below its peak of $108,268.
Why It Matters: The prediction of a Bitcoin supercycle comes amid a backdrop of diverse opinions on the cryptocurrency&#8217;s future.
Recently,&nbsp;Anthony Scaramucci, CEO of SkyBridge Capital, shared his strategy on Bitcoin, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42906639/anthony-scaramucci-was-asked-about-his-take-profit-strategy-on-bitcointhis-is-what-he-said">emphasizing a focus on altcoins</a> like Solana while maintaining his Bitcoin holdings.
Scaramucci noted that the market&#8217;s maturity could lead to Bitcoin lending and earning mechanisms akin to traditional banking.
Conversely, economist&nbsp;Peter Schiff&nbsp;criticized Bitcoin, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42894166/peter-schiff-counters-bitcoins-safe-haven-narrative-amid-forecast-of-impending-fiat-train-wreck-there-is-no-riskier-asset">labeling it as the riskiest asset</a>, challenging its reputation as a safe haven. Schiff&#8217;s comments highlight the ongoing debate about Bitcoin&#8217;s role in financial markets.
Additionally,&nbsp;Arthur Hayes, co-founder of BitMEX, speculated that changes in U.S. banking regulations could <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42802338/bitcoin-to-hit-1-million-arthur-hayes-says-another-signpost-has-appeared-amid-us-debt-concerns">potentially drive Bitcoin&#8217;s value to $1 million</a>. Hayes pointed to possible exemptions from the supplementary leverage ratio rule as a catalyst for increased liquidity and Bitcoin&#8217;s price surge.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="How Bitcoin and Crypto Will React to Trump's Inauguration: Bits + Bips" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nykvv_9BlXg?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</figure>
Price Action: Bitcoin was trading at $94,398 at the time of writing, up by 0.43% in the past 24 hours, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42931704/tiktok-users-call-on-trump-to-deliver-immediately-on-his-promise-to-save-app-from-us-ban-we-dont-need-the-supreme-court-to">TikTok Users Call On Trump To &#8216;Deliver Immediately&#8217; On His &#8216;Promise&#8217; To Save App From US Ban: &#8216;We Don&#8217;t Need The Supreme Court To…&#8217;</a></li>
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

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