Author: Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf

Crypto ETF Inflows Hit $224M Amid Market Moves

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Crypto ETF inflows surged last week as investor appetite for digital assets rebounded sharply, led by Ethereum products and strategic Bitcoin purchases by major institutional players. According to CoinShares, digital asset investment products recorded a net total of $224 million in inflows, signaling renewed confidence in the crypto market despite volatility tied to macro-political tensions.

Ethereum ETFs Lead the Charge

Ethereum-based exchange-traded products dominated the flow charts, drawing $296.4 million in inflows, marking the seventh consecutive week of positive movement. That brings Ethereum ETF inflows to $1.5 billion over the last two months — accounting for 10.5% of total assets under management in ETH-linked funds, according to CoinShares’ Head of Research, James Butterfill.

These steady gains underscore growing institutional confidence in Ethereum’s long-term value proposition, especially as its transition to proof-of-stake and scalability upgrades continue to mature.

Bitcoin ETFs See Outflows, But IBIT Breaks Records

In contrast, Bitcoin ETFs recorded $56.5 million in outflows for the week — the second consecutive week of investor pullback. However, there were signs of a mid-week reversal, with U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs noting brief inflows on Tuesday and Wednesday before returning to outflows on Thursday.

That volatility coincided with a political clash between Donald Trump and Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) CEO Elon Musk over Trump’s proposed “One Big Beautiful Bill.” Musk slammed the bill for its projected $3 trillion increase to the U.S. deficit, warning that Trump’s protectionist tariffs could spark a U.S. recession. In response, Trump retaliated by threatening to cut off government subsidies to Musk’s ventures.

Despite the drama, BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) hit a major milestone — surpassing $70 billion in assets under management. This makes IBIT the fastest ETF to ever reach that figure, beating the previous record set by SPDR Gold Shares (NYSEARCA:GLD), which took 1,691 trading days. IBIT accomplished the feat in just 341 days, according to Bloomberg ETF analyst Eric Balchunas.

Strategy Deepens Bitcoin Exposure

Meanwhile, Strategy, a leading business intelligence firm, announced it acquired 1,045 BTC for $110.2 million, paying an average of $105,426 per BTC. The firm now holds 582,000 BTC, purchased at a blended cost of $70,086 per coin.

This latest purchase follows the company’s $1 billion upsized Series A Perpetual Stride Preferred Stock (STRD) offering, reinforcing its reputation as the most aggressive corporate holder of Bitcoin. Strategy’s ongoing BTC accumulation continues to inspire smaller firms to add crypto exposure to their balance sheets.

For example, The Blockchain Group recently partnered with French asset manager TOBAM to launch a €300 million ATM-style capital program aimed at building its Bitcoin treasury reserves.

Bitcoin Climbs on Global Tariff Talks

Bitcoin (BTC) responded positively to news of productive trade talks between U.S. and Chinese officials in London, gaining 2% on Monday and trading above $108,000. Market watchers say any progress on tariff reductions or avoidance of economic retaliation could improve investor sentiment and reduce market headwinds.

Crypto ETF Inflows Signal Strategic Shifts

The recent crypto ETF inflows — especially those led by Ethereum — point to a possible rebalancing of institutional strategies. While Bitcoin remains the dominant crypto asset, Ethereum’s evolving ecosystem and real-world applications are drawing renewed interest from fund managers.

In parallel, record-breaking ETF milestones like IBIT’s ascent to $70 billion highlight how mainstream crypto investment vehicles are becoming deeply embedded in the broader capital markets landscape.

As the crypto industry navigates ongoing political uncertainty, shifting regulatory winds, and a maturing investment environment, these developments suggest that crypto ETF inflows will be a key metric to watch in assessing institutional sentiment and long-term adoption.

As institutional interest intensifies and political developments continue to sway investor sentiment, the pace and direction of crypto ETF inflows could shape the next major wave of digital asset adoption.

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Circle IPO Sends CRCL Stock Soaring 288%

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The Circle IPO has officially rocked Wall Street. Since debuting on the New York Stock Exchange, shares of Circle Internet Financial (NYSE:CRCL) have climbed a jaw-dropping 288%. The stablecoin issuer priced its IPO at $31, but by Friday afternoon, CRCL shares had surged past $120, capping off a 45% single-day gain and catapulting the company’s market cap above $23 billion.

This sudden and aggressive rally is the biggest post-IPO performance of any major crypto company in 2025—and has traders, analysts, and social media abuzz with opinions on what this means for the broader digital asset sector.

Ark Invest Buys In as CRCL Trading Volume Surges

Adding to the excitement surrounding the Circle IPO, Cathie Wood’s Ark Invest scooped up 4.48 million CRCL shares across three of its ETFs. With over $41.8 million in trading volume recorded before 1:30 p.m. on Friday alone, the public market response suggests overwhelming demand.

As CRCL stock roared higher, it drew comparisons to Coinbase (NASDAQ:COIN) during its frenzied 2021 debut—though some analysts warn that such parabolic climbs often invite pullbacks as early investors take profits or lockup periods expire.

Social Media Reacts to CRCL’s Rise

Crypto Twitter (now known as X) has been saturated with commentary about the Circle IPO. One user claiming IPO pricing experience at Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) issued a word of caution: “Wait 90–180 days after IPO to invest,” they wrote. “Not just to allow for price discovery, but because that’s typically when the lockup period ends.”

Others, however, see the rapid appreciation of CRCL as more than just hype. The performance reflects rising institutional appetite for crypto-native companies with real-world revenue and compliance credentials—something Circle has spent years building as the issuer behind the widely used USDC stablecoin.

Will Circle Trigger a Crypto IPO Wave?

Some crypto insiders are now forecasting a wave of IPOs from other digital asset companies. “After the Circle IPO performance, there’s a large probability every equity business with more than $50 million in revenue and a defensible moat will go public,” tweeted user Solana Legend, a well-followed account in the blockchain space.

Potential candidates for follow-on IPOs include MoonPay, Gemini, Kraken, and Phantom—all of which are privately held firms with significant market share in crypto infrastructure, wallets, or trading platforms. If these firms follow Circle’s lead, 2025 could mark a record-setting year for crypto-related public listings.

A Turning Point for Digital Assets

The timing of the Circle IPO couldn’t be better. After a long crypto winter and the regulatory fallout from the FTX collapse, sentiment is shifting. With Bitcoin (BTC-USD) trading above $100,000 and Coinbase recently added to the S&P 500, crypto is increasingly seen as a maturing asset class.

Circle’s decision to go public—and the explosive performance of its stock—may cement this shift, bringing credibility and transparency to a space often criticized for lacking both.

What’s Next for CRCL Investors?

Despite the euphoria, some caution is warranted. The 288% surge in CRCL stock could invite volatility as valuation questions and regulatory scrutiny emerge. Still, the fundamentals behind Circle IPO are strong: the company is a regulated, revenue-generating entity playing a key role in global crypto payments through USDC.

If Circle can maintain its momentum while scaling securely, it may not only validate the bullish case for CRCL but also open the floodgates for other compliant, growth-ready crypto firms to enter Wall Street’s spotlight.

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Gemini IPO Sparks Crypto Stock Market Revival

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The highly anticipated Gemini IPO is now officially underway, marking a key moment for cryptocurrency markets in 2025. Crypto exchange Gemini, founded by Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss, has confidentially filed for an initial public offering in the U.S., the company revealed on Friday.

The move comes as renewed investor confidence and market momentum fuel a wave of crypto and fintech IPOs, and could set the stage for a new era of institutional adoption in the digital asset space.

Crypto IPO Momentum Builds

The Gemini IPO follows the successful public debut of Circle (CRCL.N) earlier this week, which saw a strong performance on the New York Stock Exchange. According to Matt Kennedy, senior strategist at Renaissance Capital, “Pre-IPO crypto companies would be crazy not to move ahead with listings after seeing how Circle traded.”

Investor appetite for risk assets—especially in areas like crypto, artificial intelligence, and fintech—is rebounding. After years of volatility, regulatory uncertainty, and market mistrust, crypto firms are re-emerging with stronger narratives and improved fundamentals.

Gemini’s Strategic Timing

Gemini currently enables users to buy, sell, and store over 70 cryptocurrencies, positioning itself as a key player in the U.S. digital asset market. Though the company hasn’t disclosed the size or pricing details of its IPO, industry insiders see its filing as a critical signal.

“Gemini’s IPO contributes to the broader momentum and reinforces the idea that crypto-native firms are increasingly preparing to access public markets,” said Kat Liu, vice president at IPOX. Liu also pointed out that institutional capital is returning, especially toward companies with scalable models in strategic growth areas.

Gemini’s entry to the public markets could boost transparency, increase regulatory engagement, and provide the firm with much-needed capital to expand in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Crypto’s Growing Legitimacy

The Gemini IPO is part of a broader legitimization of the crypto sector. The global digital asset market is now valued at over $3.3 trillion, with Bitcoin (BTC-USD) trading above the $100,000 mark. Institutional interest surged after the SEC approved spot bitcoin ETFs in the U.S., opening the doors for retirement accounts and traditional funds to gain exposure.

Coinbase (NASDAQ:COIN), one of Gemini’s top competitors, was recently added to the S&P 500, a watershed moment that many believe laid the groundwork for other crypto firms to follow suit.

“If equity underwriters smell a new fee stream, expect the calendar to unfreeze for everything from fintech to AI chips,” said Michael Ashley Schulman, CIO at Running Point Capital Advisors. He notes that Gemini’s IPO, if successful, will confirm that the “crypto thaw” is real.

From Lawsuit to Wall Street

Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss first gained fame from their lawsuit against Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:META) CEO Mark Zuckerberg, alleging he stole their idea for Facebook. That legal battle ended in a 2008 settlement involving cash and META stock—wealth that the twins used to pivot into the crypto industry with the founding of Gemini in 2014.

Now, with the Gemini IPO, the twins appear set to make history again—this time by leading one of the first major post-FTX collapses crypto listings in the U.S.

Will Gemini’s IPO Succeed?

While the details of the Gemini IPO remain confidential, market indicators suggest strong interest. After years of skepticism and setbacks, crypto markets are enjoying renewed optimism thanks to clearer regulations, broader adoption, and support from high-profile political figures—including Donald Trump, who has promised to be a “crypto president.”

As Gemini steps into the public spotlight, its performance could set the tone for the next wave of digital asset IPOs—and help solidify crypto’s long-awaited place in the mainstream financial ecosystem.

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Solaxy May Be the Best Solana Crypto in 2025

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After months of explosive growth in the Solana ecosystem, meme coins like Dogwifhat (WIF) are cooling off rapidly. As on-chain metrics slide and investor sentiment wanes, many are now asking: what’s the best Solana crypto to hold ahead of the next bull run?

WIF (WIFUSDT) recently dipped below the $1 mark, down over 36% from its peak earlier this year. Once the poster child of Solana’s meme coin craze, WIF now faces mounting sell pressure. On-chain data reveals that “smart money” investors have reduced their positions by more than 50%, with whale holdings also declining by 22%.

Meme Coins Fade as Utility Gains Traction

This isn’t just a WIF-specific issue. The broader Solana meme coin market is experiencing a cooldown. Daily DEX volume has fallen to a six-month low of $2 billion, and stablecoin transfer volumes are down from $20 billion to just $2 billion. These declines signal reduced liquidity and engagement across Solana-based DeFi.

Even more telling, the number of new meme coin launches has dropped more than 50% since January. Meanwhile, declining transaction volumes are weakening deflationary pressures, since Solana burns 50% of all transaction fees.

Despite these headwinds, Solana remains a top-three blockchain by activity, and its real utility may now be taking center stage.

Solaxy: A Utility-Driven Contender for Best Solana Crypto

As meme coins lose momentum, utility-first projects are stepping into the spotlight — and Solaxy may be leading the charge as the best Solana crypto of 2025.

Solaxy (SOLX) is the first Layer-2 solution built for Solana. Its mission is clear: increase scalability, reduce failed transactions, and make building on Solana faster and more efficient. That alone is significant, as Solana has faced network congestion in the past due to its rapid adoption.

Solaxy’s infrastructure is already partially live. Developers are testing bridges, deploying smart contracts, and monitoring rollup activity via the Solaxy testnet. The ecosystem includes a custom block explorer and a cross-chain bridge, laying the groundwork for what could become the backbone of Solana’s Layer-2 economy.

Strong Growth and Real Use Cases

Solaxy’s momentum is backed by numbers. The project has raised over $44.3 million ahead of its token launch, with investors joining via SOL, ETH, BNB, USDT, or even credit cards. The presale has just 11 days left, and all purchased tokens can be staked immediately, offering returns of up to 91% APY.

Importantly, Solaxy is building beyond speculation. It will launch Igniter Protocol and Solaxy DEX, enabling seamless token creation, trading, and liquidity provisioning — a key differentiator from the meme coin market, where value often hinges on hype alone.

Its integration with the Best Wallet app also gives users a KYC-free, privacy-focused option for managing assets — an increasingly attractive feature as crypto regulations tighten globally.

Solana Ecosystem Still Has Fuel

Even as WIF and other meme coins falter, Solana’s fundamentals remain strong. In May alone, Solana posted $121 million in Real Economic Value (REV) — up 37% month-over-month and more than Ethereum (ETH) or TRON (TRX). Application revenue across top platforms like Pump, Axiom, and Raydium (RAYUSDT) reached $214 million, showing that builders are still very active on the network.

Talk of a Solana ETF is further fueling speculation that the ecosystem may soon regain momentum. But this time, it could be utility-driven crypto — not meme coins — that takes the lead.

Final Thoughts

While hype-driven tokens like WIF captured attention during the last Solana bull run, the current pullback is separating speculation from substance. Projects like Solaxy, with real infrastructure, developer adoption, and strong fundraising, offer a compelling alternative.

If you’re looking for the best Solana crypto to buy ahead of the next leg up, Solaxy is one to watch — and possibly the next breakout story in the evolving Solana landscape.

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Trump Cryptocurrency Scandal Fuels Foreign Influence

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency. Leave a Comment

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Donald Trump’s latest foray into the digital asset world has ignited a fresh storm of controversy, with the Trump cryptocurrency scandal exposing new channels for self-enrichment and foreign influence. While past presidents have taken steps to avoid conflicts of interest, Trump’s second term is marked by a blatant embrace of the cryptocurrency space to monetize his office — a move that experts warn could jeopardize both ethical standards and national security.

Trump Coin: The Birth of a Speculative Grift

In January, days before his second inauguration, Trump-affiliated businesses launched a memecoin dubbed $Trump — a digital token with no underlying value beyond market speculation. Despite its lack of utility, the token surged to $75 per coin before quickly crashing. Speculators fueled the initial hype, but the Trump family benefited regardless, collecting millions in trading fees. Since the coin’s launch, over $312 million in crypto transactions and $43 million in other fees have flowed to Trump-linked entities.

The Trump cryptocurrency scandal isn’t just about personal gain — it also reveals how easily political figures can exploit poorly regulated markets to attract undisclosed funds. The mechanics of the Trump coin echo classic pump-and-dump schemes, but with the added danger of being led by the most powerful man in the world.

Gala Access: Trading Crypto for Influence

In a bid to inflate the token’s value again, Trump’s team announced that the top 220 holders of the $Trump token would receive exclusive invites to a gala dinner at Trump National Golf Club in Virginia. The top 25 buyers were offered an even more coveted prize: a VIP reception with the president and a private White House tour.

This crypto-powered sweepstakes wasn’t framed as a political fundraiser, but a private event organized by Trump’s business. Campaign laws — which require donor disclosures and spending restrictions — didn’t apply. This loophole allowed Trump to legally collect massive sums from anonymous buyers, many of whom were foreign investors.

Foreign Ties: The Risk of Crypto Influence

According to The Washington Post, nearly half of the top 220 memecoin holders used exchanges that ban U.S. users, suggesting international involvement. Among them was Justin Sun, the Chinese billionaire founder of crypto platform Tron. Despite being charged with fraud by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in 2023, Sun attended the gala after buying more than $20 million worth of Trump memecoins.

Strikingly, the SEC moved to pause its lawsuit against Sun shortly after Trump’s second term began. The optics of this decision, combined with Sun’s appointment as an adviser to Trump’s latest crypto venture, World Liberty Financial, raise serious concerns about political interference and favoritism.

Stablecoins, Abu Dhabi, and $2 Billion in Exposure

The Trump cryptocurrency scandal doesn’t stop at memecoins. On May 1, Trump’s son Eric and real estate partner Zach Witkoff announced that World Liberty would receive a $2 billion investment backed by the government of Abu Dhabi, using the platform’s stablecoin. That investment, if finalized, could result in hundreds of millions in profits for Trump and his family.

The move places a sitting U.S. president in the direct financial path of a foreign government’s strategic investments — a clear conflict of interest and a potential national security risk.

Deregulation Agenda: Dismantling Oversight

Adding to the alarm, the Trump administration has already begun rolling back crypto regulations. In April, the Justice Department was ordered to disband its crypto fraud unit, and Trump has vowed to make the U.S. the “crypto capital of the planet.” These deregulatory moves could open the floodgates for even more abuse.

While Trump once called crypto “a scam,” he now praises it as “common sense,” especially after reaping millions from it. The hypocrisy underscores how the Trump cryptocurrency scandal is less about belief in blockchain and more about building wealth unchecked.

Conclusion

With digital assets becoming a key pillar of Trump’s business empire, the boundaries between presidential power and personal profit are rapidly eroding. As foreign actors gain access to the president through crypto, the Trump cryptocurrency scandal reveals a troubling new blueprint for monetizing political office — one that undermines transparency, national security, and public trust.

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House Hearing Targets Trump Crypto Wallet Controversy

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency. Leave a Comment

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A heated debate unfolded on Capitol Hill this week as Democratic lawmakers voiced strong opposition to a new crypto wallet linked to former President Donald Trump. The Trump crypto wallet controversy took center stage during a House Financial Services Committee hearing focused on digital asset regulation.

Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA), ranking Democrat on the committee, sharply criticized Trump’s crypto ventures, stating, “Trump doesn’t just want Americans to use his crypto. He wants to put our money in his digital wallet while he guts our financial regulators, the watchdogs that protect families from financial fraud.” Her remarks underscore concerns about the growing influence of Trump-backed digital assets amid ongoing legislative efforts to regulate the crypto market.

New Trump-Linked Crypto Wallet Sparks Debate

The controversy intensified following the recent launch of a crypto wallet connected to Trump’s Solana-based meme coin, in partnership with the NFT marketplace Magic Eden. The wallet’s website went live on June 3, 2025, allowing users to join a waitlist, confirmed as legitimate by Magic Eden representatives.

Despite denials from Trump’s sons regarding involvement, the wallet’s announcement reignited scrutiny of the former president’s expanding crypto empire, which includes meme coins, NFTs, stablecoins, and decentralized finance (DeFi) projects.

Rep. Waters highlighted that conservative estimates suggest Trump and his family’s wealth has increased by approximately $2.9 billion through these crypto initiatives. The issue took a controversial turn after a private dinner exclusive to the top 220 holders of Trump’s meme coin drew allegations of pay-to-play corruption — an event Waters lambasted as “just 20 minutes of Trump time” served alongside “Walmart steak” and “Costco-freezer halibut.”

Legislative Efforts and Market Impact

The hearing coincided with discussions around the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, a bipartisan bill introduced by House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill (R-AR) aimed at clarifying regulatory guidelines on digital assets. The Act seeks to define which cryptocurrencies should be regulated as securities versus commodities, addressing long-standing regulatory uncertainty.

Despite this legislative focus, the hearing was repeatedly overshadowed by the Trump crypto wallet controversy, mirroring disruptions seen during a similar hearing a month earlier. At that time, Democratic lawmakers staged a walkout protesting the influence of Trump-backed crypto ventures on policy-making.

Regulatory Concerns and Industry Voices

Timothy Massad, former chair of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) under President Barack Obama, echoed Waters’ concerns, warning that Trump’s extensive crypto interests complicate the regulatory landscape. Massad pointed out that Trump is “making billions of dollars selling meme coins and stablecoins, investing in crypto exchanges and wallets, and Bitcoin mining,” all areas potentially affected by pending legislation.

“If any member of this committee did any of those things, you would all be outraged,” Massad remarked, emphasizing the perceived conflict of interest and the difficulty lawmakers face in balancing crypto innovation with consumer protection.

Crypto Regulation in the Spotlight

The controversy emerges amid broader efforts in Congress to update financial regulations for the digital age. Recent legislative actions include the passage of the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act (FIT21), which, despite substantial Democratic support, failed to advance last year.

In parallel, lawmakers are exploring new rules for stablecoins, a segment of the crypto market that has drawn increasing attention due to its potential systemic risks.

The Trump crypto wallet controversy thus highlights the challenges of regulating a rapidly evolving and politically charged digital asset sector. As lawmakers navigate these complexities, the spotlight on Trump-backed crypto products raises fundamental questions about the intersection of politics, profit, and regulation in the blockchain era.

Conclusion

The Trump crypto wallet controversy underscores how political figures and their crypto ventures complicate the path toward clear and effective regulation. With a growing ecosystem of Trump-backed digital assets, congressional efforts to define and enforce rules face heightened scrutiny and partisan conflict.

As the crypto market continues to expand, this debate will likely remain a pivotal factor shaping the future of digital asset governance in the United States.

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XRP Price Surge Could Be on the Horizon

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XRP price (CRYPTO:XRP) recently traded at around $2.30, marking a 40% rebound from its lowest point this year but still 33% below its January peak. Several catalysts are fueling optimism that XRP could rally significantly in the coming weeks or months.

Strong Fundamentals Backing XRP Price

One key driver is the soaring likelihood—now at 98%—that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) will approve XRP exchange-traded funds (ETFs) later this year. The SEC is expected to complete its review of Franklin Templeton’s XRP ETF filing soon, though delays remain possible as other filings undergo scrutiny.

Corporate adoption of XRP is also on the rise. Companies like VivoPower and Webus have recently raised $121 million and $300 million respectively, earmarking portions of their treasury in XRP tokens. Hyperscale Data announced plans to acquire over $10 million worth of XRP, signaling growing institutional confidence.

The SEC’s recent withdrawal of its appeal in the Ripple lawsuit could open the door for stronger partnerships with major U.S. banks. RippleNet, Ripple’s payments network, aims to rival SWIFT and expand global transaction capabilities.

In parallel, Ripple USD—the company’s stablecoin—has secured compliance under Europe’s MiCA regulation and obtained a license in Dubai, positioning it to compete in a stablecoin market projected to be worth $1.6 trillion by 2030.

CME Group has also listed XRP futures contracts, with data showing increased interest from Wall Street investors, further legitimizing XRP as a financial asset.

XRP Price Technical Outlook: The Wyckoff Method

A nearly 95-year-old Wyckoff Method technical theory suggests XRP is poised for a strong rally. The Wyckoff Method identifies four key market phases: accumulation, markup, distribution, and markdown.

Currently, XRP appears to be in the accumulation phase, characterized by low trading volume and subdued volatility. The Average True Range (ATR), a volatility indicator, is at its lowest since November last year, while the volume indicator has steadily declined.

Meanwhile, the accumulation/distribution line is trending upward, signaling more buying pressure than selling. These technical signals indicate XRP is likely to enter the markup phase, where demand outpaces supply, pushing prices higher.

Chart Patterns Confirm Bullish Momentum

Further reinforcing this bullish outlook is the formation of a bullish pennant pattern, a consolidation pattern that often precedes a breakout. As the two converging trend lines near each other, a breakout above the pennant could propel XRP price first toward this year’s high of $3.3585, and potentially further toward $5.

What This Means for Investors

For investors watching XRP, the combination of positive regulatory developments, increasing institutional adoption, and favorable technical signals creates an enticing setup. While market risks remain, including potential SEC delays or macroeconomic headwinds, the Wyckoff Method’s historical reliability adds weight to expectations of an impending rally.

In conclusion, XRP price surge potential is supported by both fundamental catalysts and time-tested technical theory, making it one of the more compelling cryptocurrencies to watch in 2025.

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SEC Challenges Crypto Staking ETFs With Legal Concerns

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The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has raised fresh doubts about the viability of crypto staking ETFs, casting uncertainty over the launch of the first funds tied to Ethereum (ETH) and Solana (SOL) staking. These concerns focus on whether such products legally qualify as exchange-traded funds (ETFs) under current U.S. securities law.

SEC Scrutinizes Ethereum and Solana Staking Funds

In a letter dated Friday, the SEC directly addressed ETF Opportunities Trust, expressing reservations over two proposed products: the REX-Osprey Ethereum ETF and the REX-Osprey Solana ETF. These funds, developed by REX Financial and Osprey Funds, aim to offer staking exposure—allowing investors to earn rewards from holding and locking their crypto assets to secure blockchain networks.

However, the SEC questioned whether the structure of these crypto staking ETFs meets the standards required under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Without fitting into this legal framework, such funds may be ineligible for listing on public exchanges.

The regulator also criticized the ETFs’ registration statements, suggesting they may be “potentially misleading” in describing their classification and structure. These unresolved issues have stalled progress toward market approval and may require significant revisions before any launch.

Legal Classification Remains Murky

At the core of the SEC’s concerns is the legal gray area surrounding crypto assets and staking mechanisms. The agency recently released guidance suggesting that staking participants do not necessarily need to register their activities. Yet, by raising objections to these ETFs, the SEC appears to be contradicting its own stance.

Greg Collett, general counsel at REX Financial, expressed optimism in comments to Bloomberg, saying, “We think we can satisfy the SEC on the investment company question, and we don’t intend to launch the funds until we do that.” Meanwhile, both REX Financial and Osprey Funds have declined to comment further.

If approved, the REX-Osprey products would become the first crypto staking ETFs tied to ETH and SOL, as well as the first spot Solana ETF. These milestones could represent a turning point for mainstream crypto exposure through regulated investment vehicles.

Commissioner Crenshaw Slams Regulatory Inconsistency

The debate over the legitimacy of crypto staking ETFs took another turn when SEC Commissioner Caroline Crenshaw publicly criticized the agency’s inconsistency. In a statement issued Saturday, Crenshaw challenged the notion that ETH and SOL can be considered securities in some cases but not in others.

She wrote: “We’ve seen staff statement after staff statement, pronouncing that all sorts of crypto assets are not securities. And yet, now we see no objection to the effectiveness of new exchange-traded funds that assert certain crypto assets—ETH and SOL—actually are securities.”

Crenshaw’s comments reflect broader tensions within the SEC over how to approach digital assets—a sector that continues to evolve faster than regulators can respond. Her pointed remarks question whether the Commission has developed a coherent legal framework for crypto ETFs and staking.

What This Means for Investors and the Market

For investors, the delay is a reminder of the regulatory risks involved in the crypto sector. While the potential of earning yield through crypto staking ETFs is appealing, the uncertain legal landscape could deter fund issuers and traditional financial institutions from diving in.

Moreover, the SEC’s stance may influence how other pending ETF applications—such as those tied to Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC), Ethereum (CRYPTO:ETH), or Solana (CRYPTO:SOL)—are evaluated in the months to come.

Despite these challenges, the appetite for crypto-linked ETFs continues to grow. Major players like BlackRock (NYSE:BLK), Fidelity, and Invesco are actively exploring new crypto products, including spot Bitcoin ETFs and futures-based offerings.

Whether or not staking products ultimately gain approval, it’s clear that the path forward will require legal clarity, consistent regulatory positions, and ongoing engagement between industry leaders and policymakers. Until then, crypto staking ETFs remain a promising—but still uncertain—frontier in digital asset investing.

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Ethereum Bulls Eye Parabolic Rally by 2026

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The Ethereum price prediction market is heating up, with top analysts forecasting an explosive rally in the coming cycle. Crypto strategist Crypto GEM has made a bold call, suggesting that Ethereum (ETH) could soar to $8,000 by July 2026 — a nearly 3x return from current levels.

Despite recent stagnation, Ethereum continues to hold investor interest as the second-largest cryptocurrency by market cap. Crypto GEM’s projection is backed by technical analysis suggesting a parabolic move could be underway.

Analysts Back Ultra-Bullish Ethereum Price Forecast

Joining Crypto GEM in the bullish camp is respected analyst Mikybull Crypto, who predicts Ethereum could reach between $8,000 and $10,000 during this market cycle. He draws comparisons to ETH’s 2017 market performance, noting similar technical patterns are emerging today.

Mikybull argues that despite Ethereum’s relative underperformance compared to other altcoins this year, the asset is quietly setting up for a significant parabolic run. In a recent analysis, he highlighted an ascending triangle pattern — a historically bullish formation — that could launch ETH above $3,000 in the near term.

Short-Term Outlook: $3,200 to $3,600

In the short run, Mikybull Crypto expects the Ethereum price to break above key resistance levels. His short-term Ethereum price prediction targets $3,200, driven by the ascending triangle’s breakout potential. A more optimistic chart suggests ETH could even surge past $3,600, putting it within striking distance of the psychological $4,000 level.

This critical threshold is seen by many traders as a launchpad for Ethereum to retest and eventually surpass its previous all-time high (ATH), which was around $4,800 during the 2021 bull market.

Bull Flag Suggests $3,800 Is Next

Adding to the chorus of bullish voices is Titan of Crypto, who recently noted a bull flag pattern forming on Ethereum’s price chart. In his view, this structure has just broken out, which could drive ETH to an intermediate target of $3,800.

Titan of Crypto isn’t stopping there. His extended outlook includes three targets: $5,000, $7,000, and a top target of $8,500. If Ethereum follows this trajectory, it would not only validate the current Ethereum price prediction trend but also signal a new ATH for the asset.

Market Context and Current Price

At the time of writing, Ethereum (ETH) is trading at approximately $2,500, down slightly over the past 24 hours, according to CoinMarketCap. While the recent dip has dampened short-term enthusiasm, long-term sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive among technical analysts.

As macroeconomic conditions improve and interest in decentralized finance (DeFi) and Web3 continues to grow, many believe Ethereum is well-positioned to benefit from the next major crypto bull run. With potential support from institutional investors and upcoming network upgrades like Ethereum 2.0, a push toward the $8,000 mark seems increasingly plausible.

Final Thoughts

While no Ethereum price prediction is guaranteed, the combination of bullish chart patterns, historical cycles, and expert sentiment provides compelling evidence for Ethereum’s upward potential. Investors should keep a close eye on technical breakouts around $3,200 and $3,800, as these levels may serve as launch points for the next major rally.

Long-term investors may also consider Ethereum’s expanding ecosystem, which includes Layer 2 scaling solutions, NFT platforms, and decentralized applications (dApps). As these use cases gain traction, ETH could benefit from increased demand and network activity, further supporting a climb toward the $8,000 mark. In addition, Ethereum’s upcoming protocol upgrades, such as those improving scalability and reducing gas fees, could enhance its competitiveness against rivals like Solana (CRYPTO:SOL) and Cardano (CRYPTO:ADA).

With institutional interest growing and crypto adoption continuing to rise globally, Ethereum is positioned not just as a leading smart contract platform but also as a long-term investment opportunity in the digital asset space.

This makes Ethereum not only a speculative asset but also a foundational pillar in the broader blockchain economy. As confidence builds and global regulatory clarity improves, ETH could see sustained inflows from both retail and institutional investors. All eyes will be on Ethereum as it approaches these critical price milestones.

Featured Image: Freepik

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Protest Erupts Over Trump’s Meme Coin Gala

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency. Leave a Comment

This post was originally published on this site

A political firestorm is brewing in Potomac Falls, Virginia, where U.S. President Donald Trump is set to host a controversial dinner for top holders of his meme coin, $TRUMP. But the spotlight isn’t only on the gala’s glitz — it’s on crypto corruption. Democratic lawmakers, watchdog groups, and grassroots activists are rallying against what they call the latest example of political bribery in the age of digital currency.

Rallying Against Crypto Corruption

The protest, organized under the banner “America Is Not for Sale,” is slated to take place outside Trump National Golf Club. Spearheaded by progressive group Our Revolution, the rally will include visual demonstrations, banners reading “STOP CRYPTO CORRUPTION,” and remarks from U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR).

According to Our Revolution’s press release, the gala is not just a celebration but a high-stakes reward system: the top 220 holders of Trump’s meme coin are invited, with the top 25 promised a “VIP White House tour.” This, critics argue, is a blatant example of crypto corruption and foreign influence in U.S. politics.

“The $TRUMP coin is less about memes and more about money — and power,” said Public Citizen Co-President Robert Weissman. “Trump is auctioning off access to our democracy. This isn’t just unethical, it’s dangerous.”

Foreign Influence and Big Money Politics

Blockchain data reveals that nearly $150 million has been raised through the $TRUMP coin, and many of its major holders are based outside the United States. Trump himself stands to become one of the world’s wealthiest crypto holders if the coin’s value continues to climb. Critics worry that foreign entities could use digital assets to curry favor in American politics, bypassing traditional finance rules and transparency.

This concern isn’t new. Watchdog group Common Cause has already filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission (FEC), alleging that Our Revolution — the very group organizing the protest — also accepted large, undisclosed donations in violation of soft money laws. But activists argue that their mission is rooted in accountability, not influence.

“This isn’t about one group or one coin,” said Weissman. “It’s about stopping crypto corruption before it becomes the new norm.”

A Bigger Pattern of Pay-to-Play?

Trump’s meme coin dinner is only the latest in a string of incidents raising ethical questions. From a rumored Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) car show on the White House lawn to a potential donation of a luxury jet from Qatar, critics say Trump is blurring the lines between public service and private gain.

“His presidency has become a luxury auction,” said one protester. “What’s next, NFTs for cabinet seats?”

Trump’s camp has not responded to the protest plans, but sources close to the event suggest the dinner will go ahead as scheduled.

The Future of Crypto and Campaigns

The demonstration underscores a growing concern in Washington: how to regulate the intersection of crypto and political influence. As digital assets like stablecoins and meme coins become more mainstream, lawmakers are grappling with the potential for abuse.

Calls for reform are growing louder. Activists and legislators are pushing for stricter rules on crypto-based campaign contributions and increased transparency around digital asset holdings by public officials.

“Crypto corruption is a 21st-century problem, and we need 21st-century laws to fight it,” said Sen. Merkley.

Featured Image: depositphotos @ merznatalia

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