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Top 20 Binance Traders Indecisive on Shiba Inu Amid OI Slide

Elendu Benedict
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Top 20 Binance Traders Indecisive on Shiba Inu Amid OI Slide

The largest derivative traders on Binance are at equilibrium on Shiba Inu, as bullish and bearish positions stand in a tie-up on the platform.

Shiba Inu ended February with another red candle, correcting 15% during the period. That marked its seventh consecutive month of price correction, during which it has lost over 50% of its value. Meanwhile, as March kicks off, an unusual standoff between bulls and bears is emerging.

Key Points

  • The largest derivative traders on Binance are at equilibrium on Shiba Inu, as bullish and bearish positions stand in a tie-up on the platform.
  • At press time, 49.71% are leaning short, while 50.29% are betting on an upside, creating an almost perfect balance between bearish and bullish expectations.
  • Measured by position size, long positions account for 49.17%, while shorts constitute 50.83%, confirming the indecision.
  • Derivative metrics show a more reserved approach, as Shiba Inu open interest has dropped 3% over the past day to $52.8 million.

Top Traders Split as Conviction Fades

Data from Binance reveals that its top margin accounts are nearly evenly split on SHIB’s next price direction. At press time, 49.71% are leaning short, while 50.29% are betting on an upside, creating an almost perfect balance between bearish and bullish expectations.

Shiba Inu Top Trader Long/Short Ratio on Binance
Shiba Inu Top Trader Long/Short Ratio on Binance

Even when measured by position size, neither side holds a decisive edge. Specifically, long positions account for 49.17%, while shorts constitute 50.83%. This suggests that experienced market traders are hesitating and not pressing a strong directional view.

Interestingly, this is notable because heavy corrections often signal a clear bearish view. Instead, large accounts seem to be on the fence, a trend that historically surfaces when prices approach a potential turning point.

The timing is also notable, as March has previously delivered dramatic moves for SHIB. The meme coin rallied 145% in 2024. That uptick likely adds another layer of caution, as traders weigh the risk of missing a sharp recovery if history repeats.

Shiba Inu Derivatives Cooling as Price Slips

However, derivative metrics show a more reserved approach among traders. Shiba Inu open interest has dropped 3% over the past day to $52.8 million, signaling that futures participants are losing appetite for risk.

The move has coincided with the 2.7% decline in the past 24 hours, as the price dropped to $0.00000552. In addition, liquidations across crypto derivatives spiked, totaling $319.7 million. Of the total, $166,130 came from Shiba Inu positions.

Trading volume continues to drop, as volatility chases market users to safety. Investors have traded just over $121 million worth of SHIB in the past 24 hours, down 5%. Spot inflows to exchanges have also surpassed outflows in the past 24 hours, showing distribution rather than accumulation among holders.

Data indicates that Shiba Inu is in a key area of the cycle. Unless bulls step in and bring in fresh demand pressure, bears will continue to dominate market proceedings.

Bitcoin Logs Fourth-Worst Q1 Since 2013 Amid Broad Crypto Weakness

Zabi
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Bitcoin Logs Fourth-Worst Q1 Since 2013 Amid Broad Crypto Weakness

Bitcoin and Ethereum entered 2026 under significant pressure, posting one of their weakest first quarters in years.

Fresh data from CoinGlass shows both assets sharply underperformed their historical averages. The figures underscore elevated volatility and cautious investor sentiment across the crypto market.

According to CoinGlass, Bitcoin declined 23.21% so far in the first quarter of 2026, its fourth-worst Q1 performance since 2013. The result stands in stark contrast to Bitcoin’s historical average first-quarter gain of 45.90%, highlighting the scale of the divergence from typical seasonal strength.

Ethereum experienced an even steeper pullback. ETH fell 33.73% in Q1 2026, marking its third-weakest first quarter since 2016. Historically, Ethereum has generated an average Q1 return of 66.45%, with a median increase of 4.37%. The latest figures, therefore, signal a pronounced departure from past performance trends.

Key Points

  • Bitcoin dropped 23.21% in Q1 2026, its fourth-worst first quarter since 2013.
  • Ethereum fell 32.17% in Q1 2026, marking its third-weakest Q1 since 2016.
  • Both assets sharply underperformed their historical average first-quarter returns.
  • Prices remain deeply below 2025 all-time highs, with Bitcoin down 47.7% and Ethereum down about 61%.
  • Prominent investors and firms continue to project substantially higher long-term price targets despite near-term weakness.

Historical Context Puts 2026 in Perspective

To better understand the downturn, past market cycles offer useful comparisons. CoinGlass data shows Bitcoin’s most severe first-quarter decline occurred in 2018, when it plunged 49.7%.

The next largest Q1 losses were recorded in 2014 and 2015, with declines of 37.42% and 24.14%, respectively. Against this backdrop, 2026 ranks among the more difficult openings, though not the worst on record.

Bitcoin Quarterly Returns
Bitcoin Quarterly Returns

Ethereum’s history tells a similar story. Its steepest Q1 fall came in 2018, when it dropped 46.61%. The second-largest first-quarter loss occurred more recently, in 2025, with a 45.41% decline. In that context, the current quarter joins a relatively short list of historically weak starts for the asset.

Ethereum Quarterly Returns
Ethereum Quarterly Returns

However, quarterly performance tells only part of the story. The broader downturn traces back to late 2025, when both cryptocurrencies peaked before entering sustained corrections.

Sharp Retreat From 2025 Record Highs

Bitcoin reached an all-time high of $126,180 on October 6, 2025. Since then, the asset has trended lower in a prolonged pullback. It now trades at $65,945, approximately 47.7% below its peak.

Ethereum topped out earlier, hitting $4,946 on August 24, 2025. The subsequent correction has been even more severe. With prices hovering near $1,941, ETH remains roughly 61% below its record high.

Together, these retracements illustrate the depth of the current market adjustment. The decline has unfolded amid broader macroeconomic uncertainty and regulatory concerns, reinforcing persistent investor caution.

Analysts Maintain Bullish Long-Term Outlook

Despite near-term weakness, several high-profile investors continue to express confidence in Bitcoin’s long-term trajectory.

During his remarks at the World Liberty Forum in Mar-a-Lago, Eric Trump suggested that Bitcoin could one day reach $1 million per coin, presenting it as a potentially lucrative alternative to traditional investment vehicles.

Entrepreneur Andrew Parish echoed that sentiment, recently describing prices below $70,000 as a strategic accumulation zone. He projected Bitcoin could surpass $500,000 within three years, signaling conviction in a medium-term rebound.

Looking further out, investor Ric Edelman forecast that Bitcoin may reach $500,000 by 2030. His outlook assumes a 1% allocation from global investment portfolios, suggesting institutional adoption could drive future gains.

Even more ambitious projections have emerged. EMJ Capital CEO Eric Jackson suggested Bitcoin could climb to $50 million by 2041, framing the asset as a potential cornerstone of the future financial system.

Meanwhile, brokerage firm Bernstein maintained its $150,000 price target for Bitcoin by the end of 2026, reinforcing expectations of recovery within the current market cycle.

Market Balancing Pressure and Optimism

Taken together, the first quarter of 2026 stands out as one of the weaker openings for both Bitcoin and Ethereum. The declines reflect ongoing correction from 2025 highs and a climate of increased uncertainty.

Yet long-term projections from prominent market participants remain firmly bullish. As 2026 unfolds, the central question is whether the current weakness represents a temporary cyclical retracement — or signals a more structural shift in digital asset markets.

For now, the crypto sector sits at a crossroads: weighed down by recent losses, but underpinned by enduring long-term optimism.

Dogecoin Outlook for Mar 2: Can $0.09 Hold as Open Interest Shrinks?

Mark Brennan
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Dogecoin Outlook for Mar 2: Can $0.09 Hold as Open Interest Shrinks?

Dogecoin trades in a tight range as open interest contracts, signaling fading leverage and a critical support test ahead.

Dogecoin (DOGE) is down 3.3% over the past 24 hours, trading at $0.09168. The memecoin’s intraday volatility keeps the price confined within a $0.09068–$0.09502 range. DOGE’s chart shows repeated attempts to rebound toward the $0.094–$0.095 area, but sellers have consistently capped upside momentum, pushing DOGE back toward the lower end of its daily range. 

Performance metrics remain under pressure. DOGE is down 2.9% over 7 days, 9.8% over 14 days, and 19.8% over 30 days. While short-term price action shows minor stabilization attempts near $0.09, the broader trend remains corrective, and sustained buying strength would be needed to shift momentum decisively higher.

Dogecoin Price Prediction

On the 4-hour chart, Dogecoin remains below the William Alligator indicator’s jaw (blue), teeth (red), and lips (green), signaling that the broader short-term trend is bearish. However, the moving averages are beginning to compress, suggesting that downside momentum is slowing and the market may be entering a consolidation phase.

Dogecoin Price Prediction
Dogecoin Price Prediction

Recent candles show repeated attempts to push higher, but the price continues to face resistance near the $0.093–$0.094 zone, while support is forming around $0.089–$0.090. 

For Dogecoin to shift momentum, the Alligator’s lips (green line) would need to cross above the teeth (red) and jaw (blue) while price holds above all three lines. Ideally, the lines should begin to fan out to the upside, signaling expanding bullish momentum rather than continued consolidation.

The Average True Range sits near 0.00244, reflecting moderate volatility compared to the sharp swings seen during the recent spike that pushed DOGE to $0.098. ATR has stabilized rather than expanded, indicating that momentum is cooling, not accelerating. For a stronger recovery signal, DOGE would need to break above the Alligator lines and sustain higher highs. Otherwise, failure to hold current support levels could reopen the path toward recent swing lows.

Dogecoin Open Interest

Dogecoin’s open interest chart shows a clear contraction in leveraged positioning over the recent past. Since peaking in September 2025 at $6.01B, open interest has trended steadily lower, stabilizing recently around the $890 million–$1.2 billion range in early March. This sustained reduction suggests that excess leverage has largely been flushed from the market.

Dogecoin Open Interest
Dogecoin Open Interest

Notably, brief spikes in open interest during early January and mid-February aligned with short-term price rebounds, indicating renewed speculative participation during relief rallies.

However, these increases were not sustained, and open interest has since drifted lower again alongside weakening price action. The current subdued open interest levels imply reduced aggressive positioning, which may limit immediate liquidation-driven volatility but also signal a lack of strong conviction from leveraged traders.

“No Pain, No Gain,” Analyst Says XRP Drop to “Death Zone” Will Offer Opportunity of a Lifetime

Mark Brennan
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“No Pain, No Gain,” Analyst Says XRP Drop to “Death Zone” Will Offer Opportunity of a Lifetime

A well-known analyst has suggested that XRP dropping to deeper lows remains possible but insisted that this would present the “opportunity of a lifetime.”

XRP’s bearish run has spilled into March 2026, after the token’s price closed February with a 16.35% drop, representing its largest monthly loss in a year and its fifth consecutive monthly red candle. The last time XRP saw five consecutive monthly losses was in early 2017.

However, despite the declines, market data suggests that a steeper drop to lower levels remains possible. Nonetheless, analysts believe any drop to such a region, marked the “death zone,” would present the opportunity of a lifetime for investors, as the bullish path points to an ultimate target of $27.

Key Points

  • XRP’s 16.35% drop in February meant the token had recorded its largest monthly decline in a year and fifth consecutive monthly loss since October 2025.
  • XRP has now collapsed 26.76% this year, already outpacing the 11.54% loss from 2025.
  • Despite the downturn that has ravaged the market over the past five months, data shows XRP may still witness deeper losses.
  • Chart data indicates that a crash to the “Death Zone” between $0.64 and $0.77 remains a possibility.
  • Analysts insist that such a crash would present the opportunity of a lifetime for investors, as bullish targets still point to $27.

Steeper XRP Declines Still Possible

Notably, EGRAG Crypto is specifically championing this narrative, as he maintains his bullish stance on XRP despite the market crash. In his recent analysis, the market watcher set an ultimate XRP price target of $27. However, he suggested that XRP could follow one of two paths from the current position to this price.

While the first blue path involves steeper declines to find solid support before an eventual surge to $27, this direction would only involve a slight dip to the “Death Zone,” a support area identified on the monthly chart that ranges from $0.64 to $0.77. This blue path represents the fastest means to $27.

XRP 1M Chart EGRAG Crypto
XRP 1M Chart | EGRAG Crypto

Meanwhile, EGRAG also identified a second yellow path, which would lead to much greater declines for XRP, potentially pushing it deeper into the lower ends of the Death Zone. From the current price of $1.35, XRP would have to drop by another 53% to reach the lower range of the Death Zone at $0.64.

“Opportunity of a Lifetime”

Interestingly, EGRAG insisted that a drop to this lower range would represent the “opportunity of a lifetime” for investors. 

Notably, this comes from his belief that XRP’s drop to this level would only mark a temporary setback, presenting an accumulation opportunity. For context, at a price of $0.64, investors could procure 7,812 XRP with $5,000. The same amount would have amassed just 2,336 tokens a year ago.

EGRAG maintains a conviction that XRP would soar toward a level he calls the “Face-Melting Phase” once it recovers from the Death Zone. “No pain, no gain,” he remarked, stressing that this face-melting phase would not reward investors who invest comfortably but those who have endured the pains of an XRP decline.

The XRP Journey to $27

Meanwhile, EGRAG’s chart highlights several areas XRP must first overcome before it can hit $27, especially after recovering from the Death Zone. Specifically, above the Death Zone is the “Psychology Support Zone” ranging from $1 to $1.34. XRP is currently testing this area, and a close below it could flip it into resistance on the path to $27.

Once this area gives way, XRP could rise to the “Psychology Resistant Zone” between $2.7 and $5. Entering this area could take XRP to a new all-time high before reaching $27. Above this zone lie three targets at $9, $13, and $17. After reaching these price regions, XRP could then push to the ultimate $27 target. From the current price, XRP would have to rise 1,900% to hit $27.

Ethereum Price Analysis for Mar 2: ETH Struggles Below Key EMAs – Will $1,950 or $2,100 Break First?

Mark Brennan
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Ethereum Price Analysis for Mar 2: ETH Struggles Below Key EMAs – Will $1,950 or $2,100 Break First?

Ethereum trades below major EMAs as opposing liquidation clusters near $1,950 and $2,100 signal rising volatility risk.

Ethereum (ETH) is trading near $1,936, down over 3% on the day after sliding from the $1,990 area and struggling to regain the $1,960–$1,980 zone. The pullback reflects persistent intraday selling pressure, with price hovering in the low $1,930s as resistance continues to cap upside attempts. Derivatives activity remains dominant, with $50.39 billion in 24-hour futures volume compared to $3.47 billion in spot volume, underscoring heavy speculative participation.

Across different timeframes, performance remains under strain. ETH is down 3.40% over 24 hours and 28.39% over 30 days, with deeper losses of 30.90% over 90 days and 55.26% over 180 days. Year-to-date, the asset has declined 34.78%. Notably, there is a risk of volatility if downside pressure continues. Can Ethereum price stabilize?

Can Ethereum Stabilize?

Ethereum remains under clear bearish pressure, trading well below its 50-day EMA at $2,311 and 100-day EMA at $2,659. The downward slope of the moving averages proves that the bearish structure is still intact.

Ethereum 1D Analysis
Ethereum 1D Analysis

The price is currently hovering around the $1,937 region after a consistent decline, suggesting that ETH is attempting to build a short-term base near the $1,900–$2,000 zone. However, until Ethereum reclaims the 50-day EMA and establishes it as support, the broader trend structure remains technically weak.

Momentum indicators show early signs of stabilization but not a confirmed reversal. The Awesome Oscillator remains in negative territory at approximately -138, reflecting ongoing bearish momentum. However, the histogram bars are deeply green, almost flipping to the positive region.

If this improvement in momentum continues alongside higher lows in price, Ethereum could attempt a recovery toward the $2,300 region. Otherwise, failure to hold the current range may expose the asset to another test of recent swing lows.

Here Are ETH’s Key Liquidity Zones

Meanwhile, Ethereum’s liquidation heatmap shows two prominent short-term liquidity clusters that could act as magnets for price. According to analyst Ted, a significant short liquidation zone is building around the $2,100 level to the upside. 

Ethereum Liquidation Clusters
Ethereum Liquidation Clusters

This area features dense bands on the heatmap, indicating a concentration of leveraged short positions that could be forced to close if the price pushes higher. A move into this region could trigger a short squeeze, accelerating upside momentum as positions face liquidation.

On the downside, a notable long liquidation cluster sits near the $1,950 level. This suggests a pocket of leveraged long positions that may be vulnerable if Ethereum dips lower. If price gravitates toward this zone, cascading long liquidations could intensify selling pressure in the short term. 

Cardano Stablecoin-to-TVL Ratio Spikes by 33%, Sets Stage for Network’s DeFi Growth

Lele Jima
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Cardano Stablecoin-to-TVL Ratio Spikes by 33%, Sets Stage for Network’s DeFi Growth

Cardano DRep Dori has highlighted a sharp surge in stablecoin activity across the network following the launch of Circle’s USDCx. 

In a recent commentary, Dori argued that this development could signal Cardano’s readiness to enter its next phase of DeFi expansion. Stablecoin liquidity on the network has accelerated in recent weeks, sparking discussions about its potential impact on Cardano’s DeFi ecosystem.

Key Points 

  • Cardano DRep Dori highlighted a major transformation in the network’s DeFi landscape, as surging stablecoin liquidity pushed the stablecoin-to-TVL ratio beyond 33%.
  • He attributed the rapid growth primarily to the recent launch of USDCx, which has quickly emerged as Cardano’s largest stablecoin by market share.
  • Within just one week, Cardano’s total stablecoin supply surged by more than 40%, climbing to $47 million following the USDCx rollout.
  • Dori expects USDCx minting activity to continue accelerating, potentially unlocking the next phase of Cardano’s DeFi expansion.

Cardano’s Stablecoin-to-DeFi TVL Ratio Soars 

Notably, Dori spotlighted a major shift in Cardano’s DeFi landscape, driven by a rapid rise in stablecoin liquidity. The DRep revealed that Cardano’s stablecoin-to-DeFi TVL ratio climbed from roughly 10% in June 2025 to 32% as of yesterday.

Moreover, the figure has now advanced further to 33.87%, as Cardano’s TVL stands at $140.83 million. At the same time, stablecoin market cap on Cardano has surged to $47.7 million. 

Image

Although part of this increase reflects ADA’s recent price decline, which compressed dollar-denominated DeFi TVL, Dori emphasized that the broader trend points to genuine momentum driven largely by the newly integrated USDCx. 

USDCx Dominance Accelerates

Meanwhile, fresh USDCx inflows over the past week pushed total stablecoin supply from $33 million to more than $47 million, marking a striking 42% increase in just seven days. At press time, stablecoin supply stood at $47.7 million, with USDCx commanding a dominant 37.16% share, or $17.73 million.

Consequently, USDCx has emerged as the largest stablecoin on Cardano, overtaking established alternatives such as USDM, USDA, and DJED, which currently stand at $14.53 million, $8.65 million, and $3.67 million, respectively.

Cardano stablecoins
Cardano stablecoins

Cardano to Unlock Next Phase of DeFi Growth

With Cardano’s stablecoin supply now surpassing $47 million, Dori expects USDCx minting activity to continue accelerating, thereby expanding overall liquidity. In turn, he argues this expansion could position Cardano to unlock the next stage of DeFi growth. 

Historically, Cardano has lagged behind major networks like Ethereum and Solana in DeFi adoption. While Ethereum and Solana command TVL of $53.67 billion and $6.55 billion, respectively, Cardano holds just $140.83 million. 

However, IOG founder Charles Hoskinson and other ecosystem advocates expect a turning point, especially with the introduction of the USDCx stablecoin. 

According to Dori, deep stablecoin liquidity plays a critical role in building sophisticated DeFi infrastructure. Strong liquidity, in turn, supports the development of lending protocols, perpetual decentralized exchanges, and structured financial products, which are core pillars of a mature and competitive DeFi ecosystem. 

Key Cardano Wyckoff Events and Price Targets

Elendu Benedict
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Key Cardano Wyckoff Events and Price Targets

The recent Cardano price behavior has closely followed a classic market structure often associated with major trend reversals.

This setup is the Wyckoff Method, a long-standing approach that studies how smart money gradually accumulates an asset before a broader move unfolds. It tracks supply and demand imbalances through a sequence of phases from accumulation to markdown.

In the case of Cardano (ADA), several of those textbook signals appear to have already played out, suggesting the market may be transitioning away from a prolonged bearish period.

Key Points

  • The recent Cardano price behavior has closely followed a classic market structure often associated with major trend reversals.
  • Several of those textbook signals on the Wyckoff Method appear to have already played out for ADA, suggesting a transition away from a prolonged bearish period.
  • The first key moment arrived in December 2025, when ADA sank to $0.32 after a steep 72% slide from its March 2025 high of $1.17.
  • Recently, ADA climbed to $0.31 from its late-February low but is now facing pressure amid macroeconomic uncertainties, signaling the start of the SOS phase.
  • The current SOS phase will conclude with a rally to the $0.34–$0.36 zone, ushering in the full recovery phase.

Cardano Moves from Capitulation to Accumulation

A TradingView analysis from a pseudonymous market watcher highlighted how Cardano has developed within a Wyckoff Method structure. 

The first key moment arrived in December 2025, when ADA sank to $0.32 after a steep 72% slide from its March 2025 high of $1.17. Volume surged as discouraged retailers exit en masse, a phase described as a selling climax.

Soon after, the price bounced sharply toward $0.41. This automatic rally helped define the upper boundary of a new range, signaling that the intense selling pressure had begun to fade. 

In February, ADA revisited the $0.28–$0.30 area, but with lower market activity. A smaller volume during the pullback indicated that fewer participants were willing to sell their tokens, suggesting supply had thinned.

The most notable move came on February 24, with a brief dip to about $0.26. The analyst called this the spring, or shakeout phase, characterized by a flush-out of weak holders before whales begin to buy. 

Meanwhile, reports of sizable wallet accumulation during that period added weight to the idea that larger players were absorbing available supply. The Crypto Basic also confirmed that whales and sharks accumulated 819 million ADA over the past 6 months.

Levels That Matter Next and Bullish Targets

Recently, ADA climbed to $0.31 from its late-February low but is facing pressure amid macroeconomic uncertainties. The short-lived rally aligns with what the Wyckoff structure termed a “sign of strength” (SOS).

This is where prices start pushing upward with improving momentum after the base is formed. The recovery was swift, with a V-shaped rebound signaling a return to buying pressure.

When momentum returns, the current SOS phase will conclude with a rally to the $0.34–$0.36 zone, an area that previously acted as resistance within the range. A convincing push through that band could confirm the shift into a markup phase.

If that scenario develops, the broader structure opens the door to revisiting earlier resistance zones and potentially much higher targets over time. The shared chart shows further tests and healthy pullbacks targeting the December 2024 high of $1.32 before rallying to new all-time highs above $4.5.

Cardano Wyckoff Method/TradingView Analysis
Cardano Wyckoff Method/TradingView Analysis

In the meantime, ADA trades at $0.27, down substantially in the past 3 days. Following recent uncertainties, there are no guarantees that a particular outcome will play out. As such, this is not financial advice.

Bitcoin Forecast for Mar 2: Can BTC Close Above $66.7K Amid Further Escalations in the Middle East?

Mark Brennan
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Bitcoin Forecast for Mar 2: Can BTC Close Above $66.7K Amid Further Escalations in the Middle East?

Bitcoin tests key Fibonacci resistance as geopolitical tensions rise, while weekly EMAs break fuels debate over trend direction.

Bitcoin (BTC) is hovering near $66,149, down 1.0% in the past 24 hours, as the price fluctuates between $65,149 and $67,263. Attempts to hold above $67,000 have faded, leaving BTC in a tight, choppy range. While the asset remains up 2.3% over the past week, it is still down 20.9% over 30 days and 22.6% year-over-year, underscoring the broader corrective trend.

These price movements have unfolded amid heightened geopolitical tension following reports of escalation between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, including reports of Iran’s supreme leader’s assassination. In this environment, Bitcoin appears caught between its role as a risk asset and a potential hedge, with $65,000 acting as near-term support and $67,000–$68,000 serving as immediate resistance.

Bitcoin Price Analysis

Looking at a 1D technical chart, Bitcoin is consolidating within its Fibonacci retracement structure after rebounding from the recent low near $64,166. Price is currently hovering above the 0.5 Fib level ($65,460) and pressing against the 0.382 resistance at $66,754.

Bitcoin Price Analysis
Bitcoin Price Analysis

A decisive daily close above $66,754 would signal renewed bullish momentum and potentially open the door for a push toward the 0.236 level near $68,355 and possibly the $70,000 region. However, failure to close above this resistance could keep BTC range-bound, with a likely retest of the 0.5 Fib support zone.

Momentum indicators support this inflection point narrative. The MACD has crossed bullishly, with the histogram now in the positive territory and gradually expanding, indicating strengthening upside momentum. Still, the move remains early.

If buying pressure accelerates alongside a breakout above the 0.382 Fib, Bitcoin could see another leg higher. Otherwise, rejection at current levels may trigger a pullback toward the 0.5 retracement before the next directional attempt.

BTC Trades Below 100 and 200 Weekly EMA

Elsewhere, Arkham, an intelligence platform, notes that Bitcoin is now trading below both its 100-week and 200-week exponential moving averages. On the weekly chart, BTC has broken beneath these long-term trend indicators following a sharp correction from its recent highs.

BTC Prediction
BTC Prediction

According to Arkham, the last time Bitcoin fell below both the 100-week and 200-week EMAs was in late 2023, shortly before it staged a powerful recovery that saw the price surge nearly 3x over the following six months. A 3x from the current value of $66,149 would place BTC just shy of the $200,000 level. However, past successes do not guarantee future results.

XRP News: Brad Garlinghouse Says Gary Gensler Apologized to Ripple at White House

Abdulkarim Abdulwahab
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XRP News: Brad Garlinghouse Says Gary Gensler Apologized to Ripple at White House

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has revealed that former SEC Chair Gary Gensler personally apologized to him following the end of the long-running legal battle between Ripple and the U.S. SEC.

Garlinghouse made this revelation during a panel discussion at XRP Australia Sydney 2026 on February 27. He recounted an unexpected encounter at the White House, where Gensler reportedly approached him and offered a direct apology.

Key Points

  • Brad Garlinghouse said Gary Gensler apologized at the White House, admitting he was wrong.
  • The remarks came at XRP Australia Sydney 2026, months after the SEC case ended.
  • Ripple and the SEC dropped appeals in 2025, closing the nearly five-year lawsuit.
  • Garlinghouse says Ripple’s focus on utility paid off as it enters a new chapter.

“Sorry, I Was Wrong”

According to Garlinghouse, Gensler walked up to him and said, “Sorry… I was wrong, and you guys have done an incredible job.” 

He added that it felt unusual that such a moment happened inside the White House. Meanwhile, he noted that it signaled how far the company has come after years of regulatory pressure.

Garlinghouse emphasized that Ripple remained focused on utility throughout the legal storm and expressed strong optimism about the company’s future.

From Legal Battle to Resolution

The reported apology comes several months after Ripple and the SEC formally ended their nearly five-year courtroom fight.

In August 2025, the SEC and Ripple jointly filed a motion to dismiss their appeals and cross-appeals in the Second Circuit. The move effectively closed the case. 

Ripple’s Chief Legal Officer, Stuart Alderoty, confirmed at the time that the lawsuit had reached its end. He described the development as a “return to business as usual” for the company.

The case originally began on December 22, 2020, when the SEC accused Ripple of conducting unregistered securities sales through XRP. After a prolonged legal struggle that reportedly cost Ripple more than $150 million, U.S. District Judge Analisa Torres delivered a split ruling in July 2023. 

She determined that XRP itself is not a security and that programmatic sales on exchanges did not constitute investment contracts. However, she ruled that Ripple’s past institutional sales violated securities laws and imposed a $125 million fine along with a permanent injunction on future institutional sales.

Both sides initially appealed portions of the ruling. The SEC, under Gensler’s leadership, challenged the programmatic sales decision, while Ripple filed a cross-appeal regarding its institutional sales. However, shifting regulatory dynamics following the re-election of Donald Trump led to settlement discussions.

By early 2025, the parties agreed to pursue a resolution. Although Judge Torres declined to modify her final judgment, she encouraged both sides to withdraw their appeals. The joint dismissal filing ultimately ended the dispute once and for all.

Focus on Utility

During the Sydney panel, Asheesh Birla, CEO at Evernorth and a fellow panelist, praised Ripple’s approach to the legal battle. He suggested that while the company may have taken a longer and more difficult path, it ultimately proved to be the correct one.

Garlinghouse echoed that sentiment, stating that if Ripple continues to stay the course and focus on real-world utility, the road ahead looks increasingly bright.

To the XRP community, the reported apology marks a symbolic turning point from regulatory confrontation to validation as Ripple moves forward with clarity in the post-lawsuit era.

JPMorgan Says CLARITY Act Could Pass by Mid-Year and Spark Crypto Rally

Zabi
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0
JPMorgan Says CLARITY Act Could Pass by Mid-Year and Spark Crypto Rally

JPMorgan analysts say U.S. crypto markets may rebound later this year if lawmakers pass a long-awaited market structure bill by mid-year.

They believe clearer regulations could boost investor confidence despite the current subdued sentiment. In a recent report, a team led by Managing Director Nikolaos Panigirtzoglou noted that legislative momentum is gradually building. They added that even incremental progress in Washington could help shift investor expectations.

Key Points

  • JPMorgan analysts say U.S. crypto markets could gain momentum later this year if Congress passes the CLARITY Act by mid-year.
  • The House has advanced the bill, but deliberations in the Senate remain ongoing.
  • Analysts believe clearer regulatory frameworks could restore investor confidence and reduce reliance on enforcement-driven oversight.
  • The bill would clarify the classification of digital assets, potentially boosting institutional participation in commodities and tokenized securities.
  • Provisions could support early-stage crypto fundraising, expand custody options for major banks, and provide tax clarity for small transactions and staking.
  • JPMorgan reaffirmed its long-term Bitcoin price target of $266,000, reflecting optimism tied to potential legislative progress.

Legislative Progress and Political Hurdles

The proposed framework, widely known as the CLARITY Act, is designed to establish comprehensive regulatory standards for digital assets in the United States. The House has already advanced the bill, signaling political traction. However, Senate discussions are ongoing, and several key issues remain unresolved.

One of the most contentious debates involves stablecoin rewards. Crypto firms want the ability to offer yield to stablecoin holders, arguing it would make digital dollars more competitive and useful.

Banks, however, warn that such incentives could draw deposits away from the traditional financial system and introduce risks to financial stability. This dispute has emerged as a central obstacle in negotiations.

At the same time, lawmakers are divided over conflict-of-interest provisions. Democrats are advocating restrictions that would prevent senior government officials and their families, including the President, from participating in certain crypto-related financial activities.

Supporters say these safeguards would strengthen transparency and public trust. Meanwhile, critics argue they could complicate and potentially delay passage of the broader legislative package.

Amid these disagreements, the White House has convened private meetings between crypto industry representatives and banking groups to find common ground.  Discussions remain ongoing as policymakers explore possible compromises.

Despite the political hurdles, JPMorgan analysts believe passage of the bill would represent a structural turning point for the industry. In their view, clearer rules could reduce reliance on enforcement-driven regulation, support the growth of tokenization, and encourage deeper institutional participation.

Potential Market Catalysts

Building on that outlook, the analysts identified eight specific ways the legislation could influence the market if enacted.

First, the bill would formally distinguish between digital commodities and digital securities. Accordingly, it assigns oversight of each to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and the Securities and Exchange Commission, respectively.

This clearer regulatory boundary could simplify compliance for many tokens. A grandfather clause may also allow certain ETF-linked assets, including Solana, XRP, Hedera, Litecoin, Chainlink, and Dogecoin, to qualify as commodities.

Second, early-stage crypto projects could raise as much as $75 million annually without full SEC registration while working toward decentralization. JPMorgan says this provision could foster domestic innovation and reduce incentives for startups to relocate overseas.

Third, tokens initially classified as securities could transition to commodity status once they achieve sufficient decentralization. This pathway could expand secondary market liquidity and attract institutional investors. JPMorgan noted that commodity-style regulation has already helped support institutional participation in Bitcoin and Ethereum derivatives traded on CME.

Fourth, the bill would clarify registration and custody standards for crypto intermediaries. With clear compliance frameworks in place, major custodians such as State Street and BNY Mellon could hold digital assets directly, strengthening institutional confidence.

Other Benefits to the Market

Fifth, the legislation would address the tokenization of traditional financial instruments, confirming that tokenized securities remain subject to existing securities laws. Infrastructure development in this area is already underway at firms such as State Street and Intercontinental Exchange, signaling early institutional commitment.

Sixth, miners, developers, and validators would receive limited exemptions from broker-style reporting requirements during network development. However, these exemptions apply only if they do not perform custodial functions. JPMorgan believes this approach would protect open-source innovation while maintaining appropriate oversight once projects mature.

Seventh, the proposal includes tax exemptions for small crypto transactions and clarifies the tax treatment of staking rewards. These changes could encourage everyday payment usage and provide clearer expectations for investors earning staking income.

Eighth, the framework could redefine the relationship between stablecoins and tokenized deposits. JPMorgan suggests the rules may position U.S. stablecoins more as digital cash than investment instruments, potentially prompting institutions to favor tokenized deposits or offshore yield-bearing alternatives such as Ethena’s USDe.

Market Outlook and Price Targets

Taken together, JPMorgan says these provisions underpin its constructive outlook for the crypto sector. Greater regulatory clarity could reduce uncertainty, improve participation, and support broader ecosystem growth.

Earlier this month, the bank reiterated its long-term Bitcoin price target of $266,000, based on a volatility-adjusted comparison with gold. At the time of writing, Bitcoin was trading near $66,771, down roughly 1% over the previous 24 hours.

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