Home Blog Page 725

100% of Bitcoin Holders in Profit as Saylor Declares: ‘No One Ever Lost Money Buying BTC’

Albert Brown
-
0
100% of Bitcoin Holders in Profit as Saylor Declares: ‘No One Ever Lost Money Buying BTC’

Strategy executive chairman Michael Saylor said long-term Bitcoin holders haven’t lost money, as BTC hits a new all-time high.

Bitcoin surged past $111,800 on Thursday, marking a new record as Treasury yields rose following a weak 20-year U.S. bond auction. The price of the leading digital asset rebounded sharply from a brief dip to $106,000 earlier in the week.

It reclaimed its previous peak of $109,200 on Wednesday before setting a new record near $112,000. The broader market responded positively, with crypto sentiment buoyed by the strong price action.

No One Lost Money Buying Bitcoin

This price action notably prompted commentary from Michael Saylor, chairman of Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy). In an X post, he reiterated the view that “no one has ever lost money buying Bitcoin.” 

This sentiment was echoed by popular crypto influencer Altcoin Daily, which noted that, in Bitcoin’s 16-year history, 100% of holders are currently in profit.

All Bitcoin Wallets in Profit

Indeed, on-chain data from IntoTheBlock confirmed that the entire tracked Bitcoin supply is currently held at a profit. Specifically, the “In The Money” wallets, those holding BTC purchased below the current market price, now account for 100% of all holdings, totaling 19.89 million BTC. The value of these profitable holdings is estimated at approximately $2.21 trillion.

Bitcoin Global In/Out of the Money
Bitcoin Global In/Out of the Money

At the same time, no wallets are classified as “Out Of The Money,” meaning there are currently zero tracked BTC holdings at a loss. This reflects that Bitcoin’s market price now exceeds all historical purchase prices among wallets included in the dataset. 

However, it’s important to note that this data reflects only unrealized gains and does not account for any realized losses from those who sold at a dip.

Short Liquidations Intensify

Meanwhile, activity in Bitcoin’s derivatives markets has intensified alongside the price rally. Trading volume rose by over 84%, reaching $221 billion, while open interest climbed 17%, signaling a surge in leveraged positions.

Funding rates remain positive across major exchanges, indicating that long traders are paying to maintain positions, an indicator of sustained bullish sentiment.

Bitcoin Derivative Data
Bitcoin Derivative Data

Meanwhile, short sellers have faced steep losses. More than $173 million in shorts were liquidated over the past 24 hours, while only $51.61 million in long positions were liquidated.

Options volume also grew significantly, rising 85% as traders positioned for continued volatility or hedged existing bets.

Key Resistance Levels and Market Indicators

As Bitcoin hovered near $112,000, analysts are assessing the next potential resistance. Joe DiPasquale, CEO of BitBull Capital, pointed to $120,000 as the next major technical target. He noted that this level aligns with longer-term Fibonacci extensions, offering a benchmark for continued upward momentum.

Furthermore, DiPasquale emphasized that ETF inflows and funding rate trends remain key indicators in gauging the sustainability of the rally.

According to his outlook, continued strength in these metrics and favorable macroeconomic conditions could support a move toward $120,000 within weeks. He added that price action at these levels is expected to remain volatile, especially as resistance levels break and more capital re-enters the market.

Meanwhile, other veteral analysts like Peter Brandt belive Bitcoin could head go $150K in the next three months.

Expert Reveals How ‘Complete Victory’ in Ripple Case Could Unlock Next Phase of Financial Infrastructure

Lele Jima
-
0
Expert Reveals How ‘Complete Victory’ in Ripple Case Could Unlock Next Phase of Financial Infrastructure

Prominent crypto researcher SMQKE suggests that the conclusion of the Ripple lawsuit could unlock the next phase of financial infrastructure. 

SMQKE made the assertion based on a legal report titled ‘SHAQ, RIPPLE, AND THE FUTURE OF CRYPTO REGULATION.’ Famous American lawyer James C. Spindler published this report for William & Mary Law School. 

A New Blueprint for Financial Institutions 

Referencing the report, SMQKE suggested that a complete victory for Ripple in the lawsuit would effectively provide a blueprint for financial institutions, including banks and asset managers, to migrate core financial infrastructures onto blockchain rails. 

The researcher noted that Judge Analisa Torres held that a part of Ripple’s XRP sales, particularly its programmatic sales and other distributions, did not violate securities laws. However, legal experts suggested that Ripple’s initial distribution of XRP reflects the sale of a component of future corporate value. 

Notably, SMQKE stated that a conclusive ruling favoring Ripple would validate the assertions of these legal scholars, essentially providing a blueprint for financial institutions. The commentator speculated that this blueprint would allow companies to raise funds and move money without subjecting themselves to regulatory hassles. 

Rebuilding the Financial System 

In addition, SMQKE indicated that a favorable ruling validating Ripple’s sales as a component of future corporate value would showcase ways to rebuild the global financial system from the back end. 

This is crucial, especially as financial activities like custody, settlement, trades, and payments increasingly migrate to the blockchain. 

With a judicially approved template, market participants can tokenize shares instantly, while payment networks can connect with blockchain wallets without stress. The commentator indicated that banks and custody providers could also automate their operations using smart contracts. 

Further, SMQKE emphasized that Ripple’s victory in the SEC case will not only support the company’s ambition but also serve as a green light for the entire financial industry. Therefore, financial institutions can follow Ripple’s court-approved playbook to launch tokenized offerings, manage capital, build custody solutions, and facilitate payments. 

Current Status of Ripple Lawsuit 

Although Ripple and the SEC have agreed to settle the multi-year legal tussle, Judge Analisa Torres denied their joint motion for an indicative ruling on the agreement. 

The agreement centers around Ripple paying $50 million as a fine for violating the law through its institutional sales of XRP instead of the court’s $125 million order.

Additionally, the parties agreed to dismiss the permanent injunction imposed on Ripple’s future institutional sales. However, Judge Torres denied the motion for an indicative ruling, noting that the request had a procedural flaw. 

The parties will make another attempt to convince the judge to approve their settlement agreement. However, it remains unclear when this will happen. 

There’s Every Expectation that the GENIUS Stablecoin Bill Will Pass: Crypto Czar David Sacks

Elendu Benedict
-
0
There’s Every Expectation that the GENIUS Stablecoin Bill Will Pass: Crypto Czar David Sacks

David Sacks, the White House crypto and AI czar, has expressed confidence that the GENIUS stablecoin bill will pass with bipartisan support.

Speaking in an interview at CNBC’s Closing Bell yesterday, Sacks emphasized that the stablecoin legislation, currently under deliberation in the Senate, will soon become a law. He noted that the significant bipartisan support for the bill has fueled the expectation that it will pass.

GENIUS Act Approval Almost Certain: Crypto Czar

The Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoin (GENIUS) bill recently advanced in the US Senate after an initial scare. On Monday, 16 Democrats voted in support of the bill, pushing it past the 60-vote threshold required to move the legislation for final passage.

The positive development followed a bipartisan effort, led by Senator Cynthia Lummis and Bill Hagerty, to avoid a repetition of the May 8 pushback. With the bill failing to advance at the first trial amid Democrats’ rebellion, these senators spearheaded the legislation amendment to address some of the concerns raised.

Meanwhile, Monday’s voting outcome has fueled Sacks’ expectations that the stablecoin legal framework legislation will receive bipartisan senatorial approval. He told CNBC that the 66-32 polling results averted a possible filibuster and demonstrated an agreement by both Democrats and Republicans on the passing of the GENIUS Act.

Stablecoins to Boost US Treasury Demand 

Furthermore, Sacks stated that another reason behind his confidence that the bill will pass is the possible impact of stablecoin adoption on the US economy. The crypto czar stressed that the real-world asset-pegged cryptocurrency offers America a modern, faster, and cost-effective payment rail.

Moreover, the stablecoin legislation would also extend the US dollar’s dominance globally. Earlier descriptions from Sacks suggest that the dominance of dollar-pegged stablecoins would fuel the demand and utility of the leading fiat currency, extending dependence on the US dollar online.

The White House crypto czar further highlighted that a regulated stablecoin market in the US would attract trillions of dollars to the US Treasury “overnight.” He disclosed that America already has $200 billion in stablecoin but lacks the needed regulation to advance its course in the sector.

If the bill passes, Sacks stressed that access to the US Treasury bills would increase comprehensively. As such, the stablecoin bill extends beyond creating legal clarity; the current White House administration sees it as an economic strategy.

Meanwhile, the stablecoin market is expanding rapidly as demand continues to grow. Tether’s USDT recently reached a valuation of $152 billion after its latest minting on the Tron network, bringing the sector’s market cap closer to $250 billion.

Bitcoin Hits $111,888 on Pizza Day: Bullish Rally Eyes $150K

Albert Brown
-
0
Bitcoin Hits $111,888 on Pizza Day: Bullish Rally Eyes $150K

Bitcoin hits an all-time high at $111,888 as ETF inflows surge and analysts set sights on a $150K target.

On Bitcoin Pizza Day, BTC registered a new peak near $112K. As the uptrend gains momentum, Bitcoin is eyeing a potential surge toward the $117,000 mark.

Bitcoin Price Analysis

On the daily chart, Bitcoin’s uptrend continues with a series of bullish flag pattern breakouts. The initial flag pattern was breached in early May following a consolidation in late April. This led to a 9% rally to the $106,000 supply zone, followed by minor consolidation over the past week.

Bitcoin Price Analysis
Bitcoin Price Analysis

On Wednesday, a 2.65% surge in Bitcoin marked a bullish breakout from the second consecutive flag pattern, setting a new all-time high. The bullish trend has now produced a third consecutive bullish candle, with an intraday rise of 1.19%.

As the uptrend persists, the RSI line has entered the overbought zone, reflecting strong bullish momentum. Additionally, the 50-, 100-, and 200-day EMA lines continue trending upward, indicating increased bullish sentiment. These technical indicators suggest a potential continuation of the uptrend.

According to Fibonacci levels, the breakout above the 100% level at $106,184 opens the door to significant upside potential. The 1.272 Fibonacci extension at $120,452 is the next immediate resistance.

However, the flag pattern breakout suggests a more conservative target of $117,000. On the downside, the supply zone near $106K serves as immediate support.

Bitcoin Open Interest Hits New ATH, Nears $100 Billion

With Bitcoin reaching a new all-time high, the derivatives market has seen a notable increase in bullish sentiment. According to Coinglass, the OI-weighted funding rate has peaked at 0.0181%, signaling heightened bullish trading activity. 

The rise in the funding rate is helping maintain the Bitcoin futures price in line with the spot price. Alongside this, open interest has surged nearly 18%, reaching $81.34 billion, reflecting growing trader interest as Bitcoin moves into uncharted territory.

Notably, $177 million worth of short positions were liquidated over the past 24 hours.

Bitcoin Derivatives
Bitcoin Derivatives

Analyst Expects Bitcoin Top Near $150K in August

Supporting the bullish case, Peter Brandt, a veteran technical analyst, has expressed a bullish outlook on Bitcoin. He notes that the current all-time highs are technically insignificant, as bull markets typically produce higher peaks. Brandt expects Bitcoin could top out near $125,000 to $150,000 by the end of August.

 

Bitcoin ETF Inflows Surpass $600M on May 21

As the Bitcoin rally strengthens, institutional support continues to grow. On May 21, total net inflows into spot Bitcoin ETFs reached $608.99 million, driven largely by BlackRock’s $530 million contribution.

This marks the sixth consecutive day of inflows into U.S.-based spot Bitcoin ETFs, providing strong institutional momentum for the ongoing bull market.

Bitcoin ETFs
Bitcoin ETFs

Researcher Explains Why BlackRock Is Holding Off on an XRP ETF Filing

Abdulkarim Abdulwahab
-
0
Researcher Explains Why BlackRock Is Holding Off on an XRP ETF Filing

Widely followed XRP community researcher “SMQKE” has outlined several reasons why BlackRock has yet to file for a spot XRP ETF.

Expectations for a BlackRock-backed XRP ETF continue to rise amid growing demand, with more than 10 active applications already under review by the SEC. Firms like Grayscale, Franklin Templeton, and Bitwise have already taken the leap.

However, the world’s largest asset manager remains on the sidelines. XRP community commentators have identified various factors influencing this cautious approach during such a competitive period.

Uncertainty Still Clouds XRP’s Path

SMQKE suggested that although U.S. courts have ruled that XRP is not a security, an official classification from the SEC could further cement that status. The commentator argued that this lack of regulatory finality is prompting cautious behavior among institutional players.

Meanwhile, the SEC recently postponed decisions on XRP ETF applications from Grayscale and 21Shares to June or October 2025.

According to SMQKE, this move signals continued hesitation at the federal level. They believe BlackRock is waiting for consistent regulatory guidance before entering the XRP ETF space.

XRP Futures Just Launched, But It’s Still Early

Notably, XRP futures officially debuted on the CME on May 19, with $19 million in trading volume on the first day. While this marks a major step forward, the market is still in its early stages, according to SMQKE.

They argue that institutional investors rely on well-established derivatives markets for hedging and risk management. Bitcoin and Ethereum had deep, liquid CME futures long before BlackRock pursued ETFs for those assets. Essentially, XRP needs more time to reach similar market maturity.

Liquidity Not Deep Enough — Yet

SMQKE also noted that despite being among the top altcoins in terms of market depth, XRP’s liquidity may still fall short of the high standards required for ETF operations. The analyst emphasized that stable and scalable liquidity is essential for handling large inflows and redemptions.

The SEC closely evaluates this factor in its ETF reviews. BlackRock may simply be waiting for the XRP market to grow further before launching a product.

Focused on What’s Working

Notably, BlackRock’s existing Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs are already experiencing strong inflows. Specifically, the iShares Bitcoin Trust has recorded $46.6 billion in inflows since its inception, more than double the combined inflows of all other asset managers.

Similarly, its spot Ethereum ETF has seen $4.34 billion in inflows since launch. BlackRock has stated that it is doubling down on these products to drive broader adoption among its clients. This suggests that pursuing other crypto ETFs, such as one for XRP, is not an immediate priority.

Waiting for the Right Conditions

SMQKE suggested that with XRP and Solana leading the current wave of ETF applications, BlackRock may be monitoring how the SEC handles these first movers. According to the analyst, BlackRock is not ignoring XRP but is simply waiting for the right moment.

They believe the firm is observing regulatory developments, market maturity, and liquidity trends before making a strategic move.

Essentially, the wait for the world’s largest asset manager to join the XRP ETF conversation could take some more time.

As Bitcoin Golden Cross Forms, Will BTC Price Tag $113,000?

Mark Brennan
-
0
As Bitcoin Golden Cross Forms, Will BTC Price Tag $113,000?

Analyst Benjamin Cohen reports a Golden Cross on Bitcoin’s chart, signaling potential long-term bullish momentum amid a new all-time high.

Bitcoin marked a significant technical and price milestone on Thursday, trading above $111,800 after rebounding from a pullback to around $106,000. The recovery followed a breakout to $109,800 on Wednesday, which had already surpassed the previous all-time high. 

Today’s Bitcoin price of $111,048 represents a continuation of strong upward momentum. Amid this positive momentum, analysts are now speculating on the next possible moves based on technical patterns.

Technical Breakout Signals Golden Cross Pattern

For instance, a daily candlestick chart shared by Benjamin Cohen, founder of Into The Cryptoverse, highlighted a Golden Cross formation, which occurred earlier today.

ImageThis event, where the 50-day moving average crosses above the 200-day moving average, is widely recognized as a signal of potential long-term bullish momentum. The chart also shows a consistent pattern of higher highs and higher lows, reinforcing bullish sentiment.

The recent surge aligns with strong breakout candles, adding weight to the bullish pattern. Additionally, a horizontal resistance trendline drawn from the December 2024 highs sets a key resistance level at approximately $113,362.69. 

This area has acted as a barrier during a previous attempt in January, when price action failed to break through. The proximity of the current price to this level signals a potential test of the supply zone.

Veteran Trader Tracks Continuation Patterns

Meanwhile, veteran trader Peter Brandt weighed in on Bitcoin’s performance following the May 21 breakout above $109,000. In his chart analysis shared on X, Brandt identified several continuation patterns, including a symmetrical triangle, a retest of a double top, and a head-and-shoulders formation visible on the weekly chart. Notably, his analysis included a breakout from a bull flag pattern.

Image

Support zones at $77,041 and $81,024 served as key price floors during the recent consolidation phase. 

These formations contributed to Bitcoin’s momentum and supported the breakout to the new highs observed this week. Brandt also referenced a possible price range between $125,000 and $150,000 by the end of August, though he clarified the projection was speculative.

Capital Inflow Slows as Bitcoin Matures

Elsewhere, analytics firm Glassnode reported that Bitcoin’s realized capitalization has been rising at a decelerating pace as the asset matures. The chart shared tracks the value of each coin based on its last on-chain movement. 

According to the data, realized cap jumped from $1 million to $1 billion between 2011 and 2013, then to $10 billion by November 2013, and reached $100 billion by May 2017.

However, it has taken nearly six years for realized cap to approach the $1 trillion mark in 2025. This gradual growth reflects a shift from early speculative surges to broader, more capital-intensive adoption.

Bloomberg Expert Predicts Strong Demand for First-Ever XRP Futures ETF

Lele Jima
-
0
Bloomberg Expert Predicts Strong Demand for First-Ever XRP Futures ETF

Leading investment company Volatility Shares is gearing up to launch the first-ever XRP futures exchange-traded fund (ETF). 

Bloomberg ETF analyst Eric Balchunas confirmed that Volatility Shares will debut the first-ever 1x XRP futures ETF today, May 22, 2025. Notably, shares of Volatility’s XRP futures ETF will trade on the Nasdaq exchange under the ticker XRPI. 

Fee Structure 

In an amended filing submitted yesterday, Volatility Shares provided fresh details about the product, including its management and operational fees. Investors seeking to gain exposure to XRP through Volatility’s XRP futures ETF would be required to pay a management fee of 1.15% per annum. 

Notably, the investment company capped the operational fee at 1.15%. However, it introduced a fee waiver of 0.21%, allowing investors to pay an operational fee of 0.94% through May 22, 2026. 

Other Notable Details 

According to the latest filing, the fund will invest in cash-settled XRP futures contracts. This indicates an agreement to pay or receive cash based on XRP’s price at the expiration of the contract. 

To continuously maintain the ETF’s exposure to XRP, Volatility Shares intends to close the contracts upon nearing expiration and replace them with new, longer-dated futures. Further, a minimum of 80% of the fund’s assets will be invested in XRP-linked assets, like XRP-referenced swaps and futures, as well as spot-based XRP ETFs. 

First-Ever XRP Futures ETF 

Commenting on the development, Balchunas referred to the upcoming product as the first-ever XRP futures ETF. 

He acknowledged that while market participants have seen 2x XRP futures in the past month, which offers twice the token’s daily performance, the Volatility Shares fund would be the first 1x XRP ETF in the market. 

In addition to XRPI, Volatility Shares is launching a 2x XRP ETF on Nasdaq, and shares of this fund are expected to trade on the Nasdaq exchange. 

Balchunas Expects Strong Demand for XRPI

Meanwhile, the Bloomberg Intelligence analyst anticipates strong demand for Volatility Shares’ XRPI ETF. He made the assertion based on the performance of Teucrium’s 2x Long Daily XRP ETF (XXRP), which debuted last month.  

Recall that XXRP registered a volume of $5 million on its debut on April 9. Balchunas confirmed that its trading volume has skyrocketed to $35 million daily. It currently has $120 million in assets under management (AUM). 

Following XXRP’s incredible performance, Balchunas suggested that XRPI would also see massive demand once it launches. 

Institutional Interest in XRP Soars 

In the meantime, institutional interest in XRP has continued to soar in recent times, with several firms seeking to launch investment products tied to the token. 

While the SEC has approved the launch of multiple XRP futures, the regulator has yet to give its blessings for the rollout of the spot version. 

At the moment, there are more than 10 XRP spot ETF applications on the SEC’s desk. However, the SEC has not approved any for launch. Earlier this week, the regulator delayed its decision on two of these applications, the Grayscale XRP Trust and 21Shares XRP ETF Trust. 

Despite the delay, crypto enthusiasts are optimistic that the SEC will approve the launch of these spot-based XRP ETFs later this year. 

Texas Set to Become Second State to Launch Bitcoin Reserve

Albert Brown
-
0
Texas Set to Become Second State to Launch Bitcoin Reserve

Texas lawmakers have taken a significant step toward Bitcoin adoption, following the House’s approval of Senate Bill 21 on its third reading by a 101–42 vote.

The legislation proposes the establishment of the Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, a state-managed digital asset fund by the Texas Comptroller. As per the bill’s stipulations, the fund will only invest in crypto assets with a minimum market capitalization of $500 billion over the past year. 

Currently, Bitcoin is the sole crypto meeting this threshold. With the House and Senate approvals secured, the bill now awaits action from Governor Greg Abbott.

Legislative Progress and Oversight Requirements

The Texas Senate passed the measure on March 6 with a 25–5 vote, paving the way for it to move through the House. The bill mandates strict oversight of the proposed reserve. It requires regular third-party audits, with audit results to be submitted to the state legislature every two years. 

The state comptroller will manage the fund directly, ensuring that investments comply with the outlined market cap criteria. If signed into law, Texas will become the second U.S. state to establish such a reserve. New Hampshire was the first, following Governor Kelly Ayotte’s May 6 enactment of House Bill 302.

Texas Mining Activity and Energy Concerns

Bitcoin’s prominence in Texas is notable, as nearly half of all U.S.-based mining occurs within the state. This volume has positioned Texas as the world’s leading hub for Bitcoin mining. However, the legislation has not been universally welcomed. 

Some Texas residents have expressed concern over the potential strain on the ERCOT-managed electric grid, especially during high-demand periods. Others have voiced unease over the perceived lack of transparency within the growing crypto sector, contributing to public hesitation.

National Trend and Mixed Reception Elsewhere

The legislative move in Texas comes amid a broader but mixed national trend. According to Bitcoin Laws, 47 strategic Bitcoin reserve bills have been introduced across 26 U.S. states. However, many have not advanced. 

On May 6, Florida legislators withdrew two strategic Bitcoin reserve bills from consideration. Likewise, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed two similar measures on May 13. Despite this, Texas and New Hampshire stand out as the only states where such proposals have advanced to gubernatorial review or implementation.

Market Veteran Brandt Predicts Possible Timeline, Says Bitcoin Is on Track to Reach $125K–$150K

Elendu Benedict
-
0
Market Veteran Brandt Predicts Possible Timeline, Says Bitcoin Is on Track to Reach $125K–$150K

Brandt insists that a new all-time high for Bitcoin is technically insignificant at the moment, as more upside is on track.

Notably, Bitcoin attained a new all-time high of nearly $112,000 today, extending its gains. The uptick saw the premier asset finally breach $110,000, raising ambition and enthusiasm among market users.

However, veteran analyst Peter Brandt suggested in a May 21 tweet that the euphoria is still early. He branded the new all-time high “technically insignificant,” arguing it is typical in a bull market. Meanwhile, he predicted a further upward trajectory, outlining his bull cycle target and possible timeline for BTC to attain it.

Brandt Long on Bitcoin

While congratulating enthusiasts on the new milestone, Brandt was quick to emphasize that the ecstasy would continue at least for the foreseeable future. He revealed he is bullish on the pioneering cryptocurrency and expects more price discovery.

Specifically, the veteran trader reiterated that Bitcoin would peak between $125,000 and $150,000, about 12.5% and 34.7% away from its current prices. Recall that the market veteran earlier suggested in April that Bitcoin’s bull season might be over and the asset would end the year somewhere around $84,000.

However, he flipped bullish when the flagship cryptocurrency broke from a descending trendline in late April, setting his cycle target at $150,000. He cited historical price patterns and bullish technical setups as catalysts for his new price expectations.

In today’s analysis, Brandt shared a chart showing that Bitcoin’s recent rally follows its break from a bull flag on the weekly chart. He believes this momentum and sustained trend above a parabolic ascending support line will push BTC to between $125,000 and $150,000.

Flag Pattern Breakout/Peter Brandt

Brandt Hints at Possible Timeline for Price Top

Meanwhile, the veteran trader projected possible timelines for Bitcoin’s reaching his targeted bull cycle peak. He argued that Bitcoin was on track to attain his expected price range in August.

Remarkably, the month of August seems odd considering Bitcoin’s last two cyclical tops. For perspective, the leading cryptocurrency peaked at $19,804 in December 2017 and $69,000 in November 2021, suggesting a pattern of late-year tops.

Notably, Brandt shared in an earlier analysis that the timeline could extend to September. This means he expects Bitcoin to rally up to 34% between now and the next three to four months.

Is $150,000 Conservative?

Interestingly, Brandt’s target falls within the lower range of other analytical forecasts for the largest cryptocurrency by market cap.

For context, VanEck predicted that Bitcoin would hit $180,000 this cycle, with Standard Chartered and Bernstein analysts suggesting a bigger upside to $200,000.

However, more ambitious targets, such as Sina’s $285,000 and Changpeng Zhao’s $500,000 to $1 million, still exist. In the meantime, Bitcoin trades at $111,357.

American Law Journal Report Shows Trump’s Policies Helped XRP to Keep Climbing in Value

Sam Wisdom Raphael
-
0
American Law Journal Report Shows Trump’s Policies Helped XRP to Keep Climbing in Value

A new report from the American Bankruptcy Law Journal reveals how Trump’s approach to crypto regulation helped boost the value of XRP.

Written by Jessica G. McKinlay, an assistant professor at the University of Idaho College of Law, the report discusses how changes in political decisions helped the crypto scene, and why investors, especially those in XRP, are still feeling the effects.

Crypto Investors Deserve Better Protection

The report, spotlighted by crypto researcher SMQKE, focuses mainly on the legal side of the crypto market, especially what happens when exchanges like FTX go bankrupt. It pointed out that many investors discovered too late that they were not actually the legal owners of their crypto holdings. 

Instead, in court, the treatment they received was that of general unsecured creditors, essentially putting them at the back of the line. McKinlay argues that these investors deserve stronger protections. 

She suggested classifying them as secured creditors or even full owners under updated laws like Article 12 of the Uniform Commercial Code. She also pushed for a national system that tracks crypto holdings and liens, making it easier to enforce rights and reduce fraud.

Trump Administration Helped XRP Price to Keep Climbing

While the report covered several topics, it also discussed specific assets like XRP. Importantly, the report linked XRP’s latest meteoric surge in value to the emergence of the Donald Trump administration. 

On the campaign trail, Trump promised a clear and more favorable regulatory environment for crypto assets to thrive in the U.S.. He stressed that the focus would shift toward supporting innovation and reducing government interference. 

As a result, his election bolstered investor confidence in XRP and other cryptocurrencies. This led to a massive rally, which XRP took advantage of. Specifically, XRP soared from $0.5 in November 2024 to $2.9 in December. CNBC ranked XRP as the biggest beneficiary of the Trump-led upsurge.

The report also highlighted the replacement of former SEC Chair Gary Gensler, who had been locked in a years-long legal fight with Ripple. 

This further boosted XRP’s value, as the token rallied to a seven-year peak of $3.4 by mid-January. Notably, while XRP has faced a pullback since then, it still maintains a price above $2. Some believe XRP would continue to benefit from the Trump administration’s approach to regulation, possibly leading to further price appreciation.

Meanwhile, the report originally suggested that XRP operated on the “Ripple exchange,” which was a misconception. Notably, XRP runs on the XRP Ledger (XRPL), a public blockchain independent of Ripple.

Also, according to the report, XRP transactions usually confirm within seconds and cost far less to process compared to Bitcoin. It also indicated that XRP was pre-mined before launch. As a result, the asset does not rely on energy-hungry mining operations, making it unique.

Other Mentions

The report also takes a look at Bitcoin, calling it the most valuable and well-known cryptocurrency. It notes that Bitcoin reached an all-time high of over $100,000 during Trump’s inauguration, driven in part by investor optimism about looser regulations. 

However, the report doesn’t ignore Bitcoin’s downsides, including its environmental impact and the growing concentration of mining power in a few hands.

Ethereum also received credit for its flexibility and usefulness beyond currency. The report explained how Ethereum supports smart contracts and NFTs and praises the network’s shift to a proof-of-stake model, which cuts energy use.

1...724725726...2,641Page 725 of 2,641