James G.

Global crypto exchange-traded products (ETPs) saw a sharp pullback last week amid a return to regulatory uncertainty. New data from CoinShares shows investors withdrew nearly $1 billion, ending a three-week streak of inflows. Delays around the U.S. Clarity Act played a key role in weakening sentiment, especially among U.S.-based institutions. Market activity also pointed to rising caution around large holders and near-term policy risks.

Bitcoin markets are sending mixed signals as price weakness meets rising trader confidence. While the asset remains under pressure after months of declines, activity in derivatives markets continues to point to steady dip buying. Data from Bitfinex shows traders increasing bullish exposure, even as sentiment across the broader market remains cautious.

Memecoin trading on Solana is under new legal scrutiny after investors accused several crypto firms of operating an unfair trading system. A federal lawsuit alleges private messages show coordination between blockchain engineers and a popular memecoin platform, putting retail traders at a disadvantage. A judge has allowed the case to proceed with expanded claims.

The Christmas season often raises the same question each year: what gift will have lasting value? For people involved in crypto, interests extend far beyond standard tech gadgets. Crypto users form a global community focused on digital ownership, financial independence, and long-term participation in blockchain networks. And as such, selecting a crypto-related gift shows awareness of these priorities. This article presents practical, beginner-friendly crypto gift ideas suited to different interests while remaining useful long after the holidays.

Ethereum’s long-term strength may depend on more than scaling and security. According to co-founder Vitalik Buterin, true trust in the network also requires a broader understanding of how it works. He argues that simplifying Ethereum’s protocol is essential. Without it, users must rely on a small group of experts rather than verify the system themselves.

The crypto market was hit by a wave of heavy corrections as a rough weekly outing triggered cautious sentiment among investors. During the downturn, heavy liquidations were recorded as some whales took profits while others moved to limit losses. On-chain data shows increased activity from large Bitcoin and Ethereum holders. In fact, U.S. spot Bitcoin and Ether ETFs recorded combined outflows of over $580 million on Monday, extending a broader trend of capital exits. As these heavy outflows persisted, market watchers observed whales rotating capital into a new game-based memecoin project.

Bitcoin’s Lightning Network has reached a new capacity record as major exchanges add more funds and developers roll out new tools. At the same time, an upgrade to Taproot Assets is pushing Bitcoin closer to supporting multiple asset types on its base ecosystem.

Regulatory pressure on the US crypto sector has eased sharply since President Donald Trump returned to office. Enforcement priorities at the Securities and Exchange Commission have shifted, with crypto firms now facing far fewer legal actions than in previous years.

JPMorgan Chase is expanding its blockchain strategy with the launch of a tokenized money-market fund on Ethereum. The product is backed by $100 million in internal capital and targets qualified investors seeking daily yield through an on-chain structure backed by short-term debt. Market observers say the move reflects clearer regulation, rising client demand, and growing interest in tokenized real-world assets.

Kevin Hassett, a leading contender to chair the Federal Reserve (Fed), said the central bank would remain independent even if it faces pressure from the White House. His remarks come as financial and crypto markets watch closely for signals on interest rates and the future path of U.S. monetary policy.

BONK continues to face steady selling pressure, with price action offering no clear signs of a rebound. Recent moves reflect hesitation rather than strength, leaving traders cautious. As expected, the market remains without a clear direction, and volatility stays muted.

Crypto companies are returning to public markets after several years on the sidelines. Listings in 2025 reflected renewed confidence following a prolonged slowdown. The larger test, however, still lies ahead. White & Case partner Laura Katherine Mann says 2026 will determine whether crypto IPOs can maintain investor trust beyond market cycles.

Markets are watching closely as the race to lead the US Fed continues, with political pressure on interest rates building. Recent comments from Jamie Dimon and Donald Trump suggest the outcome remains uncertain, with potential consequences for monetary policy and risk assets, including crypto.