Institutional investors pulled significant capital from U.S. spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) on Friday, marking one of the largest weekly outflows in months. According to data from Farside Investors, Bitcoin ETFs registered approximately $366.6 million in net redemptions on October 17, bringing total weekly outflows to around $1.2 billion. The downturn follows weeks of consistent inflows, signaling that institutional sentiment toward Bitcoin may be cooling after a strong third quarter. Analysts point to a mix of macroeconomic uncertainty, recent price volatility, and profit-taking behavior as key drivers behind the shift in ETF flows. Institutional sentiment turns cautious Leading the Friday withdrawals was BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), which saw approximately $268.6 million in outflows. Fidelity’s Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC) followed with $67.4 million in redemptions. Smaller funds, including ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (ARKB) and Grayscale’s Bitcoin Trust (GBTC), also recorded modest outflows, contributing to the broader negative trend. The redemptions reflect growing caution among institutional investors as Bitcoin’s price momentum weakened late in the week. After briefly touching the $65,000 level, Bitcoin retreated toward $63,500, aligning with the cooling ETF activity. Analysts suggest that traders are reducing exposure ahead of key U.S. economic data and Federal Reserve commentary expected next week. Thursday had already marked the heaviest single-day sell-off of the week, with approximately $536 million in outflows, before Friday’s additional redemptions compounded the losses. The seven-day stretch effectively erased much of the inflows recorded since late September, when optimism had started to build around renewed institutional accumulation. Despite the weekly setback, total assets under management (AUM) across U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs remain near record highs. Year-to-date inflows still exceed $17 billion, highlighting the resilience of institutional participation in the digital asset space. Market strategists note that while sentiment has turned defensive, the overall adoption trend for Bitcoin ETFs continues to expand across both retail and institutional segments. Ethereum ETFs, by comparison, remained largely flat during the same period. Since their launch, Ethereum-based products have struggled to attract the same level of engagement, underscoring Bitcoin’s dominance as the preferred institutional exposure to digital assets. Short-term volatility expected in crypto ETF flows Market observers expect ETF flows to remain volatile over the coming weeks as traders react to shifting macroeconomic indicators and risk sentiment. Rising bond yields, inflation data, and uncertainty surrounding global monetary policy have all weighed on speculative assets, including cryptocurrencies. While the latest outflows highlight a cautious turn among institutions, many analysts see the retracement as a temporary correction within a longer-term accumulation cycle. With total Bitcoin ETF holdings still substantial, renewed inflows could resume if Bitcoin stabilizes above key support levels and macro conditions improve. As the digital asset market matures, ETF flow data has become a critical barometer of institutional confidence. Investors and analysts will closely monitor whether the current cooling phase signals a broader trend or merely a short pause before the next wave of capital rotation into crypto-linked products.

According to the XTI/USD chart, WTI crude oil has fallen below $57, approaching its 2025 low near $55. The recent weakness in oil prices can be attributed to several key factors: → Ongoing uncertainty over the US–China trade agreement — as the world’s largest consumers of crude, any strain between the two nations heightens concerns about slower global growth and reduced energy demand. → Rising OPEC+ production levels, which have prompted the International Energy Agency (IEA) to revise its forecast for an oil surplus upward. → A diminished geopolitical risk premium following the recent peace accord in the Middle East, which has eased fears of potential supply disruptions. These developments have left traders questioning whether the current downtrend has further to run. Technical Overview: XTI/USD A week ago, we highlighted that: → From a broader perspective, the price of crude has been tracing out a descending channel (marked in red) since the post-escalation correction in June. The price has now slipped below the lower boundary of this channel — a sign of renewed bearish pressure. → Short-term dynamics indicate an acceleration in the sell-off, illustrated by the purple path lines on the chart. Our earlier projection of a drift towards the $55 support area has largely played out. However, the chart now suggests that downside momentum could soon fade: → The RSI indicator is hovering near oversold territory, implying that selling pressure may be losing strength. → A Falling Wedge formation has emerged — a classical reversal pattern that often precedes a recovery. Given these conditions, it is plausible that after a 10% monthly decline, sellers may begin taking profits, triggering a rebound in WTI. A corrective rise could target the $60 region, where several resistance levels converge, including: → The lower boundary of the red channel; → The psychological $60 mark; → The median line of the purple channel. Overall, while the medium-term trend remains bearish, technical signals suggest that a short-term rebound may soon develop as oversold conditions invite renewed buying interest. FXOpen offers spreads from 0.0 pips and commissions from $1.50 per lot. Enjoy trading on MT4, MT5, TickTrader or TradingView trading platforms! The FXOpen App is a dedicated mobile application designed to give traders full control of their accounts anytime, anywhere. This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice. Disclaimer: This sponsored market analysis is provided for informational purposes only. We have not independently verified its content and do not bear any responsibility for any information or description of services that it may contain. Information contained in this post is not advice nor a recommendation and thus should not be treated as such. We strongly recommend that you seek independent financial advice from a qualified and regulated professional, before participating or investing in any financial activities or services. Please also read and review our full disclaimer.

Peska Debuts at iFX EXPO Asia 2025 with a Vision for Borderless Finance Peska, a next-generation e-wallet platform, made its debut at iFX EXPO Asia 2025 in Hong Kong, introducing its pioneering concept of a “Digital Oasis” for global finance. Designed to seamlessly connect traditional payments with the emerging world of digital assets, Peska aims to redefine how investors, traders, and brokers move capital in real time. As the digital payments industry surges past $10 trillion globally, the demand for faster, cheaper, and more transparent fund transfer systems has reached critical importance—particularly in FX trading, where timing and trust are everything. Peska addresses this challenge head-on with a platform engineered for speed, efficiency, and compliance. “Peska is not simply following fintech evolution—it’s shaping it,” the company stated at its launch. “We are building the digital infrastructure where FX brokers and traders can transact securely, instantly, and cost-effectively across borders.” Investor Takeaway Peska’s arrival at iFX EXPO marks a turning point for FX payments — bridging digital assets and fiat in a unified, real-time e-wallet ecosystem. E-Wallet Revolution in FX Trading In the dynamic world of forex, traditional bank transfers often create friction—ranging from slow settlement times to high international fees. Peska’s e-wallet solution eliminates these barriers through real-time cross-border transactions powered by proprietary API integrations. Funds can move instantly between traders and partner brokers, enabling market participation within minutes instead of days. Key features of the Peska platform include: Lowest Fees in the Industry: No deposit or currency exchange charges; transfers and withdrawals from just 0.5%—among the most competitive rates available. Instant Global Transfers: Real-time settlements between clients and brokers, optimized for trading speed and liquidity. Advanced Security Infrastructure: Multi-layer defense architecture, transaction monitoring, and full compliance with international AML and data protection standards. For individual traders and institutions alike, Peska provides a transparent and cost-efficient bridge between traditional finance and decentralized innovation, establishing itself as a key enabler in next-generation FX operations. Strategic Advantage for Brokers Beyond being a payment solution, Peska offers FX brokers a competitive edge through deep system integration and operational control. Its robust API framework allows for seamless synchronization of deposits, withdrawals, and currency conversions—reducing human error while improving capital efficiency. Benefits for brokers include: Unified Fund Management: A one-stop interface combining payments, exchanges, and settlements in real time. AI-Powered Onboarding: Traders can open accounts in under three minutes using automated verification, enhancing conversion rates. Dedicated Partner Support: Tailored solutions and local customer care ensure long-term collaboration and retention. Custom APIs and 100+ Integrations: Compatibility with CRMs, liquidity providers, and analytics systems — eliminating vendor lock-in. Peska’s value-added services also include creative engagement initiatives such as the 2025 “No-Loss Lucky Draw” campaign, featuring a 15 ETH prize pool, and a Points Program offering fee discount coupons and loyalty rewards — tools that have significantly boosted user retention. Investor Takeaway For brokers, Peska delivers more than payments — it’s a growth platform that merges liquidity access, automation, and client loyalty in one integrated system. Global Expansion: Building a “Digital Oasis” for Asia and Beyond Peska’s participation at iFX EXPO Asia 2025 signals its broader global expansion strategy. The company is focused on extending its footprint across Southeast Asia and Greater China, regions where demand for cross-border payment efficiency is accelerating. Currently supporting four major currencies led by JPY and USD, Peska plans to introduce additional fiat and digital currency support in upcoming quarters. At Booth #4, attendees can experience Peska’s unified wallet infrastructure firsthand — including its instant onboarding workflows, API control dashboard, and demo integrations with FX brokers. The company’s long-term goal is to establish an interoperable financial environment where speed, transparency, and trust coexist under a single digital umbrella. “Peska’s vision is to become the definitive digital hub where global capital moves freely and securely,” said the team during the event. “We are not building a wallet; we are building a digital ecosystem.”

The Bank of England (BoE) has announced plans to introduce a full regulatory framework for stablecoins by the end of 2026, a move that could cement the UK’s position as a global leader in digital finance and stablecoin oversight. The new framework is designed to integrate digital assets into the broader financial system while ensuring consumer protection, financial stability, and trust in the rapidly growing stablecoin market. BoE Governor Andrew Bailey said that stablecoins widely used for payments should be regulated “like money,” emphasizing the need for strong safeguards. The framework will introduce requirements similar to those imposed on banks, including depositor protection, strict reserve management, and the possibility of granting stablecoin issuers access to central bank reserves. These measures aim to ensure that stablecoins maintain a consistent value and can be redeemed on demand, mirroring the reliability of traditional fiat currency. Consultations and transitional measures The Bank of England is set to open a public consultation on November 10, 2025, seeking feedback from financial institutions, fintech firms, and digital asset issuers. The consultation will guide the final rules around reserve asset quality, redemption guarantees, and custody standards. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) will also run parallel consultations on issuance and custody practices, with both agencies expected to finalize their joint regulatory framework by late 2026. As part of the initial rollout, the BoE is considering transitional measures to manage market risks. Among them are proposed temporary caps on individual stablecoin holdings, set between £10,000 and £20,000. The limits would act as a precaution during the first phase of adoption, allowing regulators to monitor systemic risk and market behavior before expanding usage. While these caps have faced criticism from industry groups, the BoE maintains that they are temporary and essential for financial stability. The banking and fintech sectors are already adjusting to the incoming framework. Several major UK banks have begun experimenting with tokenized deposits—digital representations of fiat currency—to bridge the gap between traditional banking and blockchain-based finance. Industry experts believe these innovations will complement stablecoins once the regulatory framework takes effect. However, some fintech leaders argue that stringent reserve and cap requirements could slow down innovation and hinder smaller firms from competing with established players. The Financial Times reported that industry groups have urged regulators to ensure that compliance costs remain proportionate to the scale of operations. A step toward global stablecoin standards Analysts view the UK’s timeline as a strategic effort to stay ahead of the global regulatory curve. With the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) rules already coming into force and the United States exploring stablecoin legislation, the BoE’s initiative could set a benchmark for balanced regulation. By creating a system that prioritizes both innovation and safety, the UK aims to attract institutional participation in digital payments while protecting consumers. If successfully implemented, the 2026 stablecoin framework could transform the UK into a model jurisdiction for responsible digital finance—combining regulatory clarity, central bank oversight, and innovation in one of the world’s leading financial centers.

Bitcoin mining companies are outperforming Bitcoin itself in 2025, as investors shift focus from pure cryptocurrency exposure to diversified digital infrastructure plays. With the surge in demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC), miners like Bitdeer, Iris Energy (IREN), and TeraWulf are seeing their stock prices soar—outpacing Bitcoin’s relatively modest gains since the April halving. The biggest winners in the latest crypto rebound are not Bitcoin holders, but the mining firms that have successfully transitioned into hybrid computing models. These companies are leveraging their vast energy resources, data centers, and hardware capacity to support both Bitcoin mining and AI-driven workloads, a strategy that investors view as a hedge against crypto market volatility. Rising valuations driven by AI diversification Bitdeer’s stock recently jumped nearly 28% following its announcement of a major AI cloud computing expansion, while Iris Energy raised $1 billion through convertible debt to finance new data center developments. TeraWulf, backed by Google’s data infrastructure arm, revealed plans for a $3.2 billion build-out aimed at scaling AI and HPC operations. Its share price has risen more than 170% year-to-date, making it one of the top-performing mining equities of 2025. This pivot into AI and HPC computing has created a new valuation framework for the mining industry. Analysts note that markets are increasingly rewarding companies that can repurpose existing mining infrastructure into scalable data and compute services. This strategic diversification has made miners less dependent on Bitcoin’s price cycles and more attractive to institutional investors seeking exposure to the AI revolution. Mining economics and investor sentiment shift While Bitcoin’s post-halving environment has tightened profit margins due to lower block rewards and higher operational costs, miners have found new ways to monetize their infrastructure. The ability to redirect excess power and real estate toward AI computing gives them a competitive advantage, especially as the global demand for data processing surges. Institutional investors are also fueling this rally. Hedge funds and asset managers view hybrid miners as technology firms rather than pure crypto plays, leading to higher equity multiples and stronger long-term growth prospects. Many analysts now project that AI-linked mining firms will continue to outperform both Bitcoin and traditional crypto equities for the remainder of the year. The convergence of Bitcoin mining and AI computing marks a pivotal shift in how mining firms are valued. No longer seen as solely dependent on Bitcoin’s market price, these companies are evolving into infrastructure providers for the broader digital economy. As AI adoption accelerates, miners with flexible power assets, efficient cooling systems, and scalable data centers are positioned to capture a significant share of the next wave of technological growth. With mining firms turning into dual-purpose energy and computing companies, the narrative for 2025 is clear: the future of Bitcoin mining is no longer just about hashing power—it’s about intelligent infrastructure.

Astra Nova, a rising blockchain gaming project, has announced that it was the target of a significant security breach that allegedly led to a $10 million loss. According to the team, a third-party market maker account was compromised shortly after the project’s token, RVV, launched—triggering a rapid and large-scale sell-off that shocked investors and the broader crypto community. The incident occurred on October 19, 2025, causing RVV’s price to plummet between 65% and 75% within hours before showing mild signs of recovery. Astra Nova stated that while the market impact was severe, the project’s core contracts and on-chain infrastructure were not affected by the hack. Market impact and on-chain activity Blockchain data reveals that roughly 860 million RVV tokens—equivalent to about 8.6% of the total supply—were sold for around $10.2 million in USDT. The address tied to the suspicious transactions, 0x643F…178C, conducted several large swaps in rapid succession, overwhelming liquidity pools and causing a sharp market crash. In response, Astra Nova announced an open-market buyback program to help stabilize RVV’s price, alongside a 10% bounty to recover the stolen funds. The team claims it is working closely with security firms to trace the assets and has enhanced internal controls to mitigate future risks. The project reassured users that its game development and platform operations would continue as planned despite the setback. Despite Astra Nova’s swift public statement, community reaction has been mixed. Some on-chain analysts have questioned the team’s explanation, suggesting that the event may not fit the usual pattern of an external exploit. Observers have noted unusual fund movements to centralized exchanges and timing discrepancies that have fueled speculation of potential insider involvement. The project’s Discord server was temporarily locked and muted following the incident, which some community members interpreted as an attempt to control the narrative. Astra Nova representatives later stated that the move was to prevent misinformation from spreading while the team investigated the issue. Independent blockchain security experts have called for a full forensic report to verify the team’s claims and identify the true nature of the breach. Without a transparent, third-party audit, questions remain over whether the losses were the result of external compromise, operational negligence, or internal mismanagement. Ongoing investigation and market outlook As of October 20, RVV has partially recovered but remains volatile, with trading volumes surging across decentralized exchanges. Investors are closely monitoring wallet activity and awaiting further updates from the Astra Nova team. If confirmed as a genuine hack, the Astra Nova incident would mark one of the largest token-related exploits in the gaming sector this year. However, if the community’s suspicions prove correct, the event could raise deeper questions about transparency and trust in emerging blockchain projects. Either outcome underscores the critical importance of security, oversight, and accountability in the evolving Web3 gaming ecosystem.

Hyperliquid founder Jeff Yan has dismissed claims that the decentralized derivatives platform prioritizes revenue over user experience. The remarks follow online discussions alleging that Hyperliquid’s recent on-chain activities were structured to generate profits for the protocol rather than benefit traders. Yan called the allegations “FUD,” arguing that the criticism misrepresents the platform’s intent. He pointed to the October 10 Automated Deleveraging (ADL) event, which he said resulted in “hundreds of millions” in net user profits while maintaining market stability. “The event was built to enhance system efficiency and reduce risk exposure for traders,” Yan said, rejecting the notion that Hyperliquid’s mechanisms were designed to prioritize revenue collection. Industry observers noted that the controversy reflects a broader tension within decentralized finance (DeFi) around balancing transparency, user protection, and protocol incentives. As DeFi projects continue to expand in scale and trading volume, questions about governance and fairness have become increasingly prominent. Focus on transparency and on-chain verification Hyperliquid, which operates as a fully on-chain perpetuals exchange, has positioned itself as a counterpoint to centralized trading platforms. Yan emphasized that all trading activity on Hyperliquid is recorded and verifiable on-chain, allowing users to audit performance independently. He contrasted this model with the limited visibility offered by centralized exchanges, some of which he claimed underreport liquidation data during market volatility. While these comments were intended to reinforce transparency within DeFi, some analysts caution that the growing competition among on-chain exchanges could lead to greater scrutiny of how protocols measure and communicate profitability. Industry experts suggest that user trust in on-chain data will be key to maintaining credibility in the increasingly crowded derivatives sector. DeFi growth and market scrutiny The debate over Hyperliquid’s operations comes at a time when decentralized exchanges are seeing renewed growth in user activity. Rising interest in on-chain perpetuals and futures trading has brought increased attention from both traders and regulators. Analysts say the sector’s expansion has also revived concerns about whether DeFi platforms can maintain transparency while scaling profitably. Market data shows that Hyperliquid’s trading volumes have risen steadily over recent months, placing it among the most active decentralized derivatives protocols. However, Yan’s comments suggest that the team is aware of the reputational risks associated with perceptions of profit-driven decision-making. “Everything is on-chain, auditable, and provable,” Yan said in his defense, emphasizing that Hyperliquid’s structure leaves little room for hidden actions or off-chain manipulation. His remarks underline an ongoing effort within the DeFi ecosystem to distinguish transparent execution models from centralized systems that rely on internal reporting. As the discussion around transparency and accountability in DeFi intensifies, Hyperliquid’s response highlights the growing importance of open verification in maintaining user trust. The outcome of such debates may influence how future decentralized trading platforms balance revenue generation with community confidence.

Jupiter, the largest decentralized exchange (DEX) aggregator on the Solana blockchain, has officially released its long-awaited Ultra V3 upgrade. Announced on October 18, 2025, the new version delivers significant improvements in trading efficiency, routing intelligence, and security against market manipulation, establishing Jupiter as a leader in on-chain execution. Enhanced routing and predictive execution The core innovation in Ultra V3 is Iris, Jupiter’s new meta-routing system that aggregates liquidity across a wider range of decentralized venues and liquidity pools. This advancement ensures deeper market access, enabling traders to secure the most competitive prices across the Solana network. Combined with predictive execution technology, Ultra V3 enhances slippage estimation, optimizes order splitting, and reduces failed transactions. According to Jupiter’s development team, the upgrade results in 8 to 10 times lower execution fees compared to previous versions, significantly reducing trading costs for both retail and institutional users. The engine’s predictive models also identify the best moment to execute trades, maximizing capital efficiency in volatile market conditions. In addition to routing enhancements, Ultra V3 introduces ShadowLane, a new system built to combat Miner Extractable Value (MEV) attacks. MEV exploits, particularly sandwich attacks, have plagued decentralized finance (DeFi) users by manipulating transaction ordering for profit. Jupiter claims ShadowLane provides 34 times stronger protection against such attacks compared to standard defenses, ensuring fairer and more private trade execution. ShadowLane operates by concealing order details and routing them through protected transaction lanes, effectively minimizing opportunities for front-running and arbitrage bots. The update also introduces optional gasless transactions, allowing users to execute trades without paying transaction fees in SOL. This feature is expected to make trading on Solana more accessible and user-friendly, especially for newcomers to the ecosystem. A milestone for Solana’s DeFi infrastructure Ultra V3 positions Jupiter as a cornerstone of Solana’s decentralized finance ecosystem. The upgrade’s combination of routing intelligence, execution optimization, and MEV resistance strengthens Solana’s competitive edge in the broader DeFi landscape. With liquidity aggregation spanning top decentralized exchanges and automated market makers (AMMs), Jupiter continues to deliver the “best price, best execution, and best protection” framework that has defined its brand. Industry analysts view Ultra V3 as a pivotal development for Solana DeFi, bringing its infrastructure closer to the speed and reliability of centralized exchanges while preserving transparency and self-custody. The launch reinforces Jupiter’s vision of enabling seamless, efficient, and secure on-chain trading for users worldwide. As decentralized finance adoption grows, Jupiter’s Ultra V3 stands as a technological milestone that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in DeFi execution. By integrating advanced routing, predictive algorithms, and robust MEV protection, Jupiter continues to redefine the standards for decentralized trading on Solana.

Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, has blocked more than 600 user accounts as part of an extensive crackdown on automated abuse within its Binance Alpha airdrop campaigns. The move, announced via Binance’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, marks a decisive step in the exchange’s efforts to maintain transparency, compliance, and fairness across its reward-based ecosystem. The enforcement follows the discovery of widespread misuse by coordinated “bot farms” that leveraged automation tools to unfairly accumulate airdrop rewards. Binance confirmed that these accounts were found violating participation rules designed to ensure equitable distribution of tokens and rewards to genuine users. Strengthening compliance and transparency across campaigns In its statement, Binance explained that the offending accounts have been permanently disqualified from future Alpha campaigns. The company has also launched a clawback mechanism to recover any airdrops or incentives obtained through fraudulent means. Additionally, Binance introduced a new whistleblower program that allows users to report similar violations and earn up to 50% of any recovered funds. A Binance spokesperson noted that the crackdown aligns with the company’s broader compliance goals. The exchange is investing heavily in advanced monitoring systems, verification processes, and behavioral analytics to detect automated activity and prevent exploitation of community programs. The Alpha platform—Binance’s innovation hub for early blockchain projects—has been central to its ecosystem growth strategy. By offering token-based incentives to early adopters, Alpha helps startups build communities and attract liquidity. However, the increasing sophistication of bot-driven manipulation has raised challenges for both project teams and the exchange. Community response and industry implications The crypto community’s response has been largely positive. Many users have commended Binance for taking swift and transparent action to protect the integrity of airdrop campaigns. Industry analysts suggest that this move reinforces Binance’s commitment to fair play and could set a precedent for other major exchanges to follow. However, some users expressed concern over the centralized nature of enforcement, arguing that decisions on bans and clawbacks should involve greater transparency and community oversight. Binance maintains that user trust and campaign integrity outweigh any potential drawbacks, emphasizing that automated abuse threatens the credibility of Web3 engagement systems. Market observers note that the incident is unlikely to negatively affect Binance Coin (BNB) performance, as the enforcement targets specific campaign misconduct rather than exchange operations. On the contrary, some analysts predict a boost in investor confidence as Binance demonstrates proactive risk management amid growing regulatory and community scrutiny. Looking ahead, Binance’s crackdown on automation abuse signals a new phase in the evolution of incentive-driven blockchain ecosystems. As airdrops and token campaigns remain a key growth mechanism in decentralized finance (DeFi), maintaining fairness, transparency, and accountability has become essential to sustaining long-term trust in Web3 participation. By addressing exploitation head-on and rewarding honest participation, Binance aims to reinforce its reputation as a responsible leader in the global crypto industry.

Khaled A’yesh, CEO and founder of FundingPips, has unveiled his latest venture — Tradin, a next-generation brokerage platform built “by traders, for traders.” After FundingPips’ rapid rise to become one of the world’s leading proprietary trading firms with over two million global users, A’yesh is extending his mission to transform how traders interact with markets through Tradin’s technology-driven, user-first design. Tradin delivers ultra-tight spreads, institutional-grade liquidity, instant withdrawals, and high-speed execution while emphasizing responsive, human-centered support. The platform’s infrastructure combines competitive pricing with reliability and transparency — key priorities for A’yesh, who has long advocated for a fairer and more accessible trading landscape. “The launch of Tradin represents a significant milestone in our dedication to empowering traders and making a global impact,” A’yesh said. “We’ve built a brokerage that merges advanced technology with seamless market access, eliminating barriers and ensuring every trader — beginner or professional — has a fair opportunity to succeed.” Investor Takeaway With Tradin, Khaled A’yesh extends FundingPips’ prop trading legacy into full-service brokerage — offering traders globally faster execution, tighter spreads, and greater transparency. Building on FundingPips’ Success Story Under A’yesh’s leadership, FundingPips has distributed approximately $160 million in rewards to traders while maintaining a zero-denial reward policy — an unprecedented standard of integrity in the proprietary trading sector. Since its inception less than three years ago, FundingPips has grown to over two million traders across 195 countries, driven by its transparent, results-based model that rewards talent and discipline. Tradin builds upon that foundation, aiming to provide traders not just capital but also direct access to institutional-grade market conditions. The platform’s seamless funding options and instant account activation allow users to enter markets quickly, supported by technology designed to reduce latency and enhance execution reliability. “At FundingPips, we’ve proven that fairness and transparency can fuel success for both the trader and the firm,” A’yesh noted. “With Tradin, we’re expanding that philosophy into a brokerage model — one that prioritizes traders’ freedom, efficiency, and experience.” Tradin’s Trader-First Technology Framework Tradin’s architecture reflects a client-first engineering philosophy — from liquidity aggregation and low-latency execution to intuitive user interfaces across web and mobile. Features include: Ultra-tight spreads and deep liquidity for cost-efficient trading. Instant withdrawals and diverse funding methods for frictionless transactions. 24/7 human support for traders in all time zones. High-speed execution with institutional-grade infrastructure. This ecosystem ensures that traders can execute strategies efficiently while maintaining control over their capital flow. It also integrates instant funding mechanisms, enabling immediate deposits and withdrawals — a step designed to remove the common friction points associated with traditional brokerage models. Investor Takeaway Tradin’s launch signals a shift toward technology-enabled fairness in retail trading — merging the agility of prop trading with the transparency of regulated brokerage. Expanding a Global Vision for Traders The launch of Tradin reinforces Khaled A’yesh’s vision of empowering traders through accessibility, inclusivity, and innovation. As FundingPips continues to anchor itself as a trusted prop trading brand, its transition into the brokerage space through Tradin represents a strategic evolution — from funding traders to equipping them with advanced market access tools. At the Forex Expo 2025, where FundingPips participated as a Titanium Sponsor and received the Best Prop Trading Firm Award, A’yesh introduced Tradin to the global financial community. The event served as a platform to demonstrate how Tradin aligns with the firm’s mission of fostering trader independence, market fairness, and operational transparency. As A’yesh continues to bridge the gap between prop trading and retail brokerage, Tradin emerges as a next-generation platform committed to reshaping how traders engage with global markets — built on the same principles that made FundingPips a global success story.

Crypto investments have become increasingly popular among investors owing to their explosive upside potential; however, they are also infamous for their extreme volatility. One moment, your portfolio is reaching new highs; the next, it has fallen into a deep correction. For active investors, relying solely on hope is a recipe for anxiety and possibly devastating losses. This is where hedging comes in—it serves as a crucial strategy that acts as an insurance policy for your digital assets.  In a market where prices can fluctuate 10% or more within a day, establishing a hedging strategy is a sign of a mature, responsible investor. This article highlights some of the importance of hedging and the necessary tools you can employ to keep your assets without losing your edge. Key Takeaways Hedging is primarily a risk management strategy, not a profit-maximizing one. It aims to reduce potential losses during downturns, allowing you to weather volatility without panic-selling. It allows long-term investors to keep their core holdings (such as Bitcoin) while safeguarding their portfolio’s value during short-term corrections by using offsetting derivative positions. Hedging is not free. Using options, futures, or other tools incurs transaction fees, premiums, or margin costs. This is the price paid for reducing risk and should be weighed against the expected benefit. What is Crypto Hedging? Hedging means taking on a position that is designed to profit if your primary investment loses value. The idea is to reduce the impact of negative price movements on your overall portfolio. For instance, if you hold a large amount of Bitcoin (a “long” position) and foresee a short-term market drop, you can take on a reverse position that will gain value as the price falls. The profit from your hedge should cover, or at least be markedly lower than, the loss from your long Bitcoin position. This allows you to freeze profits or preserve capital without necessarily selling your underlying assets, which can be beneficial for long-term investors concerned about trading fees or taxation. Common Hedging Tools The most common and effective ways of hedging in the cryptocurrency market involve the use of derivatives, which are financial contracts that have a value based on an underlying asset, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum. Futures contracts: A futures contract is an agreement to buy or sell a cryptocurrency at a set price on a designated date in the future. By selling a futures contract (a “short” position), you have “locked in” a future selling price. If the current market price is lower than this, the profit on your short futures position compensates for the loss on your spot holdings. Options contracts: These give the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to buy (a call) or sell (a put) a cryptocurrency at a specified price (the “strike price”) before a set date. For instance, the protective put strategy (also referred to as married put) allows you to own Bitcoin and buy a put option to hedge. When the Bitcoin price drops below the strike price, you can exercise your option to sell at the higher, guaranteed strike price, protecting your capital. The cost is the “premium” you paid for the option, which constitutes the insurance fee. Perpetual swaps: Similar to futures but with no time factor, perpetual swaps are well-known in crypto for hedging. Shorting a perpetual swap contract enables you to profit from a price drop. These involve the use of leverage, which can maximize winnings as well as losses; nevertheless, they should be treated cautiously. Converting to stablecoins: The simplest, most direct hedge is to convert a portion of a volatile cryptocurrency into a stablecoin (such as USDC or USDT), which is typically pegged 1:1 to the US dollar. This keeps your investment out of risk of market volatility, though you miss out on any possible upside. Risks of Unhedged Exposure Failing to hedge in a volatile crypto market exposes an investor to maximum risk, leading to significant potential setbacks. Massive drawdowns: Without a hedge, your portfolio is exposed to the full extent of a market crash, which in crypto can easily exceed 50%. It requires a much larger percentage gain further down the road to return to profit, the recovery thus being difficult and lengthy. Emotional decision-making: Such extreme volatility tends to create fear, leading investors to make emotional, poorly thought-out decisions, including selling at the exact bottom. Hedging is a rational, pre-planned defense that limits losses, allowing for more calm and strategic decision-making. Liquidity risk: In a market panic, liquidating large spot positions can be difficult and may result in poor execution prices. A structured hedge,  such as an options contract, pre-defines your protection, regardless of how sudden the market price drops. Bottom Line Hedging is an essential component of professional and responsible crypto investment. The cryptocurrency market, while offering asymmetric upside potential, demands that its defining feature—hyper-volatility—be managed. Hedging is the financial technique that allows investors to hold onto their high-conviction, long-term assets while simultaneously guarding against fleeting but potentially portfolio-ruining price drops. With contemporary instruments such as crypto futures, options, and perpetual swaps, investors are converting an uncertain risk into a predictable cost (the premium or fee for the hedge). This strategic trade-off transforms speculative crypto holdings into a more manageable asset. Ultimately, the significance of hedging in crypto is that it stabilizes returns, maintains capital, and provides the psychological staying power to remain in the game over the long haul. Thus, hedging is a survival tactic and a requirement for long-term investment success.  

Cryptocurrency is filled with opportunities and innovations that set it apart from traditional finance. Crypto is not just virtual cash; it is a different infrastructure altogether. While banks and other financial institutions follow long-established systems, crypto offers unique features that give users more control, transparency, and flexibility over their money. From decentralized networks to digital ownership and smart contracts, here are five things you can find in crypto that you will not experience in traditional finance. Key Takeaways Crypto’s infrastructure is decentralized, with no governments or banks control, eliminates the built-in centralization of traditional finance. Smart contracts automatically execute transactions using computer codes, eliminating human intermediaries and legal enforcement typical of standard contracts. Crypto provides self-custody where customers hold ownership over their assets with private keys, a system that empowers them to be their own bank. Understanding Crypto and Traditional Finance Since it is a relatively new terrain, adapting to a new style of evaluating finances can be challenging with crypto. For traditional investors, the focus is often on the stability of a stock and security of their investments. Conversely, crypto traders tend to make decisions based on current market prices due to the volatility of these digital currencies. 1. True Decentralization In traditional finance, it is all centralized. Your money is held by a bank, the stock exchange runs the market, and a central bank controls the money supply. This means you have to trust these institutions and government-backed authorities behind them. Crypto, built on blockchain technology, has no central authority. Transactions are confirmed and recorded in a ledger by a global network of computers (nodes) rather than a single company or government. No single entity can unilaterally stop a transaction, censor an account, or print new money without seeking the agreement of the community. The introduction of crypto helps to eliminate total collapse of the framework should the regular central role assumed by banks or government becomes compromised or removed. 2. Self-Custody When you invest in a financial institution, the bank, credit union, or brokerage firms technically owns it; all you can hold on to is their promise of repayment. You can lose access to your money in case the bank folds or it freezes your account. In crypto, you can keep your funds in a non-custodial wallet through a private key. Self-custody means keeping the secret key in your exclusive control that holds your crypto. Nobody—government, exchange, or bank—can touch, freeze, or take those assets without your key. You are personally accountable for the security of your assets. This is unlike traditional finance where a custodian (bank, broker, or payment processor) is required to keep funds and process transactions, offering regulation, insurance, and third-party security. Crypto is not bound in its operational and legal structure, and it offers proper self-custody. 3. Automated Smart Contracts A smart contract is a piece of code on a blockchain (such as Ethereum) that automatically executes when specific, predetermined conditions are met. Crypto utilizes smart contracts where the conditions of the deal are embedded in computer code. A seller, for example, could receive money automatically the instant a shipping company publishes to the blockchain a “delivered” notice. No lawyer or intermediary is required. However, It is less trusted since the code, visible to all, is the final judge. Furthermore, traditional contracts rely on human interpretation, legal systems, and trusted intermediaries to enforce complex and often ambiguous terms, a function that pure, immutable computer code cannot fully replicate across every scenario. 4. Transparent Public Ledgers Compared with traditional finance systems, which are governed by stringent financial privacy laws that prohibit the public disclosure of individual or corporate transaction data, most big public blockchains used for trading crypto are completely open. Every single transaction—the wallet address of the sender, the wallet address of the recipient, the sum, and the time stamp—is recorded on an open book to which anyone in the world can have access through a blockchain explorer. Although the info on the transactions is out in the open, who the wallet address belongs to is generally pseudonymous and not linked to their name or home address. 5. Permissionless Financial Innovation Crypto laid the foundation for decentralized finance (DeFi), an open system where you can build, use, or invest in financial services without the need for permission from a central authority. Two examples of permissionless financial mechanisms are: Yield Farming: As an investor, you can generate a high interest by lending out crypto or providing liquidity (tokens) to a decentralized exchange pool. Passive income is earned at rates typically much greater than traditional savings accounts but at a higher risk. Impermanent Loss: This is a specific risk that is associated with providing liquidity to automated market makers (a DeFi feature). It is the temporary loss of capital due to the volatility of deposited assets compared to simply holding them. When the prices of the tokens change significantly, the tokens you withdraw from the pool can be less valuable than if you just held them in your wallet. DeFi protocols are developed by individuals and communities and are globally accessible without the typical regulatory gatekeeping, enabling rapid, experimental innovation not possible in the slow, compliance-heavy traditional finance. Bottom Line Crypto represents more than just a new investment asset; it is a financial infrastructure built on different principles. The five features—decentralization, self-custody, smart contracts, public ledgers, and permissionless DeFi innovation—shift power and responsibility from central institutions to the individual user and the underlying computer code. This allows for unparalleled transparency, speed, and global access but also introduces unique, complex risks, such as impermanent loss, that users solely manage. While traditional finance offers legal protection and stability, crypto provides an open and trust-minimized alternative, making it a critical area of technological and economic development that continues to challenge and integrate with the existing financial system.

FSA Considers Lifting Crypto Ban for Banks Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA) is preparing to review rules that could let domestic banks buy and hold cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin for investment purposes, according to a report from Livedoor News on Sunday. The proposal would represent a policy reversal from supervisory guidelines introduced in 2020, which barred banks from holding crypto assets due to price volatility risks. The FSA plans to discuss the changes at an upcoming session of the Financial Services Council, a key advisory body to the Prime Minister. Officials said the aim is to bring crypto asset management in line with how financial institutions handle stocks and government bonds, subject to the same oversight and capital requirements. Regulators are expected to review frameworks for managing price risk, liquidity exposure, and the potential impact on bank balance sheets. Any approval is likely to include capital adequacy and risk management conditions before banks are allowed to hold Bitcoin or other digital assets directly. Investor Takeaway If approved, Japan’s banking sector could become one of the first globally to treat crypto assets as investable instruments, blurring the line between digital and traditional finance. Bank-Backed Exchanges Under Review The FSA is also weighing whether to let banking groups register as licensed cryptocurrency exchange operators, allowing them to offer trading and custody services to clients directly. Such a move would deepen the integration of crypto into Japan’s financial system, where interest among retail and institutional investors continues to rise. Japan’s crypto market has expanded sharply in recent years. The FSA reported that by February 2025, there were more than 12 million registered crypto accounts, roughly 3.5 times the number recorded five years earlier. The surge reflects both retail participation and greater institutional involvement through licensed exchanges and custodians. In early September, the regulator proposed moving crypto oversight from the Payments Services Act to the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act (FIEA). The shift would align crypto with securities markets and strengthen investor protection, giving authorities more power over disclosures, trading practices, and enforcement. The FSA noted that many of the risks in digital assets resemble those seen in conventional securities. Stablecoin Projects and New Enforcement Rules Japan’s largest banks are already deepening their involvement in digital assets. Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG), Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp. (SMBC), and Mizuho Bank have partnered to issue a yen-pegged stablecoin designed to streamline corporate payments and reduce settlement costs. The initiative aligns with Tokyo’s push to modernize payment infrastructure while maintaining control over financial stability. Meanwhile, Japan’s Securities and Exchange Surveillance Commission (SESC) is drafting new rules to ban and penalize insider trading in crypto markets, extending existing securities laws to digital assets. Regulators see the measure as part of a broader effort to bring crypto trading in line with mainstream compliance standards. Investor Takeaway The combination of stablecoin initiatives and potential crypto holdings for banks suggests Japan is positioning itself as a tightly regulated but innovation-friendly hub for digital finance. Global Context Japan’s review follows similar regulatory discussions in the United States and Europe. While U.S. regulators remain divided on how banks should handle digital assets, Tokyo’s methodical approach—framed within existing securities laws—could offer a model for other jurisdictions seeking to balance innovation and stability. The FSA’s deliberations come as Japan’s new Prime Minister has voiced support for refining blockchain regulations and encouraging the country’s role in global crypto markets. If banks are permitted to hold and trade cryptocurrencies under strict capital and risk conditions, Japan could become one of the first major economies to normalize Bitcoin exposure at the institutional level. The outcome of the upcoming Financial Services Council meeting will determine whether the reform advances to the legislative stage, setting the tone for Japan’s next phase of digital asset regulation.  

Think about the last time you signed up for an online service. Most of the time, you give your personal information to companies or platforms you barely know. Your data is stored somewhere you don’t control, and if that platform gets hacked, your information is at risk. Now with decentralized identifiers, you can manage your digital identity on your own terms. You decide what information to share, who sees it, and how it is used. In Web3, this gives you privacy, security, and freedom that regular online accounts cannot offer. Key Takeaways • Decentralized identifiers (DIDs) let you control your own digital identity without relying on a central authority. • They are secure, private, and cryptographically verifiable. • DIDs are a building block for Web3 and it helps users interact safely with decentralized applications and platforms. •  Decentralized identifiers help protect your identity from fraud through cryptographic security. • One DID can work across multiple apps and platforms, making online interactions easier. How do Decentralized Identifiers Work? Fundamentally, a decentralized identifier (DID), is a unique digital name that can represent you, a device, or even an organization. In contrast to the regular usernames or ID numbers that are managed by a company or government, DIDs are completely under your control. They are designed to give you full ownership of your digital identity. Here’s a simple breakdown of how a decentralized identifier can be created and how it works. 1. Creating a DID The first step is creating a DID. You can generate one using a decentralized system such as a blockchain. The best part is that you don’t need permission from anyone to do this. The DID is yours from the moment it is created. 2. Linking to a DID Document Once a decentralized identifier is created, it connects to a DID document. This document contains important details like public keys and service information. Other systems use this information to verify that the DID truly belongs to you. 3. Authenticating Your Identity Whenever you interact with an app or platform, your DID is checked using cryptography. This ensures that your identity is genuine and cannot be faked. Authentication happens automatically and securely, giving you assurance that your digital presence is protected. 4. Using Your DID After authentication, you can use your decentralized identifier in a variety of ways. You can log into decentralized applications, prove credentials, or even interact with smart contracts. All of this happens without revealing unnecessary personal information and this in turn, keeps your identity private and secure. The Role of Decentralized Identifiers in Web3 1. Privacy With DIDs, you can prove who you are without sharing unnecessary personal information. This protects your data from misuse and keeps your online interactions safe and private. 2. Interoperability A single DID can work across multiple apps and platforms. This means you can move seamlessly between different services without creating new accounts or repeating verification processes. 3. Building Trust DIDs provide verifiable credentials that others can rely on. Whether you are signing into a decentralized app, proving your qualifications, or interacting with smart contracts, people can trust that your identity is genuine without depending on a central authority. 4. Reduced Risk of Fraud Decentralized identifiers are cryptographically secured therefore, it is much harder for someone to impersonate you online. This adds an extra layer of protection and ensures your digital identity remains authentic. Conclusion Decentralized identifiers may seem simple, but they have a big impact. They give you control over your digital identity, safeguard your privacy, and make online interactions more secure and reliable. As Web3 continues to expand, learning about and using DIDs will become increasingly important for anyone who wants to truly own their online presence. With decentralized identifiers, the internet becomes a place where you, not companies or governments, are in charge of your identity.    

In the blockchain and decentralized systems space, trust is built through mechanisms called “proof” models. These models decide how participants can validate transactions, secure the network, and gain community influence.   For several years, Proof of Work (PoW) has been the foundation for several major blockchains like Bitcoin. However, new ideas such as Proof of Respect (PoR) are emerging. This concept prioritizes trust, human contribution, and reputation over conventional computing power. In this article, we explore how these systems operate, what they represent, and their offerings for the future of trust.  Key Takeaways Proof of Work uses computational effort to secure blockchain networks, while Proof of Respect builds trust through reputation. PoW offers trusted security and stability, but faces hassles with scalability and energy use. PoR introduces a user-centric approach that rewards contribution, honesty, and positive community engagement.  The future of decentralized trust may lie in combining technical validation from PoW with ethical governance from PoR.  What is Proof of Work (PoW) Proof of Work is one of the oldest and most notable blockchain consensus mechanisms. It leverages miners using computational power to solve difficult mathematical puzzles for validating transactions and securing the network.  When the first miner solves a puzzle, they get rewarded with newly minted tokens, creating trust and competition in the ecosystem. For instance, Bitcoin uses this system to ensure transparency and prevent double-spending. While Proof of Work is admired for its decentralization and security, it faces criticism for its limited scalability and high energy consumption. What is Proof of Respect (PoR) Proof of respect is a more recent concept that diverts the focus from computational efforts to human contribution and reputation. Rather than depending on machines, it values the integrity, actions, and credibility of participants in a decentralized community.  Users earn respect through transparency, useful engagement, and collaboration. One of the primary goals of PoR is to prompt social accountability and ethical behavior. Therefore, users are rewarded for positive influence and not wealth or power.  Key Differences Between Proof of Work and Proof of Respect Both concepts aim to build trust in decentralized systems. However, they take different paths to achieve this.  First, Proof of Work depends on computing power, where participants prove their dedication by solving complex puzzles that take time, hardware resources, and electricity. In contrast, Proof of Respect is based on contribution and social trust. Participants prove their value through honesty, engagement, and community collaboration.  Additionally, Proof of Work builds security through computation and energy, while Proof of Respect achieves this through reputation and relationships.  The rewards in Proof of Work are awarded to those with more processing power, making it quite capital-intensive. In comparison, the rewards in Proof of Respect are tied to earned respect, making it more human-centered and inclusive. Together, both reflect different philosophies where one is powered by machines and the other by people.    Strengths and Weaknesses of Each Model Proof of Work (PoW)- Strengths 1. Proven security and reliability: PoW has made a name for itself as one of the safest blockchain mechanisms. Its process of solving complex cryptographic puzzles makes it challenging for fraudulent individuals to fake or alter transactions. 2. Solid protection against manipulation and fraud: Since every transaction needs computational proof, tampering with the network requires massive energy and resources, making attacks almost impossible.  3. Promotes decentralization and transparency: PoW systems allow individuals with the ideal hardware to participate, encouraging open access and reducing dependence on one authority.  4. Trusted track record with notable blockchains: Bitcoin, the most valuable and first cryptocurrency, works on PoW, proving its capability to maintain trust and stability over time.  Proof of Work (PoW) – Weaknesses 1. High energy consumption: PoW requires voluminous computational power, leading to high energy use that raises long-term sustainability questions and environmental concerns. 2. Limited scalability: As the network grows, it becomes slower to validate transactions. It also becomes more resource-intensive, making it challenging to process large volumes quickly. 3. Expensive entry barrier: Mining equipment and power costs make it difficult for everyday individuals to participate. This costly limitation leaves control in the hands of well-funded miners. 4. Risk of mining centralization: Over time, crypto mining has become centralized in areas with access to affordable power, reducing true network fairness and creating partial centralization.   Proof of Respect (PoR)- Strengths 1. Promotes inclusiveness and fairness: PoR doesn’t depend on machines or financial power. Instead, it relies on human values like reputation, honesty, and contribution. Therefore, participation is open to any user willing to engage meaningfully. 2. Environmentally sustainable: With PoR, there’s no need for electricity or high-powered computers. This feature makes it an energy-efficient and green alternative that backs eco-friendly blockchain adoption. 3. Rewards engagement and positive behavior: Users gain influence and rewards depending on community respect and contributions, not their technical resources. Hence, it promotes authentic collaboration and accountability. 4. Builds integrity and social trust: PoR emphasizes transparency and respect, which strengthens relationships among users. Also, it creates a healthier space for decentralized decision-making.   Proof of Respect (PoR)- Weaknesses 1. Challenges in measuring respect objectively: Quantifying reputation may be subjective, and deciding what counts as respect may differ between communities.  2. Potential for manipulation and bias: Influential groups or users may exploit social connections or popularity systems to gain an unfair advantage, which could weaken fairness.  3. Lacks proven technical foundation: PoR is still theoretical compared to Pow. It is also less tested under live conditions, making its security performance unreliable. 4. Limited adoption and recognition: PoR is still an emerging idea; hence, it has not been widely implemented across big networks. Therefore, its potential remains to be fully explored.  Conclusion – The Evolving Face of Trust in Decentralized Systems The rise of decentralized networks and blockchain has shown that trust can be achieved in different ways. Proof of Work has shown that transparency and computational effort can secure digital systems at a global scale. Therefore, as the world becomes more aware of inclusion, ethics, and sustainability, models like Proof of Respect are challenging the conventional standards. They remind us that technology alone cannot sufficiently define trust. Factors like values, people, and community behavior are important too. As blockchain continues to evolve, the future of decentralized trust may not depend on power or respect alone, but on a thoughtful balance between both.

As blockchain adoption grows, privacy is becoming a critical part of crypto’s evolution. While transparency is one of blockchain’s strengths, it also means anyone can trace transactions. Privacy tokens aim to fix this by ensuring users can transact securely and discreetly—an idea that builds on Bitcoin’s original goal of financial freedom through decentralization. Key Takeaways ZEC is testing critical resistance within a bullish channel; a breakout could trigger a strong upward move toward previous highs. DASH shows weakening momentum after a breakout but could rebound if it holds support near $41 and retail sentiment turns bullish. Monero remains under pressure, trading near $307 with key resistance at $325; a breakout could shift its trend upward. Privacy tokens continue to uphold Bitcoin’s decentralization goal, offering users greater control over financial privacy. Market momentum across privacy coins is mixed, suggesting traders should watch for volume shifts and breakout confirmations in the coming days. What Are Privacy Tokens? Privacy tokens are cryptocurrencies designed to conceal transaction details such as sender and receiver addresses, wallet balances, or transferred amounts. They use advanced cryptography—like zero-knowledge proofs, ring signatures, and stealth addresses—to achieve this. Unlike Bitcoin or Ethereum, where all transactions are visible on-chain, privacy tokens emphasize financial confidentiality without compromising network integrity. They cater to individuals who value privacy, businesses managing sensitive data, and users in regions with restrictive financial systems. How They Work Each privacy token employs a distinct method for achieving anonymity: Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs): Allow one party to prove a transaction’s validity without revealing its contents (used by Zcash). Ring Signatures: Mix multiple transactions to obscure the true sender (used by Monero). Stealth Addresses: Generate one-time wallet addresses to protect recipients (used by Verge). While regulators have expressed concerns over potential misuse, the innovation driving these privacy mechanisms is strengthening the broader goal of secure, censorship-resistant finance that Bitcoin introduced. Three Privacy Tokens to Watch in 2025 Monero (XMR) Monero remains the benchmark for privacy-focused crypto. Its use of ring signatures, stealth addresses, and RingCT technology ensures full anonymity. Despite facing delistings in some jurisdictions, its strong developer community continues to refine its protocol for improved efficiency and scalability. Monero currently holds a bearish outlook on the chart. The asset has failed to post a new high and has significantly declined in recent sessions. Source: TradingView At present, XMR trades near $307.89, which could serve as a potential support level that may spark a rebound. A successful move higher would face resistance around $325—a key level behind the 15% drop seen between October 15 and 17. A breakout above $325 could lead the asset to retest $341, the level that triggered a 23% decline between October 9 and 10. For now, momentum remains weak as trading volume has dropped 14% to $167 million in the past 24 hours. Zcash (ZEC) Zcash utilizes zk-SNARKs to allow both transparent and shielded transactions. Its flexibility and ongoing upgrades make it one of the most technically advanced privacy projects, blending compliance options with true user privacy. ZEC shows strong potential for a rally as it trades within a descending bullish channel, a pattern known to catalyze upward price movement. Source: TradingView At the time of writing, the asset is testing the resistance level of this bullish structure, with no decisive breakout yet. A successful breakout from this point could push ZEC toward its most recent high from October 11, when it traded around $298. However, if the breakout attempt fails, the asset could retrace toward the descending support level of the channel. Sustained momentum above resistance could trigger a price discovery phase, potentially setting a new all-time high. Dash (DASH) Originally forked from Bitcoin, Dash introduced a feature called PrivateSend, which uses a coin-mixing process to obscure transaction sources. Although Dash now positions itself more as a payments-focused cryptocurrency, its privacy function still appeals to users seeking optional anonymity alongside speed and low fees. DASH shares a similar outlook with ZEC, although its momentum has started to weaken. The asset recently broke out from a descending resistance line, reaching the Fibonacci zone near $41, before declining and forming consecutive bearish candlesticks. Source: TradingView If DASH falls back below the descending resistance line and retests the $41 support level, it could attempt a gradual recovery. A shift in retail sentiment over the weekend could fuel a move toward $61, with the asset already posting a 12% weekly gain. Conclusion While privacy tokens like Zcash (ZEC), Dash (DASH), and Monero (XMR) are showing mixed technical signals, their broader relevance extends beyond short-term price action implying that fundamental sentiments will play a key role in the assets overall movement. As the market enters deep in fourth quarter of 2025, investor focus will likely shift between technical setups and the growing regulatory conversation around privacy-focused assets. Whether through bullish breakouts or temporary corrections, these tokens remain central to the debate on how blockchain can balance transparency with the right to financial privacy. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. What are privacy tokens?Privacy tokens are cryptocurrencies that conceal transaction details—like sender, receiver, and amount—using cryptographic methods such as ring signatures or zero-knowledge proofs. 2. Why are privacy tokens important?They build on Bitcoin’s decentralized vision by allowing users to maintain financial freedom and anonymity while transacting securely on public blockchains. 3. Which privacy tokens are currently leading the market?Monero (XMR), Zcash (ZEC), and Dash (DASH) are the most established privacy-focused cryptocurrencies, each using unique mechanisms to enhance on-chain confidentiality. 4. What is driving ZEC’s potential rally?ZEC is trading within a descending bullish channel, and a breakout above resistance could lead to a move toward its recent high around $298. 5. Why does Monero (XMR) have a bearish outlook?XMR has struggled to break new highs and remains below key resistance at $325, with declining trading volume suggesting weakening market momentum.

CME Group has suspended a Saudi-based trader for a year after finding he executed prearranged trades in Brent crude futures between his personal and employer accounts to transfer money. In a disciplinary notice posted by its New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) unit, CME said Mohamed Abdelaziz Ali Abdelaziz arranged a series of offsetting transactions in April 2024 in the April and May 2025 Brent Crude Oil Last Day Financial futures. The trades were made between his own account and that of his employer, effectively moving equity into his personal account. The NYMEX Business Conduct Committee found that Abdelaziz also used an operator ID other than his own to enter the trades — a separate breach of the exchange’s audit-trail rules. “From April 17, 2024, through April 19, 2024, Abdelaziz prearranged multiple round-turn transactions … for the purpose of transferring equity to his personal account,” the panel said in the notice. He was found in violation of NYMEX Rules 432.G and 576, which prohibit money-passing trades and require traders to use unique operator IDs for every order. Under a settlement in which Abdelaziz neither admitted nor denied the findings, he agreed to pay a $40,000 fine and $2,620 in restitution. His one-year suspension from CME’s markets — including all designated contract markets, derivatives clearing organizations, and swap execution facilities controlled by CME Group — takes effect from Oct. 16, 2025, and will run for a year after his financial penalties are paid in full. “Money-Pass” Transactions The case highlights CME’s ongoing campaign against “money-pass” transactions — arrangements in which a trader executes offsetting orders between related accounts to transfer profits or mask losses. Such trades create the illusion of market activity without genuine risk-taking and are prohibited across CME’s exchanges. Rule 432.G, one of NYMEX’s foundational conduct rules, explicitly forbids prearranged or noncompetitive trades designed to shift funds between accounts. The companion Rule 576 requires each market participant to use a distinct operator ID on CME’s Globex platform, allowing regulators to trace every order to an individual or automated system. A Familiar Pattern Disciplinary actions of this kind are not new. CME has sanctioned several traders and firms over the past decade for similar “round-turn” activity — quick back-to-back trades between connected accounts that generate no market exposure. Past penalties have typically ranged between $25,000 and $125,000, often with suspensions or trading bans. The Brent Crude Oil Last Day Financial futures contract involved in Abdelaziz’s case is a cash-settled product linked to the ICE Brent Index. It serves as a major benchmark for traders managing exposure to North Sea crude and related energy products. Because the contract is financially settled, it can be used to move cash quickly without the complications of physical delivery — one reason it frequently appears in compliance cases. CME’s Market Regulation department investigates potential rule breaches across its four major exchanges — CME, CBOT, NYMEX, and COMEX — and refers cases to the Business Conduct Committee for judgment. The panel can impose fines, restitution, suspensions, or permanent bans. Enforcement activity has risen alongside a global tightening of trading supervision, as exchanges use algorithmic surveillance tools to detect prearranged trades, wash trades, and spoofing. CME’s public database of disciplinary actions lists dozens of similar cases every year. While Abdelaziz’s suspension applies only to CME-owned venues, most global clearing and brokerage firms mirror such bans internally, effectively barring sanctioned traders from active markets during the suspension period.

Blockchain Firm Questions Nasdaq’s Transparency Ondo Finance has asked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to delay or reject Nasdaq’s proposal to trade tokenized securities, arguing that the exchange has not provided enough detail about how its post-trade system would work. The blockchain firm warned that the plan could give established market players an unfair advantage. In a letter sent to the SEC, Ondo said regulators and investors cannot fully evaluate the proposal without public information on how the Depository Trust Company (DTC) will manage blockchain-based settlements. The DTC acts as the central depository for U.S. securities and plays a critical role in clearing and settlement. “Nasdaq’s reference to non-public information implies differential access that deprives other firms of a fair opportunity to comment,” the company wrote. While supporting Nasdaq’s broader move toward tokenization, Ondo said the process lacked “open collaboration and transparent standards.” Investor Takeaway Nasdaq’s tokenization plan has broad industry support, but Ondo’s complaint highlights a key issue—whether blockchain settlements will be governed by open, public standards or by private market infrastructure. Nasdaq’s Filing and DTC’s Role Nasdaq filed its proposal with the SEC on Sept. 8, seeking approval to amend its rules and allow trading in tokenized shares—digital representations of traditional stocks recorded on a blockchain. The proposal was published in the Federal Register on Sept. 22, triggering the SEC’s 45-day review period, which can be extended through late December. If approved, tokenized shares would trade alongside traditional equities, with settlements processed through a forthcoming blockchain-based system operated by the DTC. Nasdaq has not publicly disclosed how DTC’s system would handle reconciliation, record-keeping, or risk management, leading to Ondo’s request for more transparency before approval. Ondo noted that Nasdaq’s rule “cannot take effect until DTC finalizes its system,” arguing that a delay would cause no harm but ensure that other market participants have a chance to assess the framework. The firm said a public discussion was necessary to ensure that blockchain settlement infrastructure does not favor incumbents at the expense of competition. Tokenized Stocks Gain Momentum The debate over Nasdaq’s tokenization effort comes as multiple platforms accelerate their plans to issue or trade tokenized U.S. equities. On June 30, Robinhood launched a layer-2 blockchain that enables European users to trade tokenized U.S. stocks and ETFs. The company said it will list more than 200 equities and funds as onchain tokens. Trading platform eToro has also announced plans to issue tokenized stocks as ERC-20 tokens on Ethereum, beginning with 100 popular U.S.-listed equities. Meanwhile, Kraken opened a tokenized securities platform in September for eligible European customers, offering blockchain-based shares of traditional firms. Galaxy Digital said in July that the rapid growth of tokenized markets could challenge the dominance of the New York Stock Exchange by shifting liquidity toward digital settlement systems. The firm described the trend as a test of how traditional financial infrastructure adapts to blockchain rails. Investor Takeaway The SEC faces a balancing act—encouraging tokenized finance while ensuring equal access. Nasdaq’s filing could become a benchmark for how far regulators allow blockchain integration into public markets. What Comes Next The SEC’s initial review period ends in early November but may be extended by up to 90 days for further analysis. Nasdaq’s filing is among the first by a major U.S. exchange to formally seek approval for tokenized securities trading, and the agency’s response could shape future applications from rivals. Ondo, which operates its own tokenized real-world asset platform, has invested heavily in regulated tokenization products and has urged U.S. regulators to promote open competition in blockchain finance. The firm said it welcomes Nasdaq’s participation but warned against “rulemaking based on incomplete or privately held information.” Market participants expect the SEC’s handling of the case to influence how other exchanges, including the NYSE, approach digital settlement systems. For now, Ondo’s letter adds a rare public challenge to a major exchange’s tokenization initiative, highlighting both the momentum behind onchain securities and the frictions still slowing their adoption.

Family Office Targets Six Crypto Deals by 2026 Maelstrom, the family office linked to BitMEX co-founder Arthur Hayes, is preparing to raise $250 million for a private equity fund focused on acquiring crypto companies, Bloomberg reported Friday. The fund aims to deploy between $40 million and $75 million per deal across as many as six acquisitions, with fundraising expected to be completed by September 2026. The planned fund will target firms offering trading infrastructure and analytics platforms, a segment of the market that continues to attract institutional capital despite volatility in digital assets. Maelstrom has not disclosed potential targets, but the strategy suggests interest in companies that generate steady cash flow and serve institutional clients. Investor Takeaway The move highlights a quiet resurgence in crypto-focused private equity after a two-year slump, as investors look for cash-generating businesses rather than speculative tokens. Hayes Returns to Center Stage Maelstrom’s co-founder and managing partner Akshat Vaidya said investors “want exposure to the high-cash flow, high-growth crypto sector but lack the capabilities in-house to do this themselves.” He will manage the fund alongside Hayes and Adam Schlegel, who recently joined Maelstrom as a partner. Hayes, one of four BitMEX executives pardoned by U.S. President Donald Trump in March, has reemerged as an active investor and commentator in digital assets. The pardon cleared criminal charges tied to Bank Secrecy Act violations that led to his departure as BitMEX CEO in 2020. Since then, Hayes has become a regular public voice on market strategy and macroeconomic trends, including recent calls for Ether to reach $10,000. BitMEX, founded in 2014, was once among the largest crypto derivatives exchanges globally. Hayes resigned after U.S. authorities charged him and co-founders Benjamin Delo, Gregory Dwyer, and Samuel Reed with compliance failures. The new fund marks Hayes’ first major investment vehicle since his return to the industry. Private Equity Eyes Crypto Again Maelstrom’s fundraising plans come amid renewed activity in crypto mergers and acquisitions. After the collapse of FTX in 2022 froze dealmaking, private equity has started returning to the sector, focusing on infrastructure and regulated services rather than exchanges and token issuers. This year has already seen a wave of large crypto acquisitions. Ripple Labs bought corporate treasury platform GTreasury for $1 billion and agreed to acquire prime brokerage Hidden Road for $1.25 billion in April. Coinbase followed with a $2.9 billion purchase of options platform Deribit in May. Analysts say the return of strategic buyers and private funds suggests confidence in the long-term profitability of crypto infrastructure plays. Maelstrom’s focus on infrastructure mirrors broader trends among institutional investors. Funds are steering away from high-risk token projects and instead seeking predictable revenue models in custody, analytics, and trading technology — areas less exposed to market cycles. Investor Takeaway Institutional investors are shifting from speculative assets to operational technology. Maelstrom’s fund could become a test case for large-scale private equity in post-FTX crypto markets. Outlook Through 2026 If successful, Maelstrom’s $250 million vehicle would rank among the largest crypto-focused private equity funds since 2021. Industry observers say execution will depend on whether the fund can identify sustainable targets in a sector still under regulatory pressure. Rising deal flow from firms such as Ripple and Coinbase suggests the market for regulated, revenue-generating crypto companies is stabilizing. Maelstrom’s entry indicates that even after years of upheaval, private capital still sees value in the infrastructure behind digital finance.

The crypto market has had one of its most troubling performances, as several assets plummeted notably, bringing their values down significantly. Bitcoin took the biggest hit. After reaching a recent high of $126,000 earlier in the month, the asset has since taken a sharp downturn, currently valued at $106,000 at press time. Institutional investors are likewise backing out from the market. The sentiment remains divided—is Bitcoin’s low a good point for accumulation, or the best time to step out before more price declines? Key Takeaways Bitcoin has dropped below the key $108,000 mark, signaling renewed bearish pressure in the market. Institutional investors are exiting through ETF sell-offs, contributing to the ongoing price decline. Retail (spot) investors are accumulating Bitcoin, countering institutional outflows but with little price impact yet. Market sentiment has turned bearish, with fear dominating investor behavior according to the Bull Score Index. A break below current support could push Bitcoin further down to the $103K–$100K range if buyer momentum remains weak Bitcoin Performance Bitcoin’s performance has remained weak as the asset fell below the psychological threshold of $110,000 in the past 24 hours. Trading activity is broadly lower across the market. In fact, volume only ticked upward slightly by 2% to $80 billion, confirming that bears remain in control of the asset and could likely steer the price even lower. On the chart, Bitcoin remains in a critical position that will determine the asset’s next move. The asset has now traded into a support level that could either act as a catalyst for a push upward or lead to a further drawdown. Historically, this level has triggered price rallies on three separate occasions, as seen on the chart—an outcome that still remains possible for Bitcoin. However, when an asset trades into a lever—support or resistance—multiple times, that level often weakens due to limited orders, reducing the potential for a sustained rally or sharp decline. In the case of the current support, if buy orders at this zone are limited, the probability of a decline increases. Bitcoin could potentially make a downward move, driving the trend into lower regions with targets around $103,000 and $100,000. Investors and Institutions Take Separate Paths Spot and institutional investors have shown different outlooks for Bitcoin, though there are nuances in their behavior. Institutional investors, particularly through Exchange Trades Funds (ETFs), have been seen selling their Bitcoin holdings, a move similar to how they began the trading week on Monday, October 13. Broad market analysis shows that this group started the week with an outflow of $326.52 million, but briefly paused with a $102.58 million inflow on Tuesday. The turnaround came during Wednesday’s session when institutional investors closed the market with a significant outflow of $104.11 million, according to SosoValue data, with Thursday value closing at $536.44 million. Interestingly, reports from CoinGlass show that spot investors have taken the opposite approach. Between Monday—the start of the institutional trading week—and now, spot investors have been accumulating. In fact, this group has purchased more than $1.19 billion worth of Bitcoin at the time of reporting. This divergence implies that retail investors are holding up strongly, accumulating more Bitcoin than the total institutional outflows. However, this spot accumulation has yet to reflect on the asset’s price performance. Key Metrics to Watch Analysis from CryptoQuant indicated that the shift in bullish sentiment has dragged the asset lower. The Bull Score Index—a metric used to track investor sentiment in an asset—shows that there are now more bearish investors than bulls in the market. This sentiment stems from the fact that the score fell sharply from a high of 80 before the market crash to around 20 currently. At the same time, Bitcoin’s Apparent Demand has dropped notably on the chart, implying that the buying momentum has fizzled out of the market. According to CryptoQuant’s analysis, the market has experienced a major outflow matching its lowest level since April, indicating that there has not been a sell-off of this magnitude in months. Why the Outlook Matters The market outlook remains important. There has been a massive liquidity purge across the market, with total capitalization struggling at $3.75 trillion in the past day. A low market capitalization signals that bulls have yet to return, leaving major assets like Bitcoin suffering from the ongoing liquidity drought. Similarly, the Fear and Greed Index shows that most investors remain fearful about where prices might head next. A fearful market sentiment implies that most investors are staying on the sidelines, unwilling to buy into the market yet as they anticipate further declines in the coming days. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. Why did Bitcoin drop below $106,000?Bitcoin fell below $106,000 due to heavy institutional sell-offs, weakened market sentiment, and reduced trading activity. 2. Are institutional investors leaving the Bitcoin market?Yes. Data shows significant ETF outflows, with institutions offloading over $326 million in Bitcoin earlier in the week. 3. Are retail investors still buying Bitcoin?Retail investors, or spot buyers, have been accumulating over $1.19 billion worth of Bitcoin despite falling prices. 4. What does the Bull Score Index reveal about market sentiment?The Bull Score Index dropped from 80 to 20, indicating a sharp shift toward bearish sentiment among investors. 5. What levels could Bitcoin test next if the decline continues?If support weakens, Bitcoin could potentially fall toward the $105,000 and $100,000 price regions.