Bitcoin has observed a sharp rally beyond the $47,000 level as data shows buying pressure on Coinbase has displayed no signs of letting off. Bitcoin Has Surged More Than 4% In Last 24 Hours As ETF Deadline Nears After the asset’s indecisiveness over the last few days, the cryptocurrency has appeared to have picked its direction in the last 24 hours, as its price has increased sharply. At the peak of this surge, the coin had crossed beyond the $47,300 mark, but since then, the coin has registered some pullback as it’s now down to $46,500. The below chart shows how Bitcoin has performed during the last few days. With this surge, the coin is up over 4% in the last 24 hours. The only cryptocurrencies in the top 20 market cap list that have attained better returns during this period are Solana (SOL) and Bitcoin Cash (BCH). This latest rally to levels not visited since March 2022 has come for the cryptocurrency as the US SEC deadline for a decision on BTC spot ETFs is approaching fast. With the expectation in the market widely being that the ETFs would get approved, it’s not surprising that buyers may be jumping in, expecting the asset to rally further after the ETFs start trading. Data of an indicator could also point towards large entities being involved in accumulation in this leadup to the day of decision. BTC Coinbase Premium Gap Has Been Positive For More Than A Week Now As CryptoQuant Netherlands community manager Maartunn pointed out in a post on X, the Bitcoin Coinbase Premium Gap has been positive for several consecutive days. The “Coinbase Premium Gap” refers to a metric that keeps track of the difference between the Bitcoin prices listed on cryptocurrency exchanges Coinbase (USD pair) and Binance (USDT pair). This indicator’s value tells us about the difference in the buying (or selling) behaviors on the two largest platforms in the sector. Below is a chart showing the recent trend in this metric’s 14-day simple moving average (SMA). As displayed in the above graph, the Bitcoin Coinbase Premium Gap has been positive for almost 2024, with only one dip in the metric coming on the first day of the year. This suggests that the buying pressure on Coinbase has been greater than on Binance for over a week now. US-based institutional investors widely use the former, while the latter hosts more global traffic. Thus, this indicates that large institutional traders have possibly been going shopping recently. Another indicator that suggests accumulation from the whales is the “large holders netflow” metric from IntoTheBlock, which has displayed positive spikes recently. “Large holders bought the dip! Bitcoin holders holding >1% of the supply accumulated more than 14k BTC over the past week as prices dipped below $43k,” explains IntoTheBlock.

SAN DIEGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Matter Now, Inc., a leader in the carbon credit marketplace, proudly announces the acquisition of Cathbad House, a company renowned for its carbon credit education and blockchain technology. This strategic move fortifies Matter Now, Inc.’s commitment to environmental sustainability and marks a significant expansion in the carbon credit industry. Cathbad House offers training courses for farmers, foresters, and small and mid-size businesses to create carbon credits and thereby help offset climate change. With a focus on sustainability, compliance and innovation, Cathbad House leverages Web3 technologies to provide blockchain-stored certification. This approach not only simplifies the user experience but also aligns perfectly with Matter Now, Inc.’s vision of integrating advanced technology for environmental benefit. Key Highlights: Innovative Solutions: Leveraging Cathbad’s expertise in sustainable, blockchain-based carbon credit education. Strategic Alignment: Enhancing Matter Now, Inc.’s portfolio with Cathbad’s unique offerings and commitment to sustainability. Educational Focus: Matter reaffirms its commitment to Cathbad Trading’s educational initiatives, aiming to broaden knowledge and participation in the carbon credit market. Leadership Insight: “With the acquisition of Cathbad House, Matter Now, Inc. is poised to redefine the carbon credit landscape. This move isn’t just a business expansion; it’s a step toward our vision of a greener future. By combining Cathbad’s innovative educational approaches and blockchain technology with Matter’s existing infrastructure, we’re setting a new standard for environmental responsibility in the carbon credit market. This acquisition enables us to empower a wider audience with the knowledge and tools needed to make a tangible impact in the fight against climate change,” stated JP Palacio, CEO of Matter Now, Inc. “We will be very active in growing Matter through additional acquisitions.” About Matter Now, Inc.: Matter Now, Inc. is a key player in the carbon credit market, utilizing blockchain technology for secure, transparent trading. For more information, visit https://www.matternow.org/ About Cathbad House: Cathbad Trading specializes in carbon credit education and blockchain technology, focusing on sustainability and compliance. https://cathbadtrading.com/ Contacts Name: JP Palacio Title: CEO Email: [email protected] matternow.org

Crypto exchange Coinbase, one of the largest exchanges in the world, has released its latest report on Bitcoin and the crypto market, highlighting its expectations for the Industry. The 44-page report launched by Coinbase Institutional in conjunction with Glassnode predicts a repeat of one of the most explosive bull markets in recorded crypto history; the 2018-2022 market cycle. Coinbase Says Bitcoin Will Repeat 2018-2022 Cycle In the report, Coinbase and Glassnode analysts take into account a number of indicators and metrics, such as total supply in profit, among others, to figure out which trend the next bull market is expected to follow. Now, after consideration and comparison to all of the previous bull cycles, the analysts settle on the 2018-2022 cycle being the most likely to be emulated this time around. So far, Bitcoin and Ethereum are the cryptocurrencies that have shown the most correlation at the start of the 2018-2022 cycles, suggesting that a similar breakout could be in the cards. However, looking at the chart, it shows a sharp deviation from the previous cycles, especially as the bull market looks to be starting earlier than it did in 2020. When it comes to the level of risk associated with assets such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, the report highlights the fact that crypto has deviated from traditional assets once again. This comes after the correlation between crypto and traditional finance markets rose to new all-time highs back in 2022. But as Coinbase explains, “2023 saw a reversion to historical norms, indicating that crypto can be a source of idiosyncratic risk.” As another Bitcoin halving event draws near, Bitcoin has also seen a resumption in its surge, spurred forward by expectations of a Spot Bitcoin ETF. Coinbase notes that “As crypto has matured as an asset class and institutional participation has increased, volatility has trended steadily lower.” What Happens If BTC Price Repeats 2018-2022 Cycle? Looking back at the last bull cycle shows us what to expect if Bitcoin and the crypto market at large were to repeat the same trend. In this case, expectations would be that the BTC price would rise at least 3x higher than its previous all-time high price of $69,000. In this case, Bitcoin would be looking at a value of at least $200,000 by the time the next bull market is in full swing. Following the 3.6x move that Bitcoin did to reach its new 2021 all-time high versus its 2018 all-time high, the BTC price would be looking at a cycle peak of almost $250,000. As for Ethereum, following the same trend and doing a 3.2x from its previous all-time high to its new all-time high, it would put the ETH price above $15,000. In the same vein, the crypto market would also rise more than $10 trillion. However, all of this is speculation as the crypto market has been known to deviate from expectations. Like the previous bull markets, the next one is expected to be novel, especially given the fact that institutional investors have fully come out to play. This could mean hundreds of billions of dollars in liquidity injections that could drive prices higher than expected.

AI-powered MBUX Virtual Assistant transforms user interface and makes human-like interaction possible New MB.OS architecture underpins powerful 3D graphics and expanded in-car app portfolio Two revolutionary cooperations for fully immersive entertainment: Together with will.i.am Mercedes-Benz develops MBUX SOUND DRIVE and, collaborating with Audible and Amazon Music cooperation, the company is bringing podcasts and audio books into the vehicle STUTTGART, Germany & LAS VEGAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–At CES 2024, Mercedes-Benz is pushing forward with an exciting range of digital advancements set to transform the customer experience – both in-car and beyond. Central to this is a new MBUX Virtual Assistant that uses generative AI and advanced 3D graphics making interactions between the customer and vehicle more natural, intuitive and personalized. Running on the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) developed in-house, the MBUX Virtual Assistant will pave the way for an extraordinary digital experience. This year’s CES is also the backdrop for the North American premiere of the Concept CLA Class, which is based on the forthcoming Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA). Further highlights include a new in-car music experience called MBUX SOUND DRIVE, which was developed by Mercedes-AMG in collaboration with American entrepreneur will.i.am1. Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz is elevating in-car audio storytelling through a new collaboration with Audible and Amazon Music. A camouflaged prototype of the new all-electric G-Class is also making its North American debut at booth #4941 in the Las Vegas Convention Center. “With our MB.OS, world-class collaborations and the latest developments in generative AI, we are transforming the relationship our customers have with their Mercedes-Benz. Our digital advances on show at CES 2024 are proof points on our journey towards the hyper-personalized Mercedes-Benz user experience.” Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management at Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer MBUX Virtual Assistant – delivering a hyper-personalized user experience The MBUX Virtual Assistant unveiled at CES 2024 is the most human-like interface with a Mercedes-Benz yet. Based on MB.OS, it presents a new face to the customer with natural and empathetic interactions. With its four different emotions, the MBUX Virtual Assistant is in tune with customer needs and uses generative AI and proactive intelligence to make life easy, convenient and comfortable. The power of MB.OS and advanced 3D game-engine graphics is also fully utilized in MBUX Surround Navigation, which seamlessly combines route guidance and assistance. Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz is bringing even more productivity and personalization into the car with the ongoing expansion of its app portfolio. These include MBUX Collectibles, Mercedes-Benz’s first in-car app to showcase NFTs like the limited-edition Mercedes-Benz NXT Superdackel collection, which pays homage to the activity at last year’s CES. North American premiere – Concept CLA Class The first Mercedes-Benz to showcase MB.OS is the Concept CLA Class – which celebrates its North American debut at CES 2024. Designed on the new Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA), it redefines an entire class with its innovative electric drive and forward-looking sustainability. The Concept CLA Class is the new hypermiler for the electric age. It is capable of a predicted single-charge range of more than 466 miles (750 km) (WLTP2) and energy consumption of around 12 kWh/100 km (5.2 mi/kWh). This comes from a new in-house developed electric drive unit (MB.EDU), which delivers up to 93-percent efficiency from battery to wheels over long distances. The 800-volt architecture also enables high-power 300+ kW DC charging (including a 50 kW boost), which can deliver up to 248 miles (400 km) of range in 15 minutes. There will be a total of four models based on the MMA – a four-door coupe, a shooting brake and two SUVs. Concept CLA Class PI From the studio to the streets – music in rhythm with the driving style At CES 2024, Mercedes-Benz is announcing a range of groundbreaking entertainment features via two industry-first partnerships. First, Mercedes-AMG has teamed up with American entrepreneur will.i.am to launch MBUX SOUND DRIVE. This technology will transform the way we listen to music in the car. Using advanced software, it allows music to react to how the car is being driven, turning every trip into a dynamic musical journey. A new chapter for immersive audio – vehicle as a rolling concert hall For the second collaboration Mercedes-Benz joins forces with Audible and Amazon Music to begin a new chapter of in-car storytelling. By harnessing the power of Dolby Atmos, this partnership will bring spoken-word audio to life. It will put customers at the center of a dynamic, concert-hall sound experience covering audio books, Originals, podcasts and music. On January 9th at CES 2024, podcaster, writer and producer, Dirk Maggs, will open with insights about the art of storytelling. Then, Amazon VP for Audio, Twitch and Games, Steve Boom, and Mercedes-Benz Chief Software Officer, Magnus Östberg, will come together to explain how this partnership will deliver unrivalled in-car entertainment. Modern thrills and retro classics – transforming the car into a gaming hub Mercedes-Benz is also using the CES stage to announce new platforms and partnerships that will enhance its in-car gaming service. A collaboration with the world’s first retro games streaming service, Antstream Arcade, will integrate cloud gaming into the car. Mercedes-Benz also has its own vision for immersive in-car gaming, which is showcased in the current E-Class. A futuristic runner game combines the computing power of MBUX, together with interior vehicle sensors and actuators. EQS sedan and S-Class now available with DRIVE PILOT and other new features Mercedes-Benz has reached another milestone by launching DRIVE PILOT – the first and only certified system for SAE Level 3 conditionally automated driving in the U.S. that is approved in the states of California and Nevada. Customer deliveries of 2024 EQS sedan and S-Class models equipped with DRIVE PILOT are due to start in early 2024 through participating authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers in California and Nevada. DRIVE PILOT is available on select EQS sedan and S-Class models and can be activated via the U.S. Mercedes me connect store. The EQS sedan is now also available with the new Executive Interior Package that significantly improves comfort in the rear. About Mercedes Benz Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), headquartered in Atlanta, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz products in the United States. MBUSA offers drivers the most diverse lineup in the luxury segment with 18 model lines ranging from the sporty GLA SUV to the flagship S-Class and the dynamic all-electric vehicles from Mercedes-Benz. MBUSA is also responsible for Mercedes-Benz Vans in the U.S. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found at www.mbusa.com and www.mbvans.com. Accredited journalists can visit our media site at media.mbusa.com. 1 If you must include his legal name in your coverage, it is William Adams. All other names shown in wikis and previously published stories are incorrect. 2 The figures are provided in accordance with the German regulation “PKW-EnVKV” and apply to the German market only. Further information on official fuel consumption figures and the official specific CO₂ emissions of new passenger cars can be found in the EU guide “Information on the fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions and energy consumption of new cars”, which is available free of charge at all sales dealerships, from DAT Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH and at www.dat.de. Contacts Michael Minielly, [email protected] Andrea Berg, [email protected] Cathleen Decker, [email protected]

Leading liquid staking protocol for Cronos, Veno Finance, made its debut on the zkSync Era Layer-2 blockchain scaling solution. With its introduction, zkSync Era users may now directly stake their ETH tokens and obtain Liquid ETH (LETH) tokens, creating new opportunities for yield farming inside the platform’s decentralized finance ecosystem. Users of zkSync may more easily support the Ethereum network thanks to the Veno protocol. It functions by creating a bridge between ETH tokens on the Ethereum mainnet and the zkSync Era, automating user staking and withdrawal of ETH. Users of zkSync Era may earn extra return on its DeFi protocols by staking ETH natively, for which they will get an equal number of LETH tokens. As part of its roadmap, Veno intends to add its native VNO token to the zkSync Era blockchain in order to reward LETH liquidity providers. Holders of VNO tokens are urged to support LETH liquidity in a variety of ways. Depending on how much and how long they commit to locking up their tokens, users may lock their VNO into the Fountain and get incentives in the form of extra VNO. As an alternative, customers may lock their VNO into the Reservoir and get Real Yield incentives in ETH, which make up half of all the revenues Veno receives from ETH staking. Users of zkSync Era may transfer their LETH-ETH-LP tokens into Veno Garden as part of an extra incentive mechanism to get more VNO rewards. Additionally, Veno creates additional chances by giving customers an NFT receipt each time they take their LETH tokens out, thereby enabling instant access to unstaked assets. This NFT gives consumers a method to spend their funds before they become accessible as a proof of withdrawal. It is anticipated that when the Exit Queue for staked ETH expands, this functionality will become more and more helpful. If this occurs, it may take weeks or even months for staked Ethereum withdrawals to be processed, which means those tokens are not being used for long stretches of time. Zimfony, Product Lead of Veno Finance stated: With this announcement, Veno joins the ranks of the first native Ethereum liquid staking protocol, enabling native Ethereum staking and withdrawals on the zkSync Era blockchain. Veno is positioned to develop a protocol that has already seen substantial growth over the previous year by securing this first-mover advantage. For example, in the previous three months, Veno’s total value locked (TVL) has doubled, while in the last year, the number of unique stakers has grown tenfold. After the introduction of its Veno Gardens platform, which offers VNO token holders a range of choices to optimize their income potential, Veno has reached yet another significant milestone with the extension to zkSync Era. In addition, Veno introduced its CRO Liquidity Strategy, which automatically harvests and compounds incentive rewards for users, and became the first to offer ATOM staking on Cronos. One of the Ethereum blockchain’s fastest-growing L2 scaling solutions, zkSync Era allows the most widely used decentralized network in the world to rise to unprecedented heights. The use of zkSync Era has increased significantly due in large part to its innovative use of zero-knowledge proof technology, which allows for safe, quick transactions at a fraction of the usual cost.

As the US SEC prepares to make its final decision regarding Spot Bitcoin ETF approvals, the Depository Trust and Clearing Corporation (DTCC) has officially listed the Spot ETFs tickers from investment management firm, VanEck. VanEck’s Spot ETF Ticker Listed on DTCC American investment management firm VanEck’s Spot Bitcoin ETF has recently appeared on the active and pre-launch list of the DTCC. VanEck’s ETF can be identified by the ticker ‘HODL’ on the DTCC’s official platform. This move positions VanEck as a key player in the evolving landscape of Spot ETF investments. Additionally, the listing is seen as a crucial step towards integrating Spot Bitcoin ETFs into the mainstream financial sector if the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) decides to approve Spot Bitcoin ETFs. Alongside VanEck, WisdomTree’s Spot Bitcoin ETF ticker, ‘BTCW’ has also been officially listed on the DTCC website. The investment management firm previously submitted its Spot BTC ETF application to the US SEC in June 2023. However, the regulator has consistently delayed approval of WisdomTree’s Spot Bitcoin ETF application. The US SEC has also delayed 13 Spot Bitcoin ETF applications from prominent companies such as BlackRock, ARK Invest, Grayscale, and others. The regulatory agency faces a deadline of January 10, to either accept or reject these Spot Bitcoin ETF applications. Although there is a possibility for the SEC to decline Spot BTC ETFs several experts, including Bloomberg analysts, James Seyffart and Eric Balchunas have revealed a 90% chance of the regulator approving Spot BTC ETFs in January. VanEck Reveals $72 Million Bitcoin ETF Seed Fund On Monday, January 8, VanEck submitted an amended Spot Bitcoin ETF S-1 filing to the SEC. In its filing, VanEck disclosed that the financial company had purchased 1,640.92489329 BTC worth $72.5 million on January 5, to support its Spot ETF. The substantial seeding will provide a solid foundation for VanEck’s Spot Bitcoin ETF, potentially paving the way for increased participation by institutional investors. In addition to VanEck’s Seed Creation Baskets, major asset management companies in the Spot Bitcoin ETF race like BlackRock, Bitwise, and Fidelity have announced their various seed funds. Bitwise revealed a $200 million seed fund made by Pantera Capital to support its Spot BTC ETF. The asset management company has also put forward $500,000 to fund its proposed Spot BTC ETF. Meanwhile, BlackRock and Fidelity have announced plans to seed their Spot Bitcoin ETFs with $10 million and $20 million respectively. BlackRock previously submitted an amended S-1 filing to the SEC in December, revealing a 227.9 BTC purchase to seed its Spot ETF by January 3.

MATIC experienced a significant rebound following a crucial announcement about upgrading transaction fee calculations. Despite the positive development, MATIC has been grappling with a bearish pattern for almost 60 days. MATIC’s price fell below a descending resistance trend line that has been in place since its all-time high of $2.90. Polygon (MATIC) experienced a noteworthy rebound recently following a crucial announcement from its development team regarding a substantial upgrade in transaction fee calculations. However, despite this positive development, MATIC continues to grapple with a bearish pattern that has persisted for nearly 60 days. Polygon declines from trend line The decline of the MATIC price below a long-standing descending resistance trend line, in place since its all-time high of $2.90 in December 2021, has been a persistent challenge. After reaching a low of $0.32 in June, MATIC struggled to break free from the downward trend, facing multiple rejections from the resistance line. While December showed signs of a breakthrough, a subsequent bearish candlestick invalidated the breakout, underscoring the enduring nature of the trend. Traders often turn to indicators like the Relative Strength Index (RSI) to gauge market momentum and identify potential overbought or oversold conditions. Currently, the weekly RSI for MATIC hovers above 50 but is on a downward trajectory, presenting mixed signals and leaving the overall trend undetermined. Analyst Perspectives on MATIC’s Future Despite the ongoing challenges, cryptocurrency traders and analysts, such as Captain Faibik, express optimism about MATIC’s future. Faibik anticipates a substantial 600% rally once the price successfully breaks out of its long-term pattern. Last week, Polygon’s development team unveiled a crucial upgrade concerning transaction fee calculations on the Polygon zkEVM. The new mechanism leverages execution data in transactions to provide users with more accurate and comprehensive transaction fee information. While the daily timeframe analysis provides a mixed outlook due to the prevailing bearish pattern since November 2023, a recent bounce saved MATIC from a potential breakdown. The emergence of a bullish hammer candlestick following a rejection from the channel’s resistance trend line on December 27 signals a possible reversal.

McClurg anticipates that ten ETFs will debut simultaneously. The CIO predicts that $200M to $400M would come into Valkyrie’s ETF on Thursday. The first bitcoin spot exchange-traded fund is awaiting approval or rejection from the U.S SEC, and crypto traders are waiting eagerly with high hopes. Valkyrie Investments, one of the issuers, is expecting a decision soon. Valkyrie Investments co-founder and CIO Steven McClurg stated: When trading starts on Thursday, McClurg predicts that $200 million to $400 million would come into Valkyrie’s ETF. In the first two weeks, he estimates that all participants may witness inflows of $4 to $5 billion. Retail Investors Likely First Backers Though not all thirteen ETF candidates may be selected in the first round, McClurg anticipates that ten ETFs will debut simultaneously. So far, U.S. institutional investors have been the bitcoin spot ETF’s greatest hope, but according to McClurg, retail investors are more likely to be the first backers. He speculated that this is due in part to the fact that financial advisers often wait to suggest new financial products to clients until they have had a chance to see how they trade. Establishing a spot bitcoin ETF differs significantly from establishing a “normal” ETF in that the latter requires the issuer to get the SEC’s approval despite the fact that the assets are held by a cryptocurrency exchange rather than a conventional custodian. Market excitement has been heightened as experts from Bloomberg Intelligence have estimated the probability of approval this week at an astounding 95%. Traders and investors in cryptocurrency could expect a wild week ahead due to the decision that the U.S SEC is expected to make. Highlighted Crypto News Today: XRP Faces Critical Crossroads: Will It Break Out or Face Another Rejection?

Shiba Inu (SHIB) token experiences an extraordinary 667% surge in burn rate, indicating potential growth. SHIB’s value sees a slight increase, signaling a positive shift in investor sentiment and a potential sustained bullish trend. Significant wick-down breaches the critical 200-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA). The Shiba Inu (SHIB) token has experienced an extraordinary surge of 667% in its burn rate, marking a pivotal moment for potential growth. This surge aligns with a slight increase in SHIB’s value, reflecting a positive sentiment shift among investors and suggesting the emergence of a more sustained bullish trend. The momentum is further emphasized by SHIB’s technical indicators, where a significant wick down breached the critical 200-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA), a key level closely monitored by traders to assess long-term market trends. The rapid rebound from this breach indicates robust buying interest at lower price levels and a rejection of lower valuations by the market. The breach and subsequent recovery above the 200 EMA hold substantial significance, as this moving average serves as a barometer for investor sentiment and market momentum. SHIB’s ability to reclaim and sustain this level could act as confirmation of strength, potentially attracting more buyers and reinforcing an upward trajectory for the asset. Shiba Inu burn rate on the rise The recent surge in SHIB’s value is accompanied by a notable increase in trading volume, indicating heightened activity and more transactions. This surge in volume correlates with a significant spike in the token burn rate, as observed in the latest 24-hour data. A higher burn rate effectively reduces the overall supply of the token. When paired with steady or increased demand, this scarcity can contribute to the appreciation of the token’s price. The aggressive burning of SHIB tokens, evident in recent transaction records, suggests a strategic move by the SHIB community and developers to induce scarcity deliberately. This intentional reduction in token supply not only reflects a proactive approach to managing the token’s availability but also underscores a commitment to fostering its growth. In conclusion, the notable surge in SHIB’s burn rate serves as a growth signal, supported by positive market indicators and strategic initiatives aimed at managing token supply. As Shiba Inu enthusiasts closely monitor these developments, the token’s trajectory remains poised for potential appreciation in the ever-evolving cryptocurrency landscape.

The crypto community is buzzing about the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approving spot Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs). This anticipation has permeated market discussions and significantly influenced social media metrics around Bitcoin. According to Santiment, a leading on-chain analytics platform, there has been a notable increase in Bitcoin’s social dominance in recent times, particularly in short-term periods. Bitcoin Social Dominance Surge And Market Response Santiment’s data reveals a spike in Bitcoin ETF-related conversations since mid-October, marking the highest level of social interest since the bullish rally. The top eight trending topics in these discussions include ETF, BTC, week, approval, BTC ETF, Monday, spot, and Gary, signifying the community’s focus on the potential ETF approval. This trend is not just a reflection of growing investor interest but also points to the impact of social sentiment on market dynamics. As conversations around Bitcoin ETFs dominate social platforms, they highlight the significant role of community expectations and speculative discussions in shaping market trends. Amid this heightened social chatter, Bitcoin’s market performance has mirrored the optimistic sentiment. Yesterday, the flagship crypto surged past the $47,000 mark, a notable achievement since April 2022. Although there has been a slight retracement, with Bitcoin currently trading around $46,721, the asset maintains a 3.8% increase over the past day. ETF Approval Anticipation: Analysts Offer Perspectives On SEC’s Swift Response Notably, Bitcoin’s rally underscores the market’s responsiveness to the spot ETF buzz and the potential impact of the anticipated approval. So far, experts in the field have been closely monitoring these developments, offering their insights into the unfolding scenario. One significant observation comes from James Seyffart, an ETF sector analyst, who offers an alternative view to the speculation of an approval delay by the US SEC. Seyffart acknowledges the SEC’s recent comments on the S-1 filings of aspiring issuers, particularly regarding fee structures. However, he interprets these developments not as signs of postponement but as indications of the SEC’s readiness to progress. The promptness in the SEC’s feedback, Seyffart notes, is unusual for the agency and suggests an eagerness to advance the approval process. Echoing Seyffart’s opinion, ETF specialist Scott Johnsson remarked on the unusual swiftness of the SEC’s recent feedback. Johnsson remembered how past ETF approvals, such as the futures-based ones in 2022, did not require fully completed S-1 forms for 19b-4 approval. Johnsson suggests that the current swift response from the US SEC likely indicates a deliberate effort to accelerate the approval and introduction of spot Bitcoin ETFs. This perspective offers a ray of hope to the crypto community, eagerly awaiting a favorable decision that could significantly impact the market and solidify Bitcoin’s position in the broader financial landscape. Featured image from Unsplash, Chart from TradingView

In July 2023, XRP broke a long-term descending resistance trend line after hitting a low of $0.29 in June 2022. The breakout led to a surge in the XRP price to $0.94, followed by a pullback finding support at the once-resistance trend line. Currently, XRP is trading above a horizontal area that has served as both support and resistance since 2021. The XRP price managed to break free from a long-term descending resistance trend line, a development that unfolded in July 2023 after reaching a low of $0.29 in June 2022. Following this breakout, XRP surged to a high of $0.94, subsequently experiencing a pullback that intriguingly found support at the once-resistance trend line. Currently, XRP trades above a horizontal area that has historically served as both support and resistance since 2021. XRP Indicators and Momentum Insights Examining the Relative Strength Index (RSI), a key momentum indicator, the weekly readings hover around 50, indicating an undetermined trend. A reading above 50 coupled with an upward trend typically signals bullish sentiment, while readings below 50 suggest the opposite. The RSI’s neutral stance adds an element of uncertainty to XRP’s current trajectory. Crypto analysts and traders on X are expressing optimism about Ripple’s potential uptrend. CryptoWZRD anticipates a breakout from the descending resistance trend line, propelling the price toward $0.75. Similarly, Cryptoes observes a robust bullish engulfing daily candle, emphasizing the need for a close above the $0.578 resistance level to revisit $0.60. RealXRPwhale speculates that the recent dip marks the final downside for Ripple before a potential upward move. Additionally, rumors are circulating regarding a potential Ripple ETF launch by Fidelity. The critical question emerges: Will Ripple break down from the $0.54 support or stage a breakout from the descending resistance trend line? The answer to this question will undoubtedly shape the future trend for XRP, creating an air of anticipation among investors and enthusiasts alike.

While Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) applications are still awaiting approval from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), executives from asset management firms are already speculating about the potential launch of spot ETFs for other major cryptocurrencies, including XRP and Ethereum (ETH). Valkyrie Invest’s Chief Investment Officer, Steven McClurg, expressed his belief that the SEC’s potential approval of a Bitcoin ETF could pave the way for similar offerings in the XRP and Ethereum markets. However, regulatory challenges and classifying XRP and Ethereum as securities may present hurdles toward these index funds. XRP And Ethereum Spot ETF Potential Hurdles Unlike Bitcoin, which has been classified as a commodity by regulators, XRP and Ethereum have been deemed securities. This divergence in classification poses potential difficulties and may necessitate a more complex approval process for spot ETFs tracking these cryptocurrencies. The anticipated impact of spot ETF approval on the XRP and Ethereum price would mirror the pattern seen with Bitcoin. Still, the SEC’s skepticism towards the broader cryptocurrency market could pose additional hurdles for XRP and Ethereum ETFs. Nevertheless, the outcome of the ongoing Ripple vs. SEC case holds significant implications and could hold the key for the cryptocurrency industry to pursue these index funds for other cryptocurrencies. If Ripple, the blockchain payment company associated with XRP, emerges victorious and is not classified as a security by Judge Analisa Torres, it could establish a precedent for asset managers seeking to apply for an XRP ETF. This legal precedent could also prompt potential litigation against the SEC to support an Ethereum ETF application. While discussions revolve around the possibility of spot ETFs for XRP and Ethereum, there is still uncertainty surrounding the approval of Bitcoin ETFs. The SEC may reject or delay the pending applications, making it uncertain whether these other index funds will materialize. Furthermore, US regulators’ current classification of XRP and Ethereum as securities adds an additional layer of complexity to their respective ETF prospects. Bitcoin ETF Decision Imminent As reported on Monday by NewsBTC, Sources close to the process have indicated that the ultimate approval for Bitcoin ETFs may come on Wednesday. CNBC’s sources suggest that this coincides with the application deadline for Ark Invest and 21 Shares, raising the possibility of a potential trading launch between Thursday and Friday. Several applications are expected to receive the green light, pending updates from the SEC on the filings. Overall, as anticipation builds around the potential approval of Bitcoin ETFs, asset managers are already contemplating the prospect of spot ETFs for other major cryptocurrencies like XRP and Ethereum. However, the regulatory challenges and the classification of XRP and Ethereum as securities present significant hurdles for these index funds. The Ripple vs. SEC case outcome could have far-reaching implications, potentially setting a legal precedent for asset managers to pursue XRP and Ethereum ETFs. XRP is trading at $0.5673, showing a lack of bullish momentum with a 1% decline in the past 24 hours. Furthermore, it has experienced a continuous downtrend of 13% over the past 30 days. Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com

Crypto analyst Dark Defender has provided insight into how the XRP price could rise to $13. The analyst also suggested that the crypto token’s price could end up being way above that when other factors are considered. How XRP Will Rise To $13 In a post on his X (formerly Twitter) platform, Dark Defender stated that the XRP price could hit $13 when the total crypto market cap hits $23.24 trillion within a year. He noted how the crypto market has become more valuable year-on-year as it rose from $816 billion a year ago to around $1.6 trillion now. As such, he expects a “third wave” to happen with XRP’s rising with the tide. The analyst also hinted that there is the possibility that XRP could be higher than $13 as this price level will be achieved without considering its fundamentals. The fundamentals that he alluded to were regulatory clarity and XRP’s utility. XRP’s gaining legal clarity has been touted as one of its unique offerings and something that paints a bullish picture for the crypto token. Going by Dark Defender’s projections, the XRP price could also possibly have doubled from the $13 price level by 2027, as the analyst puts the total crypto market cap at $100 trillion by then. In a previous post, the analyst also raised the possibility of more institutional adoption of XRP, something which could also contribute to a significant rise in its price. XRP Price Set To Enjoy From Bitcoin’s Surge Bitcoin rose to as high as $47,000 as approval of the Spot Bitcoin ETFs looks imminent. Following BTC’s latest surge, crypto analyst CryptoInsightUK hinted that XRP could be next. He had previously laid out a bullish narrative for altcoins, including XRP, as he stated that they could post significant gains as traders cycle their profits into smaller market-cap tokens. Specifically, he noted that it could be time for XRP to shine as the crypto token is closer than ever to a move to the upside. Another reason why this move seems imminent is because the narrative in the crypto community is “awful” for XRP, the analyst remarked. As part of his 2024 predictions, CryptoInsightUk sees XRP rising to between $10 and $15 as BTC rises to $100,000. He believes the rally in the next bull run will be something similar to the one that happened in 2017. Interestingly, the analyst had previously raised the possibility of XRP repeating a rally similar to the one in 2017 when it posted a 61,000% gain. At the time of writing, XRP is trading at around $0.5724, up over 2%, according to data from CoinMarketCap.

Despite ETHBTC trending lower in favor of Bitcoin (BTC), there is a chance that the second most valuable cryptocurrency will recover in the months ahead. Taking to X in support of Ethereum (ETH), a crypto analyst, Mckenna, said a favorable combination of protocol-related and regulatory factors may support ETH, plugging the bleed versus BTC and sparking a refreshing rally. Ethereum Under-performing Bitcoin: Will This Continue? Looking at the ETHBTC weekly chart, it is evident that Bitcoin bulls have had the upper hand since August 2022. During this time, Bitcoin gained 42% versus ETH, with bulls pressing on when writing. To illustrate, Bitcoin is at a 2022 low versus ETH and will likely extend gains once a spot Bitcoin ETF is approved by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The crypto community expects this authorization to cement Bitcoin’s position, possibly drawing in billions in capital. Some analysts argue that this event could support altcoins, including Ethereum. So far, Ethereum, though edging lower versus Bitcoin, is firm against the USD. McKenna also notes that once a spot Bitcoin ETF is live in the United States, attention will shift to the SEC on whether it will also greenlight a similar product, but for Ethereum. These 2 Factors Might Support ETH Despite the ETH weakness versus BTC, Mckenna expects Ethereum to recover in the medium to long term. This is because of the expected preference for proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus systems over proof-of-work (PoW) methods that power Bitcoin. PoW is a computationally intensive process that uses much energy for block confirmation. This has led to criticism from those who are concerned about the environmental impact of crypto mining. For this reason, Ethereum adopted a PoS system, fully transitioning in 2021 after the Merge. Beyond the energy efficiency, the analyst also notes that the PoS in Ethereum provides ETH stakers with a base yield that will be considered “the safest bond instrument in the entire digital asset space.” Subsequently, this may support ETH, with many viewing it as a safe haven. This assurance is based chiefly on the fact that Ethereum is the second most valuable crypto network, with over $276 billion in market cap, according to CoinMarketCap. Additionally, ETH will, in the long run, be deflationary following the activation of EIP-1559 in August 2021. This system burns a portion of gas fees- the base fee- taking a portion of ETH out of circulation. According to Ultra Sound Money, over 17,600 ETH have been destroyed in the last week alone, 1,000 ETH more than those network issues.

BTC Futures OI has surged significantly on several other large exchanges in the last day. Bitcoin futures open interest (OI) has reached a staggering 437,79K BTC, or $20.43 billion. The overall Open Interest (OI) in Bitcoin Futures has surged to unprecedented levels, paving the way for what might be a crypto market revolution. Total Bitcoin futures contracts on the CME have reached an all-time high, according to Coinshares Head of Research James Butterfill, who recently released a critical graphic on twitter. Also, according to the most recent numbers, BTC Futures OI has surged significantly on several other large exchanges in the last day. Bitcoin futures open interest (OI) has reached a staggering 437,79K BTC, or $20.43 billion, according to data from Coinglass, indicating that the cryptocurrency market is seeing a tremendous surge. This spike, which occurred on Tuesday, January 9, marks a 10.31% gain in the last 24 hours. Investors are keeping a careful watch on market dynamics as they await the SEC’s possible approval of a Spot Bitcoin ETF this week. A sign of the market’s optimistic mood is the growth in total Bitcoin futures OI, according to James Butterfill, Head of Research at Coinshares. An impressive 15.45% increase, to $132.90K BTC, or $6.19 billion, was seen on the CME Group market alone in the last 24 hours. Moreover, Binance, another prominent cryptocurrency exchange, had a 9.91% increase in Bitcoin Open Interest, bringing the total to 97.34K, or $4.55 billion. Highly Anticipated Approval Bitcoin has had an extraordinary climb since April 2022, when it soared beyond $47,000 today. Speculation that the SEC may approve the first spot Bitcoin ETF is likely a major factor in this upsurge. Bloomberg Intelligence analysts have pegged the likelihood of approval this week at an amazing 95%, which has heightened market euphoria. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s decision is likely to change the crypto landscape, therefore investors and traders are bracing for high volatility this week. Highlighted Crypto News Today: CFTC Committee Report Calls for Regulatory Collaboration in DeFi

The analytics firm Santiment has revealed the list of altcoins that are showing the greatest bullish and bearish divergences currently. RSI Reveals These Altcoins To Contain The Most Extreme Values Right Now In a new post on X, Santiment has discussed some altcoins that are showing overvalued or undervalued conditions based on the Relative Strength Index (RSI) currently. The RSI refers to a momentum metric in technical analysis that tracks the speed and magnitude of recent changes happening in the price of any given asset. This measurement can be made over any period, but in the context of the current topic, the 1-day RSI is of relevance. Generally, a high value of this indicator can be a sign that the asset is overheated right now and may be at risk of forming a top. More specifically, the 70 mark is chosen as the cutoff for when the probability of a bearish reversal becomes significant. On the other hand, the RSI being 30 or lower can imply the price is under its fair value at the moment, and as such, a potential reversal to the upside could be brewing for the asset. Now, here is the chart shared by the analytics firm that shows the trend in the 1-day RSI for a few different altcoins from the top 150 market cap list over the past year: As displayed in the above graph, the 1-day RSI has been at high levels for Maker (MKR), Venus (vBNB), and Sei (SEI) recently. To be more specific, the metric has a value of 74.6, 72.4, and 75 for vBNB, SEI, and MKR, respectively. Clearly, these RSI levels are in the zone typically associated with an overheated market. Maker has recently enjoyed a sharp rally, observing gains of over 30% during the past couple of weeks. If this metric is anything to go by, though, the asset’s strong run may be approaching an end. On the other end of the spectrum are the altcoins Elrond (ELGD), Arweave (AR), and Bonk (BONK), which are observing low levels of 1-day RSI. ELGD and AR are inside the underpriced zone with the metric sitting at 22.6 and 29, while the Solana-based memecoin BONK is floating just over the area with a value of 31. According to Santiment, all six of these coins have also separated from the rest of the altcoins cohort, implying a bearish/bullish (depending on whether overvalued or undervalued) divergence could be forming for them. As such, coins like BONK observing a bullish divergence may be likely to see some price rise, so that they can catch up with the other alts. Similarly, MKR and others may see a correction to be more in line with the rest of the market. BONK Price Bonk has had a bad time these last few weeks, as its price has been following an overall downward trajectory. The coin may finally be starting to turn itself around, however, as its price has shot up over 22% in the past 24 hours.

ZHUHAI, China–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Powerbridge Technologies Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: PBTS) (the “Company” or “PBTS”), a provider of multi-industry technology solutions, today announced that it has received a formal notice from The Nasdaq Stock Market (the “Nasdaq”) dated January 8, 2024, stating that the Company has regained compliance with the minimum bid price requirement under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2) (the “Minimum Bid Price Rule”), and that the Company is in compliance with all applicable listing standards. Reference is made to the form 6-K of the Company filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on December 21, 2023 (the “Previous Disclosure”) in relation to the deficiency of the Company’s compliance with the Minimum Bid Price Rule and the Nasdaq’s delisting decision. All capitalized terms not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Previous Disclosure. The Company appealed the Nasdaq’s decision and was granted a hearing before the Nasdaq Hearings Panel. Since the Company has regained compliance, the hearing scheduled on March 14, 2024 has been canceled. The Company will remain under the Panel Monitor until June 27, 2024, imposed by a previous Nasdaq Hearings Panel’s compliance letter dated June 27, 2023. The Company’s stock will continue to be listed and traded on the Nasdaq. About Powerbridge Technologies Powerbridge Technologies Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: PBTS) is a global provider of technology solutions and services across multiple industries. The Company is engaged in four segments of business: global trade digital platform and services, agritech and agribusiness solutions, integrated renewable energy and agribusiness solutions, and crypto equipment trading and cryptomining operations. Safe Harbor Statement This press release may contain certain “forward-looking statements” relating to the business of Powerbridge Technologies Co., Ltd., and its subsidiary companies. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included herein are “forward-looking statements.” These forward-looking statements are often identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “believes,” “expects,” or similar expressions, involving known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, they do involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, and these expectations may prove to be incorrect. Investors should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company’s actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including those discussed in the Company’s periodic reports that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and available on its website at http://www.sec.gov. All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these factors. Other than as required under the securities laws, the Company does not assume a duty to update these forward-looking statements. Contacts For more information, please contact: Corporate Investor Relations Powerbridge Technologies Co., Ltd. Email: [email protected] Website: www.powerbridge.com/ir/

Dr. Muhammad Shoaib Farooq included in Stanford-Elsevier ranking of top-sited scientists REDWOOD CITY, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–i2c Inc., a leading provider of banking and payment solutions, is pleased to announce Dr. Muhammad Shoaib Farooq, i2c’s vice president of learning and development, has been recognized as one of the world’s top 2% of scientists by Stanford University in its Stanford-Elsevier ranking. This prestigious recognition places him among the brightest minds in science, solidifying his status as a leading expert and innovator in his field. The top 100,000 scientists are chosen based on their c-score, which is a composite index based on as many as 40 different citation data for each scientist. The list serves as a database of top-cited scientists that provides standardized information on citations, citations to papers in different authorship positions and a composite indicator (c-score) as well as other factors. Dr. Muhammad Shoaib Farooq has over 30 years of experience in learning, research and development. He has research interests in programming languages, data warehousing, distributed computing, blockchain technologies, artificial intelligence, natural language processing, generative AI, and federated learning. He has published several research papers in international and national journals and conferences. i2c’s dedication to promoting an innovative and high-achieving culture is evident in this recognition. The company takes pride in its team members who continually strive for excellence and contribute significantly to their respective fields. About i2c Inc. i2c is a global provider of highly configurable banking and payment solutions. Using proprietary building block technology, our clients can easily, quickly and cost-effectively create, launch and manage a comprehensive set of solutions including banking, credit, debit, and prepaid programs. i2c delivers unparalleled flexibility, agility, security, and reliability from a global, unified banking and payments platform. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Silicon Valley, its next-generation technology supports millions of users in more than 200 countries/territories and across all time zones. For more information, visit www.i2cinc.com and follow us at @i2cinc. Contacts Chuck Meyers Director of public relations and analyst relations [email protected]

Cardano (ADA) closed out 2023 with a rollercoaster ride, soaring towards $0.70 before plummeting back to $0.52 by the new year. While this sharp correction was anticipated, concerns linger about an ongoing bearish sentiment despite room for growth. Recovery won’t be a walk in the park. Currently trading at $0.52, Cardano faces an uphill battle. However, glimmers of hope remain. Cardano (ADA): Resilient Support Amid Development Notably, ADA hasn’t breached the crucial support level of the 200-day EMA, suggesting an underlying bullish bias for the long-term trend that began in mid-October. This technical indicator points towards potential for a rebound, although sustained upward momentum will require additional catalysts. Cardano’s 2024 started with a development bang, not a price boom. Development activity surged 250% in 30 days, showcasing a vibrant ecosystem buzzing with innovation. Unfortunately, this internal optimism hasn’t translated to external cheer. The bears remain firmly in control, driving ADA’s price down 18% in a week and 10% in 24 hours. At $0.52, ADA currently ranks 8th by market cap, but its chart is decidedly red. This disconnect between bustling development and bearish price action highlights the complex cocktail of factors influencing cryptocurrency markets. While a thriving ecosystem bodes well for the future, short-term sentiment reigns supreme, swayed by news, speculation, and overall market trends. On the fundamental side, Cardano’s ecosystem continues to flourish. The recent Vasil hard fork and growing DeFi activity inject optimism, but external factors like broader market sentiment and regulatory uncertainties could throw wrenches in the recovery gears. Cardano’s Outlook: Navigating Uncertainty For Growth Cardano’s near-term outlook remains somewhat cloudy. While the recent dip was expected, complete bearish dominance seems unlikely. Technical indicators hint at a potential uptrend, but navigating choppy waters will require a confluence of positive catalysts and a watchful eye on the broader market. So, what’s next for Cardano? The recent development surge suggests a project on the move, but overcoming bear dominance requires more than just internal progress. Catalysts like positive news events or broader market recovery could be the wind beneath ADA’s wings. For now, investors face a classic crypto conundrum: weigh long-term potential against the immediate sting of a bearish market. Cardano finds itself at a crossroads in the early days of 2024, with the clash between internal development strides and external market dynamics shaping its narrative. Despite a remarkable surge in development activity, ADA’s price has faced a significant downturn, reflecting the intricate dance between optimism and market sentiment. Featured image from Shutterstock

Honeyland, the blockchain-based beekeeping sensation, is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated launch of Honeyland 2.0 this week. This major update brings many exciting features designed to elevate player experience and engagement. Key features of Honeyland 2.0 include: Fun, mobile casual strategy game built on Solana Created frictionless web3 gaming for anyone in the world Discoverable on iOS/Android stores worldwide Super simple onboarding with Google/Apple sign-in Purchase $HXD in-game as an in-app purchase using Google Pay or Apple Pay Buy and sell NFTs in the app using $HXD through partnership with Magic Eden Players can convert $HXD into other currencies using the Transak offramp End to end web3 experience while completely removing the normal web3 friction. $1.2M of in-game revenues since launch Partnership with Mastercard bringing unique branded in-game experience to players. The Honeyland team is dedicated to optimizing player experience and accessibility, solidifying its status as one of the premier blockchain games globally. Honeyland 2.0 promises a more immersive gaming environment and is now live, offering players an exciting new chapter in the world of beekeeping. Corey Wright, CEO of Honeyland, commented: “We’ve spent the past two years optimizing Honeyland to give players an insanely fun and competitive game, a frictionless onboarding experience, and a sustainable web3 game economy. Honeyland 2.0 begins the next step in Honeyland’s future where we are excited to introduce it now to everyone.“ To learn more about Honeyland, visit their website at: https://honey.land or download the game and start playing now. About Honeyland: Honeyland is a popular blockchain-based casual strategy game known for its engaging gameplay and vibrant community. With the upcoming launch of Honeyland 2.0, players can anticipate a richer and more interactive gaming experience. Download Honeyland on iOS and Android now to join the buzz! Media & Partnerships Contact: [email protected] Disclaimer: TheNewsCrypto does not endorse any content on this page. The content depicted in this press release does not represent any investment advice. TheNewsCrypto recommend our readers to make decisions based on their own research. TheNewsCrypto is not accountable for any damage or loss related to content, products, or services stated in this press release.