### Warning from DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office

**SYCAMORE** – The **DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office** has not solicited any contributions to a **Bitcoin** account for legal matters. If you or someone you know has received such a request, it's crucial to report it to the sheriff’s office as it may indicate a **phone scam**.

### The Scam Details

The sheriff's office issued a warning via a **social media post** about an ongoing phone scam. In this scam, an unknown caller impersonates a sheriff’s office employee, demanding money be deposited into a **Bitcoin account** concerning a legal issue. 

**Authorities** clarified that the phone number associated with this scam, **815-826-9542**, is not linked to the sheriff's office. The scammer has also pretended to be known officials, including **Deputy Chief Jim Burgh**. 

### Tactics Used by Scammers

Victims report that these callers engage them for long periods and often threaten arrest if their demands are not met. The sheriff’s office reminds the public that **no legitimate employee will ever request money or Bitcoin** over the phone to resolve legal matters.

No, the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office has not asked anyone to contribute money to a Bitcoin account to resolve a legal matter. But beware, authorities warned, you could fall victim to a phone scam making its rounds.

Beware: DeKalb County Sheriff Warns of Bitcoin Phone Scams

### This Crypto Fund Blew Past Bitcoin's 121% Price Gain in 2024

Bitcoin (BTC), the leading cryptocurrency by market value, surged **121% last year**, crossing the six-figure mark and outshining traditional assets. However, this performance falls short in comparison to **Pythagoras Investment Management’s Alpha Long Biased Strategy**, which pushed the envelope even further.

The fund, which combines a **BTC base position with two uncorrelated strategies**, achieved an impressive **return of 204% in 2024**, according to Pythagoras in an email to CoinDesk. This translates to a **3x gain**, significantly outperforming the **2x return** typical buy-and-hold Bitcoin investors would have realized. Notably, the fund charges an incentive fee only when it outperforms Bitcoin.

The fund's base position in Bitcoin provides **direct exposure** to long-term appreciation, while the two uncorrelated strategies – a **momentum market timing strategy** and a **long-short market selection strategy** – generate alpha.

The **momentum strategy** employs **machine learning** and pattern recognition to dynamically adjust and optimize exposure, allowing it to capture short-term market fluctuations. Meanwhile, the **long-short strategy** utilizes a proprietary **AI-based forecasting model** to create a dollar-neutral portfolio, investing in tokens expected to yield superior returns while shorting those anticipated to underperform.

Despite its stellar performance, the Alpha Long Biased Strategy was Pythagoras' smallest fund, with **assets under management (AUM) of $7 million**. It suffered a **2% drawdown in December**, as Bitcoin fell from record highs above **$108,000** to **$93,000**.

In contrast, Pythagoras' **Arbitrage strategy** delivered a **3% return** in December, ending the year with an **18% gain** and **$45 million** in AUM. The **Quant Long Short Fund** generated a **30% return** in 2024, while the **Absolute Return Strategy** gathered **$158 million** in client funds with a **41.7% return**. The combined AUM of the four funds grew to over **$230 million** from **$80 million** in 2023, driven by a bullish market.

### Bullish Outlook

Pythagoras expects the **bull market** to continue this year, driven by **positive regulatory developments** in the U.S. and **corporate demand** for Bitcoin. 

"The incoming Trump administration, with its proposal on creating a **national strategic Bitcoin reserve** and appointing individuals favorable to our industry, is expected to be a major catalyst. With over **290 members of Congress** who are pro-crypto, we anticipate that supportive legislation for the cryptocurrency industry will gain momentum," said **Mitchell Dong**, CEO of Pythagoras.

As the U.S. Congress explores the idea of a **national strategic Bitcoin reserve**, Pythagoras anticipates some countries may try to **front-run the U.S.** in accumulating Bitcoin, should this initiative materialize. Dong also mentioned the likelihood of more companies following **MicroStrategy's** lead in adopting BTC.

Pythagoras Alpha Long Biased Strategy combines a base position in BTC with two uncorrelated strategies to outperform buy and hold play. 

Discover How Pythagoras Crypto Fund Achieved a Whopping 204% Return in 2024, Outshining Bitcoin!

## Bitcoin's Remarkable Surge

The **macroeconomic factors** are significantly influencing Bitcoin's evolving status as an asset increasingly favored by **Wall Street**. A recent report from the **Washington Post** suggested that President **Trump's tariffs** might not be as extensive as previously believed, leading to a **decline in the dollar** and a subsequent **2% spike** in Bitcoin's price. However, Trump later refuted this report, causing Bitcoin to trim its gains during evening trading.

Despite this, Bitcoin has retained its **momentum** at the start of 2025, reclaiming the **$100,000 mark** on Monday. This resurgence is bolstered by rising inflows into Bitcoin **ETFs**, with a **CoinShares report** indicating over **$500 million** invested in Bitcoin ETFs during the first three trading days of the year.

## MicroStrategy's Continued Investment

**MicroStrategy** continues to expand its Bitcoin holdings, purchasing an additional **$100 million** in Bitcoin for the ninth consecutive week. This brings the company's total Bitcoin stash to nearly **$45 billion**. As Bitcoin prices rebound, MicroStrategy's stock is also rising, which could potentially lead to more share issuances to fund further Bitcoin acquisitions.

## Macroeconomic Environment and Its Impact

The **macroeconomic landscape** is expected to be a focal point for crypto markets as 2025 unfolds. The dollar's fluctuations, spurred by rumors of potential **rollback of Trump tariffs**, will likely inject volatility into global markets. Bitcoin's recent price movements illustrate this dynamic, with traders closely monitoring the **dollar index** for cues.

This week, the economic calendar includes the **release of FOMC minutes** and the **December jobs report**, both crucial for understanding the **Federal Reserve's** policy direction. While expectations for fewer rate cuts this year have already affected market sentiment, the key question remains regarding the Fed’s long-term plans for 2025. These macroeconomic developments will be vital in shaping the crypto market's trajectory in the upcoming months.

As we step into 2025, the interplay between macroeconomic factors and **crypto adoption** continues to steer market narratives. With increasing **institutional interest** and improving **regulatory clarity**, the crypto market is poised to leverage the shifting economic landscape.

The dollar finally rolled over to trigger a big surge in Bitcoin to continue its hot start to 2025.

Bitcoin Soars Over $102,000 as Dollar Dips Amid Trump Tariff Speculations

### Bitcoin Miners Face Tough Times

As **competition** for resources intensifies, US-listed Bitcoin mining companies are adopting a strategic approach to navigate the **profit squeeze**. With rising operational costs and fluctuating prices, miners are now **stockpiling coins** instead of quickly selling them to maximize profits.

### The Current Market Dynamics

The Bitcoin mining landscape is becoming increasingly competitive. Companies are tapping into **investors** for cash to sustain their operations while managing the effects of market volatility. The strategy of holding onto mined Bitcoin allows miners to potentially benefit from price increases in the future.

### Investment Strategies in Play

By securing additional funding, these mining firms aim to strengthen their positions in the market. This trend reflects a broader shift as miners prepare for a more challenging environment, focusing on long-term gains rather than immediate profits.

### Conclusion

The resilience of Bitcoin miners in the face of **profitability challenges** is a testament to their strategic foresight. As they stockpile Bitcoin, the industry watches closely to see how this will impact market trends and pricing in the coming months.

US-listed groups tap investors for cash as competition for resources intensifies

Why Bitcoin Miners Are Stockpiling Coins Amid Profit Challenges

### What You Need to Know Today

**Back to back gains for S&P and Nasdaq**  
U.S. stocks **mostly rose on Monday**, with the **S&P 500** and **Nasdaq Composite** climbing two days in a row. **Nvidia**, a leader in the artificial intelligence sector, closed at a **record high**. The pan-European **Stoxx 600** index advanced **0.95%**, despite U.S. President-elect Donald Trump dismissing fears about tariffs.

**Foxconn shows AI is still hot**  
**Foxconn**, also known as **Hon Hai Precision Industry**, reported a **15% year-over-year growth** in its fourth-quarter revenue, marking the highest ever for that period. This surge suggests that **artificial intelligence** remains a hot investment, positively impacting stocks of **Nvidia** and other semiconductor firms.

**Partnership on charging network for EVs**  
Shares of **Volkswagen** and **Xpeng** rose after they announced a partnership to open their respective super-fast charging networks to each other's customers, signaling a collaborative future in electric vehicle infrastructure.

**Trudeau steps down**  
Canadian Prime Minister **Justin Trudeau** announced he would step down as leader of the ruling Liberal Party, but will remain in his prime minister role until a new leader is selected.

**Quality stocks against rising rates**  
The **10-year Treasury yield** continues to rise, pressuring stock valuations. Morgan Stanley's chief strategist advises investors to focus on **quality stocks** amid potential market tumult.

### Market Performance and Outlook
Semiconductor stocks jumped, driven by positive news around the AI sector. **Foxconn's** record revenue and **Microsoft's** substantial investment in AI infrastructure suggest continued strong interest in this field. **Nvidia** shares surged **3.4%**, closing at **$149.43**, while the **VanEck Semiconductor ETF** also rose over **3%**. The **Nasdaq Composite** was the clear winner, climbing **1.24%**, while the **S&P 500** rose **0.55%**. However, the **Dow Jones Industrial Average** dipped **0.06%**. Despite the positive market sentiment, analysts caution that true growth in AI will depend on companies' ability to leverage it for revenue growth, rather than simply inflating stock prices.

Semiconductor stocks jumped on Monday, lifted by buoyant news regarding the artificial intelligence sector. The S&P and Nasdaq posted two straight day of gains.

AI-Driven Stocks Surge: What You Need to Know About Nvidia and the Market's Optimism

### Ripple's Change in Direction
In 2023, **Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse** expressed intentions to hire **80% of the company’s workforce** outside the United States, citing better regulatory environments for cryptocurrency. However, a recent statement at a conference in Singapore indicated a **shift in strategy**.

Garlinghouse remarked, "It’s super frustrating that you see markets like we have here in Singapore … where the governments are partnering with the industry, and you’re seeing leadership providing clear rules, and you’re seeing growth. And frankly, that’s why Ripple is hiring there."

### The Trump Bull Market
With a new administration taking office, Garlinghouse's perspective has evolved. In a post on social platform X, he stated, **“2025 is here and the Trump bull market is real.”** He emphasized that this situation is personal for Ripple, especially after the **SEC's actions** that limited their business opportunities in the U.S.

He noted, **“We signed more US deals in the last six weeks of 2024 than the previous six MONTHS.”** The optimism surrounding the **‘Trump effect’** is palpable, with many believing it could revitalize the cryptocurrency landscape.

### Bitcoin's Surge
Trump's pro-crypto stance has notably impacted the price of **Bitcoin**, pushing it to record highs. Predictions suggest that Bitcoin's value could exceed **$200,000** this year, with experts like **Elitsa Taskova**, chief product officer at **Nexo**, forecasting a potential rise to **$250,000**.

### The Future of Crypto Markets
The crypto market stands at a crossroads. If proponents are correct, growth could lead to more **institutional investment**, **regulatory clarity**, and **real-world use cases** for cryptocurrencies. Conversely, if bearish trends dominate, the market may face volatility and regulatory challenges.

Global financial giants are already exploring **blockchain** solutions for cross-border payments, demonstrating a growing interest in the utility of cryptocurrencies within traditional finance.

In 2023, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse said the company was looking outside the United States for new workers. Now, he’s changed his tune.

Ripple Shifts Focus Back to the US: The Impact of the 'Trump Bull Market'

### Bitcoin's Resurgence
**Bitcoin (BTC)** is back on the rise as **MicroStrategy** continues its aggressive buying strategy. Recently, the company purchased an additional **1,070 Bitcoin** and plans to raise **$2 billion** for more acquisitions.

As of 4 p.m. ET, Bitcoin had climbed **4%**, while **Ethereum (ETH)** saw a modest increase of **1.1%** and **Dogecoin (DOGE)** rose by **1.4%**.

![Bitcoin Logo](https://g.foolcdn.com/art/companylogos/mark/BTC.png)

**Today's Change**: **3.11%** ($3,173.42)  
**Current Price**: **$101,966.31**  

### MicroStrategy's Buying Strategy
MicroStrategy has adopted a **Bitcoin yield strategy**, issuing stock and debt to enhance its Bitcoin holdings. This approach allows the company to leverage its stock price, which currently exceeds the value of Bitcoin held, thus increasing its Bitcoin yield. Their strategy reflects a **74.3% Bitcoin yield** in 2024.

However, uncertainties loom over how long MicroStrategy can maintain this premium. If the stock price declines, the buying momentum could shift, affecting market stability.

### Ethereum and Dogecoin's Market Performance
While no significant news drives Ethereum or Dogecoin, the overall inflow of funds into the cryptocurrency sector has contributed to their value increase. Investors should keep an eye on **utility improvements** for these tokens, as they are likely to drive **value appreciation** more than previous cycles characterized by memes or NFTs.

### Trading Momentum in 2025
Currently, cryptocurrencies are more correlated with **growth stocks** rather than serving as a hedge against inflation. The rising stock valuations have consequently boosted crypto prices. However, there's caution as the market has experienced cycles of euphoria followed by crashes, exemplified by the events of 2021 and 2022.

Traders are advised to approach the market with caution and consider taking profits rather than buying into the current uptick in token values.

Bitcoin (BTC 3.11%) is climbing again on Monday after MicroStrategy continued its massive buying spree. This time, the company announced another 1,070 Bitcoin acquired over the past week and said it will be raising another $2 billion to buy even more.

Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Dogecoin Surge: What's Behind the Rally?

### Trump's Bold Proposal
President **Donald Trump's** proposal to create a **strategic bitcoin reserve** has stirred excitement and debate, capturing the attention of industry leaders.

### Insights from Industry Experts
Roundtable anchor **Rob Nelson** chatted with **David Bailey**, the mastermind behind the largest Bitcoin conference and CEO of BTC Inc., to explore the implications of such a move, discussing its potential impact on the **Federal Reserve**, **Treasury**, and broader financial system.

**"Trump's idea of a strategic bitcoin reserve brings incredible value,"** said Rob Nelson. He emphasized that it provides a new way of managing value and opportunity, even if bitcoin doesn't entirely take over. However, he criticized **Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's** response when questioned about the proposal, noting that Bitcoin's price declined after Powell indicated the Fed was not seeking to embrace Bitcoin.

### The Role of the Treasury
Bailey emphasized that establishing a bitcoin reserve falls under the **Treasury's jurisdiction**, not the Federal Reserve's. **"The president has full authority via executive order to create a digital Fort Knox,"** Bailey explained. This could significantly help the U.S. Treasury reclaim financial power from the Federal Reserve.

### Potential Market Impact
Analysts have mixed opinions on the likelihood of a U.S. Bitcoin reserve being approved this year, but there is consensus that it would trigger a **massive surge in bitcoin's price**. Fundstrat's **Sean Farrell** predicts it could push Bitcoin to **$500,000**.

### Questions Around Skepticism
When asked about Powell’s stance, Nelson speculated about the motivation behind his skepticism toward bitcoin. **"Is Powell trying to tank the price, or does he genuinely dislike bitcoin?"** Bailey suggested that Powell's reluctance stems from frustration over the focus on Bitcoin rather than broader monetary issues.

### Digital Gold for the Digital Age
Bailey highlighted a subtle acknowledgment from Powell, who referred to bitcoin as **"digital gold,"** a significant endorsement. If every nation owns physical gold, he argued, why shouldn't they own digital gold for the digital age?

As the conversation around bitcoin's role in government finance intensifies, Trump’s proposal may spark broader policy discussions. The concept of a strategic bitcoin reserve could redefine how nations manage value in the **digital era**.

A strategic cryptocurrency approach challenges traditional banking, hinting at potential shifts in strategy.

Beware: DeKalb County Sheriff Warns of Bitcoin Phone Scams

Summary:

Warning from DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office

The Scam Details

Tactics Used by Scammers

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Why Bitcoin Miners Are Stockpiling Coins Amid Profit Challenges

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Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Dogecoin Surge: What's Behind the Rally?

Could Trump's Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Revolutionize U.S. Finance?