### Czech National Bank's Bold Consideration

In a recent **interview with CNN Prima News**, **Aleš Michl**, the Governor of the **Czech National Bank**, revealed his thoughts on potentially incorporating **Bitcoin** into the bank's foreign exchange reserve diversification strategy. Michl stated he is contemplating the purchase of **"a small amount of Bitcoin"** as part of this strategy.

While this potential acquisition would not constitute a significant investment, its **symbolic importance** could be profound. **Janis Aliapulios**, an advisor to the bank, confirmed that there are **no immediate plans** to buy Bitcoin, but discussions regarding its inclusion in the reserves cannot be dismissed in the future.

Any decision to proceed with Bitcoin purchases would require the approval of the **Czech National Bank's board**, which consists of **seven members**. This step signifies a notable shift in perspective towards cryptocurrencies by a national bank, highlighting the growing interest in digital assets on a global scale.

ChainCatcher emphasizes the importance of viewing **blockchain technology** rationally and encourages readers to enhance their **risk awareness** regarding various **virtual token** issuances and speculations. All content is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute investment advice.

ChainCatcher news, according to Cointelegraph, Czech National Bank Governor Aleš Michl recently stated in an interview with CNN Prima News that he is considering including Bitcoin in the bank's foreign exchange reserve diversification strategy.In the interview, Michl mentioned that he is considering purchasing "a small amount of Bitcoin" as part of the reserve diversification. While this would not be a significant investment, its symbolic meaning is substantial. The bank's advisor Janis Aliapulios confirmed that although there are currently no plans to purchase Bitcoin, discussions on this matter cannot be ruled out in the future. The Czech National Bank's board, composed of 7 members, needs to approve any decision to purchase Bitcoin.

Czech National Bank Governor Eyes Bitcoin for Foreign Exchange Reserves: A Symbolic Shift?

### Cathie Wood's Strategic Sell-off

**Cathie Wood**, the renowned CEO and CIO of **Ark Invest**, has made headlines by selling **over 36,000 shares** of the **ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (ARKB)** to kick off **2025**. As a long-time advocate for **Bitcoin (BTC)**, this decision raises questions about her outlook on the cryptocurrency market.

### Market Reactions

The sale of such a significant number of shares often signals a shift in strategy or sentiment. **Wood's actions** could reflect her views on **current market conditions** or a need to **reallocate funds** within her investment portfolio. 

### What This Means for Bitcoin and ARKB

Investors and analysts alike are keenly observing how this sell-off will impact the **ARKB ETF** and the broader **Bitcoin market**. With **Bitcoin** constantly fluctuating, Wood's decisions could influence investor confidence and market dynamics. 

### Conclusion

As a prominent figure in the cryptocurrency space, Cathie Wood's movements are closely monitored. This recent sale may be a pivotal moment as we enter the new year, prompting discussions about the future of **Bitcoin investments**.

Cathie Wood, CEO and CIO of Ark Invest and longtime bitcoin (BTC-USD) advocate has sold over 36K shares of ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (ARKB).

Cathie Wood's Bold Move: Selling 36K Shares of Bitcoin ETF ARKB as 2025 Begins

# Crypto Prices Under Pressure From Global Rise in Yields

A sharp gain in interest rates didn't dent crypto's price rally through late 2024, but that may not be the case anymore.

**Jan 8, 2025, 3:42 p.m. UTC**

Crypto markets had been on a nice **bull run** in the final quarter of 2024, but the trend of rising government bond yields across the globe appears to have become too strong to ignore.

Considered the benchmark that sets the standard across the world, the **U.S. 10-year Treasury yield** has risen to **4.70%** as of Wednesday, nearing a multi-year high and now up more than **100 basis points** since the Federal Reserve first cut its fed funds rate in September.

![Fed Funds Rate vs US10Y (TradingView)](https://www.coindesk.com/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.sanity.io%2Fimages%2Fs3y3vcno%2Fproduction%2F66c10454e84ab399c93f4c6df2537dc6c1c7fa65-1519x906.png%3Fauto%3Dformat&w=1920&q=75&dpl=dpl_EY98mg2CffmP7TFmnb8io9BMwWsv)

The action in the U.K. has been even more extreme, with the **30-year Gilt yield** on Wednesday rising to **5.35%**, its highest level since **1998**. It's now ahead by **105 basis points** since the Fed's first rate cut in September.

Large jumps in interest rates aren't limited to the U.S. and U.K., as **Germany, Italy**, and **Japan** have experienced similar action. Japan's **10-year JGB yield**, in fact, has risen to **1.18%** — a relatively tiny number, but its highest level in nearly **15 years**.

Rising yields through much of the last several months didn't appear to impede crypto price action, where **bitcoin** and a number of other digital assets rose to record or multi-year highs in early-mid December. However, the price action since is a different story, with bitcoin — for instance — down more than **10%** from its record above **$108,000** set just three weeks ago and several other majors lower by even larger amounts.

There's always an exception and this time around it's **China**, where yields are falling sharply on deflation worries. According to an [X post by The Kobeissi Letter](https://108.181.34.45/KobeissiLetter/status/1867190522470867416?__cpo=aHR0cHM6Ly94LmNvbQ), China has been experiencing its longest period of **deflation** since **1999**.

A sharp gain in interest rates didn't dent crypto's price rally through late 2024, but that may not be the case anymore.

Are Rising Yields Threatening Bitcoin's Bull Run? Discover the Impact!

If you **stuck with crypto in 2024**, your decision paid off handsomely. President-elect **Donald Trump's** victory in early November sent the entire sector surging, promising a friendlier regulatory environment toward crypto and growth policies to establish the U.S. as the **"crypto capital of the world."**

Few companies or individuals have benefited more than **Michael Saylor**, the founder of **MicroStrategy (NASDAQ: MSTR)**, which made a significant pivot in 2020 to buy as much **Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC)** as possible. Bitcoin held up well in 2024, skyrocketing to over **$107,000** following Trump's election win. Saylor, a perennial Bitcoin bull, believes the rally is just beginning.

In November, Saylor boldly stated he sees Bitcoin reaching **$13 million** by **2045**, implying a **12,630% upside** from current levels. His reasoning is two-fold:
1. He anticipates Bitcoin can deliver **annual returns of 29%** for the next 21 years, based on its historical performance of **60% annual returns**, which is expected to decelerate as the market matures.
2. Saylor believes Bitcoin will capture more of the world's capital, currently representing only **10 to 20 basis points** of the global capital, with the potential to rise to **7%**.

Amidst Bitcoin's extraordinary run, MicroStrategy has been aggressively purchasing Bitcoin, acquiring it at levels as high as **$106,000**. This shows their commitment to holding onto their investments rather than cashing out.

MicroStrategy is the **largest public holder** of Bitcoin, owning over **1%** of all outstanding tokens. They have plans to raise **$42 billion** through debt and equity over the next three years to buy even more Bitcoin.

While predicting the future is challenging, many believe we haven't seen the last leg of this current crypto rally. Trump's administration has appointed several crypto advocates to key roles, which could lead to more favorable regulations, including the potential for **crypto spot exchange-traded funds** and improved accounting rules that facilitate institutional adoption of crypto.

President-elect Donald Trump's victory in early November sent the entire sector surging.  Trump has promised a friendlier regulatory environment toward crypto and even growth policies that will make the U.S. "the crypto capital of the world."  Few companies or people have benefited more from this than Michael Saylor, the founder of MicroStrategy (NASDAQ: MSTR), which made quite the pivot in 2020 and began buying as much Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) as it could.

Unlocking Bitcoin's Potential: Michael Saylor's Bold Prediction of 12,630% Growth!

## Bitcoin Depot Expands BTM Network Through Partnership with Prominent Texas Convenience Store Chain  

**Bitcoin Depot** (NASDAQ: BTM) has announced the deployment of **50 new Bitcoin ATMs** through a partnership with a major convenience store chain across the Texas Panhandle and surrounding states. This expansion is aimed at providing easier access to **Bitcoin purchases** and participation in digital finance.

The company has achieved several key milestones, including expanding its **BDCheckout Program** to six new states and extending operations to **Australia** and **Puerto Rico**. In July 2024, Bitcoin Depot surpassed its target of deploying over **8,000 Bitcoin ATMs** five months ahead of schedule, maintaining its position as **North America's largest BTM operator**.  

The BTMs are designed to enable customers to convert cash into Bitcoin efficiently for various purposes including payments, transfers, remittances, and investments.

### Key Insights  
- The deployment of **50 new BTMs** across Texas marks a strategic expansion in Bitcoin Depot's infrastructure, targeting underserved areas.  
- The partnership with convenience stores enhances accessibility and visibility, likely increasing transaction volumes.  
- **Bitcoin Depot** is well-positioned to capture untapped market demand in rural and suburban areas, aligning with growing mainstream interest in cryptocurrencies.  
- The company's ability to exceed BTM deployment targets ahead of schedule demonstrates strong execution and effective supply chain management.

### About Bitcoin Depot  
Founded in 2016, Bitcoin Depot aims to connect cash users to the digital financial system, offering simple and efficient means of converting cash into Bitcoin. As of December 2024, they operate approximately **8,486 kiosk locations** across 48 states.  

![Bitcoin Depot Logo](https://ml.globenewswire.com/media/ZGEzN2UyOWYtOTgwZC00Y2VlLWFhZmQtNWQ3ZDczZWE0NTJmLTEyNzAzNDc=/tiny/Bitcoin-Depot-Operating-LLC.png)

Bitcoin Depot accelerates growth with major convenience store rollout in Texas Panhandle, while celebrating early achievement of 8,000 BTM milestone and international expansion.

Bitcoin Depot's Texas Takeover: 50 New ATMs and Global Expansion

## The Rise of Cryptocurrency for Everyday Payments
Cryptocurrency has evolved into a **store of value**, akin to gold, and a **medium of exchange**, similar to the U.S. dollar. Its practical applications in daily life have expanded significantly as it becomes more mainstream. Among these, the ability to **pay your bills with cryptocurrency** stands out.

## How to Pay Your Bills Using Cryptocurrency
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to pay your bills using cryptocurrency:

### Types of Bills You Can Pay
From personal finances to household expenses, the range of bills that can be paid using cryptocurrency is expanding rapidly:
- **Credit Card Bills**: Many banks and credit card companies now accept cryptocurrency payments directly or through third-party platforms.
- **Rent**: Several property management companies have started accepting cryptocurrency as a payment method for rent.
- **Mortgage Payments**: Loans, such as student and personal loans, can be paid using cryptocurrency.
- **Car Payments**: Paying for your car loan or lease with cryptocurrency is becoming more common.
- **Subscriptions**: Streaming services, cloud storage, and other subscription-based platforms increasingly offer cryptocurrency as a payment option.
- **Utility Bills**: Payments to electricity, water, and gas providers can also be made in certain regions that accept cryptocurrency.

### Setting Up Your Crypto Wallet
To pay bills using cryptocurrency, the first step is setting up a **crypto wallet**. Without a wallet, you won’t be able to make any transactions.
- Choose a wallet that suits your needs—options include **hardware wallets** or **software wallets**. Download and install the wallet application on your device.
- During the setup, you’ll receive a **seed phrase**, critical for accessing and recovering the wallet. Write it down and store it securely offline.

### Funding Your Wallet
If you already have cryptocurrency stored in your wallet, you’re ready to start making bill payments. If you don’t yet own any crypto, you’ll need to purchase some first. Buy from a reputable exchange and transfer it to your crypto wallet. Ensure you have enough funds to cover your bills, including any additional transaction fees.

### Making the Payment
Select a reputable platform to make the payment. One popular option is **BitPay**, which supports payments in various cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Ether, and Dogecoin. Create your profile on the payment service platform.
- After creating an account, select the type of bill you wish to pay, link your crypto wallet, choose the bill, and initiate the payment. The transaction is processed within seconds, providing a fast and secure way to manage your obligations using cryptocurrency.

![Crypto Payment Illustration](https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fit,q_60,w_645/30e2c15608a9145a54ace5c5548e6160.jpg)
*Illustration: d3sign (Getty Images)*

You can pay credit card bills, monthly rent, loans, and more using crypto

Unlocking the Power of Cryptocurrency: Pay Your Bills with Bitcoin Today!

The past year marked a significant milestone for **crypto**. **Bitcoin (BTC)** surged to six figures, fueled by excitement over the potential of digital currency. The introduction of numerous **spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs)** and the recent **halving event**, which reduced the growth of new Bitcoin supply by half, contributed to this growth. In 2024 alone, Bitcoin rose by **119%**, marking the second consecutive year of over **doubling its value** (after a **154%** increase in 2023).

Despite these remarkable gains, it might not be too late to invest in Bitcoin. Many analysts and **growth investors** remain **bullish** on its prospects for reaching new heights in **2025**.

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

### A Crypto Reserve Could Drastically Increase Demand
A significant reason behind Bitcoin's recent surge was President-elect **Donald Trump's** bullish remarks on the digital currency during campaign rallies. Trump expressed his desire for the U.S. to become the **"crypto capital of the planet"**, indicating that future regulations could favor miners and crypto enthusiasts. He proposed the creation of a **Bitcoin reserve**, which could boost demand for this scarce digital asset and signal a favorable government outlook on cryptocurrencies.

### Bitcoin to $200,000 in 2025?
Increased demand could exert upward pressure on Bitcoin's value, especially given its finite supply of **21 million** coins. Multiple crypto analysts project Bitcoin's price could reach **$150,000** this year, with some even suggesting it could soar to **$200,000**. **Cathie Wood**, a prominent Bitcoin bull, believes this could be just the beginning, predicting a **base case** of **$650,000** by **2030**, and a **best-case scenario** of **$1.5 million** by then, depending on institutional buying and government actions.

### Is Bitcoin a No-Brainer Investment for 2025?
While optimism abounds, investors should be cautious not to assume a straight upward trajectory. The performance of Bitcoin will rely heavily on how bullish retail and institutional investors, as well as the government, are on crypto. Volatility remains a significant factor, and investors should be prepared for potential fluctuations.

### Caution Advised
Despite the current bullish sentiment, Bitcoin remains a **speculative asset**. Investors with a low risk tolerance may want to reconsider investing in Bitcoin. While its price could soar to **$150,000** and beyond this year, there is also the possibility of significant losses. If you're not ready for this risk, it may be wise to step back and evaluate if crypto fits into your investment strategy.

The past year marked a milestone for crypto. Bitcoin (BTC -6.22%) hit six figures as excitement built around the potential for the digital currency. Last year also marked the introduction of many spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and the latest halving event, which cut the growth of new Bitcoin supply in half. In total, the cryptocurrency rose by 119% in 2024, marking the second straight year where it more than doubled in value (it soared 154% in 2023).

Bitcoin's Meteoric Rise: Is $200,000 on the Horizon for 2025?

## Fidelity's Vision for Digital Assets

Fidelity has been a prominent player in the financial sector, and its **vision for digital assets** is shaping the future of cryptocurrency investments. As we look ahead to **2025**, several key trends and developments are expected to emerge.

### Embracing Digital Transformation
Fidelity is investing heavily in **blockchain technology** and digital currencies, recognizing their potential to revolutionize the financial landscape. This commitment signals a broader acceptance of **cryptocurrencies** as a legitimate asset class.

### Regulatory Landscape Changes
By 2025, significant changes in the **regulatory environment** are anticipated. Fidelity is actively engaging with regulators to ensure that digital assets are integrated into the existing financial framework, which could lead to greater **institutional adoption**.

### Enhanced Security Measures
With the rise of digital assets comes the need for enhanced **security protocols**. Fidelity is at the forefront of developing robust security measures to protect investors and their assets, ensuring confidence in the digital economy.

### Future Investment Opportunities
Fidelity's vision also includes exploring new **investment opportunities** within the digital asset space. As more traditional investors enter the market, innovative products and services are expected to emerge, catering to diverse investor needs.

### Conclusion
Fidelity's strategic initiatives and forward-thinking approach position it as a leader in the digital asset revolution. As we approach 2025, the landscape is set to evolve dramatically, with Fidelity paving the way for a more integrated, secure, and innovative financial future.

![Fidelity Digital Assets](https://crypto.news/favicon.ico)

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Czech National Bank Governor Eyes Bitcoin for Foreign Exchange Reserves: A Symbolic Shift?

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Czech National Bank's Bold Consideration

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Other Latest News

Cathie Wood's Bold Move: Selling 36K Shares of Bitcoin ETF ARKB as 2025 Begins

Are Rising Yields Threatening Bitcoin's Bull Run? Discover the Impact!

Unlocking Bitcoin's Potential: Michael Saylor's Bold Prediction of 12,630% Growth!

Bitcoin Depot's Texas Takeover: 50 New ATMs and Global Expansion

Unlocking the Power of Cryptocurrency: Pay Your Bills with Bitcoin Today!

Bitcoin's Meteoric Rise: Is $200,000 on the Horizon for 2025?

Fidelity's Bold Predictions for Digital Assets: What Will 2025 Look Like?

Other Latest News

Cathie Wood's Bold Move: Selling 36K Shares of Bitcoin ETF ARKB as 2025 Begins

Are Rising Yields Threatening Bitcoin's Bull Run? Discover the Impact!

Unlocking Bitcoin's Potential: Michael Saylor's Bold Prediction of 12,630% Growth!

Bitcoin Depot's Texas Takeover: 50 New ATMs and Global Expansion

Unlocking the Power of Cryptocurrency: Pay Your Bills with Bitcoin Today!

Bitcoin's Meteoric Rise: Is $200,000 on the Horizon for 2025?

Fidelity's Bold Predictions for Digital Assets: What Will 2025 Look Like?