## IBIT: A Secure Investment Option

**IBIT** is an innovative ETF that is backed by **Bitcoin (BTC)** assets, making it a compelling choice for investors looking to gain exposure to the cryptocurrency market. This ETF has shown **strong inflows** and a positive correlation with **BTC-USD**, indicating its reliability as a Bitcoin proxy.

Investing in IBIT allows individuals to tap into the **growing popularity of Bitcoin** without directly purchasing the cryptocurrency, offering a **secure investment option** for those cautious about market volatility. With the increasing acceptance of Bitcoin in mainstream finance, IBIT positions itself as a viable alternative for both new and seasoned investors.

Stay tuned for more insights on how IBIT could fit into your **investment strategy** and capitalize on the ongoing Bitcoin boom.

IBIT, an ETF backed by BTC assets, is a secure investment option with strong inflows and positive correlation with BTC-USD. Read more here.

Discover the Potential of IBIT: A Promising Bitcoin ETF to Consider

Bitcoin halving, all-time highs, and **altcoin season**—is this the secret recipe for a new bull run? The **recent Bitcoin halving** in May has reduced its issuance rate, creating **supply scarcity** and leading to a surge in its price, surpassing the **$100k mark**. However, the expected altcoin rally is noticeably absent, raising questions about the traditional patterns we’ve come to expect.

## How Is This Cycle Any Different?
Every market cycle typically follows four stages: **accumulation**, **markup**, **distribution**, and **markdown**. While these stages are predictable, the timing for trading strategies remains elusive. The key difference this time is the **influx of institutional capital**, which has transformed Bitcoin into a preferred asset for institutions, aided by the rise of **crypto ETFs**. This involvement stabilizes Bitcoin's price but may hinder altcoins' performance due to reduced volatility that often redirects capital flow.

![Bitcoin](https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/67746e2d455987eb8b9383b3/Bitcoin/960x0.jpg?fit=scale)

## Macros: Liquidity And Regulations
**Liquidity** is crucial in finance. With **US interest rates** recently at high levels, capital remains drawn to risk-free assets. Conversely, lower rates typically stimulate bull runs by encouraging investments in riskier assets like crypto. The recent regulatory environment, particularly under Trump's administration, has also sparked a **positive sentiment** in the crypto realm, hinting at a potential **altcoin supercycle** in 2025.

## “Wen altszn”
Historically, altcoin rallies follow Bitcoin's major price movements, yet predicting their magnitude or timing remains challenging. Experts suggest that while we may not see a dramatic altcoin season like in 2021, significant increases in altcoin values are expected as Bitcoin continues to rise. Key indicators of an upcoming altcoin season include:
- Rapid price growth with altcoins outperforming BTC.
- **Altcoin dominance** rising significantly, akin to May 2021.
- High trading volumes driven by **FOMO** and risk-on sentiment.

## Narrative Outperformance
The upcoming altcoin season could differ from past experiences, with sectors like **AI** and **real-world assets** gaining traction. Institutional adoption is legitimizing tokenization in finance, making it a fundamental aspect of the crypto landscape.

## How To Prepare For The Altcoin Season?
As we approach 2025, consider the following:
- Use Bitcoin dominance to time your trades effectively.
- Focus on projects with strong fundamentals that align with emerging trends.
- Be patient; corrections are healthy and signal consolidation.

## Altcoin Season 2025
The crypto market is evolving, with **new narratives** becoming influential. The impact of macroeconomic factors and institutional adoption is greater than in previous cycles. This leads to the question: Will altcoin dynamics shift this time? The answer lies in the timing and nature of the upcoming altcoin season. Buckle up for an exciting ride ahead!

The growing presence of institutional investors in the Bitcoin market has reshaped its dynamics. But "wen altszn?"

Is Altcoin Season Coming in 2025? Uncovering the Crypto Bull Run Dynamics

### Elon Musk's Mysterious Username Change

Elon Musk adopted the moniker **“Kekius Maximus”** on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, igniting speculation among his **210 million followers**. This new handle is a curious blend of an **alt-right symbol**, a **memecoin**, and the lead character from the movie **“Gladiator.”**

### Profile Picture Shift

In a move that has become typical of Musk, he also changed his profile picture to one featuring **Pepe the Frog**, a cartoon character donned in ancient Roman attire, holding a video game joystick.

### Immediate Ripple Effects in Cryptocurrency

The change sent shockwaves through the **cryptocurrency world**, causing the value of a memecoin with the same name to **skyrocket by over 1600%**. Internet sleuths quickly began searching for answers regarding whether this was a mere joke, a hidden message, or another attempt to influence the crypto markets.

### The Significance of 'Kekius Maximus'

The name **“Kekius Maximus”** seems to combine **“Maximus Decimus Meridius,”** a character portrayed by **Russell Crowe** in the 2000 film **“Gladiator,”** and **“kek,”** an expression popular among the alt-right used similarly to **“LOL.”** 

### Pepe the Frog's Controversial Background

Pepe the Frog, originally from the **“Boy’s Club”** comic series, has gained notoriety for its association with the alt-right and white supremacy, with the **Anti-Defamation League** labeling it a **“hate symbol.”** However, the ADL acknowledges that most uses of Pepe are non-bigoted.

### Teaser and Gaming Reference

Before the handle change, Musk teased with a post stating, **“Kekius Maximus will soon reach level 80 in hardcore PoE,”** referring to the popular video game **“Path of Exile 2.”** Musk is known to be a fan of the game, calling it a **“hall-of-famer.”**

### Market Impact

Following Musk's handle change, the **memecoin Kekius Maximus** saw a staggering **increase of over 1600%** in value, trading at less than one-fifth of a dollar around **22:00 GMT**. Historically, Musk’s commentary on social media has caused crypto prices to fluctuate dramatically, though it’s unclear if he has any direct involvement with this specific memecoin.

### Influence and Criticism

Musk's account has become increasingly influential, often criticized for spreading misinformation since his acquisition of the platform for **$44 billion** in 2022.

Musk also replaced his profile picture with one of "Pepe the Frog," a cartoon character associated with the far right.

Elon Musk's 'Kekius Maximus' Username Change Sparks 1600% Surge in Memecoin – What Does It Mean?

# Africa's Bitcoin Mining Growth

As of December 2024, **Africa accounts for 3%** of the global Bitcoin mining hashrate, with **Ethiopia** leading the charge at **2.5%**, a remarkable increase from previous years, achieved entirely through **renewable energy**.

![Ethiopia starts electricity production at Blue Nile mega-dam](https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/imageserve/676065b6799747d71f3b3816/Ethiopia-starts-electricity-production-at-Blue-Nile-mega-dam/960x0.jpg?cropX1=0&cropX2=2425&cropY1=125&cropY2=1490)

The recent approval of Bitcoin mining in Ethiopia has sparked significant investment, with over **$1 Billion** allocated to mining infrastructure in 2024. This initiative has attracted interest from other African nations, including **Kenya**, which is also exploring Bitcoin mining to stimulate economic growth and enhance renewable energy projects.

## Ethiopia's Dominance in Bitcoin Mining

Ethiopia's **Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD)**, now operational, is a key player in this surge, providing electricity at just **3.2 cents per kilowatt-hour**, making it one of the cheapest sources globally. Local miners like **Gridless** are driving innovations in green Bitcoin mining, leveraging hydro and biomass energy.

### Financial Impact on Ethiopia

In 2024, Ethiopia earned over **$55 million** from Bitcoin mining electricity sales, which constituted **18%** of its total revenue. These revenues are crucial for advancing the construction of necessary transmission lines, thereby enhancing electricity delivery across the country.

## Future Outlook for Bitcoin Mining in Africa

Looking ahead to **2025**, with the GERD ramping up its output, Ethiopia's earnings from Bitcoin mining could exceed **$100 million**. This growth is anticipated to accelerate infrastructure development, electrify rural areas, and create job opportunities.

Other nations in Africa are expected to follow suit, using Bitcoin mining as a strategic tool to address energy challenges and stimulate economic development. The potential for countries like **Nigeria** to join the Bitcoin mining landscape through renewable resources is also on the horizon.

As the trend continues, Bitcoin mining is poised to play a significant role in Africa's energy infrastructure growth and economic empowerment.

Africa now accounts for 3% of the total global Bitcoin mining hashrate, with Ethiopia alone producing ~2.5% via renewables energy.

Ethiopia Powers Africa’s Bitcoin Mining Surge with Renewable Energy: A Look at 2024 Trends

Despite the **tumultuous U.S. presidential campaign** and global conflicts, the economy is expected to end 2024 on a **stable note**. **Inflation** has significantly decreased, and the U.S. economic growth remains robust. However, 2025's outlook is uncertain due to **President-elect Donald Trump's policy changes**.

![Economic Trends](https://gvwire.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/31144542/2024-ECON-TRENDS-1024x881.jpg)
*Rate cuts, stock surges, and Trump’s tariff threats are among the biggest forces shaping business and the economy.*

### **Banner Year for Stock Market**
As of January 2024, the **S&P 500** reached new highs, largely propelled by the **“Magnificent Seven” tech stocks**: Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Tesla. The index recorded **57 record highs** throughout the year. 

### **Anticipation High for Cuts**
The global cooldown in inflation has led to expectations of easing monetary policies. The **Federal Reserve** cut rates significantly for the first time since the pandemic, indicating a shift towards protecting the job market.

### **A Rise in Uncertainty**
Despite rate cuts, inflation risks remain. The Fed's recent announcements suggested only **two rate cuts** by the end of 2025, causing market volatility.

### **A Less-Optimistic Story**
Following Fed news, **10-year Treasury yields** surged, indicating investor concerns about future inflation and a potential increase in federal deficits due to Trump's policies.

### **Trump’s Tariff Threats**
Trump plans to impose tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China, which could trigger a **trade war** and potentially higher inflation for American consumers.

### **A Divided Economic Outlook**
Consumer sentiment diverges sharply between Republicans and Democrats, with Republicans optimistic about reduced inflation and Democrats fearing inflationary pressures from tariffs.

### **A Crypto Resurgence**
The cryptocurrency market has thrived alongside Trump's victory, with **Bitcoin** reaching **$100,000**, a dramatic recovery from its drop below $17,000 in 2022. However, Bitcoin's volatility raises questions about its stability as a currency.

### **AI Fueled Astronomical Growth**
**Nvidia** has significantly benefited from the crypto boom, with its shares soaring over **800%** since early 2023. The company is pivotal in both the gaming and AI sectors, which have seen explosive growth.

### **The Future of Mergers**
After a slump, **Mergers & Acquisitions** are slowly recovering, with optimism that a Trump presidency could facilitate deal-making, despite potential regulatory challenges.

—
This article originally appeared in [The New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/21/business/dealbook/business-economy-charts.html).

Get insights into the 2024 economic outlook and the potential impact of President-elect Donald Trump's policy changes.

2024 Economic Landscape: How Trump's Policies and Bitcoin's Surge Are Shaping the Future

Montenegro has extradited **Do Kwon**, the South Korean cryptocurrency expert, to the United States to face serious charges related to his company’s **$40 billion bankruptcy**. This decision follows months of international pursuit for Kwon, who is accused of **conspiracy to commit fraud** linked to the collapse of his firm, Terraform Labs.

### The Extradition Process

Montenegro’s interior ministry confirmed that Kwon was handed over to the **FBI** as part of a legal agreement to ensure he faces justice in the U.S. After a lengthy legal battle and multiple court decisions, the **Montenegrin Justice Minister** approved the extradition, emphasizing the country’s commitment to international law.

Kwon’s legal team has expressed their intention to appeal the extradition, arguing it violates European extradition conventions.

### A Notorious Escape

**Do Kwon** was arrested in March 2023 at Podgorica Airport, attempting to flee to Dubai with a **fake passport**. He had been on the run for months, evading authorities in both South Korea and Singapore after Terraform Labs filed for bankruptcy in 2022.

Kwon’s business partner was previously deported to South Korea, highlighting the ongoing legal ramifications of their actions.

### The Rise and Fall of Terraform Labs

Terraform Labs launched **TerraUSD**, marketed as a **stablecoin**, which failed dramatically in May 2022, leading to billions lost by investors. Kwon was initially hailed as a **crypto genius**, attracting significant investments and media attention. However, experts later criticized his business model as akin to a **pyramid scheme** that left many investors devastated.

In January 2023, Terraform Labs sought **bankruptcy protection** in the U.S. to manage ongoing legal issues and fulfill financial obligations to employees and vendors, amidst increasing regulatory scrutiny of the cryptocurrency market following numerous scandals and collapses in the industry.

He had been on the run for months, fleeing South Korea and later Singapore, before his company went bankrupt in 2022.

Do Kwon Extradited to the U.S.: The Fall of a Crypto King Behind a $40 Billion Collapse

### Swiss Central Bank's Bold Proposal

A **new initiative** has emerged from the Swiss federal chancellery, suggesting that the **Swiss National Bank (SNB)** should hold **bitcoin** as part of its reserves. This proposal aims to amend existing laws to allow the central bank to include **gold** and **bitcoin** in its reserve portfolio.

### Who's Behind the Initiative?

The initiative has been spearheaded by a **coalition of 10 individuals**, many of whom are advocates for **cryptocurrency** in Switzerland. They have **18 months** to gather **100,000 signatures** to bring this proposal to a public referendum.

### SNB's Stance on Bitcoin

Despite this push, the SNB has previously shown **skepticism** towards cryptocurrencies. The bank's chairman expressed caution regarding **bitcoin** and **ether**, indicating that the central bank is not fully on board with the idea of including these assets in its reserves.

### Swiss Referendums on Legislative Changes

Switzerland is known for its practice of holding regular referendums on legislative initiatives, making it crucial for proponents of this initiative to rally public support to see it through to a vote.

A proposal to oblige the Swiss National Bank  to hold bitcoin was set in motion in an initiative published by the Swiss federal chancellery on Tuesday.
              The initiative proposes changing...

Swiss National Bank Faces Proposal to Add Bitcoin to Reserves: What You Need to Know

### Overview
Byte Federal Inc., a prominent **Bitcoin ATM operator**, is currently facing **two proposed class action lawsuits**. Allegations suggest that the company has failed to adhere to essential **industry standards** and **federal guidelines** for protecting consumer data, potentially leaving users vulnerable to cybercriminals.

### The Allegations
The lawsuits claim that Byte Federal's negligence in implementing adequate security measures has led to a significant **data breach**, compromising sensitive information of its customers. The plaintiffs argue that the company did not follow necessary protocols to safeguard consumer data, which is critical in the cryptocurrency sector.

### Implications for Consumers
This incident raises serious concerns about the **security** and **trustworthiness** of Bitcoin ATMs, which have become increasingly popular for cryptocurrency transactions. Consumers might reconsider their use of such services unless operators can demonstrate robust security practices that protect user information against breaches.

### Industry Standards at Stake
The legal actions highlight the importance of compliance with established **data protection standards** within the cryptocurrency industry. Companies operating Bitcoin ATMs are urged to prioritize **data security** to maintain consumer confidence and adhere to legal obligations.

### Conclusion
As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome could have significant implications for the future of Bitcoin ATMs and the broader cryptocurrency landscape, emphasizing the necessity for stringent data protection measures.

Byte Federal Inc. failed to follow industry standards and federal guidelines to protect consumers’ data from cybercriminals, two proposed class actions allege.

Discover the Potential of IBIT: A Promising Bitcoin ETF to Consider

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IBIT: A Secure Investment Option

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Other Latest News

Is Altcoin Season Coming in 2025? Uncovering the Crypto Bull Run Dynamics

Elon Musk's 'Kekius Maximus' Username Change Sparks 1600% Surge in Memecoin – What Does It Mean?

Ethiopia Powers Africa’s Bitcoin Mining Surge with Renewable Energy: A Look at 2024 Trends

2024 Economic Landscape: How Trump's Policies and Bitcoin's Surge Are Shaping the Future

Do Kwon Extradited to the U.S.: The Fall of a Crypto King Behind a $40 Billion Collapse

Swiss National Bank Faces Proposal to Add Bitcoin to Reserves: What You Need to Know

Legal Action Against Bitcoin ATM Operator: Data Security Breach Exposed!

Other Latest News

Is Altcoin Season Coming in 2025? Uncovering the Crypto Bull Run Dynamics

Elon Musk's 'Kekius Maximus' Username Change Sparks 1600% Surge in Memecoin – What Does It Mean?

Ethiopia Powers Africa’s Bitcoin Mining Surge with Renewable Energy: A Look at 2024 Trends

2024 Economic Landscape: How Trump's Policies and Bitcoin's Surge Are Shaping the Future

Do Kwon Extradited to the U.S.: The Fall of a Crypto King Behind a $40 Billion Collapse

Swiss National Bank Faces Proposal to Add Bitcoin to Reserves: What You Need to Know

Legal Action Against Bitcoin ATM Operator: Data Security Breach Exposed!