### **Missouri Man Arrested for Bitcoin Extortion**

A **Missouri man**, **Daniel Rhyne**, has been arrested for allegedly trying to **extort his former employer**, a New Jersey-based industrial company, using **Bitcoin**. On **November 25, 2023**, Rhyne sent an **extortion email** claiming he had locked out the company’s IT administrators and deleted server backups. He demanded a ransom of **20 Bitcoin**, valued at approximately **$750,000** at the time of the threat.

Investigations revealed that Rhyne had **unauthorized access** to the company’s systems, where he altered administrator passwords and scheduled server shutdowns. He now faces serious charges including **extortion**, **intentional damage to a protected computer**, and **wire fraud**, which could lead to a maximum of **35 years in prison** and **$750,000 in fines**.

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A Missouri man, Daniel Rhyne, was arrested for attempting to extort his former employer, a New Jersey-based industrial company.

Missouri Man Faces 35 Years for Bitcoin Extortion Scheme Against Employer

### **Bitcoin Rebounds After Retesting $90,000 Support Level**  
Bitcoin (BTC) price dipped to a low of **$89,256** but quickly recovered, closing above **$94,500** on Monday. By Tuesday, it rebounded **2.14%**, closing above **$96,500**, and is currently trading around **$97,400**. If BTC maintains this momentum and closes above **$100,000**, it could retest its all-time high of **$108,353** from December 2024. The **Relative Strength Index (RSI)** is at **53**, indicating bullish momentum, while the **MACD** is on the verge of a bullish crossover.  
![BTC/USDT daily chart](https://editorial.fxsstatic.com/miscelaneous/BTCUSDT_2025-01-15_09-38-36-638725137347386003.png)  
**Note:** A drop below **$90,000** could lead to a decline towards **$85,000**.  

### **Ethereum Price Rebounds After 200-Day EMA Retest**  
Ethereum (ETH) faced rejection at **$3,730** on January 6, dropping **15.47%** to a low of **$2,920**. It has since recovered, closing above its **200-day EMA** at **$3,114** and is currently hovering around **$3,223**. A close above **$3,235** may signal a test of the **$3,730** resistance. However, the RSI at **41** and a bearish MACD suggest caution, with a potential decline to **$3,000** if support at **$3,114** fails.  
![ETH/USDT daily chart](https://editorial.fxsstatic.com/miscelaneous/ETHUSDT_2025-01-15_09-48-09-638725137865127913.png)  

### **Ripple Bulls Eye the $3 Mark**  
Ripple (XRP) recently retested its upper symmetrical triangle boundary, leading to a **5.17%** rally. Currently trading around **$2.80**, XRP could target **$3.63** if the upward momentum continues. However, caution is advised as traders may take profits near the **$3.00** mark. The RSI at **67** indicates bullish momentum, supported by a bullish MACD crossover.  
![XRP/USDT daily chart](https://editorial.fxsstatic.com/miscelaneous/XRPUSDT_2025-01-15_09-59-20-638725138405607257.png)  
**Note:** A drop below **$1.96** could lead to a decline towards **$1.40**.

Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) prices continue to recover on Wednesday after finding support around their key levels this week. 

Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Ripple Surge: Key Price Predictions Ahead of CPI Data

## Ripple’s Expectations and the SEC’s Next Steps  
Ripple’s leadership anticipates that the **SEC** will continue its appeal. Chief Legal Officer **Stuart Alderoty** criticized **Gensler**’s decision to move forward despite upcoming leadership changes, stating:  
> “On January 20, Gensler’s war on crypto ends at the SEC. We asked the SEC to agree to postpone the filing of their opening brief in their appeal of our victory (current deadline Jan 15) – and they refused. What a waste of time and taxpayer dollars! Nevertheless, we are confident in our position on appeal and look forward to working with new SEC leadership to resolve this matter.”  
The SEC’s refusal to delay its filing reflects its previous stance towards Ripple, initiated by former SEC Chair **Jay Clayton** in December 2020, just before he left office.  

## XRP Price Trends: Appeal Filing in Focus  
On Tuesday, January 14, **XRP** surged by **5.70%**, closing at **$2.6684**, following a **0.79%** gain the day before. XRP outperformed the broader crypto market, which rose by **2.44%**, increasing the total market cap to **$3.28 trillion**. Market optimism regarding the SEC’s limited chances of overturning the Ripple rulings has driven up XRP demand.  
XRP’s price trajectory is closely tied to the Ripple case. If the SEC files a compelling opening brief, XRP could fall towards **$2**. Conversely, if the agency withdraws its appeal, XRP could surge past its **2018 record high of $3.5505**.  

## Bitcoin’s Rally Amid Trump Transition  
Meanwhile, **Bitcoin (BTC)** has been recovering from a brief dip below **$90K**. Anticipation of crypto-friendly executive orders on **Trump’s** first day in office has spurred demand for BTC. Expectations include a potential repeal of the SEC’s **SAB 121** regulation, which mandates that companies hold crypto assets on their balance sheets, even if they are in customer custody.  
President **Joe Biden** had previously vetoed a bipartisan vote against this regulation, which makes it costly for banks to hold crypto for clients, limiting crypto services and BTC demand.  
Trump’s administration could further boost expectations for a **US Strategic Bitcoin Reserve (SBR)**, enhancing BTC’s supply-demand dynamics. The administration will require Congressional approval to recognize BTC as a strategic reserve asset.  
In a recent interview, **Anthony Scaramucci** mentioned that Senate Banking Committee Chair **Tim Scott** and US Treasury Secretary **Scott Bessent** are in favor of this move, leaving **Jerome Powell**, the US Federal Reserve Chair, as the final decision-maker.  

## Bitcoin Price Outlook  
On January 14, BTC gained **2.19%**, reversing a **0.10%** loss from the previous day, closing at **$96,566**.  
BTC’s price outlook hinges on the **US CPI Report**, BTC-spot **ETF** market flows, and updates regarding the **Strategic Bitcoin Reserve (SBR)**.  
Higher-than-expected US inflation could dampen expectations for a **2025 Fed rate cut**, potentially leading to BTC-spot ETF outflows and impacting BTC demand. Conversely, lower inflation figures might reignite bets on a March Fed rate cut, pushing BTC towards its **$108,231 record high**.  
However, developments related to the SBR could outweigh the Fed’s influence on market sentiment. Increased support for an SBR could drive BTC to new heights, while a lack of bipartisan support might pull it below **$90K**.

Ripple Case at a Crossroads: Market eyes SEC’s opening brief amid speculation of an appeal withdrawal under new leadership, reshaping XRP’s trajectory.

Ripple's Legal Battle Intensifies as Bitcoin Approaches $100K: What's Next?

Bitcoin's unique blend of qualities — being **finite**, a **currency**, a **store of value**, and a **groundbreaking technology** — has led it to outperform gold by a factor of **four** over the last year.

### The Transformative Potential of Bitcoin
Roundtable anchor, **Rob Nelson**, engaged in a discussion with **BTC Inc.**'s **David Bailey** to delve into Bitcoin's transformative potential as a digital asset that has outshined traditional counterparts like gold.

Nelson emphasized Bitcoin's **singular qualities**. "Bitcoin is the only finite asset," he noted. "It's both a currency, a store of value, and an actual technology all built into one." He underscored its potential for **growth**, especially as the underlying **blockchain technology** becomes more widely utilized for purposes beyond simple transactions. This frames Bitcoin not just as a financial asset but as a **cornerstone for technological development**.

### Advantages Over Traditional Assets
Bailey expanded on Bitcoin's advantages over traditional assets like gold. "Bitcoin is all the things gold is, but as a technology," he explained. He pointed out that its **total addressable market** far exceeds that of its physical counterparts, drawing comparisons to other digital analogs that have significantly outpaced their traditional equivalents. Bailey envisions a future where Bitcoin becomes the foundation for an entirely **new financial paradigm**.

### The Future of Transactions
The conversation also explored the potential applications of Bitcoin technology, such as **microtransactions** and **machine-to-machine payments**. Bailey illustrated the magnitude of this shift, predicting that the **frequency of financial transactions** could increase exponentially. "Maybe under a Bitcoin standard with microtransactions, consumers are doing **70,000 transactions a day**," he speculated, demonstrating the **scalability** and **versatility** of the technology.

Ultimately, both Nelson and Bailey agreed that Bitcoin's impact would be profound. As Bailey concluded, "It’s very hard to quantify how big of an impact and impression this technology will have on human civilization, but it’s going to be **immense**."

Bitcoin combines currency, technology, and value storage, offering limitless potential for the future of transactions.

Why Bitcoin is Revolutionizing Finance and Leaving Gold Behind

### **Positive Outlook for Cryptocurrency in 2025**  
The outlook for cryptocurrency investment in **2025** remains **positive**, with market analysts anticipating a potential **Bitcoin (BTC) 'super cycle'** driven by **Donald Trump's** return to the White House and his administration's **pro-Bitcoin policies**.  
  
### **Recent Market Movements**  
Despite a recent pullback in Bitcoin's price from its late-2024 peak, where it reached an **all-time high of US$108,350**, analysts from **Bitkub** noted that Trump's commitment to supporting the cryptocurrency industry has significantly boosted market confidence. This price surge represented a **145% increase** in 2024, fueling expectations for a **potential super cycle** this year.  
  
### **Key Factors Influencing the Market**  
Critical factors shaping market dynamics include:  
- **Pro-crypto policies** under Trump's administration  
- **US monetary policies**  
- **Institutional investments** via spot Bitcoin **exchange-traded funds (ETFs)**  
  
Bitkub's research team emphasizes that **2025** could be pivotal for Bitcoin and the broader cryptocurrency market, with Trump's proposed policies potentially providing substantial support for long-term growth.  
  
### **Trump's Ambitious Plans**  
Ahead of taking office, Trump's team has outlined plans to position the US as a leader in cryptocurrency through the proposed **Bitcoin Act**, which includes provisions to:  
- Accumulate **BTC** as a reserve asset  
- Purchase **200,000 BTC** annually over five years  
- Enforce a minimum holding period of **20 years** for reserve assets  
- Adopt a **proof-of-reserve system** for enhanced transparency  
  
However, these ambitious plans face hurdles, as **Federal Reserve chairman Jerome Powell** indicated that congressional approval is needed, and the proposal may be infeasible under current frameworks.  
  
### **Monetary Policy and Market Impact**  
The Fed's **gradual approach** to rate cuts has placed pressure on high-risk assets, including cryptocurrencies. Analysts warn that continued tight monetary policies could weigh on the crypto market in **2025** unless the Fed pivots more aggressively.  
  
### **Institutional Investment Dynamics**  
**Spot Bitcoin ETFs** remain a focal point for institutional investors. As of year-end **2024**, ETF issuers held **1.13 million BTC**, valued at approximately **$109 billion**, reflecting a **73.6% increase** over the year. While institutional inflows were robust throughout **2024**, the recent price surge prompted some profit-taking.  
  
Bitkub emphasizes that institutional behavior will play a critical role in shaping market stability and sentiment in **2025**. The success of the market will largely depend on the **Fed's monetary policy** and institutional investors. A faster monetary policy easing could provide a significant tailwind, while a more cautious approach might limit growth.  
  
### **Current Bitcoin Performance**  
As of **January 14**, Bitcoin was trading near **$95,000**, maintaining a **121% return** over the past year. Despite high optimism, global uncertainties and market volatility are risks that require close monitoring, according to Bitkub. For crypto investors, **2025** could offer significant opportunities, provided they navigate the market with caution.

The outlook for cryptocurrency investment in 2025 remains positive, with market analysts anticipating a potential Bitcoin (BTC) "super cycle" driven by Donald Trump

Will 2025 Be the Year of Bitcoin's 'Super Cycle' Thanks to Trump?

Bitcoin adoption is **gaining traction** as several US states propose measures to establish **strategic reserves**. This trend is influenced by discussions led by incoming President **Donald Trump**, who advocates for a federal plan to establish a **strategic Bitcoin reserve**. 

The price of Bitcoin hit new **all-time highs** in 2024, drawing attention from state lawmakers interested in its potential as a hedge against **inflation** and **economic instability**. Since Bitcoin surpassed the **US$106,000** mark in December, several states have initiated legislation to gain exposure to this popular digital asset.

### 1. Texas
Texas is making significant strides toward adopting a **strategic Bitcoin reserve**. Republican Representative **Giovanni Capriglione** introduced a bill to ensure any Bitcoin acquired remains in **cold storage** for at least five years. This legislation also allows Texans to donate to the state’s Bitcoin fund, promoting digital asset adoption and enhancing financial stability.

### 2. Pennsylvania
In November, Pennsylvania lawmakers proposed a bill enabling the state to allocate up to **10 percent** of its funds to Bitcoin. If enacted, this could add nearly **US$1 billion** worth of Bitcoin to the state’s reserves.

### 3. Ohio
Ohio's legislative efforts commenced on December 17 with the introduction of the **Ohio Bitcoin Reserve Act**. This act would establish a Bitcoin fund within the state treasury, allowing the treasurer discretion over its management.

### 4. New Hampshire
On January 10, New Hampshire's Republican Representative **Keith Ammon** proposed a bill to diversify the state’s holdings by allowing investments in both **precious metals** and digital assets. Although Bitcoin isn’t explicitly mentioned, its market dominance suggests it will be included.

### 5. North Dakota
North Dakota introduced a resolution on January 10, encouraging investment in **digital assets** and precious metals. This marks an initial step toward exploring Bitcoin's potential role in the state treasury.

**Investor Takeaway:** Tim Kravchunovsky, CEO of decentralized telecommunications network **Chirp**, noted that these developments could prompt other states to innovate. The rising number of states considering Bitcoin reserves reflects a global trend, with countries like **Brazil** and **Hong Kong** also exploring similar measures. As Trump prepares for his inauguration, investors anticipate policies integrating cryptocurrencies into federal financial systems.

The Bitcoin price hit record levels in 2024, and since then several US states have put forth legislation geared at getting exposure to the popular cryptocurrency.

5 States Take Bold Steps Towards Bitcoin Reserves Amid Trump's Push for National Adoption

### The Rise of Solana and XRP ETFs
The **success of Bitcoin ETFs**—which launched a year ago—set a remarkable precedent in the cryptocurrency market. According to JP Morgan analysts, there is potential for **Solana** and **XRP ETFs** to attract significant investments, although they are unlikely to replicate the explosive growth seen with Bitcoin.

### Investment Predictions
In a recent report, JP Morgan outlined that:
- **XRP ETFs** could draw in between **$3 to $6 billion** in investments.
- **Solana ETFs** might attract **$4 to $8 billion**.

However, the report cautioned that these figures would still fall short when compared to Bitcoin, which remains the dominant choice for investors in both spot and exchange-traded product (ETP) forms.

### Market Dynamics
The analysts expressed that even if these **altcoin ETFs** receive approval, they would still manage **significantly fewer assets** compared to their Bitcoin and **Ethereum** counterparts. Notably, firms like **Grayscale**, **VanEck**, and **Bitwise** have already filed for XRP and Solana crypto funds.

### Market Rankings
Currently, XRP and Solana rank as the **third and sixth largest cryptocurrencies** by market capitalization, following Bitcoin and Ethereum.

### The Challenge of Matching Bitcoin’s Success
The challenge of matching Bitcoin's success is evident, as highlighted by the **BlackRock iShares Bitcoin Trust**, which amassed **$50 billion** in assets within its first year. In contrast, Ethereum ETFs have struggled to achieve similar traction.

JP Morgan also noted that the **episodic nature of the crypto market** is influenced by fluctuating investor sentiment and the rise of new coins that capture temporary attention.

Expected Solana and XRP ETFs could attract sizable investment, JP Morgan analysts said, but it's unlikely they'll match the Bitcoin boom.

Could Solana and XRP ETFs Attract Billions? JP Morgan Weighs In on Their Potential vs. Bitcoin

As **Bitcoin** continues to oscillate within a seemingly stable yet dynamic range, industry experts weigh in on what lies ahead for the world’s largest cryptocurrency.

### Predictions from the Experts
Roundtable anchor, **Rob Nelson**, was joined by **Lee Bratcher**, President of the Texas Blockchain Council, and **Samuel Armes**, Founder of the Florida Blockchain Business Association, to share their predictions for bitcoin’s price trajectory by the end of **2025**.

**Bratcher** emphasized the influence of reduced liquidity during non-business hours, stating, "By 2025, we'll be past the uncertainty of Fed rate cuts." He suggested a price range of **$150,000 to $250,000**, noting the momentum of the current bitcoin cycle. He hinted at broader acceptance within the financial sector, saying, "Even traditional finance commentators might lean towards that range."

**Nelson** found Bratcher's estimates conservative, even at the upper limit. Turning to **Samuel Armes** for his perspective, Nelson noted the psychological factors driving bitcoin’s potential growth. Armes, while rarely tracking bitcoin’s price closely, aligned with Bratcher's forecast, projecting a range of **$200,000 to $250,000**. He warned, "If institutions and countries enter the space, we could see hyperbolic growth," raising concerns about accessibility for smaller investors.

### Volatility Concerns
Despite these optimistic forecasts, both experts highlighted the **volatility** inherent in the cryptocurrency market. Bratcher attributed this to the evolving stage of bitcoin’s cycle, while Armes emphasized the role of fear and institutional involvement in driving significant price shifts.

With predictions spanning from steady growth to meteoric rises, one thing is clear: Bitcoin’s journey through **2025** is poised to be as eventful as the technology underpinning it. Whether conservative estimates hold true or hyperbolic scenarios take shape, the next chapter of bitcoin's story is bound to capture the attention of investors and institutions alike.

Bitcoin's unpredictable path continues as experts predict significant growth tempered by inherent market volatility.

Missouri Man Faces 35 Years for Bitcoin Extortion Scheme Against Employer

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Missouri Man Arrested for Bitcoin Extortion

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