## XRP Soars After Ripple-SEC Case Resolution

A **federal judge** has ordered Ripple to pay **$125 million** in civil penalties and has imposed an **injunction** against future violations of securities laws, effectively concluding the long-standing **SEC** case against the platform. This verdict led to a remarkable surge in **XRP**, the native token of Ripple, which jumped nearly **20%** following the announcement, contributing to widespread market gains.

### Market Reaction

Traders had anticipated a **settlement** throughout July, resulting in heightened interest in XRP, particularly from **South Korean markets**. XRP's trading volumes skyrocketed to **$5.6 billion** within the past 24 hours, showcasing the token's rising popularity and investor confidence.

As of **9:30 a.m. Eastern Time**, XRP is trading at **60 cents**. This legal victory not only boosts Ripple's position but also influences the overall sentiment in the cryptocurrency market.

![Chart of the Day](https://www.coindesk.com/pf/resources/images/icons/Volume.svg?d=362)  
*Presented by crypto.com, trusted by over 100 million users worldwide.*

A federal judge ordered Ripple to pay $125 million in civil penalties and imposed an injunction against future securities law violations, ending the long-running SEC case against the platform. XRP, the native token of Ripple, surged nearly 20% on the news, leading market-wide gains. CoinDesk's Jennifer Sanasie presents the "Chart of the Day."

Ripple's Legal Victory Sparks XRP Surge: What You Need to Know!

Bitcoin (BTC) is currently **trading below $91,000**, showcasing a **bearish sentiment** that has led to extensive discussions regarding its future. Analysts are meticulously evaluating key market metrics to predict the next price movements of BTC.  

### Bitcoin Market Dynamics And Key Indicators  
Percival from CryptoQuant provides an insightful analysis of Bitcoin's market behavior, emphasizing its **seasonal trends** that have historically influenced price patterns. The last months of the year often witness increased selling pressure, a trend that continues into January.  

Despite these challenges, Bitcoin has exhibited **resilience**, maintaining a **$90,000 support level** even amid significant selling pressures. Notably, there has been a **13% decline in Open Interest**, primarily due to institutional activities on platforms like the **Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME)**.  

![Bitcoin CME futures open interest.](https://s3.tradingview.com/news/image/newsbtc:6aae6d5a1094b-ddf302fa965435ce88dc29478291c615-resized.jpeg)  

Furthermore, Bitcoin **exchange-traded funds (ETFs)** have encountered a drop in monthly inflows, falling from **$14 billion to $6.6 billion**. This reduction signifies broader market sentiment while reflecting Bitcoin's ability to maintain critical support levels.  

On the sell side, December recorded considerable pressure, with **outflows reaching $200 million per day**. However, January has shown a more balanced market, with **sell-side risk indicators** indicating stability. The **Short-Term Holder Market Value to Realized Value (STH MVRV)** remains favorable, implying that short-term investors are not facing significant losses, which helps support Bitcoin’s **$90,000 floor**.  

### Demand Trends and Future Scenarios  
While selling pressures are easing, the **demand dynamics** are crucial for Bitcoin's outlook. Percival noted a slight slowdown in **on-chain volume**, though it remains robust at **$12 billion** in exchange inflows and outflows. This activity level shows that Bitcoin still garners strong market interest despite recent price declines.  

A potential risk exists in the gap between the **STH MVRV average of 1** and the short-term holder cost base of **$88,000**, which could create a “breathing space” for external market influences to affect Bitcoin's price. Nevertheless, the current balance between demand and sell-side risks signals a period of **consolidation** rather than a significant decline. Percival cautions:  

> The odds favor the **$90K floor**, but beware! There is a gap in the STH MVRV between **1.08 and 1** (STH cost base **$88**), which could allow for external scenarios to impact the price.  

![Bitcoin Short-Term Holder Market Value to Realized Value (STH MVRV)](https://s3.tradingview.com/news/image/newsbtc:6aae6d5a1094b-0a2725b4244a50a74cffa8e1039ffea4-resized.jpeg)  

*Featured image created with DALL-E, Chart from TradingView*

Bitcoin (BTC) has continued to exhibit bearish sentiment, currently trading below $91,000. This decline has sparked debates about its future trajectory, with analysts closely examining major market metrics to understand where BTC’s price action could likely be headed next.Among these, CryptoQuant c…

Is Bitcoin's $90K Support at Risk? Insights from Top Analysts

ChainCatcher news brings an intriguing insight from **Bitcoin Magazine** columnist **Nikolaus Hoffman**, who recently expressed his **optimism about the future market** on the X platform.

### Anticipated Actions by President Trump
Hoffman predicts several significant moves from President Trump that could impact the cryptocurrency landscape:

- **Release the founder of Silk Road, Rose**, from the dark web.
- **Create a strategic Bitcoin reserve** to stabilize and enhance the market.
- **Unprecedentedly drive Bitcoin soaring**, igniting a new wave of interest and investment.
- **Issue an executive order** on Bitcoin and cryptocurrency accounting on his first day in office.

As we navigate these potential developments, **ChainCatcher** reminds readers to approach blockchain with a **rational mindset**. It's crucial to enhance **risk awareness** and remain cautious of various **virtual token issuances and speculations**. Remember, all content provided is solely for informational purposes and does not constitute investment advice.

ChainCatcher news, Bitcoin Magazine columnist Nikolaus Hoffman posted on X platform expressing optimism about the future market.It is expected that President Trump will:Release the founder of Silk Road on the dark web, Rose;Create a strategic Bitcoin reserve;"Unprecedentedly drive Bitcoin soaring"Issue an executive order on Bitcoin and cryptocurrency accounting on the first day

What if Trump Releases the Silk Road Founder? A Bold Prediction for Bitcoin's Future

## Intesa Sanpaolo's Bold Move into Bitcoin

**Intesa Sanpaolo**, Italy's largest banking group, has made headlines by purchasing **11 Bitcoins** for approximately **1 million euros** (around **$1 million**). This significant investment marks **the first direct investment in cryptocurrency** by an Italian bank.

The confirmation of this purchase came from the bank’s press office, following **speculation** sparked by a leaked internal email on the online forum **4chan**. The email, signed by **Niccolò Bardoscia**, head of the bank’s **Trading and Investment division for Digital Assets**, detailed the acquisition, as reported by **Criptovaluta**, an Italian crypto news outlet.

Despite the confirmation of the purchase, Intesa Sanpaolo has chosen not to elaborate on its **motivations** or potential **future strategies** regarding Bitcoin.

## A Milestone for Italian Crypto

This acquisition is a notable milestone for the **crypto sector in Italy**, positioning Intesa Sanpaolo as a leader in the **adoption of digital assets** within the traditional financial landscape of the country. It also aligns with a growing trend of increasing institutional interest in Bitcoin on a global scale.

In recent months, other major players like **MicroStrategy** and **Metaplanet** have also been aggressively accumulating Bitcoin, indicating a **bullish sentiment** towards the cryptocurrency.

## Regulatory Context and Future Implications

While the motivations behind Intesa Sanpaolo's investment remain unclear, this move could signal intentions to **expand into crypto services** or could simply be an exploratory investment. This investment comes amidst increasing **regulatory clarity** around digital assets in Europe, which may encourage traditional financial institutions to experiment with **blockchain technology**.

In July 2024, Intesa Sanpaolo underwrote Italy’s first **blockchain-based €25 million digital bond** and has expanded its trading division to include **cryptocurrency spot trading**. This proactive approach suggests that the bank is keenly observing developments in the cryptocurrency sector and may be positioning itself for future opportunities.

![Intesa Sanpaolo Bitcoin](https://example.com/image.jpg)  
*Image Credit: Intesa Sanpaolo*

While the purchase was confirmed, the banking group declined to elaborate on its motivations or potential future strategies involving Bitcoin

Intesa Sanpaolo Makes History with $1 Million Bitcoin Purchase - What It Means for Italy's Crypto Landscape

Despite Bitcoin's recent **drop below $100,000**, its strongest supporters remain optimistic about its long-term potential, speculating on a future where Bitcoin could reach **$5 million per coin**.  

### Price Speculations and Expert Insights  
Rob Nelson, a roundtable anchor, and David Bailey, CEO of BTC Inc., shared their thoughts on Bitcoin's **price volatility** and potential future value. They discussed predictions ranging from **hundreds of thousands of dollars** to the remarkable possibility of **$5 million** in the coming years.  

Nelson noted the expected price fluctuations, saying, "I told people it'll dip; it might drop to the low $90s, that wouldn't be shocking... I think that's a pretty reasonable range over the course of a week."  

Bailey supported this view, stating, "**Volatility is vitality**. Bitcoin is arguably the most valuable asset in the world... It should go up a hundred times in value." He recalled previous cycles where **50% swings** in a single day were common.  

### The $5 Million Question  
As the conversation progressed, Nelson provocatively asked whether Bitcoin could indeed reach **$5 million** by the end of next year. Bailey remained optimistic, predicting that by year-end, Bitcoin prices could reach several hundred thousand dollars. He suggested that **political and economic factors** would play a crucial role in this trajectory.  

Bailey also pointed out that if Trump initiates an **executive order for a strategic bitcoin reserve**, we might see **$1 million Bitcoin prices** by the end of his administration. While he acknowledged that **$5 million isn't unrealistic**, he cautioned that liquidity issues from significant asset holders could temper rapid growth.  

### Michael Saylor's Influence  
Bailey referenced Michael Saylor's outlook, noting that Saylor believes Bitcoin could reach **$13 million by 2045**. Central bank adoption could further accelerate these projections.  

Bailey concluded with a bullish perspective: "I'm **bullish on Bitcoin**— short-term, mid-term, and long-term, it’s a good time to buy." As Bitcoin continues to evolve, its advocates remain unwavering in their belief in its **transformative potential**, regardless of its **unpredictable nature**.  

Additionally, Michael Saylor announced that MicroStrategy has acquired another **$243 million in Bitcoin**, adding to its already substantial holdings of **450,000 coins**.

Questions arise on whether political interventions and reserves catapult this digital currency toward higher valuations.

Could Bitcoin Really Reach $5 Million? Long-Term Believers Weigh In

### Cliff Asness on Bitcoin's Speculative Nature

Cliff Asness, co-founder of **AQR Capital Management**, recently voiced his concerns regarding Bitcoin, suggesting that it may be in a **speculative bubble**. His comments came in light of the cryptocurrency's remarkable rise, surpassing **$100,000** following the recent presidential election.

In an interview on **CNBC's 'Money Movers'**, Asness expressed a bearish view, leaning towards the idea of a bubble. He noted that merely changing the price would not alter his stance; rather, he would need to see a **practical use case** for Bitcoin to reconsider his investment approach.

### Identified Uses for Cryptocurrency

Asness identified three main uses for cryptocurrencies:
- **Speculation**
- Utility in **conflict-ridden nations**
- Paying **cyber ransoms**

Despite acknowledging the existence of a **price trend**, Asness admitted the difficulty in pinpointing a fundamental trend for cryptocurrencies due to the ambiguity surrounding their fundamentals. He believes that many trend followers are likely **long** on Bitcoin.

### Risks of Shorting Bitcoin

While Asness holds a skeptical view of cryptocurrencies, he refrained from betting against them. He highlighted the **high volatility** of Bitcoin, cautioning that shorting assets with an annual volatility of **100%** poses substantial risks, as many investors have learned from past concentrated shorts affecting their portfolios.

### Market Context

The discussion comes on the heels of a **120% rally** in 2024, largely fueled by optimism surrounding the election of **President-elect Donald Trump**. Investors are hopeful that his presidency will usher in a favorable environment for cryptocurrencies, including potential **industry deregulation** and the establishment of a **national strategic bitcoin reserve**.

Cliff Asness says Bitcoin is a speculative bubble

Cliff Asness Warns: Is Bitcoin Just a Speculative Bubble?

As the old saying goes, **the purpose of a system is what it does, not what it claims to do**. For years, the Federal Government’s "system" in Washington, D.C. has entrenched itself while **siphoning wealth** from the American economy. The result has been **trillions of dollars in debt**, evaporated savings from unchecked inflation, and businesses burdened by **regulatory overreach**.

Despite promises of **fiscal responsibility**, the machinery of government has prioritized control and redistribution over growth and stability. **Bitcoin** offers an alternative to this **broken system**.

### Bitcoin Mining: Resilience Amidst Economic Turmoil

Bitcoin mining is a critical component of the network’s security and economic model, and **recent data** highlights its continued robustness. A **JPMorgan report** noted that mining profitability increased for the second consecutive month in December, with miners earning an average of **$57,100 per exahash per day** – up **10% from November**. This trend reflects the positive correlation between bitcoin’s rising price and miner revenue, even as the broader economic landscape remains **volatile**.

The network’s **hashrate** grew by **6% in December** to an all-time high of **779 EH/s**, demonstrating the collective strength of the **decentralized mining ecosystem**. Yet, the mining sector is facing challenges, with the total market cap of 14 publicly listed bitcoin mining firms falling by **23%** to **$28 billion**.

### The Federal Reserve’s Role in Economic Distortion

Meanwhile, shifts within the **Federal Reserve** could signal a new era for financial regulation. **Michael Barr**, the Fed’s Vice Chair for Supervision, announced his impending departure, coinciding with a stated goal of reducing regulatory burdens. **Inflation remains at 3%**, which is **50% above the Fed’s target**, highlighting ongoing structural weaknesses in the economy.

Nevertheless, there are reasons for optimism. If regulatory rollbacks and **pro-growth policies** take root, innovation could thrive and offset the damage caused by years of **reckless spending** and overregulation. However, the **debasement trade** – accumulating bitcoin to protect against currency debasement and government overreach – isn’t going away anytime soon.

### Missed Opportunity For a Strategic Bitcoin Stockpile?

A recent federal court ruling authorized the **Department of Justice (DOJ)** to liquidate **69,370 bitcoins** seized from the Silk Road marketplace. By selling at current levels, the DOJ may unintentionally strengthen the argument for a **strategic bitcoin reserve**, especially with the incoming administration’s pro-bitcoin stance.

### Sovereign Moves and Policy Shifts

Sovereign interest in bitcoin is not limited to the United States. In Canada, the political landscape is shifting following **Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation**. Bitcoin advocates have rallied behind **Pierre Poilievre**, whose pro-bitcoin stance has made him the frontrunner for Canada’s next election.

In addition, Thailand has launched a **pilot program** to allow foreign visitors to use bitcoin for everyday transactions, while the **UAE-based Phoenix Group** has opened a **50-megawatt bitcoin mining facility** in North Dakota, indicating the global interconnectedness of the bitcoin mining industry.

### The Road Ahead: Opting Out of a Failing System

While governments and corporations vie for strategic bitcoin positions, individual adoption remains critical. The true power of bitcoin lies in its **independence**, distinguishing it from other financial assets. As 2025 unfolds, the landscape is poised for further **seismic shifts**. Whether through strategic reserves or individual accumulation, the adoption of bitcoin as a safeguard against economic instability is accelerating. Bitcoin remains an unmatched tool for **financial sovereignty**.

For years, the Federal Government’s "system" in Washington, D.C. has siphoned wealth from the American economy. With bitcoin, that may finally change.

Unlocking Financial Freedom: How Bitcoin Can Help You Escape the Rigged System

The crypto market is currently **deep in the red** ahead of Donald Trump’s inauguration, influenced by an **unexpected jobs report** and fears of **higher-than-expected inflation data**. This situation highlights the growing **interconnection** between the crypto market and broader macroeconomic trends.

### Cryptocurrencies to Watch

Here’s a closer look at the cryptocurrencies that are capturing attention this week:

#### Bitcoin (BTC)
Bitcoin has seen a **drop of over 9%** in the past week, trading at **$90,303**. The market is bracing for increased volatility as Trump prepares for his inauguration, with speculation surrounding potential **favorable policies for crypto miners**.

![Bitcoin](https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fit,q_60,w_645/21216b4e9d998690a33858235e380fae.jpg)
*Illustration: Chesnot (Getty Images)*

#### Ether (ETH)
Ether, the second-largest cryptocurrency, has underperformed Bitcoin, posting a **17% loss** over the past week, now at **$3,037**. The decline is attributed to a **sustained outflow from Ether exchange-traded funds (ETFs)**.

![Ether](https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fit,q_60,w_645/851a541188a1997f04c836300c99d3ec.jpg)
*Illustration: Dan Kitwood (Getty Images)*

#### XRP
XRP is under the spotlight as Ripple faces a pivotal hearing on January 15 regarding its legal battle with the **U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)**. Currently, XRP is trading at **$2.45**, with a slight increase of **0.74%** over the week.

![XRP](https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fit,q_60,w_645/cb16ac2c2166251d60f19049b7e3fefd.jpg)
*Illustration: INA FASSBENDER (Getty Images)*

#### Dogecoin (DOGE)
Dogecoin is also in focus, trading at **$0.32** with a **17% weekly decline**. Speculation about potential price swings is fueled by Elon Musk's close ties to Trump.

![Dogecoin](https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fit,q_60,w_645/58283c555db5f5c77ecad1105bb935d7.jpg)
*Illustration: Chesnot (Getty Images)*

#### Bitget Token (BGB)
In contrast, **Bitget Token (BGB)** is on the rise, trading at **$6.6** with a **5.8% increase** this week. This growth is linked to Bitget introducing **Solana limit order functionality** and burning **40% of its circulating tokens**, reducing supply and potentially increasing value.

![Bitget Token](https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fit,q_60,w_645/3ed7a16a14bf12559f6912cd77bc1cf5.jpg)
*Image: SOPA Images (Getty Images)*

The crypto market is in the deep red ahead of Donald Trump's inauguration

Ripple's Legal Victory Sparks XRP Surge: What You Need to Know!

Summary:

XRP Soars After Ripple-SEC Case Resolution

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Is Bitcoin's $90K Support at Risk? Insights from Top Analysts

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Could Bitcoin Really Reach $5 Million? Long-Term Believers Weigh In

Cliff Asness Warns: Is Bitcoin Just a Speculative Bubble?

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Other Latest News

Is Bitcoin's $90K Support at Risk? Insights from Top Analysts

What if Trump Releases the Silk Road Founder? A Bold Prediction for Bitcoin's Future

Intesa Sanpaolo Makes History with $1 Million Bitcoin Purchase - What It Means for Italy's Crypto Landscape

Could Bitcoin Really Reach $5 Million? Long-Term Believers Weigh In

Cliff Asness Warns: Is Bitcoin Just a Speculative Bubble?

Unlocking Financial Freedom: How Bitcoin Can Help You Escape the Rigged System

This Week's Crypto Watch: Bitcoin, XRP, Dogecoin & More Amid Market Turmoil