Hackers recently **took control** of **McDonald’s official Instagram account** to promote a fraudulent **Grimace meme coin**, successfully scamming users out of **$700,000 in Solana**. The attackers also compromised the personal **X account** of McDonald’s **Senior Marketing Director** to further spread the scam. 

### What is Grimace Coin?
Grimace Coin was originally created as a meme token inspired by a **social media interaction** between **Elon Musk** and McDonald’s. It gained traction as a fun and entertaining investment opportunity. 

### Importance of Vigilance
This incident highlights the **importance of vigilance** when encountering unexpected promotions on social media platforms. Authorities are investigating the breach to prevent future occurrences and protect users from similar scams.

![Bitcoin.com](https://static.news.bitcoin.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/logomark-300x300.png)  
**Bitcoin.com** has been a global leader in introducing newcomers to crypto since 2015, providing accessible educational materials, timely news, and intuitive products for buying, trading, and investing in cryptocurrency.

Hackers recently took control of McDonald’s official Instagram account to promote a fraudulent Grimace meme coin, successfully scamming users out of

Scam Alert: Hackers Hijack McDonald's Instagram to Push Fake Grimace Coin Worth $700,000!

### 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.

Could Bitcoin Hit $250,000 by 2025? Experts Weigh In on Future Predictions

### Spot Bitcoin ETFs Surpass Expectations in 2024

To say that **spot bitcoin exchange traded funds (ETFs)** exceeded expectations in their first year on the market is an understatement at best. Instead, it might be more accurate to say that they’ve **shocked the industry to its core**.

“Just how big was the first year for Bitcoin ETFs?” Bloomberg Intelligence ETF analyst **James Seyffart** wrote on X. “**MASSIVE**.”

BlackRock’s **iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT)** had the most successful launch in the history of U.S. ETFs, accumulating more than **$52.3 billion** worth of assets in its first year, thanks to a combination of large inflows and the sharp rise in the price of bitcoin.

Three other spot bitcoin ETFs, the **Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC)**, the **ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (ARKB)**, and the **Bitwise Bitcoin ETF (BITB)**, were also among the top 20 U.S. ETF launches of all time.

The last twelve months in crypto were “momentous,” stated **Matt Horne**, head of digital asset strategists at Fidelity Investments. Indeed, FBTC is now the fund management giant's largest exchange-traded product at nearly **$19 billion** in assets under management.

“While we were optimistic for the launch of the bitcoin ETPs, demand exceeded our expectations across all client segments including retail investors, advisors, institutions, and beyond,” Horne said. “Given these products have seen **tremendous asset growth** and now have a year of performance, we expect to see continued adoption across both the advisor and institutional client segments.”

### What’s Next for Bitcoin ETFs?

While some hedge funds and pension funds allocated modest investments into the spot ETFs, the majority of inflows came from **nonprofessional investors**. However, this could change.

“The record flows occurred despite the foot dragging by some wire houses, financial advisors, and some U.S. financial firms prohibiting employees from even owning bitcoin or altcoins in their personal portfolios,” explained **Mark Connors**, founder and chief investment strategist at Risk Dimensions.

“With more support from the RIA/Advisors and wire houses likely and the tailwind of price, **2025’s flows will easily surpass 2024’s**,” he added.

According to **Nate Geraci**, president of the ETF Store, **2025 could be the “Year of Crypto ETFs.”** He predicts that over **50 more crypto ETFs** will be approved under new leadership at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including spot Solana and XRP funds, as well as options-based and equities-based products.

“**Gary Gensler** always referred to crypto as the 'Wild West,'” Geraci noted. “Under the Trump administration, I think that is exactly what we’ll get from an ETF perspective.”

Gary Gensler has described crypto as the Wild West and one observer said markets are likely to see just that under new leadership in D.C.

Why Bitcoin ETFs Could Revolutionize the Market in 2025

What went down on Monday is soaring high again on Tuesday—including **Dogecoin**, **Bitcoin**, and **XRP**.

After **plunging on Monday** amid fears that **interest rates will remain high** in 2025, **Dogecoin** has spiked by nearly **11%** so far Tuesday, reclaiming all of its lost ground while surging higher. Currently priced at **$0.357**, DOGE is sitting at a nearly seven-day high, almost matching the price point from this time last Tuesday. However, despite torrid gains in December, Dogecoin remains down **12%** over the last **30 days**.

**XRP** is another major coin that has rebounded, not only recovering but flying even higher on Tuesday. As of this writing, XRP is priced at **$2.66**—the highest mark seen so far in **2025**, and not far from the seven-year high price of **$2.82** hit in December. It's up nearly **9%** on the day.

The Ripple-linked asset may be soaring again amid **growing optimism over potential XRP ETF approvals**, especially following a meeting between Ripple CEO **Brad Garlinghouse** and President-elect **Donald Trump** last week.

**Bitcoin** itself has also fully recovered since Monday morning's dive, currently sitting at a price of **$96,475** and up nearly **5%** on the day. **Ethereum**, meanwhile, is up **6%** with **Solana** showing more than **5%** jump on the day.

More than **$300 million** worth of futures bets have been liquidated over the past 24 hours, and in a reversal from Monday, most of those liquidated positions were shorts (**$221 million**).

Dogecoin, XRP, and Bitcoin have not only rebounded from Monday's plunge but are actually flying higher on Tuesday.

Dogecoin and XRP Surge as Bitcoin Recovers: What's Behind the Rally?

## LQWD Acquires Additional Bitcoin to Strengthen Strategic Reserves and Expand Yield Generating Lightning Network Operations

**LQWD Technologies Corp** (TSXV: LQWD) (OTCQB: LQWDF) has announced the acquisition of an additional **7 Bitcoin**, increasing its total holdings to approximately **148 Bitcoin** (14.8 billion Satoshis). This strategic move reinforces the company's debt-free status and solidifies its position as one of the most **Bitcoin-centric public companies** in the world.

As the **4th highest Bitcoin-Per-Share holder** in Canadian public markets with **0.00000784 BTC/share**, and ranking **23rd globally**, LQWD aims to generate yield through its **Lightning Network** infrastructure. This innovative approach facilitates low-cost, instant global transactions while allowing the company to earn **Bitcoin-denominated fees**.

### Bitcoin-First Strategy
LQWD's strategy focuses on leveraging Bitcoin as both a **store-of-value** and a **medium of exchange**. By accumulating Bitcoin and expanding its Lightning Network infrastructure, the company seeks to enhance shareholder value.

### Key Highlights
- **Increased Bitcoin Holdings**: Total holdings now stand at **~148 Bitcoin**, positioning LQWD as a leader in the Bitcoin market.
- **Debt-Free Financial Strength**: The company maintains a debt-free status with unencumbered Bitcoin assets, reflecting strong financial health.
- **Yield-Generating Strategy**: LQWD utilizes its Lightning Network to earn yield from Bitcoin transactions, driving growth in its market presence.

### Conclusion
LQWD Technologies is uniquely positioned to capitalize on Bitcoin's potential, focusing on both immediate financial returns and long-term growth through strategic Bitcoin accumulation and infrastructure development.

LQWD Technologies strengthens its position with debt-free Bitcoin accumulation and Lightning Network infrastructure, establishing itself as a leading Bitcoin-centric public company.

LQWD Technologies Boosts Bitcoin Holdings to 148 BTC: A Game Changer in the Canadian Market

### Bettors Make Predictions on Trump's Speech

**Bettors** have already placed over **$1 million** in wagers on what **Donald Trump** will say during his upcoming **inauguration**. A recent study by **Casino Reports** analyzed the top 10 betting events related to Trump's inauguration, focusing on specific words and phrases he might use in his speech.

### Key Betting Insights

- **78%** of bettors believe Trump will say **"America First"** during his address.
- About **4%** of bettors speculate he could mention **"McDonald’s"**, while others think he might reference **"Dogecoin"**, associated with his close friend, **Elon Musk**.

![Trump's Inauguration Rehearsals](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/14/13/SEI235754573.jpg)
*Conductor for the Army Herald Trumpets Major Aaron Morris during rehearsals for the inauguration. Some betting options on what will happen during the event are already out (Getty Images)*

### Other Noteworthy Bets

- Bettors have wagered **$3.4 million** on whether Trump can negotiate a **ceasefire** between **Russia and Ukraine** before January 20, although only **1%** believe it's possible.
- Additionally, **$449,736** has been wagered on how many executive orders Trump will issue on his first day, with **71%** predicting he will sign more than **15**.

![Trump at McDonald's](https://static.independent.co.uk/2024/11/13/16/2024-10-20T202331Z_1602263675_RC2JOAA3CCKE_RTRMADP_3_USA-ELECTION-TRUMP.jpg)
*Donald Trump works behind the counter during a visit to McDonald’s in Pennsylvania. Roughly 4 percent of bettors believe he will use the word “McDonald’s” during his inaugural address (via REUTERS)*

### Summary of Market Activity

With nearly **$10 million** wagered on events surrounding Trump’s second inauguration, the data indicates a keen public interest and engagement with these political events, signaling that many are willing to invest in their predictions rather than simply speculate from the sidelines. 

![White House Fencing](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/14/13/SEI235882799.jpg)
*The White House complex is surrounded by temporary fencing. Bettors also placed $3.4 million on whether the president-elect can negotiate a ceasefire agreement between Russia and Ukraine before midnight on January 20 (Getty Images)*

Bettors poured over $1 million on the certain words and phrases they believe Donald Trump will use in his speech 

What Will Trump Say at His Inauguration? Bettors Place Over $1 Million on Key Phrases!

### Bitcoin Bounces Back

Bitcoin surged on Tuesday, climbing **4.5%** to reach **$97,044.35**, as traders reacted to a **light inflation reading**. This recovery follows a dip below the **$90,000** support level earlier in the week. The broader crypto market, represented by the **CoinDesk 20** index, also saw a **3.9%** increase.

![Bitcoin in Brussels](https://image.cnbcfm.com/api/v1/image/108083195-1736275090096-gettyimages-2191588295-raa-bitcoinp250102_npxGk.jpeg?v=1736275262&w=1858&h=1045&vtcrop=y)
*Image Source: Jonathan Raa | Nurphoto | Getty Images*

### Market Reactions

Shares of **Coinbase** and **MicroStrategy** rose more than **3%** and **5%** respectively, while mining stocks like **Mara Holdings** and **Core Scientific** also gained approximately **5%**. This upward trend coincided with the **Bureau of Labor Statistics** reporting a **cooler-than-expected inflation** increase of just **0.2%** in December, compared to the anticipated **0.4%**.

### Investor Sentiment

Crypto prices are currently navigating between concerns about rising inflation due to the incoming **Trump administration** and optimism regarding its **pro-crypto** stance, which may bolster the industry. As a result, traders anticipate a more volatile January, potentially extending throughout the first quarter.

Bitcoin experienced a downturn last week, triggered by stronger-than-expected payroll numbers that led to a spike in bond yields, prompting a sell-off of growth-oriented assets. Additionally, news regarding Trump's tariff plans increased apprehension among investors, strengthening the dollar, which typically inversely correlates with Bitcoin.

### Expert Insights

**Tom Lee** from **Fundstrat** projected that Bitcoin could retrace to **$70,000** before hitting new highs, forecasting an end-of-year price between **$200,000 and $250,000**. Notably, Bitcoin currently sits **10%** below its record high from **December 17** but has risen **3%** in 2025.

Bitcoin bounced on Tuesday, rising with other risk assets as traders digested a light inflation reading.

Scam Alert: Hackers Hijack McDonald's Instagram to Push Fake Grimace Coin Worth $700,000!

Summary:

What is Grimace Coin?

Importance of Vigilance

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

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Why Bitcoin ETFs Could Revolutionize the Market in 2025

Dogecoin and XRP Surge as Bitcoin Recovers: What's Behind the Rally?

LQWD Technologies Boosts Bitcoin Holdings to 148 BTC: A Game Changer in the Canadian Market

What Will Trump Say at His Inauguration? Bettors Place Over $1 Million on Key Phrases!

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Other Latest News

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

Could Bitcoin Hit $250,000 by 2025? Experts Weigh In on Future Predictions

Why Bitcoin ETFs Could Revolutionize the Market in 2025

Dogecoin and XRP Surge as Bitcoin Recovers: What's Behind the Rally?

LQWD Technologies Boosts Bitcoin Holdings to 148 BTC: A Game Changer in the Canadian Market

What Will Trump Say at His Inauguration? Bettors Place Over $1 Million on Key Phrases!

Bitcoin's Astonishing Comeback: Surpassing $97,000 Amidst Easing Inflation Concerns