### Scary Story Time
Pat Bagley brings us a satirical view on current events with his unique *scary stories* that reflect societal fears and humorous takes on politics.

### Bagley Bucks
In this segment, Bagley dives into the world of *Bagley Bucks*, a playful commentary on currency and value in the modern economy, particularly in relation to *cryptocurrency* trends.

### Executive Odors
Bagley critiques the recent *executive orders* and their implications, using humor to highlight the absurdities in political decisions.

### 2025 Legislative Session
The focus shifts to the upcoming *2025 Legislative Session*, where Bagley outlines key issues and anticipates the challenges lawmakers will face, particularly in the realm of *cryptocurrency regulation*.

### Day One
Finally, Bagley reflects on the first day of a new political era, hinting at changes and expectations that could shape future legislation, especially regarding *cryptocurrency* and economic policies.

This week's cartoons from The Salt Lake Tribune's Pat Bagley.

Unveiling the Latest from Pat Bagley: Scary Stories, Cryptocurrency & Legislative Insights

### Market Overview
Despite some market turbulence, **overall sentiment** among **crypto enthusiasts** remains largely **bullish**. Investors are closely monitoring political developments and their potential effects on digital assets. Here’s what to watch this week:

![Bitcoin](https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fit,q_60,w_645/3f51b45963befb903186bb733f4d4c9a.jpg)

### Bitcoin
Bitcoin experienced a significant boost last week with **President Donald Trump** returning to the White House. As the leading cryptocurrency, its performance is crucial to the overall market dynamics this week. 

### Ether
**Ether**, the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, is down after an upward trajectory last week. Currently trading at **$3,086**, it has fallen by over **7.5%** in a week. Its future performance may be influenced by Bitcoin's trends.

### Solana
**Solana** continues to grow, emerging as a strong competitor to Ethereum with its ability to host **hundreds of decentralized applications (dApps)**. However, it is currently trading at **$229**, reflecting a **10% decrease** since last week, closely mirroring Bitcoin’s price movements.

### Mantra
**Mantra** is a specialized blockchain network focusing on the issuance, trading, and secure management of **tokenized real-world assets (RWAs)**. Recently, it entered into a **$1 billion agreement** with Dubai-based **DAMAC Group** to tokenize assets in the UAE, resulting in its native token, **OM**, trading at **$4.60**—a **21% increase** in just one week.

### Jupiter
**Jupiter**, a decentralized exchange on the Solana blockchain, recently burned **3 billion** of its circulating tokens, which could increase its value due to scarcity. It is currently trading at **$1.05**, with an **8.6% jump** in a week.

![Solana](https://i.kinja-img.com/image/upload/c_fit,q_60,w_645/739f78e119f10abb046919e2d1cd9779.jpg)

*—Rocio Fabbro contributed to the article*

Despite some setbacks, the sentiment among cryptocurrency investors remains mostly positive

Top Cryptocurrencies to Keep an Eye on This Week: Bitcoin, Ether, Solana, and More!

## Overview
Bitcoin (BTC) miners **Bitdeer Technologies (BTDR)**, **CleanSpark (CLSK)**, and **Core Scientific (CORZ)** have been initiated with an **outperform rating** by KBW, as noted in a recent report.

## Company Insights
- **Bitdeer** is highlighted for its diverse exposure to the bitcoin mining business model, enhanced by a growing **ASIC manufacturing** segment. It also has an **AI/high performance computing (HPC)** unit that includes a live cloud service platform and a robust power pipeline for future hosting opportunities.
- **CleanSpark** is among the largest publicly listed miners, targeting a **50 EH/s** hashrate for mid-2025. Its efficient mining fleet provides strong unit economics and significant BTC production.
- **Core Scientific** is well-positioned to secure incremental capacity, supported by an engineering team experienced in data center operations, alongside its notable bitcoin mining contracts.

## Price Targets
- **Bitdeer**: Price target of **$26.50**; current trading around **$20.60**.
- **CleanSpark**: Price target of **$19**.
- **Core Scientific**: Price target of **$22**; currently trading at approximately **$16**.

## Market Position
KBW continues to favor **Galaxy Digital (GLXY)** as its top pick in the digital assets space. 

![Bitcoin Miners](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/s3y3vcno/production/f1bdcebb1d44752a3cf516316a50e307c904632b-1440x810.jpg)
*Bitcoin miners Bitdeer, CleanSpark, and Core Scientific initiated at outperform: KBW. (Shutterstock)*

## Additional Reading
*Read more: [Bitcoin Mining Economics Expected to be Stable, Profitable in 2025, Canaccord Says](https://208.87.240.59/markets/2025/01/22/bitcoin-mining-economics-expected-to-be-stable-profitable-in-2025-canaccord-says?__cpo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY29pbmRlc2suY29t)*

The three companies offer varying degrees of exposure to the world's largest cryptocurrency, the report said.

KBW Rates Bitcoin Miners Bitdeer, CleanSpark, and Core Scientific as Outperform: What You Should Know

## Regulatory Changes in Cryptocurrency

The **world of cryptocurrency** is under increasing regulatory scrutiny as institutions work to reshape the framework surrounding **digital assets**. This transformation is largely influenced by input from key regulatory bodies such as the **European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA)** and the **U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)**, both of which are striving to create clearer regulations for entities operating in this rapidly evolving market.

Recently, **ESMA** made headlines with its **new guidelines** regarding conflict-of-interest requirements for **Crypto-Asset Service Providers (CASPs)**. This marks what ESMA describes as a **'paradigm shift'**, with significant changes aimed at enhancing **investor protection** and improving **market integrity**. This move signals a shift in European regulatory attitudes towards unconventional financial assets.

One of the key changes introduced by ESMA is the **recommendation for legal entity separation** for services that may pose conflicts of interest. Delphine Forma, Policy Lead at Solidus Labs, highlighted the importance of these developments, noting that the requirement for monitoring personal transactions reflects the depth of the new regulatory framework. CASPs are now mandated to implement comprehensive policies that include detailed procedures for monitoring personal transactions and ensuring transparency regarding all forms of compensation.

This new guidance from ESMA indicates a **prolonged oversight** for cryptocurrency firms, emphasizing the need for rigorous internal controls and clear separation of potentially conflicting activities. The aim is to deter malpractices and limit the avenues through which conflicts might arise.

Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, the **SEC** is facing its own challenges in cryptocurrency regulation, particularly in light of its appeal against rulings favoring **Ripple Labs**. This situation has ignited intense discussions among industry experts and legal professionals, with calls for the termination of burdensome cases. James 'MetaLawMan' Murphy stated, “These cases need to be terminated. With extreme prejudice.”

The stakes are high for **Ripple**, as the SEC's appeal could drastically influence the future of **XRP**. Ripple's Chief Legal Officer, **Stuart Alderoty**, pointed out the complexities surrounding the SEC's position, particularly regarding its classification of transactions on digital platforms like Kraken as investment contracts.

Judge **Orrick** has cautioned the SEC about the implications of categorizing cryptocurrencies as securities, emphasizing the need for definitive legal grounding before making sweeping classifications. His comments resonate with Judge **Torres’** ruling, suggesting potential changes in U.S. regulatory frameworks.

The SEC’s litigation-heavy approach under former Chair **Gary Gensler** has raised concerns among industry stakeholders. Gensler's tenure saw a rise in experienced crypto litigators, solidifying the agency's legal stance on cryptocurrencies as securities. The SEC's decisions, particularly regarding XRP, will undoubtedly impact market conditions and investor confidence.

This uncertainty is felt across Bitcoin markets, especially following recent executive orders from **President Trump** aimed at establishing the **Presidential Working Group on Digital Asset Markets**. While the order did not specify Bitcoin as part of the national reserves, it remains crucial for determining the long-term regulatory landscape for the cryptocurrency.

Industry experts, including attorney **John E. Deaton**, have discussed the differences between creating a **Strategic Bitcoin Reserve (SBR)** and operational protocols for cryptocurrency stockpiles. Deaton pointed out the complexities involved in asset categorization under U.S. law and the legislative hurdles that major decisions regarding Bitcoin's status as a reserve asset face.

**Investor sentiment** is influenced by the market's ability to adapt to these regulatory changes. Recent inflows, particularly from **Bitcoin spot exchange traded funds (ETFs)**, indicate rising interest, with net inflows reaching nearly **$1,758 million** for the week ending January 24, contributing to over **$15 billion** in total since Trump's election.

Both **Ripple** and **Bitcoin** are at critical junctures, with regulatory developments poised to shape their markets. The clarity expected in the coming weeks will play a significant role in determining market trajectories. While XRP's potential gains may depend on the SEC's strategies, Bitcoin's direction will be influenced by developments surrounding the **SBR** and broader ETF market trends.

Investors are encouraged to stay alert to these regulatory changes, as they hold substantial implications for the cryptocurrency landscape. Insights from industry experts suggest a balance of caution and opportunity as speculations continue regarding the SEC's maneuvers and ESMA's proactive actions.

The world of cryptocurrency continues to face significant regulatory scrutiny as institutions strive to reinvent the framework surrounding digital assets. This…

Regulatory Shakeup: How European Guidelines and SEC's Ripple Appeal are Shaping Cryptocurrency's Future

The **publicly listed** miner from Wall Street, **Argo Blockchain** (LSE: ARB, NASDAQ: ARBK), has secured a **hosting arrangement** with **Merkle Standard LLC** for its mining equipment in **Memphis, Tennessee**, while allocating additional units to its **Quebec facility**.

## Wall Street Bitcoin Miner Argo Sets New Hosting Arrangements
Under the agreement, **Merkle Standard** will host **5,293 S19J Pro miners** at its Tennessee facility, with deployment scheduled for **February 2025** under a minimum one-year term. Concurrently, Argo will install **2,500 S19J Pro miners** at its **Baie Comeau, Quebec** facility.

The miners, previously operated at the **Helios facility**, are undergoing technical conversion from **immersion-based** to **air-cooled systems**. Argo indicates the refurbishment process should complete by **March's end**, with units shipping to both locations during February.

These deployments account for approximately **one-third** of the **23,000 miners** previously hosted at Helios. The company reports ongoing discussions with Merkle regarding potential expansion of the current hosting arrangement.

According to the announcement, Argo's **hashrate** will increase progressively through February as the miners become operational. The company continues to explore hosting options for its remaining mining equipment.

> Our **December operational update** is out:
> 🔸 Mined **39 Bitcoin** in December.
> 🔸 Daily production was **1.3 Bitcoin per day** consistent with November.
> 🔸 Mining revenue of **$3.9 million**, an increase from **$3.4 million** in November.

## CEO Departs
Moreover, **Thomas Chippas**, Chief Executive Officer of **Argo Blockchain**, will step down from his position and resign his seat on the board effective **February 28, 2025**. He assumed his leadership role in late 2023, when both the broader cryptocurrency market and the mining industry were under considerable strain.

During his tenure, Chippas oversaw significant financial improvements at the dual-listed crypto miner, including paying off the **Galaxy loan** ahead of schedule and strengthening the company’s overall balance sheet. Although Argo’s footing has improved, challenges remain evident: the firm’s third-quarter 2024 report showed a **net loss of $6.3 million**, reflecting ongoing market headwinds and tightened mining margins.

In December, **Finance Magnates** reported that Argo secured **£4.2 million** (approximately **$5.3 million**) through a share subscription. This infusion of funds supports key initiatives, such as moving or selling mining equipment from the Helios facility in Texas and continuing Bitcoin mining operations in Quebec. Argo is also exploring an expansion into **high-performance computing (HPC)**.

The publicly listed miner from Wall Street, Argo Blockchain (LSE: ARB, NASDAQ: ARBK) has secured a hosting arrangement with Merkle Standard LLC for its mining equipment in Memphis, Tennessee.

Wall Street's Argo Blockchain Unleashes 7,800 Bitcoin Miners in Bold Tennessee-Quebec Move

### Bitcoin's Potential Double Top Pattern

According to **Coindesk analyst Omkar Godbole**, Bitcoin (BTC) may be forming a **double top reversal pattern** on the daily chart. This pattern is a significant technical indicator that suggests a potential price decline.

### Current Market Analysis

Last week, BTC struggled to maintain its position above the **December high**, which indicates a potential reversal in momentum. The **neckline support** of this double top pattern is identified at approximately **$91,300**. If this support level is breached, it could lead to a sharp decline towards **$75,000**.

### Caution Advised

ChainCatcher emphasizes the importance of viewing blockchain developments with **rationality** and enhancing **risk awareness**. Investors are reminded to be cautious regarding various **virtual token issuances** and speculative activities. The information provided is purely for market insight and should not be construed as investment advice.

ChainCatcher news, according to Coindesk analyst Omkar Godbole's article, BTC may be forming a double top reversal pattern on the daily chart.Due to failing to maintain above the December high last week, BTC appears to be forming a double top pattern, with the neckline support located around $91,300. If the neckline support is broken, it could trigger a decline towards $75,000.

Is Bitcoin's Price About to Plunge? Analysts Predict a Drop to $75,000!

## Bitcoin's Recent Decline

Bitcoin (BTC) has **dropped to under $99,000** early Monday as traders took profits ahead of the first U.S. **FOMC meeting** of the year. This meeting, scheduled for **January 28 to 29**, has historically influenced Bitcoin prices, with many anticipating no indications of a **rate cut**.

## Market Sentiment and AI Competition

Traders are concerned about a potential **overvaluation** in U.S. tech companies due to the rise of China-based **DeepSeek**, whose latest AI model is significantly cheaper to produce than its competitors. This shift threatens the traditional narrative that vast computational resources are necessary for AI innovation, which could undermine the **high valuations** of U.S. tech firms, impacting market sentiment and Bitcoin prices.

## Key Market Movements

- **Bitcoin's price fell nearly 6%** from a Sunday high of over **$105,000**.
- The **crypto market capitalization** dropped by **8%** overall, while the **CoinDesk 20** index fell by more than **8.14%**.
- U.S. stock futures also declined, with the **S&P 500** and **Nasdaq 100** down by as much as **2.15%** ahead of the market open.

## Traders' Reactions

In response to the downturn, traders are purchasing **$95,000 strike options** for Bitcoin, indicating a prevalent expectation of further price declines. As **Ben El-Baz**, managing director of HashKey Global, noted, "Concerns over trade wars and tariffs linger, but a bullish sentiment remains strong as companies like MicroStrategy continue to invest in crypto."

![Bitcoin Price Drop](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/s3y3vcno/production/60c2a071027d8cfd8c4678314728fe29cd638528-1500x963.jpg)

As the **FOMC meeting** approaches, the market is likely to remain range-bound until more clarity emerges regarding the Federal Reserve's policy decisions influenced by recent economic data.

Much of the concern draws from a possible overvaluation in U.S. tech companies as DeepSeek’s latest AI model is significantly cheaper to produce and was built using open-source technology that is easy to access.

Bitcoin Plummets Below $99K Amid AI Disruption and Economic Uncertainty

### The Must-Have Crypto Assets for 2025

As traders gear up for **2025**, three altcoins are emerging as the frontrunners: **Cardano (ADA)**, **Dogecoin (DOGE)**, and **Remittix (RTX)**. Each of these tokens boasts a unique purpose and a dedicated community, making them worthy of attention.

### Cardano’s Steady Progress

Currently priced near **$0.9855**, Cardano (ADA) has experienced a slight decline of **-0.59%** today and **-8.75%** over the week, though it's still up by **+13.67%** this month. Supporters praise Cardano's **methodical approach** to development, aiming for a secure and layered platform that could keep ADA valuable over time. Critics, however, argue that its slow rollout of upgrades may hinder its competitiveness, especially against faster-moving tokens like Remittix.

### Dogecoin’s Ongoing Meme Power

With a current price of around **$0.3553**, Dogecoin (DOGE) has dipped **-1.21%** in the past day and **-11.32%** over the week, yet it has gained **+12.92%** this month. The coin thrives on its **meme culture** and strong online community, which propelled it to mainstream fame. However, some critics argue that it lacks serious real-world applications. Yet, developments like ETF applications could revive Dogecoin's momentum, but the rise of practical solutions like Remittix raises questions about its long-term relevance.

### Remittix: Built to Outperform

In contrast, Remittix (RTX) focuses on **low-cost cross-border transactions**. Recent data suggests it has surged by **+142%** in the last few weeks, indicating a strong market demand for its **fast and budget-friendly** payment solutions. While Cardano and Dogecoin have their strengths, Remittix's practical approach to user issues could allow it to outpace both tokens in 2025.

### The Verdict

All three tokens—**Cardano, Dogecoin, and Remittix**—show promise for the upcoming year. While Cardano is known for its careful progress and Dogecoin for its fun appeal, Remittix stands out by addressing real-world remittance challenges. If you're looking at the best altcoins for 2025, keep these three on your radar, as each has a unique role in the evolving crypto landscape.

Discover three must-have crypto assets for January 2025: Cardano (ADA), Dogecoin (DOGE), and Remittix (RTX).

Unveiling the Latest from Pat Bagley: Scary Stories, Cryptocurrency & Legislative Insights

Summary:

Scary Story Time

Bagley Bucks

Executive Odors

2025 Legislative Session

Day One

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Other Latest News

Top Cryptocurrencies to Keep an Eye on This Week: Bitcoin, Ether, Solana, and More!

KBW Rates Bitcoin Miners Bitdeer, CleanSpark, and Core Scientific as Outperform: What You Should Know

Regulatory Shakeup: How European Guidelines and SEC's Ripple Appeal are Shaping Cryptocurrency's Future

Wall Street's Argo Blockchain Unleashes 7,800 Bitcoin Miners in Bold Tennessee-Quebec Move

Is Bitcoin's Price About to Plunge? Analysts Predict a Drop to $75,000!

Bitcoin Plummets Below $99K Amid AI Disruption and Economic Uncertainty

Unlocking the Future: Why You Should Invest in Cardano, Dogecoin, and Remittix for 2025

Other Latest News

Top Cryptocurrencies to Keep an Eye on This Week: Bitcoin, Ether, Solana, and More!

KBW Rates Bitcoin Miners Bitdeer, CleanSpark, and Core Scientific as Outperform: What You Should Know

Regulatory Shakeup: How European Guidelines and SEC's Ripple Appeal are Shaping Cryptocurrency's Future

Wall Street's Argo Blockchain Unleashes 7,800 Bitcoin Miners in Bold Tennessee-Quebec Move

Is Bitcoin's Price About to Plunge? Analysts Predict a Drop to $75,000!

Bitcoin Plummets Below $99K Amid AI Disruption and Economic Uncertainty

Unlocking the Future: Why You Should Invest in Cardano, Dogecoin, and Remittix for 2025