The cryptocurrency market has been rocked by significant declines in two of its flagship assets, Bitcoin and Ether.
This downturn reflects mounting concerns over broader economic challenges, including inflationary pressures and uncertainties surrounding Trump’s global trade tariffs.
Snapshot data from CMC
Bitcoin, often seen as a digital gold and a hedge against traditional financial instability, saw its value dip below $80,000. Similarly, Ether, the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalisation, tested the $2,100 threshold, shaking investor confidence.
Cryptocurrency fear and greed index chart from CMC
Cryptocurrency fear and greed index from CMC
The decline comes as central banks continue to grapple with persistent inflation, leading to speculation about further interest rate hikes. These economic conditions have raised fears that tighter monetary policies could dampen the speculative fervour that has long driven crypto markets.
In parallel, ongoing uncertainties about global trade tariffs have added another layer of complexity. Concerns about supply chain disruptions and escalating trade tensions have created a cautious environment for investors, spilling over into the volatile cryptocurrency sector.
While cryptocurrencies are no stranger to price swings, the current drop underscores their vulnerability to macroeconomic trends. As investors await clarity on inflation and tariff policies, the market could remain turbulent in the near term.
The resilience of Bitcoin and Ether will likely be tested as they navigate these economic headwinds.
Gold, however, has recently touched new all-time highs.
The advent of quantum computing presents both opportunities and challenges for the field of cryptography, especially in relation to cryptocurrencies.
Quantum computers, leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics, have the potential to revolutionise computing by solving certain problems significantly faster than classical computers.
One of the primary concerns is the impact of quantum computing on cryptographic algorithms that underpin the security of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Traditional public-key cryptography, which relies on the difficulty of factoring large prime numbers or solving discrete logarithms, could be broken by a sufficiently powerful quantum computer. Algorithms such as RSA, ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography), and DSA (Digital Signature Algorithm) could become vulnerable, as quantum algorithms like Shor’s algorithm are capable of efficiently solving these problems.
This potential vulnerability poses a significant threat to the security and integrity of cryptocurrency transactions. If quantum computers can crack these cryptographic codes, they could potentially access private keys, allowing malicious actors to steal funds or forge transactions. As a result, the trust that underpins the entire cryptocurrency ecosystem could be eroded.
However, the quantum threat is not without its solutions. The field of post-quantum cryptography is actively developing new cryptographic algorithms that are resistant to quantum attacks.
These algorithms leverage mathematical problems believed to be hard even for quantum computers, such as lattice-based cryptography, hash-based cryptography, and multivariate polynomial cryptography.
Transitioning to post-quantum cryptographic algorithms is crucial for ensuring the long-term security of cryptocurrencies in a quantum computing era.
In conclusion, while quantum computing poses a formidable challenge to current cryptographic systems, proactive measures and the development of quantum-resistant algorithms can mitigate these risks.
The cryptocurrency industry must stay ahead of the curve, adopting new technologies and strategies to safeguard against potential quantum threats and ensure the continued security and trust in digital currencies.
It has been estimated that the arrival of quantum computer is at least 10 years away. But is that allowing for the use of AI in its creation?
What is Willow and Quantum Computing?
Willow is the start of a new era of ultra-powerful ‘quantum’ microchips designed by Google. Willow’s speed is almost incomprehensible – according to Google, it is able to perform a computation in under five minutes that would take one of today’s fastest supercomputers 10 septillion years to solve.
This new chip design will inevitably lead to new quantum innovations and computer design over the coming years.
If you don’t understand (not many people do) what makes up quantum computing – there is a very simplified way simplified way of thinking about the breakthrough.
Imagine a maze and how a classical computer would try to find its way through the maze from start to finish. It would try one potential path at a time. A quantum computer would be able to try each path at the same time.
The quantum computer is coming. The only delay will be in design restrictions and the power needed to run the system.
In a historic moment for the cryptocurrency world, Bitcoin has finally breached the $100,000 mark.
This milestone, reached on 5th December 2024, signifies a notable triumph for Bitcoin enthusiasts and investors who have endured the market’s volatility over the years.
Since the creation of the first Bitcoin ETF there have been massive inflows invested in this asset helping to push Bitcoin ever higher.
Bitcoin’s ascent to $100,000 has been tumultuous. Beginning the year at approximately $38,505, the cryptocurrency has experienced an impressive 155% increase to date. The surge was especially notable in the fortnight after Trump’s victory, with Bitcoin’s value soaring by about 45%.
Bitcoin’s ascent has triggered a ripple effect throughout the wider cryptocurrency market, now valued at a combined $3.78 trillion. This upsurge has reinforced Bitcoin’s preeminence in the digital asset arena and garnered considerable interest from institutional investors.
Despite the festive atmosphere, some analysts warn that Bitcoin’s well-known volatility is still worrisome. Although numerous investors have realized significant profits, the asset’s high-risk profile may not be appropriate for all. Nevertheless, the prevailing mood within the cryptocurrency community is one of optimism, fueled by the expectation that the incoming administration will create a regulatory climate more conducive to digital assets.
Bitcoin’s record-breaking streak continues, signaling a bright future for the renowned cryptocurrency. Its evolution from a peer-to-peer electronic cash system to a trillion-dollar asset highlights the revolutionary impact of blockchain technology.
Bitcoin flirted with the $100,000 mark, coming within less than $1,000 of that psychological threshold. However, it failed to breach this peak, falling back to as low as $90,702. on Tuesday 26th November 2024. It has since rallied, trading at approximately $96,697 early on 29th November 2024. But still off the $100,000 barrier.
Investors taking profits
One factor contributing to the fall was investors capitalising on Bitcoin’s exceptionally high price, which increased the supply of Bitcoin. Long-term holders began to release substantial quantities of Bitcoin during the recent surge.
However, there are deeper reasons why some strategists remain uncertain about Bitcoin’s ability to reach the six-figure milestone. The $100,000 mark seems to have become a significant obstacle, if not an outright barrier, to further increases.
Leveraged to the hilt
Indeed, the recent surge in Bitcoin’s value could be instilling a misleading sense of confidence among investors. Viewing Bitcoin as a speculative bet or a means to achieve returns, it appears that investors are flocking to Bitcoin primarily for potential capital gains rather than its intrinsic value or practical applications.
The recent introduction of options for spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds could be influential. Options provide investors with a way to speculate on Bitcoin’s price fluctuations without the need to invest in Bitcoin directly.
It’s leveraged to the hilt and there most likely will be a correction anytime soon.
That being said, a correction does not equate to lasting deflation. Should even a portion of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s commitments to the cryptocurrency sector materialise, the $100,000 mark might not represent a peak, but merely another milestone that Bitcoin surpasses during its triumphant ascent.
But remember, in my opinion and for what it’s worth – it is just a punt, not an investment.
Bitcoin one-day chart as of 29th November 2024 (11:16 am)
Bitcoin one-day chart as of 29th November 2024 (11:16 am)
Bitcoin reaches a new record high, nearing the $100,000 mark as the cryptocurrency rally marches on.
Other altcoins are rallying too, basking in the aftermath of the SEC resignation news.
Gary Gensler, Chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission, will step down on 20th January 2025 (Trumps inauguration day), an announcement made by the SEC on Thursday 21st November 2024, which clears the path for President-elect Donald Trump to appoint a more crypto friendly successor.
During Gensler’s tenure, the SEC engaged in numerous high-profile conflicts with the cryptocurrency industry, including a lawsuit against Grayscale over Bitcoin ETFs – a case Grayscale won, leading to a significant influx of capital into these funds since their inception in January.
The SEC has also pursued legal action against several major digital asset firms concerning their crypto dealings, such as Coinbase, with varying outcomes.
Additionally, the SEC has been in conflict with Tesla CEO Elon Musk, particularly regarding his acquisition of the social media company Twitter, now known as X, for $44 billion in 2022. The commission is currently seeking sanctions against Musk for failing to appear for court-mandated testimony related to this matter.
Under Gensler’s leadership, the SEC has scrutinised Musk’s adherence to a previous settlement that mandated a securities lawyer review certain Tesla-related social media posts before they were published.
Musk, a vocal critic of the SEC who supported Trump’s election campaign with his time and a donation of at least $130 million and campaigned alongside him, is poised to join the incoming administration as a co-leader of the newly proposed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
With Gensler’s impending departure and the upcoming expiration of the terms for two other commissioners, Trump will have the chance to significantly influence the future composition of the SEC.
A green light for crypto investors, but a worry (maybe) for the retail trader long-term?
Bitcoin one-day chart as of 22nd November 2024 (09:49am GMT) – Snapshot
Bitcoin one-day chart as of 22nd November 2024 (09:49am GMT)
Bitcoin one-year chart as of 22nd November 2024 (09:51am GMT) – Snapshot
Bitcoin one-year chart as of 22nd November 2024 (09:51am GMT)
Bitcoin’s origin is one of the most captivating mysteries of the digital age. The cryptocurrency was created in 2008 by an unknown individual or group under the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto.
Despite numerous investigations, the true identity of Nakamoto remains shrouded in secrecy.
Story
The story of Bitcoin begins with the release of a whitepaper titled “Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System.” This document outlined a new kind of decentralised digital currency, one that relied on cryptographic principles to ensure security and prevent double-spending.
Nakamoto’s revolutionary vision was to create a financial system free from the control of traditional banks and government interference.
Genesis block
In January 2009, Nakamoto mined the first block of the Bitcoin blockchain, known as the ‘genesis block,’ marking the birth of the cryptocurrency. Over the next couple of years, Nakamoto continued to work on the project, communicating with other developers via email and online forums.
The mystery surrounding the origin of Bitcoin
However, by 2011, Nakamoto had largely stepped away from active involvement in the project, leaving behind a legacy that would forever change the financial landscape.
Speculation
Speculation about Nakamoto’s true identity has been rampant. Some believe Nakamoto is a single, exceptionally talented individual, while others theorise that it could be a group of developers working under a collective pseudonym.
Over the years, various names have been proposed as possible candidates, including renowned cryptographers, developers, and even eccentric entrepreneurs. Yet, none of these theories have been definitively proven, and Nakamoto’s identity remains a closely guarded secret.
Intrigue
The intrigue surrounding Nakamoto is not just a matter of curiosity but also of financial significance. As the creator of Bitcoin, Nakamoto is estimated to own around one million Bitcoins. At current market values, this makes Nakamoto one of the wealthiest individuals in the world.
Bitcoin chart from inception as of 7th November 2024 touching $75,000
Bitcoin chart from inception as of 7th November 2024 touching $75,000
However, these Bitcoins have never been moved or spent, adding to the enigma of Nakamoto’s motives and intentions.
Myth?
The myth of Satoshi Nakamoto has taken on a life of its own, becoming a symbol of the power and potential of decentralized technology. The anonymity of Nakamoto also serves as a reminder of the core principles behind Bitcoin: privacy, decentralisation, and freedom from traditional financial systems.
In a world increasingly dominated by surveillance and control, the mystery of Nakamoto provides a compelling counter-narrative, one that continues to inspire and intrigue both technologists and libertarians alike.
In the end, the true identity of Satoshi Nakamoto may never be revealed, and perhaps that is as it should be. The enduring mystery adds to the allure of Bitcoin, ensuring that its origins will forever be a topic of fascination and debate.
Bitwise Asset Management, a prominent player in the cryptocurrency investment space, has recently made headlines with its filing for a spot XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF) with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
This move marks a significant milestone as it is the first attempt to create an ETF specifically for XRP, the native token of the XRP Ledger.
The proposed Bitwise XRP ETF aims to provide investors with direct exposure to XRP through traditional brokerage accounts. This will make it easier for both institutional and retail investors to gain access to this digital asset. Bitwise’s decision to pursue an XRP ETF underscores the growing recognition of XRP’s potential and its established presence in the cryptocurrency market.
Bitwise is no stranger to the ETF landscape, having successfully launched Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs in the past. The company’s experience and reputation in managing crypto assets lend credibility to this new venture. However, the approval process for the XRP ETF is expected to be rigorous, given the SEC’s cautious approach to cryptocurrency-related financial products.
The filing comes at a time when the cryptocurrency market is experiencing increased interest from mainstream investors. XRP, known for its fast transaction speeds and low fees, has been a popular choice for cross-border payments and remittances. If approved, the Bitwise XRP ETF could attract a new wave of investors looking to diversify their portfolios with digital assets.
While the SEC’s decision is still pending, the filing itself is a testament to the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency investments. There is a growing acceptance of digital assets in traditional financial markets. Investors and crypto enthusiasts alike will be watching closely as this development unfolds.
Bitcoin climbed to touch $49,000 after the SEC recently gave the go ahead for the Bitcoin ETF. The last time I checked it was at $39,000 (23rd January 2024). Oh, dear me – the dramatic pain of volatility.
Bitcoin volatility has increased after the launch of the first spot Bitcoin ETFs in the United States. The price of Bitcoin (BTC) rocked wildly, reaching a high of $49,000 and a low of $46,000 in just hours of trading.
Liquidation
This caused liquidations of millions in the Bitcoin market. Some analysts predict that the ETFs will bring more institutional investors and liquidity to the Bitcoin market, while others warn of the risks and challenges of the new investment vehicle.
Bitcoin ETFs are funds that track the price of Bitcoin and trade on stock exchanges, allowing investors to gain exposure to Bitcoin without buying or storing it directly.
Bitcoin chart – 3 months 24th January 2024 at 15:26
Bitcoin chart – 3 months 24th January 2024 at 15:26
Bitcoin rose in volatile trading on Thursday 11th January 2024 after the Securities and Exchange Commission gave the green light for the first-ever spot Bitcoin ETFs to trade in the U.S.
Approval
The Bitcoin ETF approval is a massive achievement for the crypto industry as a whole, which first attempted to launch a Bitcoin ETF some 10 years ago.
Grayscale’s big legal win against the SEC in August 2023 over the regulator’s refusal to let it convert its popular Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) into an ETF breathed fresh optimism into the idea.
Volatile
Following the SEC’s decision, Bitcoin’s value fell then gained some traction, as expected by traders. However, the volume of inflows into the new funds remains to be seen, Bitcoin ETFs are still widely expected to increase demand for the cryptocurrency and drive Bitcoin higher.
It would be unwise to make too much of these Bitcoin price moves in the short-term, but the approval is likely going to lead to some longer-term price increases. Now that the bitcoin ETF speculation has come to fruition it looks like traders may rotate to alternative cryptocurrencies such as Ether to prepare for future market developments.
Altcoin ETFs
The SEC is due to give decisions on spot ETH ETF applications beginning in May 2024. BlackRock, Invesco and Ark Invest are among the firms in line for approval, as well as Grayscale.
The opportunity to be in at the beginning will not want to be missed by these companies.
Bitcoin 7-day chart 6th January – 12th January 2024
Bitcoin 7-day chart from 6th January – 12th January 2024
Bitcoin extended its rally overnight, climbing past the $41,000 level for the first time since May 2022.
The price of Bitcoin quickly soared above $41,000 easily taking out $40,000. The cryptocurrency is up around 13% over the past month and up more than 130% year to date. But the price of Bitcoin is down more than 40% from its all-time high in 2021.
In November 2023, analysts reportedly said Bitcoin could soar to as high as $150,000 in 2025, as it rides a new bull cycle. Other altcoins are available, as they too ride the coat tails of Bitcoin’s encouraging move. Be aware though, Bitcoin is a volatile asset and as such is subject to dramatic moves in either direction. BE CAREFUL!
Bitcoin price snapshot 09:35GMT 4th December 2023
Why is Bitcoin on a tear?
Cryptocurrency industry analysts have suggested this bull-run could lead to fresh all-time highs in 2024 above $100,000.
Excitement around a Bitcoin ETF being approved in the U.S. in 2024 as well as the process of Bitcoin halving due in April 2024 is fueling this rally in cryptocurrencies.
Many also say the crypto industry is enjoying a market climb due to the FTX case and the Binance settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) as the two outstanding issues that were holding up the crypto market were resloved.
The price of Bitcoin is influenced by many factors, such as supply and demand, market sentiment, news events, regulations, and technical analysis.
One of the recent news events that affected the price of Bitcoin was the speculation about the approval of a Bitcoin ETF by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). A spot Bitcoin ETF is an exchange-traded fund (ETF) that directly holds Bitcoin and tracks its price movements.
This would allow investors to gain exposure to Bitcoin without having to buy, store, or manage it themselves. A spot Bitcoin ETF would also increase the liquidity and legitimacy of the Bitcoin market, potentially attracting more institutional and retail investors.
Waiting approval
However, the SEC has not yet approved any Bitcoin ETF applications, despite receiving several from various financial firms, such as Blackrock and Fidelity. The SEC has expressed concerns about the risks of fraud, manipulation, and volatility in the Bitcoin market.
Bitcoin one year chart October 2022 – October 2023
The SEC has only approved one Bitcoin-related ETF so far, which is the ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF that tracks the price of Bitcoin futures contracts, not the actual Bitcoin. Bitcoin futures contracts are agreements to buy or sell Bitcoin at a predetermined price and date in the future. They are traded on regulated exchanges.
Rumour
On 16th October, 2023, a false rumour circulated on social media that the SEC had approved a Bitcoin ETF from Blackrock, the world’s largest asset manager. This rumour caused a surge in the demand and price of Bitcoin, which briefly breached the $30,000 mark.
However, this ‘news’ was quickly corrected by both Blackrock and the SEC, and the price of Bitcoin fell back to its previous levels. The rumour may have been fueled by the anticipation and excitement in the crypto community for a spot Bitcoin ETF approval, which many analysts believe would boost the price of Bitcoin significantly.
Crypto volatility
The false rumour about the Bitcoin ETF approval was one of the major factors that contributed to the 10% climb and subsequent drop of bitcoin on the 16th October, 2023.
Be careful
The price of Bitcoin is determined by the interaction of buyers and sellers in a global and decentralized market that operates 24/7. As such, it is subject to high volatility and unpredictability.
The price of Bitcoin is determined by the interaction of buyers and sellers in a global and decentralized market that operates 24/7. As such, it is subject to high volatility and unpredictability.
Investors should always do their own research and due diligence before investing in any cryptocurrency or any financial product.
Remember to always do your ownRESEARCH!RESEARCH!RESEARCH!
Definitions
ETF – Exchange Traded Fund is a type of investment fund that can be bought or sold on a stock exchange like a regular stock. An ETF usually holds a selection of securities, such as stocks, bonds, commodities, or currencies, that track a specific index, sector, or asset class.
Bitcoin is a type of digital currency that can be used for online transactions without the need for a central authority or intermediary. Bitcoin is based on a technology called blockchain, which is a distributed ledger that records and verifies all transactions in a network of computers. Bitcoin is created and rewarded to the participants who contribute their computing power to maintain and secure the network, a process known as mining. Bitcoin has a limited supply of 21 million units, which are divided into smaller units called satoshis.
Bitcoin is based on a technology called blockchain, which is a distributed ledger that records and verifies all transactions in a network of computers.
Bitcoin was invented in 2008 by an anonymous person or group using the name Satoshi Nakamoto, who published a white paper describing the concept and design of Bitcoin.
The first Bitcoin transaction was made in 2009, when Nakamoto sent 10 bitcoins to a computer programmer named Hal Finney. Since then, Bitcoin has grown in popularity and value, attracting millions of users and investors around the world.
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is a U.S. government agency that regulates the securities markets and protects investors. The SEC was established by the passage of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, largely in response to the stock market crash of 1929 that led to the Great Depression.
The SEC has three main objectives: to ensure full public disclosure of information, to prevent fraud and manipulation in the market, and to facilitate capital formation for economic growth.
The SEC oversees various entities and activities in the securities markets, such as securities exchanges, brokers, dealers, investment advisers, mutual funds, corporate issuers, and securities transactions. The SEC enforces the federal securities laws by requiring companies to register their securities and disclose relevant information to the public through its electronic database called EDGAR.
The SEC also investigates and prosecutes violations of the securities laws, such as insider trading, market manipulation, accounting fraud, and disclosure fraud.
Bitstamp has reportedly disclosed its ongoing discussions with a number of European banks about assisting them in launching cryptocurrency services. These discussions are expected to come to fruition in early 2024.
Bitstamp’s Negotiations with Top European Banks
Bitstamp’s negotiations underscore the growing acceptance of digital assets within the European financial sector.
This news comes at a time when the European Union is actively advancing its regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies, known as Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA).
It aims at facilitating the entry of traditional financial institutions into the digital asset space.
Cryptocurrency company Ripple said on Wednesday 4th October 2023 that it has obtained a full licence to operate in Singapore, its Asia-Pacific headquarters since 2017.
‘We have hired exceptional talent and local leadership, doubling headcount over the past year and plan to continue growing our presence in a progressive jurisdiction like Singapore,‘ CEO Brad Garlinghouse said in a statement.
The new development comes less than four months after the Monetary Authority of Singapore granted an ‘initial in-principle’ approval in June 2023. With the full licence, Ripple will continue to provide regulated crypto payment services in Singapore.
Over 90% of Ripple’s business is outside of the U.S., and Singapore – and to a larger degree Asia Pacific – is one of its fastest growing region.
XRP Ripple Crypto digital coin and cross border payment system
The XRP ripple crypto coin is a digital currency that is used to facilitate fast and low-cost cross-border payments on the Ripple network.
The Ripple network is a decentralized system of servers that connects banks, payment providers, digital asset exchanges, and corporates. The XRP coin acts as a bridge currency between different fiat currencies and other digital assets.
The XRP coin has a fixed supply of 100 billion units and is distributed by Ripple Labs, the company behind the Ripple network.
XRP, the native token of the blockchain company Ripple, soared more than 60% on Thursday after a U.S. judge delivered a major victory to the firm in its legal battle with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
The SEC had sued Ripple in December 2020, alleging that it had raised over $1.3 billion through the sale of XRP in an unregistered securities offering. The SEC claimed that XRP was an investment contract that gave buyers the expectation of profits based on Ripple’s efforts.
However, the Judge ruled that XRP was not a security “on its face” and that some aspects of its sale did not violate the federal securities laws.
Digital coin
The judge drew a distinction between the sales of XRP to institutional investors, which she said could constitute investment contracts, and the sales of XRP to the general public on exchanges, which did not.
Argument
The judge also denied Ripple’s argument that the SEC lacked jurisdiction over XRP transactions because they were not domestic, and agreed with the SEC that the Howey test, a four-pronged criteria to determine whether an asset is a security, applied to cryptocurrency transactions.
The ruling was welcomed by Ripple and its supporters, who argued that XRP was a utility token that facilitated cross-border payments and did not depend on Ripple’s efforts for its value.
Ripple’s chief legal officer, reportedly tweeted: “A huge win today – as a matter of law – XRP is not a security. Also, a matter of law – sales on exchanges are not securities. Sales by executives are not securities. Other XRP distributions – to developers, charities, and employees- are not securities.”
A lawyer representing over 19,000 XRP holders who intervened in the case, reportedly called on U.S. exchanges to relist XRP in solidarity with the decision.
Crypyo boost
The ruling also boosted the sentiment in the broader crypto market, as it suggested that the SEC did not have unlimited authority over digital assets and that some tokens could escape the securities classification.
‘Have you seen the news? Crypto might possibly could be going manstream.’ ‘Oh WOW! – What’s crypto?’
Crypto-related stocks such as Coinbase and crypto-coins such as ADA, HBAR, BITCOIN & ETH surged following the news.
More to come?
However, the case is not quite over yet, as the SEC said it would continue to review the decision and pursue its claims against Ripple for the sales of XRP to institutional investors.
The SEC also responded to the judge’s ruling by saying that it did not change its position that XRP was a security and that it would seek to prove that Ripple violated the securities laws in certain circumstances.
The outcome of the case could have significant implications for the crypto industry, as it could set a precedent for how other tokens are regulated and how other lawsuits are resolved.
