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15 Aug 2025, 11:32
The 115% SKALE (SKL) rally faces headwinds as warnings emerge
SKALE (SKL) has staged a remarkable comeback in recent weeks, rallying over 115% in the past seven days and drawing renewed attention from traders and investors. However, beneath the bullish momentum, several on-chain signals are raising concerns about the sustainability of the rally. SKALE’s partnership with ‘It Remains’ SKALE’s rally began to accelerate after the integration with “It Remains,” a dystopian transmedia franchise, into the SKALE Network. The integration promises to merge immersive storytelling with blockchain features such as gas-free transactions, interactive AR/VR experiences, and NFT-powered governance. SKALE’s gasless, Ethereum Virtual Machine-compatible chains are being positioned as the backbone for the project, offering fast, cost-free interactions that aim to drive mass adoption. Following the announcement, SKALE’s daily trading volume spiked nearly 2,700% to $279 million before surging again to $905 million on major exchanges like Binance and Bithumb. The price jumped as high as $0.054 during the month, a dramatic recovery from June’s all-time low of $0.01596. The network has also reported over 3 million unique active wallets and more than 681 million transactions to date. Massive trading volumes stir questions While heavy trading activity often reflects strong demand, SKALE’s Chief Technology Officer, Stan Kladko, has cautioned that some of the surge may be driven by automated trading bots. If true, this could mean that parts of the rally are artificially inflated, increasing the risk of volatility if bot activity declines. Stan Kladko 🇺🇦 🇺🇸 🇵🇹 ☮️ @Stan_Kladko · Follow Lots of people today bought SKL to immediately sell it to other people These other people bought it to sell to yet other people.Or bots I hope people and bots had fun in the process :)) #crypto #ethereum @FAIR_Blockchain #skale 2:49 AM · Aug 14, 2025 21 Reply Copy link Read 8 replies High volume spikes without a proportional increase in organic demand can create unstable market conditions. In such cases, prices may retreat quickly once speculative interest fades. This concern comes as the broader crypto market remains sensitive to shifts in sentiment, particularly among altcoins. On-chain signals hint at profit-taking Alongside the surge in volume, on-chain data shows a sharp increase in dormant coin activity. The number of long-idle SKL tokens suddenly moving rose by 420% in just one session, from 33.36 million to 173.62 million SKL. Historically, such spikes have preceded price pullbacks as early holders move to secure profits. At the same time, whales have reduced their holdings by roughly 130 million SKL, while exchange reserves have climbed by 2.44% in 24 hours. An increase in coins held on exchanges often signals that holders are preparing to sell, which can add selling pressure to the market. Price momentum faces its biggest test Despite its impressive performance, SKALE’s rally is now encountering resistance. The token has pulled back from recent highs and is trading near $0.044, with a market cap of $256 million. While it remains up over 127% in the past two weeks, the mix of high bot-driven trading, rising exchange balances, and whale sell-offs could cap further upside in the short term. For now, the SKALE story is one of both opportunity and caution. While its integration with It Remains has spotlighted its capabilities and attracted fresh attention, the underlying trading patterns suggest that without sustained organic demand, the rally could struggle to maintain its current pace. Traders should watch closely to see whether SKALE can turn short-term hype into lasting growth or whether the recent surge will fade as quickly as it began. The post The 115% SKALE (SKL) rally faces headwinds as warnings emerge appeared first on Invezz
15 Aug 2025, 11:31
Treasury Secretary Reveals U.S. Bitcoin Surprise, Triggering Price Shockwaves
Bitcoin’s bearish reversal comes as U.S. Treasury secretary Scott Bessent revealed the U.S. holds far fewer bitcoin than previously thought...
15 Aug 2025, 11:30
ETH Price Surge: Shocking $83M Hacker Gains Revealed by On-Chain Analysis
BitcoinWorld ETH Price Surge: Shocking $83M Hacker Gains Revealed by On-Chain Analysis The cryptocurrency world often brings unexpected turns, and sometimes, these turns benefit the wrong people. Recent reports have shed light on a truly unsettling trend: an ETH price surge has inadvertently added a staggering $83 million to the illicit coffers of various hackers. This isn’t just about initial thefts; it’s about criminals leveraging market dynamics to amplify their ill-gotten wealth, transforming their stolen assets into even greater fortunes. This alarming development was brought to light by detailed on-chain analysis . How Did Ethereum Hackers Boost Their Profits? On-chain analyst EmberCN recently shared critical insights on X, revealing how three distinct Ethereum hackers managed to accumulate significant additional profits. These weren’t mere passive gains; they stemmed from strategic maneuvers after their initial cybercrimes. The attackers held onto their stolen Ethereum, then capitalized on the rising market value, effectively turning their thefts into a highly profitable investment. Radiant Capital Hacker: This individual saw their illicit holdings swell by an astonishing $48.3 million. Their ability to hold and trade ETH at opportune moments demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of market timing. Infini Hacker: Another perpetrator, responsible for the Infini breach, added $25.15 million to their loot. This substantial sum highlights the ongoing vulnerability within the DeFi space. Unidentified Hacker: An unknown attacker also managed to secure an additional $9.76 million. The fact that an unidentified entity can still profit underlines the challenges in tracking and recovering stolen digital assets. EmberCN aptly described this phenomenon as a “hacker’s bull market,” where attackers profit not just from the initial theft but also from the subsequent rally in asset prices. This situation presents a dual challenge for the crypto community, as it makes recovering funds even more difficult and incentivizes further malicious activity from these Ethereum hackers . Understanding the Crucial Role of On-Chain Analysis in Tracking Hacker Gains The discovery of these amplified hacker gains wouldn’t be possible without the diligent work of on-chain analysts like EmberCN. On-chain analysis involves scrutinizing public blockchain data to identify patterns, track transactions, and uncover illicit activities. This transparency, inherent to blockchain technology, is a double-edged sword. While it allows for the tracking of funds, it also means that the movement and accumulation of stolen assets are visible for all to see. Such analysis is vital for: Tracing Stolen Funds: Helping law enforcement and security firms follow the money trail. Identifying Vulnerabilities: Pinpointing weaknesses in protocols that hackers exploit. Informing the Community: Alerting users to potential risks and the tactics employed by malicious actors. These insights are crucial steps towards enhancing overall crypto security . Without them, the true extent of these financial exploits might remain hidden, making it harder to develop robust defenses against Ethereum hackers . What Are the Broader Implications of These Hacker Gains? The fact that an ETH price surge can significantly increase hacker gains raises serious questions about the resilience and security of the broader crypto ecosystem. When criminals not only steal but also profit from market movements, it can erode trust among legitimate investors and users. It paints a picture where illicit activities are rewarded, which is detrimental to the long-term health and adoption of decentralized finance. The challenges presented by these sophisticated attacks are multifaceted: Investor Confidence: Repeated incidents of large-scale thefts and subsequent profit amplification can deter new investors and make existing ones wary. Regulatory Scrutiny: Governments and regulators may push for stricter oversight if they perceive the crypto space as a haven for criminal activity. Security Imperatives: Projects must redouble their efforts in auditing, bug bounties, and implementing multi-layered security protocols to prevent such incidents. It’s clear that while the market rallies bring excitement for investors, they also present opportunities for those with ill intent. The ongoing cat-and-mouse game between Ethereum hackers and security professionals is more intense than ever. Protecting Your Assets in a Volatile Market In light of these developments, what can you do to protect your digital assets? Vigilance and proactive measures are key. Always prioritize the security of your funds, especially when market conditions are volatile. Use Reputable Platforms: Stick to well-audited and established exchanges and DeFi protocols. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts. Be Wary of Phishing: Always double-check URLs and email senders before clicking links or providing information. Cold Storage for Large Holdings: For significant amounts of crypto, consider hardware wallets or other offline storage solutions. Stay Informed: Follow reputable on-chain analysis experts and security researchers to understand emerging threats and best practices in crypto security . The crypto market’s dynamic nature means both opportunities and risks. Understanding how incidents like the recent ETH price surge impacting hacker gains occur is the first step towards building a safer ecosystem for everyone. In conclusion, the revelation that an ETH price surge has swelled hacker gains by over $83 million serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threats in the digital asset space. While the market celebrates new highs, the vigilance of on-chain analysis is crucial in exposing the darker side of crypto profitability. It underscores the urgent need for enhanced crypto security measures and continued community awareness to combat the sophisticated tactics of Ethereum hackers . Staying informed and prioritizing security are paramount for navigating this evolving landscape safely. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: How did hackers gain additional profits from the ETH price surge? Hackers amplified their initial illicit gains by holding onto the stolen Ethereum (ETH) and then strategically trading it as the ETH price surged. This allowed them to profit from both the initial theft and the subsequent market rally. Q2: Who are the specific hackers mentioned in the report by EmberCN? On-chain analyst EmberCN identified three groups of hackers: the Radiant Capital hacker, the Infini hacker, and an additional unidentified hacker. Each of these entities saw significant boosts to their stolen funds due to the ETH price surge. Q3: What is on-chain analysis and why is it important in tracking hacker activities? On-chain analysis is the process of examining public blockchain data to trace transactions, identify patterns, and uncover illicit activities. It is crucial for tracking hacker activities because it provides transparency, helping security experts and law enforcement follow the flow of stolen funds and understand attacker tactics. Q4: How can individuals protect their crypto assets from similar threats? Individuals can enhance their crypto security by using reputable platforms, enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA), being vigilant against phishing attempts, considering cold storage for large holdings, and staying informed about the latest security practices and threats through reliable sources. Q5: What are the broader implications of hackers profiting from market rallies? When hackers profit from market rallies, it can erode investor confidence, increase regulatory scrutiny on the crypto space, and highlight the urgent need for projects to implement more robust security protocols. It underscores the ongoing challenge of combating sophisticated cybercrime in the digital asset ecosystem. If you found this article insightful, please consider sharing it with your network on social media. Your awareness helps strengthen our collective crypto security! To learn more about the latest Ethereum trends, explore our article on key developments shaping Ethereum price action. This post ETH Price Surge: Shocking $83M Hacker Gains Revealed by On-Chain Analysis first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team
15 Aug 2025, 11:30
Top Cryptocurrencies to Watch as the Fed is Expected to Cut Rates in September
As the Federal Reserve has signaled an almost certain cut in interest rates this September, the crypto market is bracing for another cycle of capital influx and strategic positioning. While older and more conventional names like Ethereum (ETH) are set to move in accordance with general market sentiment, newer DeFi player Mutuum Finance (MUTM) is attracting disproportionate attention. Mutuum Finance (MUTM) is currently trading at $0.035 in presale phase 6. The early investors in the project will have at least 400% profit when MUTM can be bought and sold in the open market. Mutuum Finance has already amassed over $14.4 million in sales and has over 15220 token buyers. With volatility set to explode ahead of the Fed call, both established and newer blockchain projects can expect to see dramatic flips in investor interest. Ethereum Rallies Toward $5,000 as Fed Rate Cut Hopes Rise Ethereum (ETH) is hovering near $4,620, underpinned by strong institutional demand, ETF inflows, and renewed optimism following U.S. inflation data that bolsters expectations of a Federal Reserve rate cut in September. Improved CPI figures and rising chances of monetary easing have triggered bullish momentum across crypto markets, with Ethereum inching towards its all-time high. The $4,800-$5,000 area is now being tracked by analysts as the next key resistance for ETH. New protocols such as Mutuum Finance are also rising to prominence among investors in this macro-driven market. Mutuum Finance Enters Presale Stage 6 Mutuum Finance is performing amazingly in presale. The project is currently at $0.035 as stage 6 gains traction. Mutuum Finance is changing the game in the way DeFi operates by building a system with real-world real-use cases. The presale has garnered more than 15220 token holders with more than $14.4 million worth of funds already invested. $100K Value of Tokens to Be Won Mutuum Finance also launched a giveaway of $100,000. There will be 10 winners who will receive a reward of $10,000 in Mutuum Finance tokens. The giveaway is one of the evidences of how hard the project works to have a long-term and a loyal fanbase. Another move towards transparency and security, Mutuum Finance (MUTM) has initiated an Official Bug Bounty Program with CertiK. The project team will be rewarding the participants with up to $50,000 USDT for finding bugs in the project. The aim of the bounty program is to get a good coverage of all vulnerability classes. The program is split into the four vulnerability classes according to their severity, i.e., critical, major, minor, and low. Mutuum Finance is a P2P and P2C lending protocol. It is a DeFi experience end-to-end to exactly meet the need of the consumers and comparatively safer, transparent, and diversified compared to conventional centralized finance products. High-Performance Lending Protocol Mutuum Finance is among the top-rated DeFi protocols in which assets are in total control of the users. It is a two-model lending protocol that is making lending and borrowing highly flexible and efficient such as Peer-to-Contract and Peer-to-Peer models. Peer-to-Contract is a smart automatic contract where there is no human involvement at any stage. Peer-to-Peer model lacks an intermediary and hence lenders are directly linked to borrowers. Ethereum can reach new heights if the Fed proceeds with Sept rate cuts, but Mutuum Finance is providing investors with an uncommon chance at merely $0.035 in front of its Stage 7 jump to $0.04. With $14.4M raised as of now, 15,220+ holders, and 95.0 CertiK trust score, force is building rapidly. Be a part of it now before price rises and the market rushes in. For more information about Mutuum Finance (MUTM) visit the links below: Website: https://mutuum.com/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/mutuumfinance
15 Aug 2025, 11:29
Russia’s Garantex execs rack up to $6 million bounty from US authorities
Authorities in the U.S. are offering $6 million in rewards for the capture of key figures behind Russian cryptocurrency exchange Garantex. The announcement follows the sanctioning of one of the founders of the coin trading platform, allegedly used by Russian actors to move money, bypass sanctions and commit crime. Washington targets Russian crypto exchange Garantex The United States is increasing pressure on the people who launched and ran Russian digital asset exchange Garantex, shut down in a U.S.-led law enforcement effort earlier this year. The Departments of State and the Treasury have now put bounties on the exchange’s executives, according to an announcement issued on Thursday, after the U.S. placed its co-founder, Sergey Mendeleev, under sanctions. The State Department’s Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program (TOCRP), which backs efforts to disrupt global crime, is now offering $6 million for information leading to the arrests and convictions of Garantex leaders. The total includes up to $5 million for the capture of its sales manager, Aleksandr Mira Serda, a Russian national also known as “Aleksandr Ntifo-Siaw,” and up to $1 million for other key leaders of the exchange, the government institutions detailed, stating: “Today, the Departments of State and the Treasury are targeting Garantex, a Russian-operated cryptocurrency exchange allegedly used by a wide variety of cybercriminals and cybercrime organizations for money laundering, and its network.” The authorities reminded that, according to the U.S. Secret Service and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Garantex received hundreds of millions in criminal proceeds. The money was used to facilitate various crimes, including hacking, ransomware, terrorism, and drug trafficking, often resulting in “substantial harm for U.S. victims.” The press release highlighted: “Between April 2019 and March 2025, Garantex processed at least $96 billion in cryptocurrency transactions.” U.S. tightens noose on operators of Russian crypto exchange Garantex was co-founded by Aleksandr Mira Serda, Sergey Mendeleev, and Stanislav Drugalev in 2019 and was active until the Secret Service and the FBI, together with Europol, seized its website in March 2025, froze $26 million worth of Tether (USDT) in wallets linked to the platform and charged its administrators with money laundering. The bounties were announced after the Treasury Department’s U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) added Mendeleev to its sanctions list. The Russian entrepreneur described his sanctioning as “absolutely logical” from the point of view of “Americans who, of course, don’t understand the realities of our crypto market.” Speaking to leading Russian crypto news outlet Bits.media, Mendeleev insisted he hasn’t had anything to do with Garantex for the past five years, calling it “no more than a line in my biography.” He was also quoted as stating: “I understand when the Wall Street Journal prints some fiction about my participation in financing Hamas, whom I call terrorists in every interview, or talks about how I help bomb Ukraine, which is especially amusing for those who know me. But OFAC seems to be a serious organization, it’s the Trump administration.” OFAC targeted a number of Russian entities and other individuals accused of helping with sanctions evasion. Among them are A7, the company that launched the Ruble-pegged stablecoin A7A5 , Exved, a cross-border payment service, and Indefi Smartbank, which provided technical support to Exved. Grinex, which is believed to have succeeded the now-defunct Garantex, was also sanctioned, as well as Old Vector, the firm that issues A7A5. Both are registered in the former Soviet republic of Kyrgyzstan . Mendeleev made it clear he is not managing Grinex and said he heard some of the other names for the first time, adding that Indefi and Exved “have nothing but websites.” He also remarked he had prepared for all this in advance, claiming the sanctions would have no effect on his activities. Don’t just read crypto news. Understand it. Subscribe to our newsletter. It's free .
15 Aug 2025, 11:29
Has XRP’s Bull Run Just Begun or Is the Top Already In? AI Models Predict 2025 Peak Price
TL;DR Ripple’s cross-border token is among the cryptocurrencies that managed to break their previous all-time highs this year and chart a fresh peak. However, it has lost steam in the following month, unlike many of its competitors, and the question now arises whether the 2025 top has already been reached or does XRP have the legs for one more run. Bull Vs. Bear Cases In terms of methodology, the AI solution said it prompted four large language models with identical inputs to reach its conclusion. It reviewed the most recent price actions, historical cycle behavior, common technical markets, such as the Fibonacci extensions, as well as support and resistance lines, and potential catalysts ( ETF applications , legal clarity , payments adoption, and overall global situation). Admitting that making bold predictions is highly speculative, especially in the cryptocurrency industry, ChatGPT outlined two main scenarios – bullish and bearish. Should the first materialize, XRP’s price would break out of its current sideways structure between $3.00 and $3.50 and head toward a new peak of up to $7 by the end of the year. In case more catalysts cluster, ChatGPT noted that the third-largest cryptocurrency can rocket to lower double-digit territory as well. Some of those potential propellers include: Catalyst Fatigue : If ETF momentum stalls or legal headlines disappoint, enthusiasm can unwind quickly. Macro Shock : A risk-off turn—driven by rates, liquidity, or geopolitics—would hit high-beta assets hardest. Although there was a bearish scenario as well, it still sounds quite promising for XRP bulls. ChatGPT said there is a possibility that the July 2025 all-time high of $3.65 could be as high as Ripple’s token can go this year. Failed Reclaim : Multiple failed attempts to clear the $3.4–$3.6 band, especially on declining volume, strengthen the case for a deeper retrace into the mid-$2s or lower. Still, it noted that this is the least likely scenario to transpire as long as the overall market conditions remain similar or even more favorable. AI Conclusion OpenAI’s solution, which recently revealed its fifth version, noted that models do not promise a moonshot, but they also don’t believe the top is in for 2025. After mentioning the necessary disclaimer that this conclusion is not direct financial advice, ChatGPT said: “The consensus says XRP’s 2025 peak most likely lands in the $5–$7 band if price reclaims and holds above prior highs on rising volume and at least one major catalyst materializes. Without that, the market may have already printed its local top. Bottom line: watch the $3.4–$3.6 corridor, volume expansion, and headline catalysts—because the next decisive move will likely be fast.” The post Has XRP’s Bull Run Just Begun or Is the Top Already In? AI Models Predict 2025 Peak Price appeared first on CryptoPotato .
