Invest ideasNews
18 Jan 2026, 12:00
Steak ’N Shake Doubles Down On Bitcoin With $10M Balance Sheet Boost
Steak ’n Shake has moved $10 million of Bitcoin onto its corporate balance sheet, a fresh step in the fast-food chain’s crypto push. According to reports, the purchase equals about 105 BTC at current prices, and the company says all customer Bitcoin receipts feed into a so-called Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Tied To Sales Based on reports, Steak ’n Shake calls its new approach a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and says it links reserve growth directly to rising same-store sales. The company has framed the move as part of daily operations rather than a standalone financial bet. Customers who pay with Bitcoin are effectively contributing to the reserve, the chain said. This is a different route from companies that raise capital or borrow specifically to buy crypto. Eight months ago today, Steak n Shake launched its burger-to-Bitcoin transformation when we started accepting bitcoin payments. Our same-store sales have risen dramatically ever since. All Bitcoin sales go into our Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. Today we increased our Bitcoin… — Steak ‘n Shake (@SteaknShake) January 17, 2026 Payments On The Lightning Network Steak ’n Shake started accepting Bitcoin at US locations in mid-May 2025, using the Lightning Network to handle payments, according to earlier coverage. The company reports payment processing fees have fallen by roughly 50% compared with traditional card payments, and sales have risen since the rollout. Reports note same-store sales gains in the low-to-mid double digits — figures such as 15% have been cited by several outlets. The $10 million allocation follows eight months of active Bitcoin payments at the tills. Management says the reserve will fund store upgrades and ingredient improvements without raising menu prices. The firm also ran a branded promotion last year that linked small Bitcoin rewards to specific menu purchases, part of its wider effort to make crypto part of the customer experience. How The Company Plans To Use Funds Reports indicate Steak ’n Shake wants the reserve to be a steady, internally funded asset rather than a speculative holding driven by market timing. Some of the Bitcoin will support operational improvements, while other parts may be kept as a corporate asset. That mix could change if management alters its view of how Bitcoin fits with broader company goals. Industry watchers point out that $10 million is modest against the biggest corporate crypto treasuries, but it is one of the more public moves by a legacy consumer brand. The trend of businesses accepting Bitcoin and then holding some of it has drawn attention because it ties everyday commerce to cryptocurrency accumulation. Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView
18 Jan 2026, 11:58
Internet Computer (ICP) Pulls Back After 30% Weekly Rally as Profit-Taking Intensifies
Internet Computer (ICP) is pulling back after a high-velocity rally, underscoring how sharp surges in altcoins often invite rapid profit-taking. The token fell roughly 3%, contrasting sharply with its 30% gain over the past week and signaling that near-term momentum has cooled. This analysis is powered by Outset PR , a crypto PR firm built on data, which helps Web3 projects make the most of every moment. A Strong Weekly Rally Driven by Inflation Reduction Proposal ICP’s impressive weekly surge was fueled largely by DFINITY’s “Mission 70” whitepaper, which proposes reducing token inflation by 70% by the end of 2026. The prospect of significantly lower issuance sparked bullish sentiment and renewed interest in ICP’s long-term tokenomics. This policy-driven catalyst attracted momentum traders, contributing to the rapid upside move and lifting ICP to a 39% monthly gain. Profit-Taking Follows Parabolic Moves However, such strong rallies often trigger equally sharp reversals as traders secure profits. The speed of ICP’s rise created ideal conditions for short-term participants to exit positions, especially as market-wide liquidity began to soften. The token faced natural resistance near the $4.80 Fibonacci swing high—an area that historically acts as a profit-taking zone during extended moves. Once ICP approached this level, selling pressure intensified, accelerating the pullback. PR with C-Level Clarity: Outset PR’s Proprietary Techniques Deliver Tangible Results If PR has ever felt like trying to navigate a foggy road without headlights, Outset PR brings clarity with data. It builds strategies based on both retrospective and real-time metrics, which helps to obtain results with a long-lasting effect. Outset PR replaces vague promises with concrete plans tied to perfect publication timing, narratives that emphasize the product-market fit, and performance-based media selection. Clients gain a forward-looking perspective: how their story will unfold, where it will land, and what impact it may create. While most crypto PR agencies rely on standardized packages and mass-blast outreach, Outset PR takes a tailored approach. Each campaign is calibrated to match the client’s specific goals, budget, and growth stage. This is PR with a personal touch, where strategy feels handcrafted and every client gets a solution that fits. Outset PR’s secret weapon is its exclusive traffic acquisition tech and internal media analytics. Proprietary Tech That Powers Performance One of Outset PR’s most impactful tools is its in-house user acquisition system. It fuses organic editorial placements with SEO and lead-generation tactics, enabling clients to appear in high-discovery surfaces and drive multiples more traffic than through conventional PR alone. Case in point: Crypto exchange ChangeNOW experienced a sustained 40% boost in reach after Outset PR amplified a well-polished organic coverage with a massive Google Discover campaign, powered by its proprietary content distribution engine. Drive More Traffic with Outset PR’s In-house Tech Outset PR Notices Media Trends Ahead of the Crowd Outset PR obtains unique knowledge through its in-house analytical desk which gives it a competitive edge. The team regularly provides valuable insights into the performance of crypto media outlets based on the criteria like: domain activity month-on-month visibility shifts audience geography source of traffic By consistently publishing analytical reports, identifying performance trends, and raising the standards of media targeting across the industry, Outset PR unlocks a previously untapped niche in crypto PR, which poses it as a trendsetter in this field. Case in point: The careful selection of media outlets has helped Outset PR increase user engagement for Step App in the US and UK markets. Outset PR Engineers Visibility That Fits the Market One of the biggest pain points in Web3 PR is the disconnect between effort and outcome: generic messaging, no product-market alignment, and media hits that generate visibility but leave business impact undefined. Outset PR addresses this by offering customized solutions. Every campaign begins with a thorough research and follows a clearly mapped path from spend to the result. It's data-backed and insight-driven with just the right level of boutique care. ICP Price Outlook ICP’s 3% drop represents a natural cooling phase following an outsized rally. With sentiment elevated, liquidity thinning, and RSI signaling exhaustion, the pullback appears to be a standard corrective move rather than a shift in long-term narrative. The key question now is whether buyers return on dips or whether momentum fades further as traders reassess the sustainability of recent gains. For now, ICP’s fundamental catalyst remains intact, but near-term volatility is likely as the market digests its rapid ascent. Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
18 Jan 2026, 11:56
Best Crypto Sportsbooks for Cricket Betting — Top IPL Markets
Cricket betting has always attracted massive volumes, but in recent years the shift toward crypto cricket betting has become especially noticeable. As leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL) continue to dominate global viewership, bettors are increasingly choosing crypto sportsbooks to place wagers quickly and without geographic or banking restrictions. The rise of crypto cricket bet online platforms reflects a broader trend: players want faster access, flexible payments, and uninterrupted betting during high-intensity tournaments. With dozens of matches packed into short timeframes, IPL betting demands platforms built for speed and scale — something crypto sportsbooks are uniquely positioned to deliver. Why Cricket Bettors Are Moving to Crypto Sportsbooks Cricket has one of the most geographically diverse betting audiences in sports. Fans across India, the UK, Australia, South Asia, and parts of Africa all follow major tournaments closely — yet traditional sportsbooks often struggle to support this global demand efficiently. This is where online crypto cricket bet sites gain an advantage. Crypto payments remove cross-border friction, allowing bettors to place wagers without relying on local banks or region-specific payment systems. Deposits are faster, withdrawals are more predictable, and access remains consistent throughout long tournaments like the IPL. As a result, crypto cricket betting has evolved from a niche option into a mainstream alternative for serious cricket bettors. Why IPL Is One of the Most Bet-On Cricket Leagues The Indian Premier League is not just the most watched cricket competition — it is also one of the most bet-driven leagues worldwide. Its format is designed for constant action and rapid momentum shifts, which naturally fuels betting activity. Key reasons IPL attracts heavy crypto betting volumes include: Short T20 matches with quick outcomes Frequent matches across a compressed schedule High-profile teams and international star players Constant rotation of form and conditions Because matches are played almost daily, bettors actively seek platforms that allow them to bet on IPL with crypto without interruptions. This demand has pushed crypto cricket betting sites to expand IPL market depth and live coverage significantly. Live Betting Opportunities in Cricket and IPL Live betting is where cricket truly shines — especially during IPL matches. Every over can change the outcome, creating a constant stream of betting opportunities throughout the game. Common live cricket betting markets include: Runs scored in the next over Next wicket to fall Top batsman or bowler Team performance by innings Match winner after specific overs For players using online crypto cricket bet sites, live markets are particularly attractive because they allow rapid reactions to changing conditions. Crypto sportsbooks are well-suited for this environment, offering fast bet placement and uninterrupted access during extended match sessions. What to Look for in a Crypto Cricket Betting Platform Not all sportsbooks are equally suited for cricket betting, especially when it comes to fast-paced tournaments like the IPL. Experienced bettors tend to focus on a few key factors before choosing where to place their wagers. Important features to look for include: Depth of cricket and IPL markets, both pre-match and live Live betting and cash out options to manage positions during long matches Support for major cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and stablecoins Stable platform performance during peak betting hours Accessibility across regions, especially during global tournaments Platforms that combine these elements tend to perform best for crypto cricket betting, particularly during high-volume IPL fixtures. Best Crypto Sportsbooks for Cricket Betting Dexsport — Best Crypto Sportsbook for Cricket and IPL Betting Dexsport positions itself as a crypto-native sportsbook built for players who value speed, transparency, and control. Rather than adapting a traditional betting model, the platform is designed around blockchain-based wagering and decentralized infrastructure. For cricket bettors, Dexsport offers: Full support for Bitcoin, USDT, Ethereum, BNB, and TRON Extensive cricket and IPL markets with live betting options Cash Out functionality for in-play bets, allowing flexible risk management Non-custodial betting with on-chain transparency No mandatory KYC, making the platform accessible to a global cricket audience These features make Dexsport particularly well-suited for crypto cricket bet online use cases, where bettors place multiple wagers across frequent IPL matches and long-format tournaments. Voltage Bet — Crypto-Friendly Cricket Sportsbook Voltage Bet provides a more traditional sportsbook experience with added crypto payment support. The platform covers international cricket competitions and offers both pre-match and live betting markets. It appeals to players who prefer: A combined sportsbook and casino environment Support for crypto alongside fiat payment methods Straightforward market navigation across major sports However, identity verification may be required before withdrawals, which can be a limiting factor for some crypto-focused bettors. XBet — High-Volume Cricket Betting Platform XBet focuses on broad sports coverage and handles a large volume of live events simultaneously. Cricket markets are well-represented, particularly during major tournaments and international fixtures. Key characteristics include: Strong live betting infrastructure Crypto payment support alongside traditional options Extensive market availability across global sports The interface is designed for experienced users who actively track multiple matches at once. Vave — Live Cricket Betting with Crypto Vave combines sportsbook and casino features in a single platform, with an emphasis on live betting and fast-paced wagering. Cricket and IPL markets are integrated into its broader sports offering. Highlights include: Support for multiple cryptocurrencies Live betting with cash-out options Mobile-friendly interface for betting on the go As with many hybrid platforms, KYC may be required at higher withdrawal levels. Conclusion Cricket’s global reach, frequent matches, and in-play betting depth make it an ideal sport for crypto wagering. As more players look to place crypto cricket bets online, platforms that offer speed, accessibility, and reliable live markets continue to gain traction. For bettors focused on IPL and other major cricket competitions, crypto sportsbooks provide a practical alternative to traditional betting sites. Dexsport stands out for its crypto-first design, non-custodial structure, and flexibility during live matches — qualities that align well with the demands of modern cricket betting.
18 Jan 2026, 11:55
$500 Million Bitcoin Whale Awakens After 12 Years, Dumps Millions with 31,250% Profit
A Satoshi-era whale just sold another 500 BTC for $47.77 million, bringing total cash-outs to $265 million. With $237 million still held, the next dump could shake Bitcoin near $100,000.
18 Jan 2026, 11:49
Beijing to crack down on Chinese tech firms using price wars to gain market share
Xi Jinping wants China’s tech companies to stop tearing each other apart with endless price cuts. Platforms keep slashing costs to beat each other, and now regulators are getting involved. Beijing doesn’t want another year of businesses throwing subsidies at users just to win market share. The government is under pressure to stop this, especially with deflation hanging over the economy and prices falling for more than three years straight. The main watchdog, SAMR, is picking off companies one by one. First, it went after food delivery services. Then this week, it announced an investigation into China’s biggest travel booking site, Ctrip. Ctrip joins food delivery groups under investigation Ctrip is now under official investigation, which SAMR made public on Wednesday, saying that it came right after earlier probes into Meituan and Alibaba’s delivery businesses. Regulators are trying to stop what’s being called “involution;” basically, when companies go all-in on cutting prices and launching discounts just to stay relevant, without any real long-term plan. It’s a problem across China, from tech to electric cars to solar panels. Trip.com, Ctrip’s parent company listed in Hong Kong, dropped over 20% in the past week. Ctrip put out a statement saying it’ll cooperate with the probe and that its operations are still running like normal. SAMR’s new energy isn’t coming out of nowhere. For years after the 2021 tech crackdown, enforcement slowed down. Companies had room to breathe. But now, things are ramping up again . Experts say SAMR feels more confident now, but it’s still understaffed. So instead of launching complex cases, it’s calling in execs for warnings and asking the State Council (China’s top government body) to support its efforts publicly. Price war in food delivery pushes regulators to act The food delivery space is where this really exploded. Last year, Alibaba and JD.com started crowding into Meituan’s territory. Everyone started throwing money at discounts; cheap burgers, free drinks, whatever it took. Platforms bled money. Restaurants had to slash prices too. Regulators called in the platforms for a meeting in July and told them to chill. But the battle didn’t stop. Subsidies kept flowing all summer. One executive said it’s tough to end the fight unless the government starts handing out real fines. But officials are nervous. These companies hire millions of workers and feed thousands of restaurants, so they’re treading lightly during a weak job market. Chelsey Tam at Morningstar said the big discounts seem to be slowing down now, but it took too long. And that lag showed how bad the relationship between tech and the regulators has gotten. Tensions are high. Last month, things got physical. SAMR staff showed up at PDD Group’s Shanghai office. They were there to gather info on pricing and how suppliers were being treated. According to local media, a fight broke out between employees and regulators during the inspection. One source allegedly said SAMR saw PDD’s behavior as arrogant. That kind of reaction could lead to even harsher action later. So far, no fine’s been announced. But if PDD keeps acting like this, it’s probably next in line. The smartest crypto minds already read our newsletter. Want in? Join them .
18 Jan 2026, 11:47
Why Crypto Sportsbooks Are Gaining Popularity Among NHL Bettors
Hockey has always been one of the most dynamic sports for betting. Fast pace, frequent scoring, constant momentum shifts — the NHL offers far more in-play opportunities than many other leagues. Over the past few seasons, a growing number of hockey fans have started to bet on the NHL using crypto , and this shift is no coincidence. Crypto sportsbooks like Dexsport are increasingly becoming the preferred choice for NHL bettors who value speed, flexibility, and full control over their wagering experience. NHL Betting Is Growing — And So Is the Crypto Audience The NHL has a massive and expanding global audience. Beyond North America, hockey attracts strong viewership across Europe, Scandinavia, and Eastern Europe — regions where crypto adoption is already high. This overlap explains why NHL crypto betting is growing so quickly. Crypto allows fans to place bets instantly, without relying on banks or regional payment systems. As a result, more bettors are turning to platforms built specifically for digital assets rather than adapting to traditional sportsbooks. Why Hockey Is Perfect for Crypto Betting Hockey is uniquely suited for crypto sportsbooks due to the nature of the game itself. NHL matches feature: High scoring frequency compared to many other sports Rapid shifts in momentum Short intervals between goals Constant action across all three periods This creates an environment where live betting thrives. Bettors aren’t limited to a single pre-match wager — instead, they can adjust strategies throughout the game. On platforms like Dexsport, this translates into a wide range of in-play options, making crypto bets on NHL games far more engaging than traditional fixed markets. In-Play NHL Markets Drive Crypto Betting Demand One of the main reasons NHL crypto betting sites are gaining popularity is the sheer number of live markets available during a game. Popular NHL live betting options include: Who scores the next goal Total goals by period Team to score first or last Puck line and totals adjusted in real time Outcome after specific time intervals Because goals can come in quick succession, bettors need platforms that update odds instantly and allow fast bet placement. Crypto sportsbooks are naturally better suited for this environment, especially when combined with non-custodial infrastructure. Frequent Games and Non-Stop Betting Opportunities Unlike many leagues with limited weekly schedules, the NHL runs multiple games almost every day throughout the regular season. This frequency is another key driver behind the rise of crypto betting in hockey. For bettors, this means: Continuous betting opportunities Easier bankroll rotation Ability to spread risk across many matches Dexsport supports this style of betting by offering fast settlements and uninterrupted access, allowing users to move smoothly from one NHL game to the next without delays. Big Odds and Unpredictable Outcomes Hockey is notoriously unpredictable. Underdogs often outperform expectations, and even top teams can collapse within minutes. This volatility is exactly what attracts experienced bettors looking for value. Crypto sportsbooks amplify this advantage by: Allowing quick reactions to changing odds Supporting flexible bet sizing Enabling early profit locking through Cash Out For players seeking the best crypto sportsbook for NHL betting, unpredictability isn’t a risk — it’s an opportunity. Dexsport : A Crypto-Native Platform Built for NHL Betting Dexsport approaches NHL betting from a crypto-first perspective. Rather than adapting traditional sportsbook models, the platform is designed around blockchain transparency and user control. Key features for NHL bettors include: Full support for Bitcoin, USDT, and multiple major cryptocurrencies Non-custodial betting with on-chain transparency Live NHL markets with Cash Out functionality No mandatory KYC, allowing private and unrestricted access Fast deposits and withdrawals across multiple networks Dexsport’s structure suits bettors who actively engage with NHL games, especially those who focus on live markets and dynamic in-play strategies. Why NHL Bettors Are Moving to Crypto Sportsbooks The growing shift toward NHL crypto betting is driven by practical advantages rather than trends or marketing narratives. Hockey is fast, unpredictable, and packed with live betting opportunities — and crypto sportsbooks are simply better equipped to handle that pace. With frequent games, volatile odds, and constant in-play action, NHL bettors increasingly favor platforms that offer speed, flexibility, and full control over funds. Dexsport fits naturally into this environment by combining non-custodial betting, real-time markets, and unrestricted access — making it a logical choice for modern hockey bettors who value efficiency over friction.
