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21 Jan 2026, 06:32
Rolex, Patek lead high-end watch market rebound even as bitcoin struggles
Secondary watch prices are up about 4% over six months, even as crypto slides and gold and silver absorb the macro stress trade.
21 Jan 2026, 05:17
Crypto users spend more each day using payment cards
Midway through January 2026, close to 60,000 transactions per day were made with cryptocurrency payment cards, a 22 times increase since December 2024. Instead of converting digital currency through conventional exchange platforms, more people are opting to pay merchants directly. Instant conversion occurs at checkout with cryptocurrency payment cards, turning digital assets into fiat currency immediately. Because they connect to widely accepted systems such as Visa or Mastercard, users avoid moving funds through conventional banking channels. Settlement occurs during transactions, eliminating the need for extra steps before spending. Crypto users spend more each day using payment cards More crypto users are opting for payment cards for daily purchases because they bypass the traditional hurdles of converting digital currency into spending cash. Rather than using exchanges, liquidating assets, enduring withdrawal delays, and then transferring funds through banks, people can find quicker paths. Direct access is via cards compatible with established systems such as Visa or Mastercard , so transactions flow smoothly across physical stores, eateries, and online retailers alike. This trend is evident in transaction data, with the everyday use of cryptocurrency-linked cards rising alongside interest in faster ways to spend digital money without disrupting regular routines. At the point of sale, funds are instantly converted from crypto to local currency, which means users maintain access to their holdings until the exact time of payment, offering a different timing advantage over earlier asset liquidation. The trend is also spreading quickly across networks, increasing the use of crypto payment cards and daily transactions to $4 million total, suggesting these payment tools now support measurable financial flows. Slow increases in daily usage have cumulatively reached large numbers, highlighting a wider acceptance of cryptocurrency payment cards. More than 7.3 million transactions were processed, with total spending exceeding $804 million. Close to 150,000 active users support this growth. Such data suggests that use extends beyond early users to individuals treating digital currency as actual money rather than merely assets held for gain. A closer look at blockchain-specific activity reveals patterns across separate systems, with Solana emerging as a key example. Over 20,000 individuals have used crypto cards built on Solana, resulting in close to 385,000 transactions and surpassing $40 million in combined purchases; proof that efficient, economical networks can handle widespread payment demand. Such figures explain why certain card companies choose dedicated blockchains to boost performance while reducing costs during routine financial transactions. Crypto users spend more each day using payment cards Card companies are now focusing on rewards and simplicity as payment cards move closer to mainstream adoption. Because transactions are increasing fast, attracting new customers, the competition heats up. As everyday spending rises with digital currency tools, standing out from the competition matters more than ever. Simply allowing payments no longer cuts it; companies must now offer better pricing, smoother transactions, and extra features to shape who wins attention. Currently leading in a crowded sector, Etherfi manages close to 50% of cryptocurrency-based card payments, positioning itself firmly as demand grows. Even so, new competitors like Gnosis, MetaMask, Tria, Holyheld, and Ready are expanding the market through fresh launches or upgrades to current models. As these companies move forward, access widens; at the same time, standards shift, shaping how people view services tied to their digital holdings. Winning customers means focusing on practical benefits during regular transactions. A portion of what is spent is returned through cash incentives on certain cards, also referred to as cashback rewards. International transactions cost less when currency conversion fees are eliminated, and phone payments now mirror physical cards thanks to compatibility with mobile platforms. Flexibility also extends further when borrowing uses digital assets as collateral to avoid full liquidation. A few crypto payment card accounts use DeFi methods designed to steadily grow value, allowing people to earn small profits without locking away cash. One moment you’re paying for coffee, the next, your balance is working behind the scenes, earning interest. What stands out is how these tools combine careful preparation with everyday use, attracting people who prefer passive income over idle assets. However, things shift when firms are lined up side by side: pricing, perks, and progress systems diverge in separate directions. As usage grows steadily, such variations highlight a sector exploring its limits while gradually defining standards. If you're reading this, you’re already ahead. Stay there with our newsletter .
21 Jan 2026, 02:04
Asia Market Open: Bitcoin Tumbles To $88K, Gold Sets Record As Markets Price Fresh Trade Shock
Bitcoin slid 4% to about $88,000 on Wednesday as a sharp leverage unwind ripped through crypto markets, adding fresh stress to a week already defined by risk aversion across stocks, bonds and currencies. Spot gold surged past $4,800 an ounce for the first time, while silver also notched record highs, as investors kept leaning into havens during a broad “Sell America” style move that pressured the dollar. Liquidation data from CoinGlass showed 181,570 traders got wiped out over the past 24 hours, taking total liquidations to $1.07B. Long positions took most of the damage, with $998.33M liquidated versus $71.39M in shorts. Market snapshot Bitcoin : $88,942, down 4% Ether : $2,963, down 7.1% XRP : $1.90, down 3.8% Total crypto market cap: $3.09 trillion, down 3.9% Bitcoin, Ether Dominate Liquidations As Equities Stay Under Pressure Bitcoin and Ether accounted for the bulk of the forced selling. The heatmap showed $440.19M in Bitcoin liquidations and $392.38M in Ether, while the remaining tokens together tallied about $52.60M. Dow tumbles by more than 850 points and stocks suffer worst day since October as Trump clashes with European leaders over Greenland https://t.co/WQDVJiQ8H4 — CNN (@CNN) January 20, 2026 The risk mood also weighed on equities in Asia, where losses extended into a third session. MSCI’s Asia-Pacific index outside Japan fell 0.3% in early trade, and Japan’s Nikkei dropped 1.2%, marking a fifth straight decline. Europe looked soft as well. Euro Stoxx 50 futures and DAX futures both slipped 0.4%, keeping traders on edge as they assessed the latest tariff timeline and its knock-on effects for global growth. Wall Street Losses Deepen As Trump Doubles Down On Greenland In the US, the previous session delivered the heaviest hit, with Wall Street sliding more than 2% overnight. The S&P 500 fell 2.06% and the Nasdaq Composite sank 2.4%, while Nasdaq and S&P 500 futures later steadied, up about 0.2% in early dealing. That same flight to safety kept pushing bullion higher. Trade tensions stayed at the centre of the story. President Donald Trump doubled down on his Greenland rhetoric, saying there was “no going back” on his goal to control the island, and his tariff threats toward Europe revived fears of a wider trade war. Policymakers in Europe prepared their response, with the European Union set to hold an emergency summit in Brussels on Thursday and leaders weighing options that include tariffs worth 93B euros, $109B, on US imports. Koinly CEO Robin Singh said February has historically been Bitcoin’s month, averaging double-digit gains over the past decade. “But underperformance wouldn’t be surprising, and it’s not necessarily a bad thing,” he said. The post Asia Market Open: Bitcoin Tumbles To $88K, Gold Sets Record As Markets Price Fresh Trade Shock appeared first on Cryptonews .
21 Jan 2026, 02:01
Why the CEO of crypto trading firm XBTO says gold is surging while bitcoin stays quiet in 2026: Asia Morning Briefing
XBTO CEO Philippe Bekhazi told CoinDesk in an interview that ETFs, derivatives hedging, and corporate treasuries are compressing BTC swings, while metals absorb the macro stress trade.
21 Jan 2026, 01:55
ECB chief Lagarde warns uncertainty is back as Trump targets Europe
European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde says uncertainty is back because of the latest tariff threats from U.S. President Donald Trump. Speaking to CNN at the World Economic Forum in Davos, she warned that these trade tensions are hurting trust between the U.S. and Europe. Companies in both regions are now trying to figure out how these new tariff threats might affect their business and the economy. Lagarde stated that the uncertainty caused by the tariffs is more hurtful than the tariffs themselves. ECB warns trade uncertainty could slow investment and economic growth Christine Lagarde said that the biggest concern at the moment was not just the risk of new tariffs, but the uncertainty about what might happen. If companies, investors, and markets do not know what will happen next, they will probably delay plans to invest, hire, or adopt trade policies. This could slow economic growth, according to the ECB. Trade serves as a bridge between Europe and the United States of America. Many European companies operate in the U.S., and many American companies do the same in Europe. On the economic side, abrupt changes in tariffs threaten to confuse businesses that depend on stable trade rules and pose risks. This is a pressing concern for the ECB, as companies begin cutting back on spending and investment, which may slow the European economy. Indeed, interest rates have been on hold since June, and neither investors nor economists expect further steps for now. Bank of France Governor Francois Villeroy de Galhau told reporters earlier Tuesday that any new tariffs must be assessed, but added that he expects their influence on prices to be muted. International trade uncertainty can also impact inflation – the rate at which prices climb. If tariffs increase the cost of imported goods, this can drive up prices. But since Europe imports many products from the U.S., those sudden tariff increases could make it even harder for the ECB to meet the goal of stable prices. Trump’s potential action against European countries could threaten the ECB’s benign view of inflation and economic activity in the coming years. Although the euro zone has shown resilience to growing protectionism so far, officials have continuously highlighted that risks remain elevated. Lagarde urges U.S. and Europe to protect trade ties Lagarde said that the U.S. and Europe have strong trade ties. For many years, they have bought and sold goods from each other, invested in each other’s businesses, and created jobs through cooperation. She explained that it is not “good business policy” to risk these trade links. Lagarde encouraged leaders in both regions to carefully consider potential outcomes before making decisions. Lagarde shared these views in an interview aired on Tuesday at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. This event brings together world leaders, businesspeople, and experts to discuss major global issues. This year, trade tensions were one of the main topics. In her interview, Lagarde spoke directly about the type of trade actions Trump has been suggesting. Trump returned to White House, wielding significant influence in U.S. politics, and continues to impose higher tariffs on European and other foreign goods. When Lagarde said this is a “movie we’ve seen before,” she meant that Europe has faced similar trade disputes before. Sharpen your strategy with mentorship + daily ideas - 30 days free access to our trading program
21 Jan 2026, 01:30
Gold Price Soars to Staggering New All-Time High, Shattering $4,800 Barrier
BitcoinWorld Gold Price Soars to Staggering New All-Time High, Shattering $4,800 Barrier In a landmark move for global financial markets, the gold price has shattered records, surging past the $4,800 per ounce threshold to set a new, staggering all-time high. As of early 2025 trading, spot gold trades firmly at $4,799.25, marking a decisive 0.77% daily gain and an astonishing climb of approximately $500 since the year began. This historic breach signals a profound shift in investor sentiment and global economic dynamics. Gold Price Surge: Analyzing the Record-Breaking Rally The precious metal’s relentless ascent to $4,800 represents a monumental milestone. Consequently, market analysts are scrutinizing the powerful confluence of factors fueling this rally. Primarily, persistent geopolitical tensions continue to drive safe-haven demand. Simultaneously, evolving central bank policies regarding interest rates and currency reserves play a critical role. Furthermore, concerns over global economic stability amplify gold’s traditional appeal as a store of value. This multi-faceted demand creates sustained upward pressure on the gold price . Historically, gold performs strongly during periods of uncertainty. For instance, the 2008 financial crisis and the 2020 pandemic saw significant rallies. However, the current surge’s velocity and magnitude are exceptional. The metal has demonstrated remarkable resilience, consistently finding support at higher price levels. This behavior suggests a structural change in its market perception, transitioning from a cyclical asset to a core strategic holding for many institutions. Key Drivers Behind the Precious Metals Boom Several verifiable, interconnected forces are propelling the precious metals complex. Central bank purchasing has remained a formidable, consistent driver. Notably, institutions in emerging markets continue diversifying reserves away from traditional fiat currencies. Additionally, inflationary pressures, though moderated from previous peaks, linger in major economies, eroding the real value of cash and bonds. Monetary Policy Expectations: Market anticipation of future rate cuts by major central banks reduces the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding gold. Currency Volatility: Fluctuations in the US dollar and other major currencies often see an inverse correlation with gold’s dollar-denominated price . Technical Breakouts: The breach of previous resistance levels near $4,500 triggered algorithmic and momentum buying, accelerating the uptrend. Moreover, retail investment demand through physical bars, coins, and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) has seen a notable resurgence. This broad-based participation across investor classes underscores gold’s universal appeal. Expert Analysis on Market Trajectory and Impact Financial historians and commodity strategists provide crucial context for this event. Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading commodities economist, notes, “The move above $4,800 isn’t an isolated spike. It’s the culmination of a decade-long reassessment of gold’s role in a multi-polar world. The data shows a clear trend of asset allocation shifting towards tangible assets.” This expert perspective aligns with observable fund flow data into commodity indices. The impact extends beyond paper markets. The mining sector is experiencing renewed investor interest, particularly in companies with low production costs. Conversely, industries reliant on physical gold, like jewelry and electronics manufacturing, face significant cost pressures. This dynamic creates a complex economic interplay, influencing everything from consumer goods pricing to national trade balances for gold-exporting nations. Historical Context and Comparative Performance To fully grasp the significance of the $4,800 level, a comparative analysis is essential. The following table illustrates key milestones in gold’s price history, adjusted for inflation to provide real-term context. Year Nominal Price (USD/oz) Major Catalyzing Event 1980 ~$850 High Inflation, Geopolitical Crisis 2011 ~$1,920 Post-Financial Crisis Safe-Haven Demand 2020 ~$2,070 Pandemic-Induced Monetary Expansion 2025 >$4,800 Multi-Factor Macroeconomic & Geopolitical Stress When adjusted for inflation, the 1980 peak would equate to over $3,000 today. Therefore, the current all-time high in real terms is even more pronounced, highlighting the unique nature of the present macroeconomic landscape. Compared to other asset classes like equities or bonds, gold’s low correlation enhances its portfolio diversification benefits, a key reason for its increased adoption in institutional strategies. Conclusion The breach of the $4,800 level for the gold price marks a historic chapter in financial markets. This surge is not a speculative bubble but a response to deep-seated global economic and geopolitical currents. Driven by central bank demand, investment flows, and enduring safe-haven appeal, gold has reaffirmed its foundational status. As markets navigate ongoing uncertainty, this new all-time high serves as a powerful indicator of the prevailing search for stability and tangible value in the global economy. FAQs Q1: What exactly does ‘spot gold’ mean? A1: Spot gold refers to the current market price for immediate delivery and settlement of physical gold. It is the benchmark price quoted for bullion, distinct from futures contracts which specify delivery at a future date. Q2: How does a rising gold price affect the average consumer? A2: Consumers may see higher prices for gold jewelry and electronics containing gold components. Conversely, it can benefit individuals holding physical gold, gold ETFs, or shares in gold mining companies as the value of their assets increases. Q3: Are silver and other precious metals following gold’s trend? A3: Often, yes. Silver, platinum, and palladium frequently exhibit correlated movements with gold, especially during broad-based rallies in safe-haven or inflation-hedge assets, though their individual supply-demand dynamics cause performance variances. Q4: What is the primary reason central banks buy gold? A4: Central banks purchase gold to diversify their foreign exchange reserves, reduce reliance on any single currency (like the US dollar), and bolster financial stability and confidence, as gold is a universally recognized asset with no counterparty risk. Q5: Does this record high mean gold is now overvalued? A5: Valuation is relative. Analysts assess metrics like the gold-to-silver ratio, real interest rates, and mining production costs. While the price is at a record, many argue the fundamental drivers—geopolitical risk, monetary policy, and de-dollarization—justify the levels based on current macroeconomic conditions. This post Gold Price Soars to Staggering New All-Time High, Shattering $4,800 Barrier first appeared on BitcoinWorld .
