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18 Jan 2026, 12:25

Hong Kong to roll out central gold clearing system in MOU with Shanghai Gold Exchange

Hong Kong plans to formalize a new link with the Shanghai Gold Exchange through a memorandum of understanding that will be signed at the Asian Financial Forum next week, according to Financial Secretary Paul Chan in a blog post published on Sunday. Paul said he was leaving for Davos to attend the World Economic Forum, where about 3,000 political and business leaders from more than 100 countries will meet to talk about global risks. He said he would hold meetings, deliver speeches, and promote Hong Kong’s position under China’s upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan. Gold clearing plans target faster trades and lower costs Paul said Hong Kong needs to move faster in a global environment that is changing by the month. Under the One Country, Two Systems framework, the city plays the role of a connector and value builder, especially as global trade rules change. One area the government wants to push harder is gold trading, with the goal of building an international gold hub . He said demand for gold has grown as investors look beyond US dollar assets. Gold prices jumped more than 60% in 2025, the biggest annual gain since 1979. By the third quarter of last year, global gold demand by value rose 44% year on year to $146 billion. Paul added that Asia now needs more reliable platforms for storing, trading, clearing, and pricing gold. Gold trading activity inside Hong Kong has already picked up. By November, average daily turnover of 99 tael gold on the local exchange climbed more than two times from a year earlier to HK$2.9 billion. Paul said the growth exposed a weakness. All over-the-counter spot trades still rely on direct settlement between buyers and sellers. There is no central clearing, which slows trades and raises risks. The government is now pushing to build a central gold clearing system as core financial infrastructure. Paul said the system aims to raise efficiency, improve physical delivery, cut transaction costs, and add liquidity. A trial run is planned within the year, and the Shanghai Gold Exchange has been invited to take part. The memorandum to be signed at the Asian Financial Forum will also include new details on strengthening this clearing system and preparing for future market links with the mainland. Trade digitization supports wider finance and logistics overhaul Paul said geopolitical tensions are not only changing asset allocation. They are also reshaping global trade, supply chains, and business models. Hong Kong plans to upgrade its entire trade ecosystem to protect its role as an international trade center. The government is supporting mainland firms expanding overseas while also speeding up digital upgrades across logistics and trade finance at home. One project is the Port Community System, which launched last week. The platform now connects more than 2,300 companies. It uses artificial intelligence and blockchain to offer real-time cargo tracking around the clock. The system is designed to improve transparency across the logistics chain and make trade data easier to use for financing. Another effort is the CargoX project, led by the government and the Monetary Authority with other agencies. The project uses cargo, logistics, and trade data to simplify trade finance processes and help small and medium-sized firms access funding. A new roadmap will be released this week. It will focus on data, infrastructure, and connectivity, with 20 proposals aimed at building a more digital and competitive trade finance ecosystem. Paul said Hong Kong will keep its open-market policies regardless of whatever, adding that public consultation on the next budget is under way, covering industry growth, job creation, public services, and living standards. He said policymakers must balance these goals against global political risks, local economic transition pressures, and the need to control public spending growth. Hong Kong is also positioning itself as a regional precious metals hub and as a bridge to mainland markets. International clearing is seen as key because it lets investors trade gold without physically moving it. Bloomberg News reported in October that the Shanghai Gold Exchange was already in advanced talks with Hong Kong officials on joining an international clearing system. Gary Ng Cheuk-yan, a senior economist at Natixis Corporate and Investment Bank, said cooperation with Shanghai could strengthen Hong Kong’s role by expanding yuan-based products and attracting overseas investors. “With improved storage and clearing systems, Hong Kong can provide a regulated, safe environment to develop the gold trading ecosystem,” Gary said. “Hong Kong can leverage its multicurrency offerings – including the Hong Kong dollar, US dollar and yuan – to build the necessary storage and clearing infrastructure, eventually attracting investors to trade within the Asian time zone.” If you're reading this, you’re already ahead. Stay there with our newsletter .

18 Jan 2026, 12:12

Earning Interest on USDT in 2026: Flexible Crypto Savings Accounts with Instant Access

Stablecoins have become the backbone of digital finance. Traders use them for liquidity, long-term holders use them to preserve value, and newcomers rely on them as an accessible entry point into crypto. But one of the most practical use cases today is simple: earning passive income on idle USDT. By 2026, most users expect three things from a savings product: daily interest, instant access, and transparent yield generation. Yet many platforms still rely on outdated structures. This guide explains how flexible crypto savings accounts work, what risks to consider, and how solutions like Clapp provide a more functional alternative to traditional and crypto-native products. Why Flexible Savings Have Become the Standard Users have moved away from complicated staking mechanisms and long-term lock-ups. Liquidity is a requirement, not an add-on. The modern crypto saver wants: predictable yield, uninterrupted access to funds, clarity on custody and risk, fiat on- and off-ramps without friction. Flexible savings accounts respond to this shift. They operate as simple interest-bearing balances. You deposit USDT to your Tether savings account , earn interest automatically, and withdraw when needed. There is no commitment period, penalty, or strategic action required. How Flexible Savings Accounts Work A flexible savings account credits interest on your USDT balance every day. You maintain full liquidity: sell your assets, withdraw, or deposit more at any time. There is no reward schedule to track and no requirement to “unstake.” Key characteristics: Daily accrual improves compounding. Instant access gives you liquidity when markets move. Transparent APY lets you calculate expected returns with precision. Low minimums make it accessible whether you hold 10 USDT or 10,000. This simplicity is drawing users away from both traditional yield products and complex on-chain strategies. Clapp Flexible Savings: A Streamlined Way to Earn on USDT Clapp Flexible Savings offers a model built around straightforward, user-driven design. It addresses the structural issues that undermine many traditional and crypto savings products. Daily interest with instant access Interest is calculated and credited every day. You start earning immediately after deposit and maintain full liquidity. Withdrawals do not reduce your rate, and there are no lock-ups. 24/7 liquidity You can move or sell your USDT whenever needed. The account structure is built for constant access, which is critical for market-sensitive strategies. High, transparent yields Clapp provides a clear 5.2% APY on stablecoins and EUR. The rate is displayed directly in the app without tiers, loyalty systems, or conditional multipliers. Low minimum entry You can start earning with as little as 10 EUR, USDC, or USDT. This makes passive income accessible without requiring a large starting balance. Native EUR savings You can deposit EUR via SEPA Instant and begin earning immediately. This reduces friction for users who move between fiat and digital assets. Licensed and secure Clapp Finance is a registered VASP in the Czech Republic and operates under EU AML and compliance standards. Digital assets are stored through Fireblocks’ institutional-grade custody infrastructure. Clapp’s approach eliminates unnecessary complexity. You earn daily, access funds instantly, and understand how your yield is generated. The product is built around user control and clarity rather than optimization hoops or opaque strategies. How Flexible Savings Compare to Other Earning Methods Below is a concise comparison of common USDT earning options in 2026. Method Liquidity Complexity Typical APY Risks CEX Earn Programs Medium–High Low 2–8% Exchange solvency, rehypothecation DeFi Lending (Aave, Compound) High Medium 2–10% Smart contract risk Liquidity Pools High Medium–High 3–15% Impermanent loss, contract risk Structured Products Variable High 5–20% Strategy and counterparty risk Flexible Savings Accounts High Very Low ~5% Platform and custody risk Flexible savings occupy the space for users who want passive yield without complexity. They provide stable returns without exposing users to the volatility of LP positions or the technical overhead of DeFi lending. Risks to Consider Before Choosing a Platform Even with flexible savings, due diligence matters. Evaluate: How custody is handled (self-custody, third-party, shared pools). Regulation and licensing of the provider. Whether yields are sustainable, not inflated by incentives. Speed and cost of withdrawals across fiat and crypto. Risk disclosures and transparency about how returns are generated. A platform that is clear about these factors reduces uncertainty and helps you assess risk effectively. The Bottom Line Earning interest on USDT in 2026 is straightforward when you use flexible savings products that prioritize daily payouts, liquidity, and transparent yields. The market has matured beyond lock-ups, confusing tiers, and complex DeFi workflows. Users want clarity and immediate access, and flexible savings accounts now set the standard. Clapp exemplifies this shift. It offers daily interest, instant access, clear rates, and institutional-grade custody with EU-regulated oversight. For individuals who want dependable passive income on USDT without sacrificing liquidity, flexible savings provide a practical and user-friendly solution. 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, 12:12

Steak ’n Shake Increases Bitcoin Holdings by $10 Million After Eight Months of Crypto Payments

Steak ’n Shake announced Saturday that it has increased its Bitcoin holdings by $10 million in notional value, deepening the fast-food chain’s commitment to digital currency following the rollout of Bitcoin payments across its U.S. restaurants. The Indianapolis-based company said all Bitcoin received from customers goes directly into its “Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.” According to a social media post from the official Steak ’n Shake account, the initiative ties its payment strategy to broader business growth, and the reserve will help fuel improvements without raising menu prices. Steak ’n Shake did not disclose how much Bitcoin it holds in total or the exact timing of the latest purchase but said the increase reflects the cumulative effect of accepting crypto payments for eight months. Bitcoin Payments Linked to Sales Growth Steak ’n Shake began accepting Bitcoin at all U.S. locations in May 2025 via the Lightning Network , a protocol designed to speed up transactions and lower costs compared with traditional card payments. The company said same-store sales have risen “dramatically” since the crypto option was introduced. Independent media reports and company statements from late 2025 showed same-store sales increases of more than 10% in the second quarter and roughly 15% in the third quarter after the Bitcoin rollout began. Steak ’n Shake Chief Operating Officer Dan Edwards previously told reporters that the restaurant saved about 50% on processing fees when customers paid in Bitcoin, compared with credit card fees. The restaurant’s strategy includes a consumer engagement angle. Last year, it introduced a Bitcoin-branded burger and tied part of the proceeds from a “Bitcoin Meal” to donations supporting Bitcoin development projects. Industry analysts say Steak ’n Shake’s approach is unusual for a major restaurant brand because it integrates cryptocurrency directly into daily operations rather than holding it purely as an investment asset. Broader adoption of Bitcoin in retail remains limited, but companies exploring digital currency acceptance say it can reduce costs and attract tech-savvy customers. Steak ’n Shake’s announcement this week marks one of the more notable examples of a consumer-facing business tying its payment systems to Bitcoin accumulation and corporate strategy. Weekly Bitcoin Chart Points to $136,000 Target Meanwhile, Bitcoin’s weekly chart is starting to turn higher after holding a rising trendline, according to technical analyst Donald Dean, who said the next channel target sits near $136,000. Bitcoin Weekly Chart. Source: TradingView / X Dean wrote on X that Bitcoin is “time to move higher,” arguing the latest rebound began from long term trendline support on the weekly timeframe. The chart shows Bitcoin staying inside an upward sloping channel, with the recent pullback stopping above the lower boundary before price started to recover. That structure keeps the broader uptrend intact because the weekly pattern still shows higher highs and higher lows, even after the correction from the prior peak. The upper trendline, drawn across earlier weekly tops, now acts as the reference level for Dean’s projected target around $136,000. The post also referenced IBIT, the iShares Bitcoin Trust, as a proxy for Bitcoin exposure that many traders track alongside spot price action. While the chart does not set a timeline, the weekly framing implies any move toward the upper boundary would likely take weeks, not days, and would depend on Bitcoin continuing to hold above the rising support line.

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, 11:44

Where to Bet on Valorant and StarCraft with Crypto: BTC & USDT Platforms

Esports betting has matured far beyond casual wagers. Today, experienced players are looking for speed, control, and flexibility — and that’s exactly why betting with BTC and USDT has become the preferred option for many esports bettors. Titles like Valorant and StarCraft 2 demand fast settlements, reliable live markets, and platforms that work globally without friction. In this guide, we break down where to bet on Valorant and StarCraft with crypto, what to look for in a Bitcoin esports betting platform, and which sites stand out for serious crypto-native players. Why Crypto Betting Makes Sense for Esports Esports audiences are global by nature, and traditional fiat sportsbooks often struggle to keep up. Crypto betting platforms solve many of these issues by design. When you bet with BTC, you get: Faster deposits and withdrawals Borderless access without banking restrictions Greater privacy compared to fiat sportsbooks Better suitability for live and in-play esports betting This is especially relevant for esports betting with Bitcoin, where odds change quickly and timing matters. Using USDT adds stability for players who want predictable bankroll management while still benefiting from crypto-native infrastructure. What to Look for in a Crypto Esports Betting Platform Before choosing where to place your bets, experienced players usually evaluate platforms based on a few critical factors: Esports coverage: Valorant and StarCraft 2 should be supported consistently Bitcoin & USDT support: Core currencies for esports betting Live betting & cash out: Essential for fast-paced matches Anonymity & KYC policy: Flexibility matters for global players Settlement speed & transparency: Especially important when betting with BTC Not every crypto betting platform delivers equally across these areas, which is why platform selection matters. Best Platforms to Bet on Valorant and StarCraft with Crypto Dexsport — Best Non-Custodial Crypto Betting Platform for Esports Dexsport stands out as a non-custodial crypto betting platform designed for players who want full control over their funds. Unlike traditional custodial sportsbooks, Dexsport operates with on-chain transparency, allowing users to verify wagers directly on the blockchain. For esports bettors, Dexsport offers: Support for Bitcoin, USDT, Ethereum, BNB, and TRON Fast deposits and withdrawals across multiple networks Live betting with Cash Out, ideal for in-play Valorant matches Full anonymity with no mandatory KYC Transparent betting activity visible via a public betting desk Dexsport’s structure appeals to players who prefer betting with BTC without surrendering custody of their funds. Valorant markets are well-integrated into the esports offering, while StarCraft 2 fits naturally into the platform’s broader competitive betting ecosystem. Rather than positioning itself as a casual entertainment casino, Dexsport caters to experienced bettors who value flexibility, privacy, and real-time control. Cloudbet — Established Bitcoin Esports Sportsbook Cloudbet is one of the longest-running crypto sportsbooks and remains a solid option for esports betting with Bitcoin. Founded in 2013, the platform offers deep liquidity and a wide selection of esports markets. Key strengths include: Support for BTC, USDT, and 30+ cryptocurrencies Strong coverage of Valorant, CS2, Dota 2, and other major esports High betting limits suitable for volume players Reliable live betting functionality However, Cloudbet may request KYC verification in certain cases, especially for large withdrawals, which may not suit players seeking full anonymity. Thunderpick — Esports-Focused Crypto Betting Platform Thunderpick is built primarily around esports and performs especially well for Valorant crypto betting. The platform emphasizes live markets and offers a streamlined betting experience tailored to competitive gaming. Highlights: Crypto-only deposits and withdrawals Strong focus on Valorant and other top esports titles Regular promotions and esports-specific markets Accessible interface for esports-first bettors Thunderpick is a good choice for players focused almost exclusively on esports, though withdrawal processing times can be slower compared to non-custodial platforms. Valorant Crypto Betting: Markets and Live Strategy Valorant has quickly become one of the most popular esports for crypto betting. Common markets include: Match winner Map winner Total maps Handicap betting Live round-based markets Because matches evolve rapidly, esports betting with Bitcoin works best on platforms that support fast in-play updates and early cash out options. This is where crypto-native sportsbooks outperform traditional betting sites, especially for players actively managing positions during live matches. StarCraft 2 Esports Crypto Betting: A Niche for Experienced Players StarCraft 2 remains a more analytical and strategy-driven esport. While liquidity is lower than in Valorant, SC2 markets often offer higher value for informed bettors. The best StarCraft 2 esports crypto betting platforms are those that: Offer consistent match coverage Settle bets quickly Support BTC-based wagering without unnecessary friction For players comfortable betting with BTC on niche esports, StarCraft 2 can still be a profitable environment — particularly when using platforms built for flexible crypto wagering. BTC vs USDT for Esports Betting Choosing between Bitcoin and USDT depends on your betting style: BTC: Preferred by long-term crypto holders and players comfortable with volatility USDT: Ideal for stable bankroll management and predictable stake sizing Many experienced bettors use both — BTC for selective high-conviction bets and USDT for frequent live wagering. Final Thoughts Crypto has reshaped how esports betting works. Platforms that support betting with BTC, fast settlements, and live market flexibility now define the standard for Valorant and StarCraft wagering. For players who value transparency, anonymity, and non-custodial control, Dexsport represents a modern approach to esports betting with crypto. Others may prefer established custodial platforms or esports-first sportsbooks depending on their priorities. Ultimately, the best choice comes down to how you want to manage risk, control funds, and engage with esports markets — and crypto betting platforms now give players more options than ever before.

18 Jan 2026, 09:30

Father of Momentum Structural Analysis: Gold to Reach at Least $8,500, Silver to $300

Seasoned trader J. Michael Oliver, the father of a proprietary technical analysis method called momentum structural analysis (MSA), predicts that both gold and silver will continue to break records, reaching at least $8,500 and $300 per ounce, respectively. Gold and Silver to Keep Rising, Bull Market to Continue: Father Of Momentum Structural Analysis While some