Invest ideasNews
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
18 Jan 2026, 09:17
Bitcoin Price Prediction: $1.42B ETF Surge Fuels Path Toward $100.5K
Bitcoin price momentum is shifting as institutional inflows, corporate adoption, and supportive technical signals converge. Spot Bitcoin ETFs drew $1.42 billion last week, their strongest surge since October, while companies like Steak ’n Shake added $10 million to reserves. With price consolidating near $95,000 in a bullish flag pattern, traders are eyeing a breakout toward $100,500 as market confidence builds $1.42B ETF Inflows Mark Strongest Week Since Octobe Bitcoin’s momentum is building again, thanks to a powerful wave of institutional demand. Spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded $1.42 billion in net inflows last week, their strongest performance since October. Midweek trading was particularly striking, with $844 million on Wednesday and $754 million on Tuesday, according to SoSoValue data. Bitcoin ETFs have bought $1.42 BILLION BTC last week. Strongest week of inflows since October pic.twitter.com/Pt9eN01g6D — Maestro (@GoMaestroOrg) January 17, 2026 Ether ETFs also joined the rally, attracting nearly $479 million in weekly inflows. Analysts say this trend reflects long‑only institutional investors returning to the market through regulated instruments. On‑chain data supports the narrative, showing reduced selling pressure from whales, which effectively tightens Bitcoin’s supply. Spot Bitcoin ETFs: $1.42B inflows Ether ETFs: $479M inflows Whale selling pressure: reduced supply This combination of ETF demand and lighter selling pressure creates a supportive market structure. While short‑term volatility remains, the underlying bid from institutions strengthens Bitcoin’s long‑term outlook. Steak ’n Shake Adds $10M BTC to Treasury Strategy Beyond Wall Street, corporate players are deepening their Bitcoin strategies. Fast‑food chain Steak ’n Shake purchased $10 million in Bitcoin after months of accepting Lightning Network payments across all U.S. locations. The company’s approach is self‑reinforcing: Bitcoin payments boost sales, crypto earnings flow into its Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, and those funds are reinvested into restaurant upgrades. ALL YOUR TAX CUT ARE BELONG TO US – AYB. https://t.co/Lu8lQCs5e9 pic.twitter.com/JVnxbsFY03 — All Your Base Are Belong To You (@AllYourBase_AYB) January 17, 2026 Since adopting Bitcoin in May 2025, same‑store sales rose 10% in Q2, while payment processing costs dropped by 50%. The company has even introduced Bitcoin‑themed menu items, underscoring how mainstream businesses are weaving crypto into everyday operations. U.S. Government Holds 328,000 BTC Worth $31B Speculation over U.S. government Bitcoin sales was put to rest when the Department of Justice confirmed it did not liquidate Samourai Wallet assets. Instead, the forfeited Bitcoin remains in the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, in line with President Trump’s executive order requiring retention. NEW: DOJ confirms Samourai Wallet $BTC was not sold by the U.S. government. The Executive Director of the President’s Council of Advisors for Digital Assets states the assets will remain on the federal balance sheet as part of the Strategic #Bitcoin Reserve. pic.twitter.com/kzGdUsOdMA — Bitcoin.com News (@BitcoinNews) January 16, 2026 The U.S. now holds over 328,000 BTC worth $31 billion, making it the largest sovereign holder globally. This assurance reduces fears of government‑driven sell pressure and reinforces Bitcoin’s scarcity narrative, a key driver of institutional confidence Bitcoin Price Prediction: Flag Pattern Points Toward $100.5K Breakout On the charts, Bitcoin price prediction is bullish as BTC is consolidating within a flag pattern after rallying from $90,000. Price sits near $95,030, just above support at $94,357. A spinning‑top candle signals indecision but not weakness. The RSI at 54.11 remains constructive, and the short‑term EMA is crossing above the long‑term EMA, a bullish signal. Bitcoin Price Chart – Source: Tradingview A breakout above $95,204 could trigger a move toward $97,700, $99,000, and ultimately $100,500. Ethereum and Solana also show bullish setups, suggesting broader market strength. With ETF inflows rising, corporate adoption expanding, and technicals aligning, Bitcoin’s path toward six‑figure territory looks increasingly credible. For traders and investors, this may be the moment to position ahead of the next leg higher. Bitcoin Hyper: The Next Evolution of BTC on Solana? Bitcoin Hyper ($HYPER) is bringing a new phase to the Bitcoin ecosystem. While BTC remains the gold standard for security, Bitcoin Hyper adds what it always lacked: Solana-level speed. The result: lightning-fast, low-cost smart contracts, decentralized apps, and even meme coin creation, all secured by Bitcoin. Audited by Consult , the project emphasizes trust and scalability as adoption builds. And momentum is already strong. The presale has surpassed $30.7 million, with tokens priced at just $0.013585 before the next increase. As Bitcoin activity climbs and demand for efficient BTC-based apps rises, Bitcoin Hyper stands out as the bridge uniting two of crypto’s biggest ecosystems. If Bitcoin built the foundation, Bitcoin Hyper could make it fast, flexible, and fun again. Click Here to Participate in the Presale The post Bitcoin Price Prediction: $1.42B ETF Surge Fuels Path Toward $100.5K appeared first on Cryptonews .
18 Jan 2026, 08:52
DOJ seeks to recover $200,000 stolen in Tinder crypto scam
The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking to recover $200,000 stolen by criminal elements in a crypto scam carried out on the mobile dating application Tinder. The Massachusetts US Attorney’s Office filed the civil forfeiture action to recover the funds in stablecoin Tether. According to reports, the DOJ claimed that the funds were lost to the criminal after he lied to his victim on Tinder that he was a financial advisor who worked as a crypto investment expert. The agency mentioned that the scam had all the markings of a pig butchering scam, where scammers build trust with their victims through friendship or romantic relationships before luring them to invest in fake crypto investments. Usually, some victims realize after their first investments, while others realize after losing all their funds. DOJ seeks to recover $200k in USDT in Tinder crypto scam According to the DOJ affidavit supporting the forfeiture request filed this month by FBI Special Agent Hannah Wong, the unnamed victim met a man on the dating app Tinder. The man claimed his name was “Nino Martin,” which could be an alias, as these criminals refrain from giving up their real names due to the chance that they might be caught in the act. After matching with her on Tinder, the suspect asked to move things to WhatsApp, where he claimed they could talk better. The pair moved things to WhatsApp, and they hit it off quite well. During introductions, the victim said Martin claimed to be a financial advisor who helps people make money through several crypto investments. He mentioned that he could also help her make money through crypto investments, telling her that they could make more than enough profits and be set for life. After several discussions, the victim was convinced and asked that they set up her account. Marin told the victim that he had set up a Coinbase account for her, asking the victim to send funds into the account. A while later, he told her that he would move the funds to a separate platform called onechainnm(dot)com, but the victim accidentally told Martin that they had a balance of about $500,000 in their bank account. According to the affidavit, the victim sent $384,4133 to several unhosted wallets they believed were connected to the platform that Martin suggested. The agency says it will attempt a civil forfeiture The victim claimed that they never met in person, as Martin always gave several excuses that sounded genuine because of the nature of his work. On one occasion, the DOJ said Martin told her that he had to fly to Florida to give a presentation, so they couldn’t meet. However, in March 2025, the investment platform had to change its name to onechainiy(dot)com, and the victim was restricted from their Coinbase accounts due to “sending suspicious transfers.” A while after, unknown individuals claiming to be customer service from the investment platform allegedly then gave her a way to work around Coinbase and keep investing in the platform by wiring money from their bank account to account numbers they provided. The customer service said the victim could keep investing, leading them to send $112,253 in additional funds over the next few days, around the end of March 2025. In April, the fake customer service agents claimed the victim owed an IRS tax of $200,000, which made the victim suspicious, so she stopped sending any money. In total, the victim claimed they transferred more than $500,000 to the platform, a figure that comprised most of their savings. The crypto account connected to the scheme was seized last June. Now, the DOJ is seeking to seize and recover most of these funds. The DOJ can seize properties or earnings if it is determined to be tied to criminal activities. Join a premium crypto trading community free for 30 days - normally $100/mo.
18 Jan 2026, 08:30
Steak ‘n Shake Increases Bitcoin Exposure to $10M, Expands Strategic Reserve
Steak ‘n Shake adds $10,000,000 in BTC to its Strategic Bitcoin Reserve while reporting higher same‑store sales. Steak n Shake announced on 16 January 2026 that it has increased its bitcoin exposure by $10,000,000 in notional value, continuing a program begun eight months earlier when the company started accepting bitcoin payments and directing all bitcoin
