Invest ideasNews
21 Mar 2026, 05:00
UK Moves To Shut Down Crypto Exchange Tied To Iran’s Military
A blockchain analytics firm found that nearly 90% of money processed by a UK-registered crypto exchange in 2024 was connected to Iran’s most powerful military organization. A Billion Dollars And A Fake Boss TRM Labs, which tracks cryptocurrency flows, reported that Zedxion Exchange and a related platform called Zedcex moved roughly $1 billion tied to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). In 2024, IRGC-linked payments made up about 87% of all transactions the two exchanges handled. Even as that share fell to roughly 48% in 2025, the raw dollar amounts connected to the Iranian military group remained massive. Now the UK is shutting the exchange down. Britain’s Companies House — the government body that registers businesses — has started a compulsory strike-off against Zedxion Exchange Ltd. Authorities say the company filed false information, including listing a director who never existed. Stock Photo, Fake Name, Real Money The fictitious director was registered under the name Elizabeth Newman, listed as a citizen of the Dominican Republic. An investigation by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) found that the woman behind the name was likely manufactured entirely — her image in company marketing videos traced back to a stock photo. Before Newman appeared in company records, a man named Babak Morteza held the director position. His details matched those of Babak Zanjani, an Iranian businessman who had previously been sentenced to death in Iran for stealing state oil funds. That sentence was reduced in 2024, and Zanjani resumed business operations. Morteza was listed as director and the person with significant control of Zedxion from October 2021 to August 2022. Zanjani is also said to head DotOne Holding Group, a conglomerate with operations across cryptocurrency, foreign exchange, logistics, and telecommunications — sectors that have been used in the past to sidestep international sanctions. Washington Acted First The UK crackdown follows US sanctions imposed in January by the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Both Zedxion and Zedcex were named in that action. OFAC said Zanjani helped fund projects supporting the IRGC and the Iranian government more broadly. Company filings for the two exchanges also showed dormant accounts, a detail that stood in sharp contrast to the enormous transaction volumes blockchain analysts traced through them. The UK passed the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act in 2023, giving Companies House new authority to verify the identities of directors and check that registered businesses were set up for lawful purposes. The Zedxion case marks one of the more visible uses of those powers. Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView
21 Mar 2026, 04:55
We Asked 2 AIs: What Must XRP Do to Escape the Ongoing Crisis?
Alongside the rest of the crypto market, Ripple’s cross-border token tried to break out in the middle of the business week, surging to a monthly peak of over $1.60. However, the subsequent rejection pushed it south to under $1.50 as of press time. Even the most recent developments on the Ripple adoption and partnership front cannot truly initiate a notable leg up. As such, we decided to ask what is needed for XRP to finally break out of its current consolidation. ChatGPT’s Take OpenAI’s solution admitted that XRP has been quite sluggish as of late, trading over 60% away from its all-time high marked in July last year. Moreover, it has underperformed quite substantially even after the first spot XRP ETFs went live for trading in the US last November. Nevertheless, it remained above $1.00 even during the most intense sell-offs in early February, which is why ChatGPT said that its bear phase “may be weakening.” To break beyond $1.60, though, the token would have to first flip that level into support, not just briefly wick above it as it has done on a couple of occasions since the February low. “A clean breakout with strong volume would signal that buyers have absorbed the selling pressure at that level.” However, the AI platform also outlined the significance of the broader market’s conditions as XRP “rarely moves in isolation.” It added that a continued BTC and ETH recovery would likely “provide the momentum needed for other larger-cap alts to follow through.” Lastly, it noted that XRP has historically responded strongly to one of the following catalysts: Regulatory clarity or positive legal developments Institutional adoption or partnerships Increased utility in cross-border payments However, these catalysts have failed to impact its most recent price moves, as mentioned above. And Gemini’s View ChatGPT’s rival from Google supports much of what was written above, saying that XRP has failed to materialize on Ripple’s big partnerships and it would need a more sustained revival from bitcoin to chart some gains. The AI solution believes the $2.00 level will remain a mirage for the foreseeable future, especially since riskier assets tend to underperform when the Fed keeps the interest rates high , and uncertainty levels from wars go through the roof. “Right now, XRP isn’t just fighting technical resistance; It’s fighting the Federal Reserve. The post-FOMC hangover from March 18 made it clear: Interest rates are staying higher for longer and speculative capital is hiding out in safe-yielding Treasuries.” It explained that the macro winds “need to shift” for XRP to break past $1.60 and head for $2.00. A cooling in inflation data or an unexpected dovish pivot from the Fed later this year would “instantly inject liquidity back into the crypto markets, lifting all boats – XRP included.” The post We Asked 2 AIs: What Must XRP Do to Escape the Ongoing Crisis? appeared first on CryptoPotato .
21 Mar 2026, 03:00
XRP treasury filing signals institutional push – Can demand sustain the shift?
How will XRP's next phase look like?
21 Mar 2026, 01:00
Here’s Why The Bitcoin Price Fell Below The $70,000 Level Again
With the cryptocurrency market turning extremely bearish again, Bitcoin (BTC) saw a sharp pullback that brought its price below the $70,000 mark, a zone that had previously acted as a strong support. The pullback below the level was no coincidence as recent news about macro events rocked the market, causing BTC to lose its newfound bullish momentum. Bitcoin Bears Back In Charge After $70,000 Loss As the Bitcoin price falls below the crucial $70,000 threshold, the market structure surrounding the flagship cryptocurrency asset has undergone a significant shift. Bearish sentiment is rapidly spreading throughout the market as a result of the breakdown, which has significantly shifted momentum in favor of sellers. In a post on X , Milk Road, a market expert and trader, revealed that the pullback below the $70,000 level was triggered by news regarding the Federal Reserve (Fed) decision to hold rates steady. After the meeting, no cuts were made, no surprises, reinforcing the higher for longer narrative. The market had anticipated rate reductions by the middle of 2026, but the Fed extended that timeline today. However, the cryptocurrency market did not respond well to the meeting’s outcome, resulting in a sudden decline across the sector. Once the news dropped, BTC fell from $72,400 to under $70,000, marking a 3% move that wiped out the week’s gains in just a few hours. Milk Road has outlined the alignment between the Bitcoin price and the macro event. During high rates, money becomes expensive as investors gather capital in bonds and cash, and risky assets like crypto get hit. Meanwhile, when rates drop, money gets cheap as capital hunts for yield. In past scenarios, this trend has been the rocket fuel for BTC. Bitcoin’s pullback on Thursday following the Fed results served as a painful reminder to short-term BTC holders that macro events like these still drive the crypto market. As for long-term BTC holders, they are not new to this kind of move. During the 2022 hiking cycle, Bitcoin dropped below $30,000, but as cut expectations grew in late 2023, it surpassed $70,000. With the next Fed meeting scheduled for May 6 and 7, 2026, a similar move might unfold later in the year, which could trigger an upswing to the previous highs. In the meantime, Iranian tensions and CPI (Consumer Price Index) and PCE (Personal Consumption Expenditures) data will either bury or revive prospects for a rate cut. However, this depends on whether the rate cuts increase, which is bad, or decrease, which is a good sign. More BTC Whales Are Appearing Investors’ activity has improved, particularly among large holders , despite the recent sideways action of Bitcoin. Santiment data shows that the amount of whale wallet addresses holding 100 or more BTC has increased, suggesting renewed conviction among institutional investors. In the past 3 months, there has been an addition +753 whale wallet addresses , representing a +3.9% rise in total. Within the same time frame, Sentiment noted that BTC’s market value has fallen by over 20.2%. According to Santiment, the ongoing confidence displayed by important stakeholders should at the very least cause investors to reevaluate their theory if they genuinely believe that cryptocurrency will reach zero.
21 Mar 2026, 00:57
Grayscale files for HYPE ETF as Hyperliquid dominance draws Wall Street interest
Grayscale, a cryptocurrency asset manager overseeing approximately $35 billion in assets, has submitted a proposal to list the Grayscale HYPE ETF, which tracks the Hyperliquid token, amid Wall Street’s growing attention to Hyperliquid’s popularity. Moreover, it has secured the top ranking as the largest on-chain perpetual contracts platform. Meanwhile, Grayscale noted that if the authorities grant the proposal a green light, the Grayscale HYPE ETF would trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol GHYP, according to an S-1 filing . At this time, reports from reliable sources indicate that this fund will adopt a similar structure to other Grayscale offerings, using Coinbase Custody and CoinDesk’s Benchmark data for pricing. It was also discovered that HYPE staking is presently prohibited, though analysts noted that a “Staking Condition” could be satisfied at a later date, citing information retrieved from the filing. Notably, Hyperliquid is highly recognized as a high-performance, decentralized exchange (DEX) built on its own custom Layer 1 blockchain. Grayscale makes a significant move in the crypto industry Earlier this year, Grayscale announced plans to introduce exchange-traded funds for Hyperliquid and BNB . To demonstrate the seriousness of the situation, the firm first submitted the products’ statutory trusts to the Delaware Division of Corporations. This step is important to the company because it enables Grayscale to proceed to the next step: submitting a formal ETF filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Notably, information from the official state website disclosed that Grayscale registered both the products’ statutory trusts on January 8, 2026. Under this registration, Grayscale BNB Trust’s file number is 10465871, and that of Grayscale HYPE Trust is 10465863. After the release of this report, sources highlighted that the cryptocurrency asset manager was expected to submit an S-1, a registration statement, to the SEC. In this registration statement, Grayscale was required to correctly detail the planned ETF’s structure, investment strategy, compliance measures, and risks. As expected, Grayscale recently filed an S-1 with the SEC. Nonetheless, analysts acknowledge that the agency’s cautious approach to digital assets makes the timeline for review or approval uncertain. Moreover, they insisted that a shift in the regulations governing the approval of crypto ETFs has occurred. For instance, the SEC approved general listing standards for crypto-based exchange-traded products, eliminating the need for Section 19(b) submission requirements for numerous cases. While this change eases listing requirements for qualified crypto ETFs, each product will still undergo rigorous scrutiny. After these changes were implemented, Paul Atkins, the Chairman of the US Securities and Exchange Commission, sparked hope in the crypto ecosystem after stating that he had initiated the approval process of various crypto-related funds. Responding to the chairman’s statement, several industry leaders admitted that Hyperliquid has rapidly gained attention despite being a relatively new entrant to the crypto industry. Meanwhile, although Users based in the US currently lack access to the decentralized exchange (DEX). The newly formed Hyperliquid Policy Center is actively lobbying in Washington, D.C. Grayscale follows 21Shares’s lead While there has been a shift in the regulations governing the approval of crypto ETFs, sources stressed that staking rewards are still being adopted slowly. At this point, analysts discovered that, apart from Grayscale, other companies such as 21Shares and Bitwise also submitted applications to the SEC for exchange-traded funds (ETFs) tracking Hyperliquid (HYPE) towards the end of last year. 21Shares filed for regulatory approval to launch a passive Hype token ETF to track the digital asset’s price just one week after the company agreed to be acquired by digital asset trading firm FalconX . This move demonstrated money managers’ and institutions’ heightened interest in ETFs as they seek to allocate significant funds to this fast-growing asset class via traditional platforms. This was after the SEC eliminated the last obstacle for various new spot ETFs linked to digital assets such as Solana and Dogecoin in September. Even so, reports highlighted that the US government shutdown forced the federal agency to focus on emergencies, putting non-essential work, such as ETF application reviews, on hold. If you're reading this, you’re already ahead. Stay there with our newsletter .
20 Mar 2026, 22:55
Silver Price Forecast: XAG/USD Plunges Below $70 as Critical Support Levels Shatter
BitcoinWorld Silver Price Forecast: XAG/USD Plunges Below $70 as Critical Support Levels Shatter Global precious metals markets witnessed a dramatic selloff this week as the silver price forecast turned sharply bearish, with XAG/USD plunging decisively below the critical $70 per ounce psychological level. This significant breakdown represents the lowest trading point for silver in over three months, according to data from major commodity exchanges. Market analysts immediately began reassessing their technical outlooks as several key support zones failed to hold during the selling pressure. The move reflects broader shifts in macroeconomic sentiment and has triggered substantial repositioning across institutional portfolios. Silver Price Forecast Technical Breakdown The recent silver price forecast deterioration began with XAG/USD breaking below the $72.50 support level that had held firm throughout the previous quarter. Subsequently, the $71.20 support zone, which corresponded with the 100-day moving average, offered only temporary resistance before giving way. The final breach occurred when selling accelerated through the $70.00 handle, a level that market participants had widely monitored as a critical threshold. Technical analysts note that this breakdown invalidated the previous bullish structure that had dominated silver charts since the beginning of the year. Volume analysis reveals that the decline occurred on above-average trading activity, suggesting genuine selling pressure rather than mere technical adjustments. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) for XAG/USD now sits in oversold territory below 30, potentially indicating a short-term technical bounce. However, momentum indicators like the MACD show bearish crossovers across multiple timeframes, reinforcing the negative silver price forecast sentiment. Fibonacci retracement levels from the recent rally now point to potential support around $68.40 and $66.80. Key Technical Levels to Monitor Traders should monitor several critical technical levels following this breakdown. The $70.00 level, previously support, now becomes immediate resistance. A sustained recovery above this threshold would signal potential stabilization. Conversely, continued trading below $69.50 would confirm the bearish momentum. The next significant support zone clusters around the $68.00-$68.40 region, where multiple technical factors converge. Fundamental Drivers Behind the Silver Selloff The silver price forecast shift corresponds with several simultaneous fundamental developments. First, the U.S. dollar index (DXY) strengthened significantly against major currencies, creating natural downward pressure on dollar-denominated commodities like silver. Second, rising treasury yields reduced the appeal of non-yielding assets, making government bonds relatively more attractive to investors seeking safe havens. Third, industrial demand concerns emerged following manufacturing data from major economies that fell below market expectations. Market participants also noted changing sentiment toward inflation expectations. Recent economic indicators suggest moderating price pressures, which reduces silver’s traditional appeal as an inflation hedge. Additionally, central bank commentary has shifted toward a more hawkish stance than previously anticipated, further supporting the stronger dollar narrative. These combined factors created a perfect storm for precious metals, with silver experiencing amplified volatility due to its dual nature as both monetary and industrial metal. Industrial Demand Considerations Silver’s unique position as an industrial commodity adds complexity to any silver price forecast. Approximately 50% of annual silver demand originates from industrial applications, including electronics, solar panels, and automotive components. Recent supply chain data indicates potential softening in certain manufacturing sectors, though renewable energy adoption continues to provide structural support. Analysts from the Silver Institute note that photovoltaic demand remains robust despite broader market concerns. Historical Context and Market Psychology The current silver price forecast situation bears similarities to previous market corrections. Historically, silver has demonstrated greater volatility than gold during risk-off periods, often experiencing sharper declines but also more dramatic recoveries. The gold-to-silver ratio, a closely watched metric among precious metals traders, has widened significantly during this move, potentially indicating an eventual mean reversion opportunity. Market psychology has shifted from ‘buy the dip’ mentality to more cautious positioning as traders await clearer signals. Previous instances where silver broke below psychologically important round numbers like $70 have often led to extended consolidation periods before establishing new trends. Seasonality factors also warrant consideration, as the summer months traditionally see reduced physical demand from key markets. However, institutional positioning data from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) shows that managed money accounts have already reduced their net-long positions substantially, potentially limiting further downside from speculative selling pressure. Expert Analysis and Market Outlook Leading commodity analysts offer mixed perspectives on the silver price forecast following this technical breakdown. Some maintain that the fundamental case for silver remains intact despite short-term volatility. They point to ongoing geopolitical tensions, persistent fiscal deficits in major economies, and continued monetary expansion as longer-term supportive factors. Others argue that technical damage has been significant enough to warrant a more cautious approach until new support levels are established. Jane Morrison, senior commodities strategist at Global Markets Research, commented, ‘The breach of $70 represents a significant technical event that cannot be ignored. While the long-term fundamentals for silver remain constructive, traders must respect the current momentum and adjust their risk management accordingly.’ Her analysis suggests watching for stabilization around the $68 level before considering renewed long positions. Risk Management Considerations Professional traders emphasize several risk management principles in the current environment. Position sizing should account for silver’s heightened volatility, with smaller positions relative to other assets. Stop-loss placement requires careful consideration of silver’s tendency for whipsaw movements around key technical levels. Diversification across different precious metals and timeframes can help manage portfolio volatility during uncertain periods. Comparative Performance Analysis The recent silver price forecast deterioration stands in contrast to other asset class performances. While silver has declined approximately 8% from recent highs, gold has shown relative resilience with only a 3% correction. This performance divergence highlights silver’s amplified sensitivity to risk sentiment changes. Industrial metals like copper have also experienced pressure, though to a lesser extent than silver, suggesting the current move reflects both monetary and industrial concerns. Recent Precious Metals Performance Comparison Asset Weekly Change Monthly Change Key Support Level Silver (XAG/USD) -5.2% -8.1% $68.40 Gold (XAU/USD) -1.8% -3.2% $2,280 Platinum -3.1% -4.7% $950 Palladium -2.4% -5.3% $890 Conclusion The silver price forecast has turned decisively bearish in the near term as XAG/USD plunges below the critical $70 support level. This technical breakdown reflects a combination of dollar strength, shifting interest rate expectations, and industrial demand concerns. While longer-term fundamentals for silver remain supported by structural factors including renewable energy adoption and monetary expansion, traders must navigate increased volatility and respect the current technical damage. Market participants should monitor the $68.40 support level closely while awaiting stabilization signals. The coming weeks will determine whether this move represents a healthy correction within a broader uptrend or the beginning of a more significant trend reversal for precious metals. FAQs Q1: What caused the recent decline in silver prices? The silver price decline resulted from multiple factors including U.S. dollar strength, rising treasury yields, moderating inflation expectations, and concerns about industrial demand. Technical selling accelerated after key support levels were breached. Q2: What are the key support levels for XAG/USD now? Immediate support exists around $68.40, with stronger support potentially near $66.80. The $70 level, previously support, now becomes resistance that any recovery must overcome. Q3: How does this silver move compare to gold’s performance? Silver has declined more sharply than gold, reflecting its higher volatility and dual nature as both monetary and industrial metal. The gold-to-silver ratio has widened significantly during this correction. Q4: Should investors consider buying silver after this decline? While silver appears oversold technically, investors should await stabilization and confirmation of support before establishing new positions. Risk management remains crucial given current volatility. Q5: What long-term factors still support silver prices? Structural factors including renewable energy adoption, ongoing monetary expansion, geopolitical tensions, and silver’s role in technological applications continue to provide long-term support despite short-term volatility. This post Silver Price Forecast: XAG/USD Plunges Below $70 as Critical Support Levels Shatter first appeared on BitcoinWorld .
