Invest ideasNews
29 Jan 2026, 08:43
UK minister supports UBI amid rising AI-related job losses
Senior government figures are having conversations about bringing in a universal basic income scheme to help workers whose jobs may disappear because of AI , according to Britain’s investment minister. Lord Jason Stockwood said the “bumpy” shifts in society from AI would mean there would have “to be some sort of concessionary arrangement with jobs that go immediately”. Warnings mount ove r AI employment impact “Undoubtedly we’re going to have to think really carefully about how we soft-land those industries that go away, so some sort of [universal basic income], some sort of life-long mechanism as well so people can retrain,” he said. While UBI hasn’t been adopted as official government policy yet, Stockwood confirmed that when asked whether his colleagues in government were thinking about the need for such a scheme, “people are definitely talking about it.” Stockwood explained that one reason he decided to take the position was to make sure the government was getting ready for the fast-moving changes coming to Britain and its workers. His remarks came during the same week that the head of Anthropic issued a warning about “unusually painful” disruption to employment as AI was a “general labour substitute for humans”. London mayor Sadiq Khan also raised concerns this month about a possible “new era of mass unemployment” brought on by AI. Technology secretary Liz Kendall said on Wednesday that “some jobs will go” because of AI, pointing to early worries about entry-level positions in finance and law. Kendall maintained that “more jobs will be created than will go, but I’m not complacent about that.” She promised the government would support people through the transition. “We will not leave individuals and communities to cope on their own.” Stockwood has floated the idea before that technology firms could be hit with a windfall levy to pay for UBI schemes. Political outlook and market stability St ockwood revealed to FT that he used his first week as a minister saying sorry for remarks he’d made before joining government and hasn’t repeated his push for additional wealth taxes. But he maintained, “If you make your money and the first thing you do is you speak to a tax adviser to ask ‘where can we pay the lowest tax’, we don’t want those people in this country, I’d suggest, because you’re not committed to your communities and the long-term success in this country.” Despite this stance, Stockwood was in Davos recently with global business leaders, encouraging investors and wealth creators to choose the UK. “Investors can look at us as a safe haven, relative to the chaos in politics which we witnessed first hand last week.” He note d US investors were “shell-shocked” about Trump’s tariff threats over Greenland. Promoting the UK’s stability becomes harder when Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer must constantly dismiss leadership speculation, including questions about Andy Burnham , Gr eater Manchester mayor. Stockwood stresse d he wanted Starmer to lead Labour into the next general election, despite calling Burnham “brilliant.” “What we need now is stability … the most important thing for us is not sending political chaos into our system.” He acknowledge d Re form UK was drawing support from both his business and investor contacts. Stockwood sai d th e government must better demonstrate to regular people how they’ll gain from its growth plans and trade agreements. The prospect of a Reform government “leaves me in a cold sweat,” he said, criticizing Reform’s proposal to put business leaders in cabinet roles as an “absolute disaster” because running government wasn’t only about “deals and trades.” He’s already discovered that business is simpler than politics. “I’ve been a CEO of a thousand people, I thought I ran a relatively complex operation, but it’s an absolute walk in the park compared to government.” The smartest crypto minds already read our newsletter. Want in? Join them .
29 Jan 2026, 07:18
Coinbase rolls out Kalshi-powered prediction markets across all 50 US states
Coinbase has expanded its prediction markets feature to users across all 50 US states, giving customers nationwide access to event-based trading directly inside its app. The company confirmed the rollout on Jan. 28, marking a significant expansion from an earlier launch in December that was limited to a smaller group of users. With the move, Coinbase is widening its product range beyond traditional crypto trading, while keeping the new feature within the boundaries of US regulation. Coinbase 🛡️ @coinbase · Follow Out: Odds set by the house.In: Price set by the crowd.Now there’s a new way to trade your takes.Prediction markets are live in all 50 states on Coinbase.Trade any real-world outcomes across sports, politics, culture and more. Watch on Twitter View replies 12:11 AM · Jan 29, 2026 1 Reply Copy link Read 1 reply From pilot to nationwide access The prediction markets feature is built in partnership with Kalshi, a US-regulated platform that allows trading on the outcome of real-world events. Coinbase first introduced the product late last year as a pilot, restricting access while testing demand and functionality. The Jan. 28 expansion removes those limits, opening the markets to users in every US state. Through the integration, users can trade simple yes-or-no contracts linked to specific events. Each contract represents whether an outcome will occur, with prices adjusting based on supply and demand. As more traders take positions, the price reflects how the market collectively assesses the probability of that event happening. Events tied to real-world outcomes The range of available markets spans several categories, including sports, politics, entertainment, and major economic developments. Among the most closely watched are contracts linked to decisions by the Federal Reserve, which often influence broader financial markets. The contracts are designed to be simple, with outcomes settling based on clear, verifiable events. Trading within a single app All prediction market activity takes place inside the Coinbase app, sitting alongside existing crypto trading and cash features. Users do not need to move funds to an external platform, as trades can be made using USD or USD Coin. The minimum trade sizes are relatively low, lowering the barrier to participation. At launch, all contracts and liquidity are provided by Kalshi. Coinbase has said it plans to support additional providers in the future, although it has not shared details on when that expansion might occur. Regulation shapes the expansion The nationwide rollout comes as prediction markets gain attention in the US, particularly as regulated alternatives to offshore or decentralised platforms. Many unregulated markets operate outside US oversight, raising concerns around consumer protection and compliance. By contrast, Kalshi operates under US regulatory frameworks, which have helped it form partnerships with established platforms. Kalshi has faced legal challenges in certain states, especially around sports-related contracts. Despite those disputes, it has continued to expand its reach and secure new distribution channels. A broader platform strategy Coinbase has framed the expansion as part of its wider ambition to become an all-in-one financial platform. Adding prediction markets allows the company to capture interest in event-driven trading without moving outside US rules. The feature also aligns with growing demand for tools that let users express views on real-world events in a market-based format. The post Coinbase rolls out Kalshi-powered prediction markets across all 50 US states appeared first on Invezz
29 Jan 2026, 07:00
South Korea Plans Cap On Crypto Exchange Ownership Despite Industry Concerns
South Korea’s Financial Services Commission (FSC) has shared its intention to move forward with the proposed cap on crypto exchange ownership despite concerns from industry players and the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK). FSC Backs Ownership Cap For Crypto Exchanges On Wednesday, Financial Services Commission Chairman Lee Eog-weon revealed that the regulatory agency is reviewing a proposal to cap major shareholders’ stakes in crypto exchanges at around 15%-20%. According to The Korea Times, Lee stressed the need to limit the ownership stakes of controlling shareholders in crypto exchanges, claiming that the move is necessary to “align governance standards with the exchanges’ increasing public role.” He argued that “excessive concentration of ownership” could increase the risk of conflicts of interest while undermining market integrity, noting that securities exchanges and other trading systems are subject to similar limits. The chairman highlighted that existing regulations mainly focus on anti-money laundering and investor protection. The ownership cap proposal would be included in the upcoming Digital Asset Basic Act, also known as the Second Phase of the Virtual Asset User Protection Act, which is expected to serve as a comprehensive framework for the entire industry. “Under the current system, virtual asset exchanges operate under a notification system that requires renewal every three years. The proposed shift to an authorization system would effectively grant exchanges permanent operating status,” Lee explained. He emphasized that “this higher status means exchanges need governance rules that match their larger role and greater responsibilities.” As a result, exchanges would assume characteristics similar to public infrastructure. A joint council representing domestic crypto exchanges, including Upbit, Bithumb, and Coinone, has opposed the proposed cap, warning that it could hinder the development of South Korea’s digital asset sector. Notably, major players like Song Chi-hyung, the chairman of Dunamu, the company that operates Upbit, and Cha Myung-hoon, the founder of Coinone, would be forced to sell significant portions of their holdings if the law is enacted. The Democratic Party of Korea also expressed its concerns, observing that similar ownership caps are uncommon worldwide and could make South Korea’s framework inconsistent with global regulatory trends. Lawmakers Set New Deadline For Digital Assets Framework ChosunBiz reported that the DPK’s Digital Assets Task Force (TF) discussed key details of the Digital Asset Basic Act in a Wednesday meeting at the National Assembly members’ office building, attended by government officials. According to the report, the ruling party’s members did not discuss the cap on crypto exchange ownership. Still, they revealed that they will introduce the framework before the Lunar New Year holiday on February 17. DPK’s Lawmaker Ahn Do-geol said, “We plan to introduce the Digital Asset Basic Act before the Lunar New Year, and we hope that by then a plan agreed upon with the government as much as possible will be put together.” Instead of the “unanimous consent system” proposed by the Bank of Korea (BOK), the task force settled on a consultative body to discuss stablecoin authorizations, comprised of the BOK, the FSC, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and the Financial Supervisory Service. The task force considered that requiring unanimity for stablecoin authorization would slow issuance, while observers believe that the central bank’s proposal was “a way to control stablecoins.” In addition, the minimum statutory capital for stablecoin issuers was set at 5 billion won, approximately $3.48 million. Nonetheless, the report affirmed that there has not been an agreement on the issuance of won-pegged stablecoins. As reported by Bitcoinist, the BOK and the FSC have been clashing over the extent of banks’ role in stablecoin issuance. While the central bank has been pushing for a consortium of banks owning at least 51% of any stablecoin issuer seeking approval in the country, the FSC has expressed concerns about this proposal. Lee Kang-il, a DPK lawmaker on the task force, asserted that “the 50%+1 share rule remains contentious because there is still no willingness to concede among government ministries,” but added that they have prepared a mediation plan and will “make decisions in a direction that serves the national interest overall and benefits the public.”
29 Jan 2026, 06:36
Saylor Defends MicroStrategy's Treasury: 'We Buy Real Bitcoin'
Strategy is currently consuming nearly 350% of the new daily supply issuance of Bitcoin (BTC), but there are questions about possible rehypothecation.
29 Jan 2026, 05:28
Bitcoin Targets $93,500 as Traders Watch Massive Short Liquidation Zone
Bitcoin showed sharp volatility on Wednesday after briefly rallying to $90,600 before losing momentum following the US Federal Reserve’s decision to leave interest rates unchanged. The price reaction highlighted how sensitive crypto markets remain to macroeconomic signals, particularly those tied to monetary policy. Although the rally faded quickly, traders are now focused on a higher price zone that could define Bitcoin’s next major move. Market data suggests $93,500 has emerged as a critical level where billions of dollars in short positions are vulnerable to liquidation. If Bitcoin approaches this area, forced buying could significantly accelerate price action. This scenario would turn what appears to be a modest recovery into a fast-moving breakout. Many traders view liquidation clusters as magnets that attract price due to the liquidity they provide. The concentration of shorts near $93,500 makes it one of the most watched levels in the current market structure. Why $93,500 Has Become a Key Target Crypto trader Mark Cullen highlighted the importance of the $93,500 level on Bitcoin’s liquidation maps. He described the zone as standing out clearly, calling it a “come get me” signal for traders. According to Cullen, the size and visibility of the liquidation cluster make it difficult for the market to ignore. Data shows more than $4.5 billion in cumulative short positions positioned around this price. If Bitcoin trades into that region, many of these positions could be automatically closed. Short liquidations force traders to buy Bitcoin to exit losing positions. This buying pressure can quickly compound and push prices higher in a short period. Such events often produce sudden, aggressive price spikes rather than slow upward movement. Liquidation-driven rallies are common in markets dominated by leveraged trading. Bitcoin’s derivatives market remains one of the most active in the global financial system. The size of these positions suggests that even modest upward movement could create significant momentum. Leverage Dominates While Spot Demand Lags Despite the technical appeal of the $93,500 target, underlying market participation tells a more cautious story. The Coinbase Bitcoin premium index remains firmly negative. This indicates weaker demand from US-based spot investors. A negative premium usually means Bitcoin is trading cheaper on Coinbase compared to offshore exchanges. That gap suggests US institutional and retail buyers are not aggressively accumulating. Instead, futures markets appear to be driving most of the recent volatility. Futures trading relies heavily on leverage, which increases both potential gains and risks. When price moves against leveraged positions, forced liquidations occur rapidly. This structure makes rallies more explosive but also more fragile. Without spot demand backing price increases, gains can reverse just as quickly. Sustainable bull markets typically require strong participation from spot buyers. At present, that component appears weak. Risk-Off Signals Continue to Flash Crypto analyst Leo Ruga highlighted that broader market indicators still reflect caution. He pointed to the composite risk oscillator, which compares Bitcoin with assets like stocks, gold, oil, and the dollar. The oscillator remains in what he described as risk-off territory. Its current reading near 52 suggests stress rather than expansion. Ruga also noted elevated readings in the on-chain pressure oscillator. This metric tracks selling pressure from large holders and long-term investors. Levels above 34 have historically coincided with market distribution phases. These signals imply that sellers may still have influence. For a sustainable recovery, selling pressure must diminish significantly. Until that happens, bullish momentum may struggle to persist. Short-term pumps remain possible, but they lack confirmation from broader indicators. Whale Activity Remains Neutral Analyst Pelin Ay focused on Bitcoin’s Whale Ratio as another important signal. The Whale Ratio tracks the proportion of large transactions flowing into exchanges. High readings often suggest whales are preparing to sell. Low readings suggest accumulation or holding behavior. Currently, the ratio sits near its 100-day moving average. This position signals neutrality rather than conviction. Whales are not aggressively selling, which limits downside risk. However, they are also not accumulating aggressively, which limits upside momentum. Strong bull trends usually emerge when whales actively accumulate. The absence of that behavior suggests hesitation among large market participants. This neutral stance contributes to choppy and unpredictable price movement. Volatility may continue without a clear directional bias. What Comes Next for Bitcoin Bitcoin’s structure shows tension between liquidation-driven upside and weak underlying demand. The $93,500 level remains a powerful magnet due to the massive short exposure clustered there. If price moves higher, liquidations could push Bitcoin rapidly toward that zone. However, without strong spot buying, such a rally may lack staying power. Risk-off indicators and neutral whale behavior suggest caution is still warranted. Bitcoin may continue moving in sharp, volatile swings rather than a smooth trend. Traders will closely monitor whether price action becomes supported by spot market participation. Until then, Bitcoin remains driven by leverage rather than conviction.
29 Jan 2026, 05:00
Tether’s Endgame? Ardoino Says It’ll Become A ‘Gold Central Bank’
Tether is rapidly expanding its physical gold footprint, with CEO Paolo Ardoino casting the stablecoin issuer less like a fintech and more like a central bank. “We are soon becoming basically one of the biggest, let’s say, gold central banks in the world,” Ardoino said in an interview with Bloomberg, as the company disclosed buying and storing bullion at a scale rarely seen outside banks and sovereigns. Tether’s Gold Strategy The remarks land as bullion keeps rewriting the macro playbook. Gold pushed to fresh records above $5,200 an ounce this week after President Donald Trump said he was not concerned about a weaker dollar, reinforcing the “debasement trade” that has pulled flows out of sovereign bonds and currencies and into hard assets. Tether’s gold push is physical, not just balance-sheet accounting. More than a ton of bullion is hauled into a high-security vault in Switzerland every week, according to the report, with the hoard described as the largest known stash outside banks and nation states. Ardoino framed the accumulation as an ongoing policy decision rather than a one-off allocation. “Maybe we are going to reduce, we don’t know yet. We are going to assess on a quarterly basis our demand for gold,” he said, suggesting Tether intends to manage the position dynamically as the macro backdrop evolves. The cash engine is USDT. With roughly $186 billion in circulation, Tether takes in dollars for its stablecoin issuance and invests reserves across assets including Treasuries and gold , generating interest and trading profits that can be recycled into further purchases. Ardoino’s comments also point to a shift in posture, from an accumulator of bullion to an active participant in the market’s plumbing. He said the company needs “the best trading floor for gold in the world” to keep buying at scale and to exploit inefficiencies, adding that whatever strategies it adopts would be structured so the firm “remains very long physical gold.” “Our goal is to have a steady, stable, long-term access to gold,” Ardoino said, describing logistics that look more like commodities trading than crypto treasury management. “Because one to two tons per week is a very sizable amount,” he added, as Tether looks to make the acquisition process more efficient, buying directly from Swiss refiners and also sourcing from major financial institutions, with large orders sometimes taking months to arrive. The buildout is already reflected in staffing . Tether has hired two senior gold traders from HSBC, and Ardoino said the firm is evaluating opportunities to trade around dislocations between futures and physical pricing. Ardoino’s broader argument is explicitly monetary. “Gold is ‘logically a safer asset than any national currency,’” he said in an earlier Bloomberg interview. “Every single central bank in the BRICS countries is buying gold.” This week, he tied that demand to the user base that made USDT a dominant offshore dollar proxy: “Exactly the people that love gold and have been using gold as to protect themselves from their own government that have been debasing their currency for a long time,” he said. “We believe that the world is going towards darkness. We believe that there is a lot of turmoil.” That thesis feeds directly into Tether Gold (XAUT), the company’s token redeemable for bullion. Tether has issued XAUT equivalent to about 16 tons of gold, or roughly $2.7 billion, and Ardoino said there is a “good chance” it ends the year with $5 billion to $10 billion in circulation. “The way I see it, is that there are foreign countries that are buying a lot of gold, and we believe that these countries will soon launch tokenized version of gold as a competitive currency to the US dollar,” he said. For now, Tether’s own messaging is that it’s already operating on sovereign-like scale. “We are operating at a scale that now places the Tether Gold Investment Fund alongside sovereign gold holders, and that carries real responsibility,” Ardoino said. At press time, XAUT traded at $5,283.
