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20 Jan 2026, 23:32

FTC goes for round two to break Meta's monopoly

The US Federal Trade Commission said it will challenge a judge’s decision from November that sided with Meta Platforms Inc. over its purchases of Instagram and WhatsApp. Judge James Boasberg said the deals for the photo-sharing app and messaging service didn’t break antitrust laws. He foun d th e social networking company didn’t illegally control the market because it competes with Alphabet Inc.’s YouTube and TikTok. FTC spokesperson Joe Simonson stood by the agency’s case. “Meta violated our antitrust laws when it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp,” he said. He pointed to 2020, when the agency first filed the case during the first Trump administration, saying “the staggering market power was on full display for everyone to see.” Meta spokesperson Christopher Sgro said the district court got it right and “recognizes the fierce competition we face.” He said the company would “remain focused on innovating and investing in America.” The ruling was a big loss for the FTC, which filed the lawsuit in 2020 trying to break up the company. The agency filed a notice of appea l Tu esday and will file its full arguments later. A senior agency official, who didn’t want to be named, told Bloomberg that the FTC thinks Boasberg looked at competition today instead of the market back when the lawsuit started. The official said that even now, Meta’s Instagram doesn’t really compete with YouTube or TikTok. FTC failed to prove monopoly power before In his November decision, Boasberg wrote that the FTC had a hard time defining Meta’s product market because “apps surge and recede, chase one craze and move on from others, and add new features with each passing year.” He said the agency didn’t prov e Me ta holds monopoly power now. Meta Chief Legal Officer Jen Newstead was happy with the decision, saying it “recognizes that Meta faces fierce competition.” She called the company’s products beneficial and said they show American innovation and economic growth. The FTC’s original case said Meta, which used to be called Facebook Inc., bought the two companies in 2012 and 2014 so it wouldn’t have to compete with them. The agency said these purchases strengthened Meta’s monopoly in social networking for friends and family connections. Meta argue d it s competitors go way beyond traditional friends and family sharing. The company includes short-form video, commerce and private messaging. Meta brought in people from Reddit Inc., X, TikTok and Pinterest Inc. to talk about how their platforms compete for user time and attention, which means advertising money. Boasberg said TikTok, YouTube identical to Meta apps Boasberg didn’t buy the FTC’s claim that Meta’s Facebook and Instagram are mainly for personal social networking while TikTok and YouTube are video entertainment apps. He wrote that the four platforms have “evolved to have nearly identical” features, and evidence “resoundingly shows ” us ers see TikTok and YouTube as alternatives to Meta’s apps. This case is one of five major antitrust lawsuits filed by the FTC or Justice Department against the world’s biggest technology platforms. Two federal judge s al ready ruled that Alphabet Inc.’s Google illegally monopolized online search and advertising markets, while cases against Amazon.com Inc. and Apple Inc. are still pending. Don’t just read crypto news. Understand it. Subscribe to our newsletter. It's free .

20 Jan 2026, 23:11

Huawei fights back as EU targets 'high-risk' suppliers

Huawei has responded to the European Union’s plan to phase out its technology, calling the decision a violation of the union’s principles. The European Union had earlier proposed a new plan to remove supplier s that th e bloc’s decision makers determine to be “high risk” from critical sectors. Huawei accuses the EU of violating its own principles The European Commission launched a proposal aimed at removing technology from “high-risk” suppliers across the European Union’s most sensitive industries. The draft does not name specific companies, but it is widely understood to target Chinese giants Huawei and ZTE. Cryptopolitan previously reported that Europe is attempting to weed out Western technology in order to achieve “technological sovereignty” and protect its infrastructure from foreign interference. The EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen, the Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, stated that the proposal provides the means to “better protect our critical supply chains” and fight cyber threats decisively. Cited by Reuters, a Huawei spokesperson stated that the proposal violates the EU’s own principles of fairness and non-discrimination, arguing that the European representative body is making decisions based on the “country of origin” rather than technical standards or factual evidence. Huawei also reminded that it has the right to escalate the exclusion via the legal route based on what it considers a potential violation of World Trade Organization (WTO) obligations. The proposed restrictions would apply to 18 key sectors including 5G and satellite networks, semiconductors, electricity and water supply systems, and even connected vehicles and drones. Mobile operators will have 36 months to remove key components from high-risk suppliers once a list of such vendors is officially published. Will these new security laws lead to higher costs for internet users? Connect Europe, a group that represents major telecommunications providers, estimates that the costs of replacing equipment and complying with the new standards could run into the billions of euros. These costs are a primary reason why some EU countries have been slow to remove Huawei equipment from their current 5G networks. If companies have to spend billions on new equipment, there is a risk that these costs could be passed down to consumers through higher monthly internet and mobile bills. Some operators also fear that a forced phase-out will slow down the rollout of new technology across the continent. In response, the EU’s proposal states that restrictions only take effect after a formal risk assessment that can be started by the Commission or by at least three member countries. Any final decision would theoretically be based on market analysis to understand how it affects the economy. Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz recently announced that Germany will completely ban Chinese components from its future 6G networks. The country has also started the process of removing Huawei gear from its 5G core networks, with a plan for full exclusion by the end of 2026. Sharpen your strategy with mentorship + daily ideas - 30 days free access to our trading program

20 Jan 2026, 22:25

Grayscale Near Protocol ETF Filing Sparks Major Regulatory Momentum for Crypto Funds

BitcoinWorld Grayscale Near Protocol ETF Filing Sparks Major Regulatory Momentum for Crypto Funds In a significant move for cryptocurrency markets, Grayscale Investments has formally submitted an S-1 registration statement to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for a groundbreaking Near Protocol (NEAR) exchange-traded fund (ETF). This pivotal filing, reported on March 15, 2025, represents a strategic expansion beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum products, directly challenging the regulatory perimeter for altcoin-based investment vehicles. Consequently, the application could herald a new era of institutional access to layer-1 blockchain assets, provided it navigates the SEC’s rigorous review process successfully. Grayscale’s Near Protocol ETF Filing Details and Context Grayscale’s S-1 filing initiates the official process for creating the Grayscale Near Protocol Trust. This document, a mandatory precursor for any publicly offered security in the United States, provides the SEC with exhaustive details about the proposed fund’s structure, objectives, and associated risks. Historically, the SEC has approved several Bitcoin spot ETFs after a decade of deliberation. However, the agency maintains a notably cautious stance on funds tied to other crypto assets, often citing market manipulation and custody concerns. This application follows Grayscale’s landmark legal victory against the SEC in 2023, which compelled the regulator to review its Bitcoin ETF conversion application. That precedent-setting win established a crucial legal framework that other asset managers now leverage. The NEAR ETF proposal likely employs a similar structure to Grayscale’s existing single-asset trusts, where shares represent fractional ownership of NEAR tokens held in secure, institutional-grade custody. Regulatory Pathway: The S-1 starts a review clock, but approval timelines remain uncertain and often extend for months. Market Precedent: No pure altcoin spot ETF has gained SEC approval in the United States to date. Custody Solution: A key hurdle will be demonstrating a compliant custody framework for the NEAR tokens. The Strategic Importance of Near Protocol for Grayscale Grayscale’s selection of Near Protocol is a calculated strategic decision, not a random choice. NEAR operates as a decentralized, proof-of-stake layer-1 blockchain designed for usability and scalability. Its core technology, Nightshade sharding, aims to process transactions efficiently while keeping costs low for developers and users. Therefore, from an investment thesis perspective, NEAR represents exposure to the growing ecosystem of decentralized applications (dApps) and Web3 infrastructure. Analysts point to several factors making NEAR a compelling candidate for ETFization. First, its market capitalization consistently ranks it among the top 30 cryptocurrencies, providing necessary liquidity. Second, the NEAR Foundation has fostered a robust developer community. Third, its tokenomics and governance model are relatively well-documented for regulatory scrutiny. By filing for a NEAR ETF, Grayscale potentially positions itself at the forefront of the next wave of crypto investment products, capturing demand for diversified blockchain exposure beyond the two dominant assets. Expert Analysis on Regulatory Hurdles and Market Impact Financial regulatory experts emphasize the steep climb ahead. “The SEC’s primary concerns with any crypto ETF are investor protection, market surveillance, and custody,” notes a former SEC enforcement attorney. “For an asset like NEAR, the staff will meticulously examine trading volume, liquidity across global exchanges, and the potential for wash trading. Grayscale must convincingly argue that the NEAR market is sufficiently mature and resistant to manipulation.” The immediate market impact of the filing was a noticeable uptick in NEAR’s trading volume and price. More importantly, the announcement signals to the broader industry that major TradFi players are preparing for a multi-asset crypto future. A successful approval would create a template for other altcoin ETFs, potentially unlocking billions in institutional capital currently sidelined due to regulatory uncertainty. Conversely, a rejection could reinforce the perceived regulatory ceiling for non-Bitcoin crypto securities. Comparative Landscape: Crypto ETF Approvals and Rejections The journey for crypto ETFs provides essential context. The table below outlines key milestones. Year Asset Applicant Status Key Reason 2021 Bitcoin Futures ProShares Approved Based on CME futures, not spot market 2024 Bitcoin Spot Multiple Issuers Approved Court rulings & improved surveillance 2024 Ethereum Spot Multiple Issuers Pending Under active SEC review 2025 Near Protocol Spot Grayscale Filed (S-1) First major altcoin filing post-Bitcoin This timeline shows a gradual, cautious opening. The Bitcoin spot ETF approvals in early 2024 created a foundational regulatory playbook involving surveillance-sharing agreements with regulated exchanges like Coinbase. Grayscale’s NEAR filing will test whether that framework can be adapted to a different underlying market. Notably, several firms have filed for Ethereum spot ETFs, but the SEC has delayed decisions, indicating continued scrutiny even for the second-largest crypto asset. Potential Outcomes and Long-Term Implications The filing’s outcome will resonate across finance and technology. Approval would validate NEAR’s underlying technology and business model in the eyes of regulators, likely boosting developer and enterprise adoption. It would also pressure other asset managers like BlackRock and Fidelity to expand their own crypto ETF suites, fostering competition and potentially lowering investor fees. Furthermore, it could accelerate similar applications for other layer-1 tokens like Solana or Cardano. Rejection or indefinite delay, however, would clarify the current limits of regulatory acceptance. It might push product innovation toward other structures, such as closed-end funds or offerings in more crypto-friendly jurisdictions like Europe or Hong Kong. Regardless of the result, the act of filing advances the conversation, forcing clearer definitions and standards from regulators. This process, while slow, is essential for building a legitimate, sustainable digital asset ecosystem integrated with traditional finance. Conclusion Grayscale’s application for a Near Protocol ETF marks a bold step in the evolution of cryptocurrency investment vehicles. This move tests the boundaries of current SEC policy and seeks to translate the technological promise of a scalable blockchain into a regulated, accessible financial product. The filing’s journey through the regulatory process will provide critical signals about the future of altcoin investment, institutional adoption, and the maturation of the crypto market as a whole. Ultimately, the Grayscale Near Protocol ETF proposal is more than a single product application; it is a barometer for the entire industry’s integration into the global financial mainstream. FAQs Q1: What is an S-1 filing, and why is it important for a Grayscale Near Protocol ETF? An S-1 is a registration statement required by the SEC before a security can be offered to the public. It’s the formal start of the review process, detailing the fund’s strategy, risks, and structure. Q2: Has the SEC approved any altcoin spot ETFs before? No. As of March 2025, the SEC has only approved Bitcoin spot and futures ETFs. Ethereum spot ETF applications are pending, making the NEAR filing a pioneer for other layer-1 tokens. Q3: How long does the SEC review process for an ETF typically take? The timeline is variable and often lengthy. The SEC can issue comments, request amendments, and extend review periods. The process can take several months to over a year from initial filing. Q4: What are the main hurdles for a Near Protocol ETF approval? The SEC will focus on market manipulation concerns, liquidity depth, custody solutions for NEAR tokens, and whether adequate surveillance-sharing agreements are in place. Q5: How does this affect current NEAR token holders? The filing is generally viewed as a positive signal for long-term legitimacy and institutional interest, which can impact price and adoption. However, it does not directly change the utility or governance of the NEAR token itself. This post Grayscale Near Protocol ETF Filing Sparks Major Regulatory Momentum for Crypto Funds first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

20 Jan 2026, 22:00

XRP’s Quiet Phase May Be Setting Up A Sudden Breakout: Expert

XRP’s next big rise could come with hardly any warning, traders and analysts warn. Markets are quiet now. That quiet has happened before, and it has sometimes been followed by sharp moves that catch most people off guard. Related Reading: Bitcoin Senses Risk As Trump Balks At Europe With Major Tariffs History Of Sudden Moves According to several community analysts, XRP has a pattern of long quiet periods followed by fast spikes. It rarely creeps steadily upward for weeks before a charge. Instead, price often treads water, people lose faith, and then momentum arrives quickly. That behavior has left many short-term traders on the sidelines when runs happen. A move looks obvious only after it is already well under way. Legal Overhang Gone Reports say the SEC lawsuit changed XRP’s timing for years. While other tokens took part in big market swings, XRP traded under heavy regulatory pressure. That pressure is now removed. The major $XRP breakout will come when many least expect it. Its always a “catch-off-guard” move.. but we’re prepared. — 🇬🇧 ChartNerd 📊 (@ChartNerdTA) January 17, 2026 The market has since been allowed to price XRP without that cloud. In late 2024, a notable rally began after US President Donald Trump’s win and the exit of SEC Chair Gary Gensler. Momentum pushed XRP from roughly $0.50 to above $3 in a matter of weeks. But the gains were followed by a long reset. Exposure Beats Perfect Timing According to a number of commentators, being already invested matters more than hitting the exact bottom. When the price starts to climb fast, buyers who jump in late often pay too much and panic-sell when the heat fades. Early holders tend to capture most of the upside. Reports note this has repeated across multiple cycles. Emotion drives late entry; calm positioning often wins. At the time of writing, XRP was trading near $1.93, down about 4% on the day and roughly 55% below its recent high. Many who bought above $3 over the past year have cut losses or reduced positions, which has left sentiment thin. Related Reading: Bitcoin Shows Signs Of Internal Strength As Analysts Turn More Optimistic On Quick Inflows & Short-Term Squeeze Liquidity in key ranges is lighter than traders might assume. Volume patterns and derivatives flows will matter if price begins to move again. An array of factors could start the run — quick inflows, a shift in macro appetite, or a big buyer showing up. On-chain signs, exchange flows, and futures positioning would give clearer clues, but those signals can flip fast. Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView

20 Jan 2026, 21:35

Justice Department flags election-related contacts by DOGE staff

The Justice Department told a federal court on Tuesday that Elon Musk’s DOGE team, working inside the Social Security Administration, stored sensitive Social Security data on servers that were never approved by the agency. The filing also said two members of the team secretly communicated with an outside advocacy group tied to efforts to overturn election results in certain states. The DOJ said the issue surfaced while correcting sworn testimony given last year by senior SSA officials during lawsuits over DOGE access to federal data. Those corrections said team members shared information through third-party systems and may have reached private records that a judge had already blocked them from seeing. The court papers said the conduct raised serious questions about how the DOGE project actually operated inside SSA. Justice Department flags election-related contacts by DOGE staff Elizabeth Shapiro, a senior DOJ official, said SSA referred both DOGE employees for possible Hatch Act violations. The law bars federal workers from using their jobs for political purposes. Elizabeth wrote that the two employees were in contact with an advocacy group pushing to overturn election results in specific states. The filing said one of the two signed a Voter Data Agreement that may have involved using Social Security data to compare federal records with state voter rolls. Elizabeth said the agreement and the outside communications were not known to SSA leadership at the time earlier court statements were made. She wrote that SSA believed its prior claims about DOGE, focusing on fraud detection and technology upgrades, were accurate when stated. Elizabeth also said there is no evidence that SSA staff outside the involved DOGE members knew about the advocacy group or the voter-related agreement. She added that the two employees and the advocacy group were not named in the filing. Emails reviewed by the DOJ suggest DOGE staff could have been asked to help the group by accessing SSA data to match against voter lists, but it remains unclear if any data was actually shared. Unapproved servers expose how DOGE handled restricted SSA data Elizabeth also disclosed that Steve Davis, a senior adviser to Musk tied to the DOGE project, was copied on a March 3, 2025, email that included a password-protected file. The file contained private information on about 1,000 people pulled from Social Security systems. Elizabeth said it is unknown whether Steve accessed the file. She also said the current SSA staff cannot open the file to confirm exactly what it contains. SSA continues to say DOGE never had access to official systems of record. Elizabeth wrote that it remains possible that restricted data derived from SSA systems was sent to Steve. That detail was included as part of the DOJ’s corrections to earlier court testimony. The filing also said a DOGE team member briefly received access to private Social Security profiles even after a court order blocked that access. Elizabeth said the access was never used. In a separate case, another DOGE member had access for two months to a call center profile containing private information, and Elizabeth wrote that it is still unknown whether any private data was accessed during that period. According to her, DOGE staff also shared data links using Cloudflare, a third-party service not approved for SSA data storage, meaning it falls outside any security rules. The smartest crypto minds already read our newsletter. Want in? Join them .

20 Jan 2026, 20:35

US Treasury Secretary Discusses Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Plans As Price Crashes Below $90,000

On Tuesday, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed plans for the country’s Strategic Bitcoin Reserve (SBR), coinciding with a sharp decline in BTC and the overall cryptocurrency market. All Seized Bitcoin To Be Held In Strategic Reserve In a discussion about the government’s approach to BTC and the recent seizures of the cryptocurrency, Bessent reassured the public that the administration would cease all sales of seized Bitcoin. Instead of auctioning off these assets, the government plans to add the seized Bitcoin to the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, which was set up in March last year by President Donald Trump’s administration. This decision, however, did little to mitigate BTC’s plummet on Tuesday, as the lack of any plans to purchase additional coins from the market contributed to continued downward pressure on prices. Bessent elaborated that the initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at fostering digital asset innovation within the United States while maintaining federal oversight of confiscated cryptocurrencies. “This administration’s policy is to add seized Bitcoin to our digital asset reserve,” Bessent stated, marking a decisive shift in the government’s handling of Bitcoin assets. Political Climate Leads To $215 Billion Crypto Market Dip Bitcoin has experienced a decline of nearly $5,800—coinciding with political tensions after President Trump hinted at a 10% tariff on the European Union (EU) in an attempt to compel Denmark to sell Greenland. This geopolitical maneuver has not only affected Bitcoin but has also resulted in a staggering loss of approximately $215 billion in total market capitalization across the crypto sector. Market analyst Ted Pillows warned that BTC must maintain its position above the $89,000 mark. He expressed that failing to hold this level would signal the end of the short-term upward trend, further complicating an already tumultuous condition for the cryptocurrency. When writing, BTC still holds above the key level outlined by Pillows at $89,497, but has declined by 3.7% in the last 24 hours. Featured image from OpenArt, chart from TradingView.com