hodler

10 Apr 2026, 14:00

Bitcoin May Avoid Immediate Quantum Upgrade With New Workaround: Study

A Bitcoin transaction that costs $75 to $150 in GPU compute is not built for daily use, but it may still matter. StarkWare chief product officer Avihu Levy has put forward a scheme called Quantum Safe Bitcoin , or QSB, that he says could make new BTC transfers resistant to quantum attacks without changing the Bitcoin protocol. The proposal is designed to work even against a large quantum computer running Shor’s algorithm. A Workaround Inside Bitcoin’s Existing Rules Levy’s plan stays within the crypto’s current legacy script limits and does not require a soft fork. Instead of relying on elliptic curve math, QSB swaps in a hash-to-signature puzzle. In simple terms, the sender must find an input whose hash output happens to look like a valid ECDSA signature, a process that depends on brute-force work rather than the kind of math quantum computers are expected to break. That makes the scheme unusual. It does not try to rebuild Bitcoin from the ground up. It tries to bolt on a narrow shield using rules that already exist. The researchers describe it as a temporary answer while the bigger question of its long-term quantum defense remains unsettled. Praise, Pushback And A Narrow Use Case StarkWare CEO Eli Ben-Sasson called the work “huge” and said it essentially makes Bitcoin quantum-safe today . But not everyone agrees with that framing. Bitcoin ESG specialist Daniel Batten said the claim goes too far because the paper does not address exposed public keys or dormant wallets. He pointed to an estimated 1.7 million BTC sitting in early P2PK addresses that could be vulnerable if a quantum computer becomes powerful enough to crack them. The new scheme also comes with a sharp limit on who might use it. According to the proposal, it is more complex than a standard BTC transaction and only makes sense for large transfers. The reported compute cost makes it a poor fit for routine payments. THIS IS HUGE. Bitcoin is Quantum-Safe TODAY. Even if a quantum computer appeared, one that breaks the conventional Bitcion signatures, it shows a practical way to create safe Bitcoin transactions. WITH NO CHANGE TO BITCOIN PROTOCOL!!! https://t.co/ireGc3ai7W — Eli Ben-Sasson | Starknet.io (@EliBenSasson) April 9, 2026 A Temporary Fix, Not The Final Answer The debate around quantum risk has already split the Bitcoin community. Some argue for leaving Bitcoin unchanged to preserve its original design. Others want vulnerable coins frozen or burned. A separate group wants the protocol upgraded to support quantum-safe signatures. Levy’s proposal lands in the middle of that fight, giving users a last-resort option while skipping the need for network-wide consensus. The researchers still say protocol-level changes are the better long-term path. They also acknowledged that the QSB approach is non-standard, does not scale to all users, and does not cover use cases such as the Lightning Network. The timing of the paper matters too. Google published research in March that added fresh pressure to the debate, and Lightning Labs chief technology officer Olaoluwa Osuntokun followed with a quantum fallback prototype on Wednesday. Featured image from Pixabay, chart from TradingView

10 Apr 2026, 09:40

US War Spending Burden: UBS Reveals Alarming Impact on National Spending Power

BitcoinWorld US War Spending Burden: UBS Reveals Alarming Impact on National Spending Power NEW YORK, March 2025 – A comprehensive new analysis from global financial giant UBS presents a stark examination of the United States’ escalating war burden and its direct, measurable impact on national spending power. This report, drawing on decades of fiscal and geopolitical data, arrives at a critical juncture for US economic policy. Consequently, it provides essential context for understanding the complex trade-offs between national security commitments and domestic fiscal health. The findings illuminate a challenging path forward for policymakers. US War Spending: A Historical and Fiscal Analysis UBS analysts have meticulously tracked US defense expenditures across multiple administrations and conflict periods. Their data reveals a persistent and growing fiscal commitment. For instance, the post-9/11 era triggered a significant and sustained increase in military outlays. These funds have supported prolonged engagements in Afghanistan and Iraq, among other global operations. Furthermore, recent geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe and the Indo-Pacific have prompted additional budgetary allocations. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) consistently flags defense spending as a primary driver of long-term federal debt. UBS corroborates this view, highlighting how these expenditures compete directly with investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Modern warfare involves staggering costs beyond simple troop deployments. The integration of advanced technologies like cyber capabilities, space-based assets, and next-generation aircraft creates immense financial pressure. A 2024 report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) noted the US accounted for nearly 40% of global military spending. This dominance comes with a substantial opportunity cost for the domestic economy. UBS economists point to a clear correlation: as defense budgets swell, discretionary spending on non-defense priorities often faces constraints or reductions. The Direct Mechanism: From Treasury to Battlefield UBS outlines the direct fiscal mechanism. Congressional appropriations for the Department of Defense translate into immediate treasury outflows. These funds purchase equipment, sustain personnel, and finance ongoing operations. Over time, this creates a structural element within the federal budget. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has repeatedly warned about cost overruns and accountability gaps in major defense acquisition programs. These inefficiencies, as UBS notes, exacerbate the overall burden. Every dollar allocated to these areas is a dollar not available for alternative public investments or deficit reduction. The Impact on US Spending Power and Economic Stability The term ‘spending power’ in the UBS context refers to the government’s fiscal flexibility and the broader economy’s resilience. High levels of defense spending can influence this power in several key ways. Firstly, it contributes to larger annual budget deficits and a growing national debt. Elevated debt levels can crowd out private investment and place upward pressure on interest rates. Secondly, it can lead to a distortion in the industrial base, with talent and capital flowing toward defense contracting at the expense of other innovative sectors. Finally, it limits the federal government’s capacity to respond to domestic crises, such as economic recessions or public health emergencies, with robust fiscal stimulus. UBS provides comparative data to ground its analysis. The table below illustrates the trade-off in recent fiscal years: Fiscal Year Defense Spending (Approx.) Potential Alternative (Equivalent Funding) 2023 $800 Billion Nationwide High-Speed Rail Network Seed Funding 2024 $850 Billion Universal Pre-K Education for 5 Years 2025 (Projected) $900+ Billion Major Green Energy Infrastructure Initiative This perspective does not argue against necessary defense. Instead, it frames the expenditure as a conscious choice with significant economic consequences. The UBS report emphasizes that without strategic reform, the compounding cost of legacy systems and new threats will continue to strain US fiscal resources. Expert Perspectives and Strategic Implications Financial strategists at UBS are not alone in their assessment. Former Pentagon comptroller officials and academic economists from institutions like Harvard’s Kennedy School echo similar concerns. They argue for a more rigorous cost-benefit analysis of military engagements and procurement. The concept of ‘strategic prioritization’ becomes paramount. Experts suggest the US must clearly define its core security interests and align spending accordingly, rather than maintaining a global posture without periodic, critical reassessment. The implications extend beyond borders. The US’s fiscal health is a cornerstone of global economic stability. A nation grappling with debt sustainability concerns may find its diplomatic and strategic leverage subtly diminished. Allies and adversaries alike monitor US fiscal capacity as an indicator of long-term staying power. Therefore, managing the war burden is not merely a domestic budget issue but a core component of grand strategy. UBS concludes that a sustainable approach requires: Enhanced Acquisition Oversight: Implementing stricter controls to curb waste in defense contracting. Alliance Burden-Sharing: Encouraging NATO and Pacific allies to increase their defense contributions. Technology-Driven Efficiency: Leveraging AI and data analytics for more cost-effective logistics and readiness. Regular Strategic Reviews: Instituting mandatory, bipartisan assessments of global force posture and associated costs. Conclusion The UBS analysis on US war spending and national spending power delivers a crucial, evidence-based warning. It demonstrates that sustained high levels of defense expenditure create tangible fiscal trade-offs that impact economic flexibility and long-term stability. Navigating this challenge demands informed debate, strategic clarity, and a commitment to fiscal responsibility alongside robust national security. The path forward, as outlined by financial and policy experts, requires balancing immediate threats with the enduring need for a strong, resilient, and fiscally sound American economy. FAQs Q1: What does UBS mean by ‘war burden’ in this context? UBS defines the ‘war burden’ as the total financial cost incurred by the United States to fund ongoing military operations, maintain global force posture, modernize equipment, and support veterans’ care. This includes both direct appropriations and long-term liabilities. Q2: How does military spending directly reduce ‘spending power’? It reduces spending power by consuming a large portion of the federal budget, limiting funds for other public investments, contributing to higher national debt, and potentially raising borrowing costs for the government and private sector, which can slow economic growth. Q3: Is UBS suggesting the US should cut its defense budget? UBS does not prescribe specific policy cuts. Instead, the analysis highlights the economic consequences of current spending levels and advocates for strategic reforms, greater efficiency, and burden-sharing with allies to ensure long-term fiscal sustainability alongside security. Q4: What are the biggest drivers of cost in modern US defense spending? Major cost drivers include personnel salaries and benefits, research and development for next-generation technologies (like hypersonic weapons and AI), procurement of complex systems (fighter jets, ships), and the sustainment costs of maintaining a global network of bases and ongoing operations. Q5: How does US military spending compare to other global powers? The US spends more on its military than the next ten highest-spending countries combined, according to most international assessments. This unparalleled scale is central to the UBS analysis of its unique fiscal impact on the US economy compared to other nations. This post US War Spending Burden: UBS Reveals Alarming Impact on National Spending Power first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

10 Apr 2026, 09:07

Analyst: The Bounce Is Over on XRP. The Real Move Hasn’t Happened Yet

A fresh technical outlook suggests XRP may be approaching a decisive phase. Market momentum has shifted after a brief recovery, positioning the asset for a potential downward move. According to crypto analyst CasiTrades (@CasiTrades), the recent price action aligns with a classic Elliott Wave setup that could define XRP’s near-term trajectory. Her outlook identifies a completed corrective phase and anticipates an accelerated decline as the next major move unfolds. The Bounce Is Over on XRP. Now Watching for W3 Down That ceasefire push over the last several hours sent XRP perfectly into the .618 retracement and finally gave us a clean W2. It knocked out the one of the smaller subwave counts but the bigger structure hasn't changed.… pic.twitter.com/2CwGro30jK — CasiTrades (@CasiTrades) April 8, 2026 Fibonacci Resistance Confirms Wave 2 Completion The chart shows XRP retracing to the 0.618 Fibonacci level near $1.39. This retracement marked a key resistance zone and validated the completion of Wave 2 within the broader Elliott Wave structure . The rejection from this level reinforces the bearish outlook and signals the start of Wave 3. CasiTrades emphasized the precision of this move, noting that “that ceasefire push over the last several hours sent XRP perfectly into the .618 retracement and finally gave us a clean W2.” This reaction highlights the importance of Fibonacci levels in identifying turning points and guiding technical projections. The chart also indicates that smaller subwave counts have been invalidated, while the dominant structure remains intact. This strengthens confidence in the overarching Elliott Wave count and supports expectations of continued downside momentum . Wave 3 Targets $1.09 With Accelerated Momentum Wave 3 typically represents the strongest and most decisive phase in an Elliott Wave sequence. In this case, the projected decline points toward the 0.786 Fibonacci retracement level near $1.09. The analysis suggests that XRP could move to this zone speedily. CasiTrades outlined this expectation clearly, stating, “I’m still expecting a W3 down toward ~$1.09, and this should accelerate fast!” The projection aligns with the descending channel illustrated on the chart, which continues to guide XRP’s price structure. Supporting this outlook, trendlines indicate sustained downward pressure. A broader descending formation intersects with key Fibonacci levels, reinforcing the likelihood of continued movement toward the projected target. We are on X, follow us to connect with us :- @TimesTabloid1 — TimesTabloid (@TimesTabloid1) June 15, 2025 The RSI also shows an upward trend in recent sessions, reflecting temporary strength that often precedes decisive directional moves in structured corrections. Key Levels to Watch in the Coming Sessions The analysis identifies critical price zones that could shape XRP’s next phase. Immediate resistance remains near $1.37-$1.4, corresponding with the 0.5 and 0.65 Fibonacci retracement levels. A sustained move below $1.3 would confirm bearish momentum and strengthen the case for Wave 3. The projected support area near $1.09 stands as the primary downside target. This level serves as a pivotal zone for potential stabilization before the next market cycle develops. Disclaimer : This content is meant to inform and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author’s personal opinions and do not represent Times Tabloid’s opinion. Readers are advised to conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions. Any action taken by the reader is strictly at their own risk. Times Tabloid is not responsible for any financial losses. Follow us on X , Facebook , Telegram , and Google News The post Analyst: The Bounce Is Over on XRP. The Real Move Hasn’t Happened Yet appeared first on Times Tabloid .

10 Apr 2026, 08:52

Dark Defender Says XRP Broke Our Orange Resistance, Predicts Next Price Target

A decisive move on the 3-day chart has positioned XRP for a potential historic rally. The digital asset has confirmed a breakout above a key resistance level while maintaining strong structural integrity. This development aligns with a bullish technical outlook supported by multiple indicators and wave formations. Crypto analyst Dark Defender shared his latest analysis , highlighting XRP’s progress toward higher price levels. His chart shows a clear breakout above the orange resistance trendline following repeated support at the Fibonacci retracement level near $1.31. This technical validation strengthens the bullish case and signals growing market confidence. In his statement, the analyst noted that the C Wave is complete, confirming the conclusion of a corrective phase. This milestone often marks the beginning of a renewed upward trend, reinforcing expectations of continued price expansion . Hi all. $XRP broke our orange resistance on the 3-Day chart after respecting our structure and support $1.31 white Fibonacci line multiple times. C Wave Complete Resistance-Support Triangle Break RSI Bullish Cross A new all-time high is in sight. pic.twitter.com/5xlXBj4aAn — Dark Defender (@DefendDark) April 8, 2026 Triangle Breakout Confirms Bullish Momentum The chart outlines a Resistance-Support Triangle that XRP has successfully breached. This breakout reflects a continuation pattern that often precedes strong upward movements. According to the analyst, the asset has broken out of this Resistance-Support Triangle, further validating the bullish structure. The price action shows consistent respect for the $1.31 Fibonacci level, identified as the 50.00% retracement zone. Multiple rebounds from this support indicate strong buying interest and reinforce its importance as a foundation for future gains. Dark Defender’s projection also highlights Fibonacci extension targets at 123.60% near $1.66, 161.80% around $1.88, and 261.80% extending toward $5.85 , a new all-time high for the asset. These technical markers outline a clear trajectory for XRP’s next phase. The breakout above the descending resistance line suggests strengthening momentum as the asset advances toward these targets. We are on X, follow us to connect with us :- @TimesTabloid1 — TimesTabloid (@TimesTabloid1) June 15, 2025 RSI Bullish Cross Strengthens Outlook Momentum indicators support the bullish narrative. The Relative Strength Index on the 3-day chart has formed a bullish crossover , signaling improving strength and sustained buying pressure. This crossover typically signals a shift in sentiment and aligns with the broader technical structure presented in the chart. Rising RSI levels indicate strengthening demand and reinforce expectations of continued upside movement. Together with the completed wave structure and confirmed breakout, the momentum indicator adds further credibility to the forecast. Dark Defender summarized the outlook, stating that “A new all-time high is in sight.” This shows confidence in XRP’s trajectory as it approaches critical extension levels outlined in the analysis. Disclaimer : This content is meant to inform and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author’s personal opinions and do not represent Times Tabloid’s opinion. Readers are advised to conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions. Any action taken by the reader is strictly at their own risk. Times Tabloid is not responsible for any financial losses. Follow us on X , Facebook , Telegram , and Google News The post Dark Defender Says XRP Broke Our Orange Resistance, Predicts Next Price Target appeared first on Times Tabloid .

10 Apr 2026, 03:54

Quantum-safe bitcoin now possible without a soft fork, but costs $200 a pop, new research shows

A new scheme from a StarkWare researcher works under existing consensus rules, offering an emergency fallback while BIP-360 awaits activation.

9 Apr 2026, 21:30

XRP Could Be The Hidden Beneficiary Of FedNow Expansion — Here’s Why

A subtle shift in US payment infrastructure could be opening an unexpected door for XRP. The latest proposal from the Federal Reserve to expand FedNow capabilities is sparking new conversations across the digital asset space, and XRP may be quietly entering the spotlight. Ripple’s Vision Aligns With Evolving Payment Infrastructure A transformative shift is unfolding in the US payment infrastructure, one that could impact Ripple and the role of XRP. Analyst XFinanceBull has revealed on X that the Federal Reserve has proposed expanding FedNow to allow banks and credit unions to use intermediaries for fund transfers. Related Reading: XRP Might Be The Most Recognizable Names In RWA, But Is It The Leader? Here Are The Numbers This move goes beyond the current limitation of direct transfers strictly between two US banks. Furthermore, the proposal could open the door for intermediaries to help bridge and facilitate the international side of the payment. XFinanceBull highlighted that Ripple National Trust Bank has already been conditionally approved by the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). This charter would allow Ripple to custody digital assets, offer lending services, and gain direct access to the Federal Reserve System, such as FedNow for instant payments. The next step is the Fed Master Account application, which would directly connect a chartered bank to the Federal Reserve’s payment systems. Ripple is still waiting on this approval, and this is not speculation. Furthermore, research published in a peer-reviewed journal by the Financial Planning Association has explored how Ripple and XRP are building the bridge for cross-border transactions. It specifically noted that possible integration points include systems like FedNow access and participation in the discount window for liquidity support. By connecting the dots, the Fed is expanding FedNow to support cross-border payments through intermediaries, and Ripple already has a conditionally approved national bank charter. The Fed Master Account is the final piece that would connect Ripple directly to the Fed’s instant payment infrastructure. Meanwhile, over 300 financial institutions have been reported to be using it, adopting, or exploring XRP. At the same time, Ripple’s involvement with global institutions such as the IMF and the Bank for International Settlements underscores its focus on interoperability within the existing digital money. XFinanceBull concluded that this is not about replacing the system, but about becoming part of it. The Fed has just opened the door, and Ripple may already be holding the conditional key, waiting for final approval to step fully into the system. How XRP Enables Instant Currency Conversion XRP is rapidly redefining how value moves across the global financial system. An Ambassador known as Ledger Man has stated that XRP functions as a powerful bridge currency, capable of converting local currencies such as the Iraqi Dinar, Vietnamese Dong, and Venezuelan Bolivar into US dollars with speed, efficiency, and full transparency. Related Reading: Ripple Introduces New System To Merge Corporate Finance And Digital Assets With the system already going live through partnerships with firms like Temenos, this could be the future of digital banking and cross-border payments. Featured image from Getty Images, chart from Tradingview.com