hodler

25 Feb 2026, 13:05

Expert Shares His Thoughts On XRP Price Action Over the Next Few Months

After months of persistent selling, XRP traders are searching for signs of exhaustion in the downtrend. The asset has endured six to seven consecutive months of downside pressure, gradually eroding bullish momentum. When a market compresses for that long, tension builds beneath the surface. Relief often follows extended drawdowns, but timing and structure determine whether that relief evolves into recovery or fades into another leg lower. Crypto technical analyst ChartNerd recently shared his outlook on X, offering a structured breakdown of XRP’s potential path over the coming months. In his video analysis, he explains that XRP appears overdue for at least a short-term rebound. He bases his outlook on higher-timeframe formations rather than intraday volatility. Before I hit the sack, it's clear that $XRP has witnessed 6/7 months of continuous downside pressure. Relief is overdue. Below is my thoughts on price action over the next few months GN XRP fam https://t.co/x3Q1ab4JAm pic.twitter.com/Ek7RJ7dafp — ChartNerd (@ChartNerdTA) February 24, 2026 A Market Under Sustained Pressure XRP has trended lower in a controlled fashion since its earlier cycle highs. Sellers have consistently stepped in at resistance levels, while buyers have gradually defended lower support zones. This pattern reflects distribution followed by compression, not panic-driven capitulation. Extended corrective phases often reset overheated indicators and reposition long-term participants. ChartNerd notes that XRP continues to respect broader structural support, particularly Fibonacci retracements that originated from the $0.52 base during earlier accumulation phases. Ascending Triangles and Fibonacci Confluence In his chart breakdown, ChartNerd highlights ascending triangle formations on higher timeframes. This structure forms when price prints higher lows beneath a relatively flat resistance level. Each higher low signals growing buying pressure. When price compresses into the apex of such a formation, volatility typically expands. He also references Fibonacci retracement levels drawn from prior major moves. These retracements align with current consolidation zones, strengthening the case for a technical reaction. Based on these confluences, he expects XRP to attempt a rally toward the $1.80 to $2 region during March or April. We are on X, follow us to connect with us :- @TimesTabloid1 — TimesTabloid (@TimesTabloid1) June 15, 2025 Relief Rally or Dead Cat Bounce? ChartNerd makes a critical distinction. He believes March and April could bring relief , but he does not automatically classify that move as a confirmed bull continuation. He argues that May and June will likely determine the broader macro direction. If XRP sustains strength above the $2 region and converts resistance into support, momentum could accelerate. If price fails at resistance, the rebound could resemble a temporary dead cat bounce before another move lower. Macro Conditions Will Decide Broader crypto conditions will heavily influence XRP’s trajectory. Capital rotation, Bitcoin stability, and overall liquidity will shape whether buyers maintain control. For now, XRP stands at a technical crossroads . After months of sustained downside pressure, the coming weeks may finally reveal whether relief transforms into renewed expansion or remains a pause within a larger corrective structure. 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 urged to do in-depth 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 Twitter , Facebook , Telegram , and Google News The post Expert Shares His Thoughts On XRP Price Action Over the Next Few Months appeared first on Times Tabloid .

25 Feb 2026, 13:05

Bitcoin Mining Stocks Defy Odds: TeraWulf, Cipher, Hut 8 Outperform BTC in Stunning 2025 Rally

BitcoinWorld Bitcoin Mining Stocks Defy Odds: TeraWulf, Cipher, Hut 8 Outperform BTC in Stunning 2025 Rally In a surprising twist for the 2025 financial markets, key Bitcoin mining equities are dramatically outpacing the cryptocurrency they support. According to a pivotal report from 10x Research, highlighted by CoinDesk, publicly traded mining firms TeraWulf (WULF), Cipher Digital (CIFR), and Hut 8 (HUT) have posted significant gains that eclipse Bitcoin’s own price movement. This divergence signals a fundamental shift in how investors value crypto-related assets, moving beyond mere Bitcoin exposure to prioritize operational efficiency and sustainable energy models. Bitcoin Mining Stocks Outperform the Underlying Asset The data from February 2025 reveals a clear performance gap. Consequently, TeraWulf led the charge with an impressive 31% surge. Meanwhile, Cipher Digital and Hut 8 posted respectable gains of 8% and 6%, respectively. These figures stand in stark contrast to Bitcoin’s price action, which remained range-bound between a major resistance level at $72,000 and a key support zone around $60,000. This trading pattern persisted despite a noted recovery in spot Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) inflows, suggesting other forces are at play. Analysts at 10x Research provide a crucial explanation. They argue the rally stems primarily from these companies’ energy competitiveness , not just their involvement in Bitcoin mining. Essentially, investors are rewarding operators with lower, more stable power costs and sustainable energy strategies. This trend reflects a maturation in the sector, where operational excellence separates winners from the broader crypto market volatility. The Critical Role of Energy Economics in Crypto Mining The mining industry’s profitability hinges directly on the cost of electricity. Therefore, companies with access to low-cost, reliable power sources possess a formidable advantage. For instance, TeraWulf’s operations leverage nuclear power, providing a stable, low-carbon energy profile. Similarly, other leading miners actively seek locations with surplus renewable energy or unique power agreements. This focus creates a moat that protects margins during Bitcoin price fluctuations and regulatory scrutiny. The following table compares the reported February 2025 performance: Company (Ticker) February 2025 Gain Primary Energy Advantage TeraWulf (WULF) 31% Nuclear-Powered Facilities Cipher Digital (CIFR) 8% Diversified Energy Sourcing Hut 8 (HUT) 6% Efficient Infrastructure & Management Bitcoin (BTC) ~0% (Range-bound) N/A This decoupling from Bitcoin’s price is a notable development. Historically, mining stocks acted as a leveraged bet on BTC, amplifying both gains and losses. The current outperformance suggests the market is applying a new valuation framework, assessing these firms more like traditional industrial operators with unique technological expertise. Expert Analysis on Market Structure and Investor Sentiment Market strategists point to several converging factors. First, the post-ETF landscape has provided institutional investors with direct Bitcoin exposure, reducing the need to use mining stocks as a proxy. Consequently, capital flowing into miners is now more selective, targeting specific business fundamentals. Second, increasing global focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria pressures funds to allocate to sustainable operations. Miners with verifiable clean energy usage naturally attract this capital. Furthermore, the Bitcoin network’s upcoming halving events continually reshape the economic landscape. Miners must constantly improve efficiency to maintain profitability as block rewards diminish. Companies that invested early in next-generation hardware and secured favorable energy contracts are now seeing those strategic decisions validated by the public markets. This creates a virtuous cycle where strong performers attract more investment, fueling further infrastructure development. Broader Implications for the Cryptocurrency Ecosystem The strong performance of select mining stocks has ripple effects across the entire digital asset space. Primarily, it demonstrates that value creation within crypto extends far beyond simple token appreciation. It validates the entire industrial backbone of the Bitcoin network as a viable and investable sector. Additionally, it may drive consolidation, as well-capitalized public companies acquire smaller, less efficient private miners. For retail and institutional investors alike, this trend underscores the importance of due diligence. Key factors to monitor now include: Energy Cost per Terahash: The core metric of mining efficiency. Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs): Long-term contracts that lock in energy prices. Hashrate Growth: The company’s share of the total network computing power. Corporate Governance: Transparency and regulatory compliance. Ultimately, the health of public mining companies directly impacts the security and decentralization of the Bitcoin network. Robust, profitable miners are essential for processing transactions and maintaining the blockchain’s immutable ledger. Their success, therefore, is intrinsically linked to the long-term viability of the asset they support. Conclusion The 2025 rally in Bitcoin mining stocks like TeraWulf, Cipher Digital, and Hut 8 marks a pivotal evolution in cryptocurrency investing. These equities are outperforming Bitcoin not on speculation, but on measurable fundamentals like energy competitiveness and operational excellence. This shift indicates a maturing market that rewards sustainable infrastructure and sound business models. As the digital asset ecosystem grows, the performance of these foundational companies will remain a critical barometer for the industry’s overall health and sophistication. FAQs Q1: Why are Bitcoin mining stocks outperforming Bitcoin? These stocks are outperforming because investors are valuing them based on specific business fundamentals, particularly low and sustainable energy costs, rather than just their correlation to Bitcoin’s price. This represents a shift towards assessing them as efficient industrial operators. Q2: What is “energy competitiveness” in Bitcoin mining? Energy competitiveness refers to a mining company’s ability to secure electricity at a consistently low cost, often through direct partnerships with power producers, use of stranded energy, or investments in renewable sources like nuclear, hydro, or solar power. This is the primary driver of mining profitability. Q3: How does Bitcoin’s price being range-bound affect miners? A range-bound Bitcoin price increases competitive pressure on miners. Companies with high energy costs become unprofitable, while those with low costs continue to operate effectively. This environment accelerates industry consolidation, benefiting the most efficient operators, which is reflected in their stock prices. Q4: Are mining stocks still a risky investment? Yes, they remain volatile and carry significant risk. Risks include Bitcoin price crashes, regulatory changes targeting energy use, technological obsolescence of mining hardware, and operational failures. However, the current trend shows the market is differentiating risk based on company-specific factors. Q5: What does this trend mean for the future of Bitcoin mining? This trend pushes the entire mining industry toward greater efficiency and sustainability. To attract investment and remain profitable, miners must innovate in energy sourcing and hardware efficiency. This leads to a more resilient, decentralized, and environmentally conscious network infrastructure for Bitcoin. This post Bitcoin Mining Stocks Defy Odds: TeraWulf, Cipher, Hut 8 Outperform BTC in Stunning 2025 Rally first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

25 Feb 2026, 13:01

Coinbase: Bitcoin Options Reveal $60K Risk and $90K Resistance Zones

Bitcoin’s next major move may hinge less on spot charts and more on options market positioning. Coinbase Institutional’s latest research introduces Gamma Exposure, or GEX, as a liquidity lens for identifying volatility regimes. The report maps how dealer hedging flows cluster around key strike zones. Significantly, it highlights concentrated negative gamma between $60,000 and $70,000 and positive gamma near $85,000 to $90,000. Key Levels Meet Options Positioning The firm first revisits its structural pivot map, which aggregates volume and prior turning points into price bands. Dense support appears near $60,000, while the first heavy resistance zone sits around $82,000. Besides, higher liquidity pockets align above $85,000. These zones often attract resting orders and repeated reactions. However, the addition of gamma exposure changes the tactical outlook. Negative gamma dominates the $60,000 to $70,000 corridor. In that environment, dealer hedging can amplify directional moves. Falling prices force more selling, and rising prices trigger additional buying. Hence, if Bitcoin slides toward $60,000, volatility may expand rather than stabilize. In contrast, meaningful positive gamma sits between $85,000 and $90,000. Dealers in positive gamma tend to sell strength and buy weakness. Consequently, price action in that region may compress and pin near strike clusters. That dynamic favors slower advances rather than sharp breakouts. Trading Scenarios Around $82K and $60K The $82,000 level acts as a near-term decision point. If Bitcoin approaches $82,000 and fails to hold above it, supply likely remains intact. Moreover, the gamma profile offers little stabilization there. Traders may favor defined-risk bearish structures instead of aggressive breakout entries. However, acceptance above $82,000 shifts probabilities. Sustained support above that level suggests absorbed supply. Additionally, continuation toward $85,000 becomes more likely. Still, positive gamma overhead increases chop risk, which may limit runaway upside. On the downside, the $60,000 region remains critical. Negative gamma implies that any drop into that zone could accelerate quickly. Consequently, traders may wait for a reclaim before adding long exposure. If Bitcoin loses $60,000 and fails to recover, selling pressure could extend faster than expected. Overall, the interplay between structural pivots and gamma exposure frames two regimes. Downside near $60,000 risks acceleration. Upside toward $90,000 may grind and stall rather than explode.

25 Feb 2026, 13:00

Here’s how Meta’s 2026 return could reshape stablecoin adoption

USDT dips, but fundamentals hold: Why "liquidity" is key for H2 rally.

25 Feb 2026, 13:00

Former Chainlink Exec Replaces Michael Selig As SEC’s Crypto Task Force Chief Counsel

As the Trump administration pushes lawmakers and regulators to develop clear regulatory frameworks, a former Chainlink executive has joined the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) Crypto Task Force as its new legal chief. SEC Appoints New Crypto Task Force Legal Advisor On Monday, Chainlink’s social media announced Taylor Lindman’s departure from the company to join the SEC’s Crypto Task Force as its Chief Counsel. The executive worked at Chainlink Labs for 5 years, where he held several senior legal positions, including Deputy General Counsel. In an X post, the company thanked Lindman for his service, affirming that it looks forward to “modernizing the U.S. financial system together, taking it to the next level of its development and rapid growth.” The former Chainlink executive will replace Michael Selig, who was appointed Chairman of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) in December 2025. He will serve as the Crypto Task Force’s new senior legal advisor, ensuring compliance, risk management, and guiding legal interpretation. Following the departure of Gary Gensler, the SEC’s former acting chairman, Mark Uyeda, established the Crypto Task Force to review the agency’s approach to digital assets and to develop a clear, comprehensive regulatory framework. Since its launch, the task force has held multiple roundtable events to engage with industry leaders and discuss different aspects of the sector’s regulation, including tokenization, DeFi, financial surveillance, and privacy. SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce, who also leads the task force, confirmed the news, welcoming Lindman in an X post. “Welcome to our new Crypto Task Force Chief Counsel, Taylor Lindman, who joined the SEC today. I predict great things!” the post reads. SEC To Advance Digital Asset Regulation Last week, SEC Chairman Paul Atkins shared how the agency plans advance digital assets regulation this year. Speaking at ETH Denver alongside Commissioner Peirce, Atkins affirmed that the Commission would move forward with its regulatory work through Project Crypto, which was recently relaunched as a joint initiative with the CFTC. He noted that the two Commissions are “planning great things together – harmonization, joint rulemaking – a common, coordinated approach unlike anything seen before at these two, often sparring agencies.” As reported by Bitcoinist, the sister agencies partnered to advance a clear crypto asset taxonomy, clarify jurisdictional lines, remove duplicative compliance requirements, and reduce regulatory fragmentation. In addition, he announced that in the coming months, the agency will review multiple initiatives, including a Commission framework “to explain how we think about crypto assets that are subject to an investment contract.” In addition, they will consider an innovation exemption for firms to facilitate limited trading of certain tokenized securities on novel platforms; no-action letters and exemptive orders to provide additional clarity; rulemaking on custody of non-security digital assets, such as payment stablecoins, by broker-dealers; and a transfer agent modernization rulemaking, which will “accommodate the role that blockchain can play in recordkeeping.” Earlier this month, Atkins also outlined the SEC’s plan to develop formal guidance on token classification. At a House Financial Services Committee hearing, the chairman noted that regulatory clarity for crypto assets is “long overdue,” emphasizing that a comprehensive federal framework, such as the market structure bill, would be needed to offer long-lasting rulemaking that can’t be easily changed. “Under Commissioner Hester Peirce’s leadership of our Crypto Task Force, SEC staff has provided more clarity in the past year than in the prior decade, but there is no action we can take that future-proofs our rulebook more formidably than nonpartisan market structure legislation,” he stated.

25 Feb 2026, 13:00

AUD/USD Soars: Robust Inflation Data Ignites RBA Rate Hike Speculation

BitcoinWorld AUD/USD Soars: Robust Inflation Data Ignites RBA Rate Hike Speculation Sydney, Australia – March 2025: The Australian dollar surged against the US dollar today, marking its strongest daily gain in three months following unexpectedly robust inflation data. This development immediately fueled intense speculation about potential Reserve Bank of Australia interest rate hikes, fundamentally reshaping market expectations for monetary policy through 2025. AUD/USD Momentum Builds on Inflation Surprise Australian Bureau of Statistics data revealed consumer prices increased 1.2% in the March quarter, significantly exceeding the 0.8% consensus forecast. Consequently, annual inflation accelerated to 4.5% from 4.2% previously. Markets responded immediately, with the AUD/USD pair jumping 1.4% to 0.6820, its highest level since mid-February. This movement represents a dramatic reversal from the currency’s recent downward trend, which had persisted for six consecutive weeks. Market analysts quickly adjusted their rate expectations following the data release. Specifically, swap markets now price a 65% probability of an RBA rate hike in June, up sharply from just 25% yesterday. Furthermore, traders now anticipate at least two additional 25-basis-point increases by year-end. This represents the most aggressive tightening expectations since the RBA paused its hiking cycle in late 2023. RBA Policy Implications and Global Context The inflation data presents a significant challenge for the Reserve Bank of Australia’s policy committee. Previously, Governor Michele Bullock emphasized the central bank’s data-dependent approach, stating the board would “not rule anything in or out” regarding future rate moves. Today’s figures clearly increase pressure for policy normalization, particularly as services inflation remains stubbornly elevated at 5.8% annually. Comparative Central Bank Analysis Globally, central banks face diverging inflation trajectories. The Federal Reserve maintains a cautious stance despite recent US inflation moderation, while the European Central Bank continues its gradual tightening path. Australia’s situation appears unique among developed economies, with domestic demand pressures persisting alongside strong employment figures. The nation’s unemployment rate remains at 4.1%, near historic lows, supporting wage growth and consumption. Several key factors contribute to Australia’s persistent inflation: Services sector strength: Education, healthcare, and hospitality prices continue rising Housing costs: Rental inflation reached 7.8% annually, the highest since 2009 Energy transition impacts: Renewable infrastructure investments create price pressures Geographic factors: Supply chain restructuring affects import costs differently than other regions Australian Inflation Components (Quarterly Change) Category Q1 2025 Q4 2024 Food & Non-Alcoholic Beverages +1.1% +0.9% Housing +2.3% +2.1% Transport +0.8% +0.5% Education +4.2% +3.8% Insurance & Financial Services +2.7% +2.4% Currency Market Dynamics and Technical Analysis Forex traders reacted swiftly to the inflation surprise, with AUD/USD volume tripling its 30-day average during the Asian session. The pair broke through multiple technical resistance levels, including the 200-day moving average at 0.6780. Additionally, risk reversals show increased demand for AUD call options, indicating growing bullish sentiment. Several factors amplify the Australian dollar’s reaction: Carry trade appeal: Higher expected rates improve AUD’s attractiveness Commodity correlation: Iron ore and copper prices support the currency Regional outperformance: Australia’s economy grows faster than most G10 peers Positioning shifts: Hedge funds reduced AUD shorts before the data release Market participants now watch several key levels. Immediate resistance sits at 0.6850, the February high, while support emerges at 0.6750. A sustained break above 0.6850 could trigger further gains toward 0.6950. However, the US dollar’s broader strength presents a countervailing force, particularly if Federal Reserve policy remains restrictive. Economic Impacts and Sector Analysis The inflation data and resulting currency movement create varied effects across Australia’s economy. Export-oriented sectors benefit from the stronger dollar, particularly mining and agriculture. Conversely, import-competing industries face increased pressure from cheaper foreign goods. Tourism experiences mixed effects, with inbound travel becoming more affordable but outbound travel more expensive for Australians. Housing Market Considerations Australia’s property market faces particular challenges from potential rate hikes. Mortgage holders with variable rates would experience immediate payment increases, potentially cooling housing demand. However, rental inflation suggests underlying supply constraints persist. Construction costs continue rising at 6.2% annually, limiting new housing supply despite government incentives. Business investment decisions also adjust to the new outlook. Companies may delay expansion plans if borrowing costs rise significantly. Nevertheless, strong domestic demand supports revenue projections for consumer-facing businesses. The retail sector shows resilience, with sales growing 2.4% in the latest quarter despite higher prices. Historical Context and Policy Evolution Today’s developments continue Australia’s post-pandemic inflation narrative. The country experienced later inflation emergence than peers but now shows greater persistence. The RBA’s policy approach has evolved through this period, initially emphasizing patience before adopting more proactive rhetoric in recent months. Several historical parallels emerge with previous tightening cycles: 2007-2008: RBA raised rates amid mining boom inflation 2009-2010: Post-GFC recovery prompted rapid normalization 2022-2023: Pandemic-related supply shocks drove aggressive hikes Each cycle featured unique characteristics, but all responded to domestic inflation exceeding targets. The current situation combines elements of previous episodes, with both demand and supply factors contributing to price pressures. Australia’s economic structure has changed significantly since earlier cycles, with services representing a larger share of output and employment. Conclusion The AUD/USD rally reflects fundamental reassessment of Australia’s economic trajectory and monetary policy outlook. Robust inflation data has clearly increased expectations for RBA tightening, supporting the Australian dollar against major counterparts. Market participants now await the central bank’s May meeting for clearer guidance, with particular attention to updated economic projections. The currency pair’s direction will depend on both domestic policy decisions and global risk sentiment, creating complex dynamics for traders and policymakers alike. Ultimately, today’s movements demonstrate how single data releases can rapidly reshape market expectations and currency valuations in interconnected global markets. FAQs Q1: What caused the AUD/USD to rise today? The Australian dollar surged following stronger-than-expected inflation data, which increased expectations that the Reserve Bank of Australia will raise interest rates sooner than previously anticipated. Q2: How does higher inflation affect currency values? Higher inflation typically leads central banks to raise interest rates, which makes that currency more attractive to investors seeking higher returns, thereby increasing demand and value. Q3: What is the current market expectation for RBA rate moves? Markets now price approximately a 65% probability of a rate hike in June, with expectations for at least two additional increases by the end of 2025. Q4: How does AUD/USD movement impact Australian consumers? A stronger Australian dollar makes imported goods cheaper but reduces the competitiveness of Australian exports. It also affects overseas travel costs and foreign investment returns. Q5: What other factors influence AUD/USD besides interest rates? Commodity prices (especially iron ore and copper), global risk sentiment, economic growth differentials, and relative central bank policies all significantly impact the currency pair. This post AUD/USD Soars: Robust Inflation Data Ignites RBA Rate Hike Speculation first appeared on BitcoinWorld .