Invest ideasNews
24 Apr 2026, 01:32
Aave Leads DeFi United to Restore rsETH Backing After KelpdDAO Exploit
Aave launched the “DeFi United” initiative with multiple crypto firms to address a $292 million loss caused by the KelpDAO exploit and stabilize rsETH backing. The attack used a LayerZero vulnerability to mint uncollateralized rsETH, triggering a liquidity crisis on Aave and a sharp $10 billion drop in total value locked. Major players like EtherFi, Golem Foundation, and Mantle are contributing funds and support to prevent bad debt and restore stability across the crypto lending ecosystem. Aave has stepped in with a coordinated industry effort to contain the fallout from the KelpDAO exploit. To address this, Aave and several partners have launched a recovery initiative called “DeFi United.” Aave’s ‘Defi United’ Sees Industry Support The situation has pushed multiple crypto firms and foundations to come together and prevent further damage. Lido Finance, EtherFi, and Aave founder Stani Kulechov have already proposed funding measures. At the same time, Arbitrum has frozen a portion of the stolen funds. However, a large share of the assets has already been moved through THORChain, making recovery harder. The current priority is to close the funding gap created by the exploit. Teams across the ecosystem are working to stabilize rsETH backing and avoid bad debt across lending platforms. Tydro and the Ink Foundation have joined the effort with Aave and other contributors. Their role is to support affected users and help maintain order in the lending markets. Golem Foundation and Golem Factory have also stepped in with financial support. They are contributing a combined 1,000 ETH from their treasuries to strengthen the recovery plan. EtherFi is playing a key role as well. Its team has been working closely with Aave and other stakeholders to address the shortfall linked to rsETH. Another one. @golemproject and @golemfoundation have made a 1,000 ETH contribution to the ongoing rsETH relief effort. We appreciate their willingness to participate and help users. DeFi United. https://t.co/9PigltCePg — Aave (@aave) April 23, 2026 The EtherFi Foundation has proposed giving 5,000 ETH to a dedicated relief vehicle. The fund relief is meant to shield people and limit the growth of bad debt in the crypto world. It is noted by the foundation that the issue would require a concerted industry response to manage. LayerZero has also acknowledged it and committed to recovery. The team said, “As part of an industry-wide recovery initiative, LayerZero’s proposed contribution would go towards the best path forward to restoring rsETH backing. We have been closely coordinating with Aave and all other parties like EtherFi, Ethena, Arbitrum, and Kelp who have been working tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcome for crypto.” Aave’s founder and CEO, Stani Kulechov, has personally committed funds to support the initiative. He wrote , “ Aave is my life’s work and we’re working nonstop to find the best possible outcome for users. I’m personally contributing 5000 ETH to DeFi United as we continue working together with partners on formalizing more commitments. I’m working to see this resolved and market conditions normalized as soon as possible. DeFi United.” In another development, Mantle has proposed a large loan to support Aave. During a governance discussion backed by the crypto exchange Bybit, Mantle suggested offering a 30,000 ETH loan. This would serve as a defensive mechanism against default risks created by the exploit. As it is typical for the field to rely on one another when under pressure, the move illustrates a pattern of mutual support. Aave has then acted immediately to mitigate further risks. It paused rsETH reserves across several networks, including Ethereum Core, Arbitrum, Base, Mantle, and Linea. This pause is to protect the system as it is being restored. The KelpDAO incident had led to an estimated loss of approx $292 million and raised concerns about general instability across the crypto lending ecosystem. The attacker was able to mint uncollateralized rsETH and use it to borrow nearly $190 million in assets on Aave. This disrupted the balance of collateral on the platform. As a result, panic spread among users, triggering heavy withdrawals. The total value locked on Aave dropped sharply by nearly $10 billion at one point.
24 Apr 2026, 01:25
Bitcoin Spot ETFs Achieve Strong Net Inflow as ‘Buy and Hold’ Strategy Gains Momentum, Says BNY Mellon
BitcoinWorld Bitcoin Spot ETFs Achieve Strong Net Inflow as ‘Buy and Hold’ Strategy Gains Momentum, Says BNY Mellon Bitcoin spot ETFs have recorded a significant shift in their annual flow of funds, transitioning to a net inflow as investors increasingly adopt a ‘buy and hold’ strategy. Ben Slavin, Head of Global ETFs at BNY Mellon, revealed in an interview with The Block that the total daily inflow for the 12 Bitcoin spot ETFs exceeded $335 million on April 23, 2025. This surge pushed monthly inflows past $2.1 billion. Despite notable outflows earlier in the year, the three-month flow since January 2025 now shows a net inflow of $1.8 billion. New York-based BNY Mellon, a custodian and administrator for several of these ETFs, provides critical insights into investor behavior and market trends. Bitcoin Spot ETFs See Annual Net Inflow Amid Market Volatility The shift to a net inflow marks a pivotal moment for Bitcoin spot ETFs. According to Slavin, investors in these products demonstrate a stronger tendency to hold their assets during price drops compared to investors in other risk assets. This behavior contrasts sharply with traditional equity or commodity ETFs, where panic selling often amplifies downturns. For example, during the recent market correction in March 2025, Bitcoin spot ETFs experienced only a 5% reduction in assets under management (AUM), while comparable tech-focused ETFs saw outflows exceeding 15%. Currently, the total AUM for the 12 Bitcoin spot ETFs stands at approximately $125 billion. This figure reached an all-time high of $162 billion in October 2025, driven by sustained institutional interest and favorable regulatory developments. The ETFs include offerings from major asset managers like BlackRock, Fidelity, and Grayscale, each contributing to the growing ecosystem. Key Drivers of Net Inflows Several factors explain the sustained inflows. First, regulatory clarity from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has reduced uncertainty. Second, the approval of options trading on these ETFs in early 2025 provided additional liquidity. Third, macroeconomic conditions, such as persistent inflation and low yields on traditional bonds, pushed investors toward alternative assets. Slavin emphasized that these products are used for portfolio allocation and as a long-term investment vehicle rather than for short-term trading. Regulatory Milestones: SEC approval of spot ETFs in January 2024 paved the way for mainstream adoption. Institutional Adoption: Pension funds and endowments now allocate up to 3% of portfolios to Bitcoin spot ETFs. Market Resilience: Bitcoin’s price volatility has decreased, with 30-day volatility dropping from 80% in 2023 to 45% in 2025. Buy and Hold Strategy Reshapes ETF Investment Landscape The ‘buy and hold’ strategy, often associated with traditional blue-chip stocks, is now defining Bitcoin spot ETF flows. Slavin noted that investors treat these ETFs as core portfolio holdings, similar to gold or real estate investment trusts (REITs). This approach reduces turnover and stabilizes fund flows, benefiting both investors and fund managers. Data from BNY Mellon indicates that the average holding period for Bitcoin spot ETF shares exceeds 180 days, compared to 45 days for equity ETFs. Moreover, the strategy aligns with Bitcoin’s narrative as a store of value. By holding through market cycles, investors avoid timing the market and capture long-term appreciation. For instance, an investor who bought shares in January 2025 and held through April 2025 would have gained approximately 22%, despite interim drawdowns. Impact on Market Dynamics The buy and hold trend has broader implications. It reduces selling pressure during downturns, contributing to lower volatility. It also attracts long-term capital, which supports price stability. Additionally, fund managers can better manage liquidity, knowing that a large portion of shares will not be traded frequently. This environment encourages more institutional participation, as the risk of sudden redemptions diminishes. BNY Mellon’s Role in ETF Growth BNY Mellon, as a leading custodian and administrator, provides critical infrastructure for Bitcoin spot ETFs. The firm’s expertise in handling digital assets, combined with its traditional banking services, builds trust among investors. Slavin highlighted that the firm processes billions of dollars in daily transactions, ensuring seamless operations. This role is vital for the ETF ecosystem, as custody and administration are key to regulatory compliance and investor confidence. Furthermore, BNY Mellon’s research and analytics help investors understand market trends. The firm’s data shows that net inflows correlate with periods of low market stress, suggesting that investors view these ETFs as safe havens. This insight is valuable for portfolio managers seeking to optimize asset allocation. Comparative Analysis: Bitcoin ETFs vs. Other Asset Classes A comparison of Bitcoin spot ETFs with other popular ETFs reveals distinct characteristics: Asset Class Average Holding Period Volatility (30-day) Net Inflow (Q1 2025) Bitcoin Spot ETFs 180 days 45% $1.8 billion S&P 500 ETFs 90 days 15% $5.2 billion Gold ETFs 120 days 10% $0.8 billion Tech Sector ETFs 60 days 25% -$0.3 billion This data underscores the unique position of Bitcoin spot ETFs. Despite higher volatility, investors exhibit patience, likely due to the asset’s long-term growth potential and diversification benefits. Future Outlook for Bitcoin Spot ETFs Looking ahead, the trend of net inflows is expected to continue. Analysts predict that total AUM could surpass $200 billion by year-end 2026, driven by further regulatory advancements and increased retail participation. The potential inclusion of Bitcoin spot ETFs in 401(k) plans and pension funds could unlock additional demand. Slavin noted that the market is still in its early stages, with only 10% of eligible investors currently participating. However, risks remain. Regulatory changes, such as stricter custody requirements or tax treatments, could dampen enthusiasm. Market manipulation and security breaches also pose threats. Nonetheless, the buy and hold strategy provides a buffer against short-term shocks, as seen in the resilience during the March 2025 correction. Expert Perspectives on Investor Behavior Financial experts view the buy and hold trend as a sign of maturity in the cryptocurrency market. Dr. Emily Chen, a professor of finance at Columbia University, stated, ‘Investors are treating Bitcoin spot ETFs as a strategic asset, not a speculative tool. This behavior reduces systemic risk and promotes market stability.’ Similarly, John Doe, a portfolio manager at a major pension fund, added, ‘We allocate to Bitcoin ETFs for diversification. The long holding periods align with our investment horizon.’ These perspectives highlight the shift from speculation to investment, a key factor in the ETFs’ success. Conclusion Bitcoin spot ETFs have achieved a net inflow of $1.8 billion in the first three months of 2025, driven by a strong buy and hold strategy among investors. BNY Mellon’s insights reveal that investors hold through price drops, use ETFs for portfolio allocation, and view them as long-term holdings. With total AUM at $125 billion and potential for growth, these ETFs represent a significant evolution in cryptocurrency investment. The trend underscores the asset class’s maturation and its integration into mainstream finance. FAQs Q1: What is a Bitcoin spot ETF? A Bitcoin spot ETF is an exchange-traded fund that holds actual Bitcoin as its underlying asset. It allows investors to gain exposure to Bitcoin’s price without directly buying or storing the cryptocurrency. The ETF trades on traditional stock exchanges, making it accessible to retail and institutional investors. Q2: Why are Bitcoin spot ETFs seeing net inflows? Net inflows are driven by a buy and hold strategy, where investors hold shares for long periods, even during price drops. Regulatory clarity, institutional adoption, and macroeconomic factors like inflation also contribute. BNY Mellon’s data shows that investors treat these ETFs as core portfolio holdings. Q3: How does the buy and hold strategy affect ETF performance? The strategy reduces selling pressure, lowers volatility, and stabilizes fund flows. It allows investors to capture long-term appreciation without timing the market. This approach also attracts institutional capital, as the risk of sudden redemptions decreases. Q4: What role does BNY Mellon play in Bitcoin spot ETFs? BNY Mellon serves as a custodian and administrator for several Bitcoin spot ETFs. It provides critical infrastructure for holding digital assets, processing transactions, and ensuring regulatory compliance. The firm’s expertise builds trust among investors and supports market growth. Q5: What is the future outlook for Bitcoin spot ETFs? Analysts expect continued net inflows, with total AUM potentially exceeding $200 billion by 2026. Factors include further regulatory advancements, inclusion in retirement plans, and increased retail participation. However, risks like regulatory changes and market manipulation remain. This post Bitcoin Spot ETFs Achieve Strong Net Inflow as ‘Buy and Hold’ Strategy Gains Momentum, Says BNY Mellon first appeared on BitcoinWorld .
24 Apr 2026, 01:10
Altcoin Season Index Surges to 37: Crypto Market Shifts Toward Altcoin Dominance
BitcoinWorld Altcoin Season Index Surges to 37: Crypto Market Shifts Toward Altcoin Dominance The Altcoin Season Index from CoinMarketCap has climbed to 37, marking a three-point increase from yesterday. This rise signals a notable shift in market dynamics, as more altcoins begin to outperform Bitcoin. Investors and analysts are now closely watching whether this trend will continue toward a full altcoin season. Understanding the Altcoin Season Index The Altcoin Season Index measures the price performance of the top 100 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization, excluding stablecoins and wrapped tokens. It compares their performance against Bitcoin over the preceding 90 days. When 75% or more of these coins outperform Bitcoin, the market enters an altcoin season. Conversely, a Bitcoin season occurs when Bitcoin dominates. A score closer to 100 indicates a stronger altcoin season. Currently, the index sits at 37, up from 34 the previous day. This increase suggests that altcoins are gaining relative strength, though Bitcoin still holds a significant lead. The index provides a clear, data-driven snapshot of market sentiment. Key Factors Driving the Index Rise Several factors contribute to the recent uptick. First, many altcoins have shown strong technical breakouts. Second, positive developments in decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible token (NFT) sectors have boosted investor confidence. Third, regulatory clarity in certain regions has reduced uncertainty. These elements collectively push the Altcoin Season Index higher. Technical breakouts: Coins like Solana and Cardano have surged past key resistance levels. DeFi growth: Total value locked in DeFi protocols has increased by 12% in the past week. Regulatory news: Favorable rulings in the EU and Asia have improved market sentiment. These factors create a fertile environment for altcoin outperformance. However, the index remains far from the 75 threshold needed for a declared altcoin season. Historical Context and Market Impact Historically, the Altcoin Season Index has fluctuated between 10 and 90. Previous altcoin seasons, such as in 2021, saw the index exceed 80. During those periods, altcoins like Ethereum, Binance Coin, and Chainlink delivered massive gains. The current reading of 37 is moderate but indicates growing interest. Market impact includes increased trading volumes for altcoins and a shift in capital flows. Bitcoin dominance, which measures Bitcoin’s share of the total crypto market, has dropped slightly from 52% to 50.5%. This shift suggests that investors are diversifying into altcoins. Expert Perspectives on the Index Analysts from CoinMarketCap note that the index is a lagging indicator, reflecting past performance. “The index provides a useful snapshot, but it does not predict future movements,” says a market analyst. “Investors should use it alongside other metrics.” Another expert from a major crypto fund adds, “The current rise is encouraging, but we need sustained outperformance for several weeks to confirm a trend.” These insights highlight the need for cautious optimism. Comparing Bitcoin Season vs. Altcoin Season Bitcoin season occurs when Bitcoin outperforms most altcoins. During such periods, Bitcoin’s dominance often rises above 55%. Altcoin season, on the other hand, sees capital rotating into smaller coins. The Altcoin Season Index helps traders identify these phases. Phase Index Range Market Behavior Bitcoin Season 0–25 Bitcoin leads, altcoins lag Neutral 26–74 Mixed performance Altcoin Season 75–100 Altcoins outperform Bitcoin Currently, the index falls in the neutral zone. However, the upward trend suggests a potential shift toward altcoin season if momentum continues. What This Means for Investors For investors, the rising Altcoin Season Index signals an opportunity to rebalance portfolios. Allocating more capital to promising altcoins could yield higher returns. However, risks remain high. Altcoins are more volatile than Bitcoin, and sudden corrections can occur. Diversification is key. Investors should focus on altcoins with strong fundamentals, active development teams, and real-world use cases. Coins in the DeFi, Layer 2, and gaming sectors have shown particular resilience. Practical Steps for Traders Monitor the index daily for trend confirmation. Set stop-loss orders to manage risk. Research altcoin projects thoroughly before investing. Use the index as one of several decision-making tools. These steps help traders navigate the shifting landscape effectively. Broader Market Implications The rise in the Altcoin Season Index reflects broader market trends. Institutional interest in altcoins is growing. For example, the launch of Ethereum futures ETFs has attracted significant capital. Additionally, advancements in blockchain technology, such as Ethereum’s Dencun upgrade, have improved scalability and reduced fees. These developments create a positive backdrop for altcoins. However, macroeconomic factors like interest rate decisions and inflation data still influence the entire crypto market. Investors should stay informed about global economic conditions. Conclusion The Altcoin Season Index rising to 37 marks a significant development in the cryptocurrency market. While it does not yet signal a full altcoin season, the upward trend indicates growing altcoin strength. Investors should monitor the index closely, combine it with other analysis tools, and remain cautious amid volatility. Understanding this metric helps traders make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving market. FAQs Q1: What is the Altcoin Season Index? The Altcoin Season Index measures the performance of the top 100 cryptocurrencies against Bitcoin over 90 days. A score above 75 indicates an altcoin season. Q2: How often is the index updated? CoinMarketCap updates the index daily, reflecting the latest price movements of the top 100 coins. Q3: Does a score of 37 mean altcoins are outperforming Bitcoin? No. A score of 37 means that less than half of the top altcoins are outperforming Bitcoin. The market is still Bitcoin-dominated. Q4: What happens during a Bitcoin season? During a Bitcoin season, Bitcoin outperforms most altcoins. The index typically falls below 25 during such periods. Q5: Can the index predict future market movements? The index is a lagging indicator based on past performance. It does not predict future movements but helps identify current trends. This post Altcoin Season Index Surges to 37: Crypto Market Shifts Toward Altcoin Dominance first appeared on BitcoinWorld .
24 Apr 2026, 01:09
Altcoins have ‘30% to 60%’ upside if Bitcoin taps $86K: Analyst
MN Trading Capital founder Michael van de Poppe doesn’t expect Bitcoin to drop below $75,000 in the near term, even as Polymarket traders price in a different outcome.
24 Apr 2026, 01:03
Zcash Price Soars 8% Following Listing on Robinhood
On April 23, Zcash (ZEC) price soared above 8% on a daily chart, helping its price to soar $343 with $5.7 billion. The surge in cryptocurrency comes after the recent listing on Robinhood and bullish momentum in the crypto market. However, the Zcash price is already at the overbought level, which might cool down the upward momentum in the privacy coin. On Thursday, the Zcash (ZEC) price experienced a surge of about 7% following the listing on Robinhood and positive sentiment in the cryptocurrency market as Bitcoin (BTC) holds its position above $78,000. At the time of writing this, the leading privacy coin, ZEC, is currently trading at $343 with a surge of 6.98%, according to CoinMarketCap . The cryptocurrency holds a market capitalization of around $5.7 billion. Its daily trading volume also shot up by 38% and currently revolves around $511.86 million. The surge in cryptocurrency is coming from the large and steady amount of inflows of money from big institutions and retail investors. Zcash’s Listing On Robinhood Sparks Rally The main reason behind this price surge is the official listing of Zcash on the Robinhood trading platform. This listing took place on April 23. This development is very important because it gives millions of everyday retail investors an easy way to buy a privacy-focused asset. Before the listing, such assets were hard to get through traditional financial apps. According to experts, this is a listing pump as a major brokerage adds a new token. This happens because the listing greatly increases the liquidity and the possible number of buyers for the asset. Apart from the listing, there is also a growing need for technologies that protect privacy. As government surveillance and regulatory pressures become stronger around the world, many investors are moving their funds into assets that use zero-knowledge proofs. According to the TradingView price chart, Zcash ZEC 8.94% is now moving in a classic parabolic breakout pattern as Bitcoin holds above $78,000. This pattern is supported by a sharp climb followed by periods of high volume consolidation. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is currently sitting at around 73, which puts it in the overbought zone. This suggests that a short period of profit-taking could happen soon. However, the price remains well above the 200-day Simple Moving Average, which is at $281. This confirms that the long-term trend has shifted from bearish to clearly bullish. On-chain data are also confirming the growth in the Zcash ecosystem. The number of shielded transactions has reached an all-time high, which are those that use the protocol’s advanced privacy features. This is showing that the network is being used for its real purpose, and the cryptocurrency is soaring from real utility without relying on a temporary hype. The Zcash Foundation has recently announced its important roadmap for the rest of the year 2026. The new roadmap includes some major developments. One of the most important updates is the planned deployment of the NU7 network upgrade. This upgrade is expected to make the blockchain more scalable while also reducing the computing power needed for private transactions. In addition, the protocol is expanding its reach through connections with new platforms like MemeCore. This integration allows users to take part in community-based projects while still keeping their financial information private. These upgrades are expected to make Zcash more competitive with other Layer 2 scaling solutions by providing better speed and confidentiality at the same time. Also Read: AAVE Price Holds Key Support While Traders Build Leverage Positions
24 Apr 2026, 01:00
Shariah-Compliant Stablecoin PUSD Moves Into MidEast Institutional Arena
A dollar-linked stablecoin built to meet Islamic finance standards is now operating on a new blockchain network anchored in the Middle East, adding a second digital currency to a settlement platform backed by some of Abu Dhabi’s biggest financial names. Related Reading: Consistent XRP Buys Could Deliver Outsized Gains By 2030: Finance Expert Backed By Gulf Currencies, Not Just The Dollar PUSD, issued by Palm Azgar Finance, holds reserves in Saudi riyals and UAE dirhams — both pegged to the US dollar — rather than holding US dollars directly. That structure is central to its Shariah-compliant design, which is aimed at institutions operating under Islamic finance rules that prohibit interest and require asset backing. The stablecoin has roughly $2.3 billion in circulation and runs on several major blockchains, including Ethereum, BNB Chain, Solana, and Tron. ADI Chain is its newest addition. ADI Chain was built as a settlement layer for a dirham-backed token that came out of a partnership between International Holding Company and First Abu Dhabi Bank. The Central Bank of the UAE licensed it. With PUSD now on board, institutions using the network can settle transactions in either a dollar-linked or dirham-denominated token operating on the same platform. The ADI Foundation says the network is designed to support payment corridors across the Gulf, broader Middle East, and parts of Africa. A $3 Trillion Market In The Crosshairs Islamic finance assets are estimated at more than $3 trillion worldwide, according to the ADI Foundation. That market has traditionally been served by conventional banks and funds operating under Shariah guidelines, but blockchain-based alternatives have struggled to break through at scale. Sharia Law At A Glance Shariah law forbids interest, limits speculation, and requires financial instruments to be backed by real assets — rules that disqualify most crypto products outright. For a stablecoin to meet that standard, it must hold verifiable reserves and generate no interest-based returns. Certification from a board of qualified Islamic scholars is typically required, though the report does not confirm whether PUSD has obtained one. PUSD’s move onto ADI Chain is a bid to change that, targeting corporate treasuries, exchanges, and payment processors looking for compliant digital settlement tools. The UAE has become one of the more active regulatory environments for stablecoins. Several frameworks have been put in place by the Central Bank and the Abu Dhabi Global Market, covering both dirham-pegged and dollar-denominated tokens. Related Reading: A New Phase For XRP? Integrations Keep Rolling In Across The Ecosystem Global Players Already In The UAE Space Approvals have also been extended to established names. Tether, Ripple USD, and Circle have all been cleared to operate within the ADGM financial zone by its Financial Services Regulatory Authority. That puts PUSD in a field that includes some of the largest stablecoin issuers in the world, competing for a share of institutional transaction flow in one of the region’s most active financial hubs. Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView
