hodler

13 Apr 2026, 08:28

Polkadot hit by unauthorized DOT mint incident

Polkadot was under attack, as DOT tokens were minted through an unauthorized bridge transaction. The exploit comes at a time of increased vigilance for hacks against decentralized protocols. Polkadot, a long-running decentralized protocol, suffered an unauthorized DOT mint attack. On-chain research shows the exploit is based on a flawed Hyperbridge smart contract, which allowed the unauthorized minting of DOT tokens on the Ethereum network. The HandlerV1 contract was exploited for $242K, which affected the market price of the DOT token. Hyperbridge is the officially accepted multi-chain hub for Polkadot, so while the main protocol remains safe, the bridge itself may pose more risks. The Polkadot DAO approved Hyperbridge as the main hub for DOT/vDOT swaps across multiple chains. Just before the attack, Hyperbridge was almost idle, with virtually no DOT swaps. The attacker minted 1B new DOT on Ethereum and sold them in a single transaction . The bridge itself did not hold significant liquidity, but was capable of minting DOT without limit, based on the supplied deposit data. Polkadot’s Hyperbridge hit by proof replay attack The contract flaw allowed an attacker to perform a proof replay attack. The bridge allowed the attacker to reuse a previously accepted proof and pair it with a new request, allowing multiple privileged actions such as changing admin permissions. The entire hack was performed on the Ethereum network, not interacting with other Polkadot chains. According to researchers, the attacker gained admin rights to the bridge contract, allowing the authorization of DOT minting. Certik also confirmed the attacker’s forged message was used to gain admin rights. On-chain security research discovered several transactions originating with Hyperbridge. This is the third bridge attack against Polkadot, following the XCM bridge exploit in 2025 for $35M, and the Nomad bridge hack in 2022 for $200M. While the latest attack was the smallest in scale, it still revealed potential flaws with the protocol, adding to the general risk of bridges. The exploit follows the April 1 hack against Drift Protocol, showing an increased effort to grab crypto tokens or use unauthorized minting exploits. DOT crashed below $1.20 Following the exploit, DOT crashed to $1.19. The flash sale of 1B DOT only led to a 2.9% loss, as the rapid sale arrived with price slippage. The exploiter only managed to exchange the DOT for $237M. As Cryptopolitan reported , Polkadot decided to cap the DOT supply at 2.1B tokens, but the current hack did not crash the token as much as expected, despite minting more than half the tokens in circulation. All the DOT from the exploit was sold in a single transfer and swapped into ETH. To sell the tokens, the attacker used a Railgun wallet , already moving the ETH in a series of transactions. Railgun has been rarely used for exploits. In the first hours after the attack, the mixer could not blacklist the addresses fast enough, allowing the attacker to still use the service and disguise the origins of ETH. The Hyperbridge contracts have been paused, with no reports of additional assets affected. The recent series of hacks happens despite the ongoing bear market, attempting to still extract any available liquidity from crypto tokens. The smartest crypto minds already read our newsletter. Want in? Join them .

13 Apr 2026, 08:25

Token Unlocks This Week: $221.15M in Supply Set to Hit the Market

Cliff token unlocks will release $42.04 million across four one-time events. Linear token unlocks will contribute $179.11 million. Total token unlock value will reach $221.15 million this week. This week, a heavy token release calendar will hit the crypto market between April 13 and April 20. The tokenomist’s schedule shows a fresh supply worth $221.15 million entering circulation across ten assets. The week begins with cliff unlocks, which release tokens at once on set dates. Those events usually place an immediate supply into the market. The same period also includes major linear unlocks, which add tokens through daily issuance. Cliff Token Unlocks to Release $42M Across Four Tokens According to a detailed summary by Wu Blockchain, the cliff unlock section covers four one-time releases above $5 million. These releases involve CONX, ARB, DBR, and YZY. Together, they will bring $42.04 million in new token value to the market. That figure represents about 19% of the full weekly unlock schedule. Source: X CONX will post the largest cliff unlock by value. The chart shows 1.32 million CONX worth $15.95 million. That release equals 1.52% of the adjusted released supply. CONX alone will account for more than one-third of the total cliff unlock value. ARB will follow with 96.00 million tokens worth $10.65 million. That release equals 1.81% of the adjusted released supply. Together, CONX and ARB will add $26.60 million through one-time unlocks during the period. Additionally, DBR will record the largest cliff unlock by token amount. The schedule shows 618.33 million DBR worth $9.08 million. That release equals 12.90% of the adjusted released supply. YZY will complete the cliff group with 20.83 million tokens worth $6.36 million. Its release equals 4.67% of the adjusted released supply. DBR and YZY will therefore post the strongest one-time supply expansion percentages in the week’s schedule. RAIN Tops Weekly Linear Token Unlocks as $179M Enters Supply After the cliff events, the market will also absorb six major linear token unlocks. These unlocks involve RAIN, SOL, CC, TRUMP, WLD, and DOGE. Linear releases will contribute $179.11 million across the same seven-day window. That figure equals about 81% of the total unlock value in the chart. The larger value share means linear issuance will dominate the week’s supply flow. Unlike cliff unlocks, these tokens will enter circulation progressively rather than all at once. RAIN will lead the entire schedule by value. Its linear unlock totals 9.50 billion tokens worth $75.67 million. That release equals 1.99% of the circulating supply. RAIN alone will account for more than one-third of the full weekly unlock value. Solana will rank second with 467.97 thousand tokens worth $38.22 million. That release equals 0.08% of the circulating supply. SOL will carry a large unlock, but its percentage supply increase will remain small. CC will add 191.71 million tokens worth $28.06 million. That amount equals 0.50% of the circulating supply. TRUMP will release 6.33 million tokens worth $17.72 million. Its unlock equals 2.72% of the circulating supply, the largest percentage among linear entries. WLD will add 37.23 million tokens worth $10.78 million. That release equals 1.14% of the circulating supply. Dogecoin will round out the list with 95.06 million tokens worth $8.66 million, equal to 0.06% of the circulating supply. Token Unlock Value Tops $221M The value split between the two categories shows how the week will unfold. Cliff token unlocks will bring $42.04 million through four one-time events. Linear unlocks will deliver $179.11 million through six daily release streams. RAIN’s single unlock value will exceed the entire cliff category by $33.63 million. SOL’s token unlock will come close to matching the full cliff total on its own. CC, TRUMP, WLD, and DOGE will combine for $65.22 million, which is also above the cliff total. The full schedule will bring $221.15 million in token value into the market from April 13 to April 20. The four cliff unlocks will account for about 19.01% of that amount. The six linear token unlocks will account for about 80.99%. RAIN and SOL together will contribute $113.89 million, or more than half the full schedule. CONX, ARB, DBR, and YZY together will add $42.04 million through one-time releases. The schedule, therefore, places the heaviest weekly supply flow in the linear category, while DBR posts the sharpest percentage expansion at 12.90%.

13 Apr 2026, 08:25

Japanese Yen Weakness Intensifies: Intervention Fears Create Critical USD/JPY Standoff Below 160.00

BitcoinWorld Japanese Yen Weakness Intensifies: Intervention Fears Create Critical USD/JPY Standoff Below 160.00 TOKYO, March 2025 – The Japanese Yen continues its protracted decline against the US Dollar, with the USD/JPY currency pair testing multi-decade highs. However, mounting fears of official intervention by Japanese authorities are currently acting as a powerful deterrent, effectively capping the pair’s ascent below the psychologically significant 160.00 threshold. This creates a tense standoff in global foreign exchange markets, where speculative pressure meets the looming threat of government action. Japanese Yen Weakness and the USD/JPY Technical Battle The USD/JPY exchange rate serves as the primary gauge for the Yen’s value. Recently, this pair has exhibited sustained upward momentum. Consequently, analysts point to a stark divergence in monetary policy between the Bank of Japan (BoJ) and the US Federal Reserve as the core driver. The Federal Reserve maintains a restrictive stance to combat inflation, while the BoJ’s policy remains comparatively accommodative. This interest rate differential makes holding US Dollars more attractive for global investors, thereby creating persistent selling pressure on the Yen. Market participants are now closely monitoring price action around the 160.00 level. Historically, Japanese finance officials have viewed rapid, one-sided currency moves as detrimental to economic stability. Therefore, the approach to this level triggers heightened alertness. Technical charts indicate that a decisive break above 160.00 could open the path for further significant Yen depreciation. However, the credible threat of intervention is currently injecting substantial volatility and caution, preventing a clean breakout. The Mechanics and History of Yen Intervention Currency intervention involves a nation’s monetary authorities actively buying or selling its own currency in the foreign exchange market to influence its value. For Japan, intervention to strengthen the Yen typically entails selling US Dollars from its substantial foreign reserves and buying Yen. The Ministry of Finance (MoF) directs these operations, with the Bank of Japan executing the trades. This action increases demand for Yen, theoretically supporting its price. Japan has a documented history of intervening in forex markets. Notably, in 2022, authorities conducted their first Yen-buying intervention in over 24 years when USD/JPY breached 145.00. The market perceives the 160.00 level as a potential new line in the sand. Officials have repeatedly stated they will take appropriate action against excessive volatility. Their verbal warnings, known as ‘jawboning,’ have intensified as the pair climbs, serving as a first line of defense before any actual market entry. Expert Analysis on the Current Stalemate Financial strategists highlight the complex calculus facing Japanese policymakers. “Intervention is a tool, not a strategy,” notes a senior forex analyst at a major Tokyo bank. “It can slow a trend and punish speculators, but it cannot reverse fundamental drivers like the wide US-Japan yield gap.” The effectiveness of unilateral intervention is often debated. Success usually requires surprising the market and may be more impactful when coordinated with other nations, though such coordination is not currently evident. Furthermore, the cost of intervention is substantial. Selling US Treasury bonds to fund Yen purchases can impact Japan’s holdings and global bond yields. Analysts also scrutinize communication from the US Treasury, which monitors foreign exchange practices. While the US has recently shown understanding of Japan’s concerns, overt, frequent intervention could draw scrutiny. This geopolitical dimension adds another layer to the MoF’s decision-making process as USD/JPY flirts with 160.00. Economic Impacts of a Weaker Japanese Yen The Yen’s depreciation creates a mixed economic impact domestically. On one hand, it benefits Japan’s large export sector. Companies like Toyota and Sony see overseas earnings increase in Yen terms, boosting corporate profits. This positive effect supports the stock market and business investment. Additionally, a weaker Yen makes Japan a more affordable destination for foreign tourists, bolstering the service sector. Conversely, the downside is significant and directly affects households. Japan imports nearly all its energy and a large portion of its food. A weaker Yen dramatically increases the cost of these essential imports. This translates into higher consumer prices, squeezing household budgets and potentially undermining the BoJ’s goal of achieving stable, demand-driven inflation. The table below summarizes the key effects: Sector Impact of Weaker Yen Exporters (Automotive, Electronics) Positive – Higher Yen-value revenue Importers (Energy, Food) Negative – Higher input costs Households Negative – Reduced purchasing power Tourism Positive – More inbound visitors This cost-push inflation, driven by import prices rather than strong domestic demand, presents a policy dilemma. It complicates the Bank of Japan’s path toward normalizing interest rates, as raising rates to support the Yen could also stifle fragile economic growth. Global Market Context and Future Scenarios The USD/JPY movement does not occur in isolation. It reflects broader global macro trends. The US Dollar’s strength is partly a function of its status as a safe-haven asset during global uncertainty. Moreover, the monetary policy outlook for other major central banks influences cross-currency dynamics. If other banks begin cutting rates while the Fed holds steady, the Dollar’s appeal may broaden, exacerbating pressure on the Yen. Looking ahead, market participants are modeling several potential scenarios. A decisive hawkish shift from the Bank of Japan could naturally strengthen the Yen, reducing the need for intervention. Alternatively, a shift toward rate cuts by the Federal Reserve would narrow the yield gap. However, in the absence of these fundamental shifts, the tension around the 160.00 level is likely to persist. The market will closely watch for any signs of MoF action, which could include: Direct confirmation of intervention from MoF officials. Unusual volatility and spikes in trading volume without clear news triggers. Changes in Japan’s foreign reserve data released monthly. Ultimately, the standoff below 160.00 represents a clash between market forces and policy resolve. The outcome will signal not only the Yen’s near-term trajectory but also the limits of unilateral action in modern global finance. Conclusion The Japanese Yen remains under intense pressure against the US Dollar, with the USD/JPY pair confronting the critical 160.00 barrier. While fundamental factors like interest rate differentials favor Dollar strength, the credible and growing threat of intervention by Japanese authorities has created a formidable ceiling. This dynamic underscores the complex interplay between market economics and sovereign policy. The resolution of this standoff will have profound implications for Japan’s economy, global currency markets, and the strategic toolkit available to central banks worldwide. All eyes remain on Tokyo for the next move in this high-stakes financial confrontation. FAQs Q1: Why is the Japanese Yen so weak against the US Dollar? The primary reason is the significant difference in interest rates set by the Bank of Japan and the US Federal Reserve. Higher US rates attract global capital into Dollar-denominated assets, increasing demand for USD and selling pressure on JPY. Q2: What does ‘currency intervention’ mean in this context? It refers to the Japanese government, via the Ministry of Finance, actively selling US Dollars and buying Japanese Yen in the foreign exchange market. This action increases demand for the Yen, aiming to raise its value and counteract rapid depreciation. Q3: Why is the 160.00 level for USD/JPY considered so important? It represents a multi-decade high and a major psychological threshold. Breaching this level could trigger accelerated, speculative selling of the Yen. Japanese authorities view such disorderly moves as harmful and have historically intervened at key levels to ensure stability. Q4: What are the risks of Japan intervening in the currency market? Intervention is costly, depleting foreign reserves. It can also be ineffective if not coordinated with other nations or if fundamental economic drivers remain unchanged. Furthermore, frequent intervention may draw criticism from international trade partners. Q5: How does a weak Yen affect the average Japanese citizen? It has a double-edged effect. It benefits the economy by boosting exports and tourism. However, it severely hurts households by making imported essentials like food, energy, and raw materials much more expensive, leading to higher living costs. This post Japanese Yen Weakness Intensifies: Intervention Fears Create Critical USD/JPY Standoff Below 160.00 first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

13 Apr 2026, 08:15

Polkadot Price Dips 6% Following 1 Billion Token Minting Breach on Ethereum

Certik reported a significant exploit of the Hyperbridge gateway, which allowed the perpetrator to mint 1 billion unauthorized DOT tokens on the Ethereum network. Key Takeaways: A hacker used a replay flaw to mint 1 billion fake Polkadot tokens via the Hyperbridge gateway. The price of DOT dropped 6% to $1.16 before recovering, while the

13 Apr 2026, 08:12

Bitcoin hit by $20 million-an-hour selling pressure above $70,000

Bitcoin has once again seen heavy profit-taking above $70,000, according to Glassnode.

13 Apr 2026, 08:10

Gold Price Plummets as Stubborn Inflation Sparks Hawkish Fed Fears and Dollar Surge

BitcoinWorld Gold Price Plummets as Stubborn Inflation Sparks Hawkish Fed Fears and Dollar Surge NEW YORK, March 2025 – The gold market continues its downward trajectory, with prices hitting multi-week lows as persistent inflation data reinforces expectations for a more aggressive Federal Reserve, consequently bolstering the US dollar and diminishing the metal’s allure. This dynamic creates a challenging environment for the traditional safe-haven asset. Gold Price Under Pressure from Dual Forces Spot gold recently traded near $1,950 per ounce, marking a significant retreat from earlier monthly highs. Analysts primarily attribute this weakness to two interconnected factors. Firstly, recent Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI) reports have consistently exceeded market forecasts. Consequently, these reports signal that inflationary pressures remain more entrenched than previously anticipated. Secondly, this economic reality forces market participants to recalibrate their expectations for the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy path. Historically, gold serves as a hedge against inflation. However, in the current cycle, the central bank’s response to inflation dominates price action. When inflation readings run hot, traders increasingly bet the Fed will maintain higher interest rates for longer, or even implement further hikes. This expectation, in turn, directly impacts gold through multiple channels. The Interest Rate and Dollar Mechanism Higher interest rates increase the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets like gold. Investors can earn attractive returns from government bonds and savings instruments, making the zero-yield precious metal less appealing. Simultaneously, hawkish Fed expectations fuel demand for the US dollar. Global capital flows toward dollar-denominated assets seeking higher yields, pushing the Dollar Index (DXY) higher. Since gold is priced in dollars, a stronger greenback makes it more expensive for holders of other currencies, dampening international demand. The table below illustrates the recent correlation: Economic Indicator Recent Data Market Reaction Core CPI (MoM) +0.4% Exceeded forecast of +0.3% US 10-Year Treasury Yield Rose to 4.5% Reflecting higher rate expectations DXY (Dollar Index) Gained 1.2% Reached a two-month high Spot Gold Fell 3.8% Breaking key support at $1,980 Analyzing the Federal Reserve’s Hawkish Stance The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) has clearly communicated its data-dependent approach. Recent speeches from Fed officials, including the Chair and several regional bank presidents, have struck a cautious tone. They emphasize the need for conclusive evidence that inflation is sustainably trending toward the 2% target before considering policy easing. Market participants now assign a low probability to any interest rate cuts in the near term, with some analysts pricing in a potential additional hike if inflation fails to cool. This shift in expectations represents a fundamental headwind for gold. According to historical analysis from major investment banks, gold typically struggles during periods of rising real yields—the inflation-adjusted return on Treasury securities. Currently, real yields are climbing as nominal yields rise faster than inflation expectations adjust, creating a powerful downward force on gold valuations. Expert Perspectives on Market Dynamics Jane Miller, Chief Commodity Strategist at Global Markets Analysis, notes, “The market is repricing the entire Fed trajectory. Previously, the narrative centered on ‘higher for longer.’ Now, we are seeing whispers of ‘higher, and perhaps even higher still.’ This is profoundly negative for gold in the short to medium term. The metal needs to see a definitive peak in the dollar and yields to find a durable floor.” Furthermore, physical demand patterns show mixed signals. While central bank purchases from institutions in emerging markets provide a structural support base, investment demand through exchange-traded funds (ETFs) has seen consistent outflows. Retail investor interest in coins and small bars remains steady but is insufficient to counter the massive selling pressure from institutional futures and options markets. Broader Market Context and Historical Precedents The current environment echoes previous cycles where aggressive Fed tightening weighed on gold. For instance, during the 2013 ‘taper tantrum,’ anticipation of reduced Fed asset purchases triggered a sharp sell-off in gold. However, key differences exist today. Geopolitical tensions in multiple regions and elevated debt levels globally provide underlying support that was less pronounced a decade ago. Other asset classes are also reacting to the macro shift. Equity markets have become volatile, particularly for rate-sensitive technology stocks. Meanwhile, the cryptocurrency market, often compared to digital gold, has also faced selling pressure, though its correlation to traditional macro drivers remains complex and evolving. Real Yields: The primary driver of gold’s weakness is the rise in inflation-adjusted Treasury yields. ETF Outflows: Major gold-backed ETFs have reported consistent monthly outflows, reflecting institutional sentiment. Central Bank Activity: Purchases by official institutions continue but are not currently price-determinative. Technical Levels: Chart analysts identify the $1,920-$1,930 zone as critical support; a break below could trigger further declines. Conclusion The gold price remains firmly in a downtrend, pressured by a potent combination of stubborn inflation and the resulting hawkish recalibration of Federal Reserve policy. This dynamic strengthens the US dollar and raises real yields, creating a hostile environment for the precious metal. While structural demand and geopolitical risks offer some long-term support, the short-term path for gold appears heavily dependent on upcoming inflation data and the Federal Reserve’s communicated policy response. Market participants will closely monitor the next CPI print and FOMC meeting minutes for signals of a potential shift in this challenging macro narrative. FAQs Q1: Why does higher inflation sometimes cause gold prices to fall? While gold is an inflation hedge, in the current environment, high inflation leads markets to expect more aggressive interest rate hikes from the Federal Reserve. Higher rates boost the US dollar and increase the opportunity cost of holding gold, which pays no interest. These forces can outweigh the inflationary hedge benefit. Q2: What is a ‘hawkish’ Federal Reserve? A ‘hawkish’ stance indicates the central bank prioritizes combating inflation and is willing to raise interest rates or maintain them at elevated levels, even at the risk of slowing economic growth. This contrasts with a ‘dovish’ stance, which focuses more on supporting growth and employment. Q3: How does a stronger US dollar affect gold? Gold is globally priced in US dollars. When the dollar strengthens, it takes fewer dollars to buy an ounce of gold, making it appear cheaper in dollar terms. More importantly, a stronger dollar makes gold more expensive for buyers using other currencies, which can reduce international physical and investment demand. Q4: What are ‘real yields’ and why are they important for gold? Real yields are the inflation-adjusted returns on government bonds (like the 10-Year Treasury Inflation-Protected Security, or TIPS). Gold, which offers no yield, becomes less attractive when investors can earn a higher positive real return from safe government debt. Rising real yields are a strong historical headwind for gold prices. Q5: Could gold prices recover in this environment? Yes, a recovery would likely require a shift in the macro narrative. Key catalysts could include signs that inflation is cooling faster than expected, prompting the Fed to signal a pause or pivot, a sharp downturn in economic data suggesting overtightening, or a significant escalation in geopolitical risk that triggers a flight to safe-haven assets. This post Gold Price Plummets as Stubborn Inflation Sparks Hawkish Fed Fears and Dollar Surge first appeared on BitcoinWorld .