hodler

21 Jan 2026, 08:04

Chainlink to roll out support for 24/5 trading of US stocks and ETFs

Chainlink is expanding its on-chain data offerings with a major new launch. According to a press release published by Chainlink , the blockchain will now support 24/5 trading data for US stocks and ETFs, covering all trading sessions. This includes regular market hours, pre-market, post-market, and overnight sessions. The goal is to bring the roughly $80 trillion US equities market onto blockchain networks. DeFi protocols will access data 24/5 The new streams will allow decentralised finance (DeFi) protocols to access continuous, high-fidelity market data. Previously, on-chain applications could only rely on single price points during standard trading hours. This created gaps and added risk for products like synthetic stocks, derivatives, and lending protocols. With 24/5 streams, these blind spots are eliminated. Furthermore, Chainlink’s new offering goes beyond simple price feeds. It provides bid and ask prices, trading volumes, last traded prices, and mid prices. Developers can also access market status flags, which indicate whether trading is in pre-market, regular, post-market, or overnight sessions. Additionally, staleness indicators alert protocols if the data is outdated. This level of detail allows DeFi applications to implement advanced risk management and smarter trading logic. By providing continuous data, protocols can offer products that closely resemble traditional financial markets. For example, perpetual contracts, synthetic equities, structured products, and collateralised lending can all operate more reliably. Risk calculations, margin requirements, and liquidation logic can be improved using the bid-ask spread and volume information. This creates a safer, more efficient environment for both traders and developers. Other platforms have integrated 24/5 US equities streams Chainlink is following in the steps of other platforms like Lighter, BitMEX, ApeX, HelloTrade, Decibel, Monaco, Opinion Labs, and Orderly Network, which have already integrated the 24/5 US equities streams. The streams are also available across 40+ blockchains, giving developers broad access to critical market data. Chainlink emphasises that this launch is part of a larger strategy to bridge traditional finance and DeFi. By making real-world equity data available on-chain, the protocol supports the growth of institutional-grade financial products in decentralised ecosystems. This could pave the way for a future where global markets operate continuously, around the clock. Technically, each instrument includes multiple feeds for different session segments. Developers can combine these to create a single continuous feed, with safeguards against staleness or price dislocations. The infrastructure is mature, handling billions of messages and securing trillions in on-chain value. This reliability is critical for applications that depend on accurate and timely data. The expansion of 24/5 equities data is a significant milestone for Chainlink and the broader DeFi landscape. It brings the US stock and ETF markets closer to a fully on-chain, always-on trading ecosystem. With continuous, structured data available, decentralised protocols are better equipped to handle complex financial instruments. The post Chainlink to roll out support for 24/5 trading of US stocks and ETFs appeared first on Invezz

21 Jan 2026, 08:02

Injective Introduces the INJ Supply Squeeze to Bolster Token Scarcity

Layer-1 blockchain Injective has taken another step to make its native cryptocurrency, INJ, more deflationary than it already is. After a unanimous 99.89% vote in support of a proposal, dubbed IIP-617 (INJ Supply Squeeze), the blockchain development team unveiled the new tool to double down on its deflationary measures. The INJ Supply Squeeze Since its mainnet debut in 2021, Injective has explored various ways to make INJ scarce and potentially boost its value. Shortly after launching its mainnet, the L1 network began frequent token burns. In October 2025, it embraced a Community BuyBack mechanism. Both measures aim to reduce the circulating supply of the cryptocurrency and increase its price in the long term. The L1 blockchain has already permanently removed 6.85 million INJ from existence. On January 15th, Injective introduced the IIP-617 proposal to its community. This measure permanently increases the rate at which INJ coins are supplied into the market. The announcement stated that the INJ Supply Squeeze will work alongside existing deflationary measures, such as the Community BuyBacks. The blockchain’s team believes that these token-reduction mechanisms will bolster INJ’s tokenomics, highlighting that its design is gradually shifting toward “a structurally enhanced deflationary model.” Impact on INJ’s Price Injective’s co-founder, Eric Chen, reiterated the impact that these deflationary measures will have on INJ’s overall performance, saying: “The INJ Supply Squeeze spearheaded by the Injective community represents a decisive step in the evolution of Injective’s monetary design. By doubling the rate of deflation and pairing it with systematic tokens buybacks, Injective is reinforcing its scarcity and positioning INJ as a long term deflationary asset aligned with the growth of the ecosystem.” Most blockchains and crypto projects adopting a deflationary model do so in an effort to reduce their token’s supply and bolster its value. Still, INJ has yet to experience a notable price uptrend despite its diverse token-reduction mechanisms. At the time of writing, it sold for $4.64. Notwithstanding, a breakthrough in other forays, such as the staked exchange-traded fund (ETF) business , could bring INJ the much-needed price upturn. The post Injective Introduces the INJ Supply Squeeze to Bolster Token Scarcity appeared first on CryptoPotato .

21 Jan 2026, 07:55

Bhutan’s Sei Validator Launch: A Strategic Move to Pioneer National Blockchain Sovereignty

BitcoinWorld Bhutan’s Sei Validator Launch: A Strategic Move to Pioneer National Blockchain Sovereignty In a landmark development for national digital strategy, the Kingdom of Bhutan has officially begun operating a validator node for the Sei (SEI) blockchain network. This initiative, reported by Cointelegraph in April 2025, represents a calculated expansion of Bhutan’s sovereign blockchain ecosystem. Consequently, the project emerges from a formal collaboration between Druk Holding and Investments (DHI), the nation’s sovereign wealth fund, and the Sei Foundation. This move strategically positions the Himalayan kingdom at the forefront of governmental blockchain integration. Bhutan’s Sei Validator: A Strategic National Initiative The operation of a Sei network validator by a national government marks a significant precedent in the blockchain sector. Validators are critical infrastructure components that secure and operate blockchain networks. They validate transactions and create new blocks. Bhutan’s direct participation through DHI signifies a deep, institutional commitment. This is not a speculative investment but a foundational step toward technological sovereignty. The government aims to build internal expertise and secure a governance role within the Sei ecosystem. Furthermore, this aligns with Bhutan’s broader economic diversification goals beyond its traditional sectors. Druk Holding and Investments serves as the perfect vehicle for this venture. As the commercial and investment arm of the Royal Government of Bhutan, DHI manages the nation’s sovereign wealth. Its mandate includes driving long-term value and economic resilience. Partnering with the Sei Foundation provides the necessary technical guidance and ecosystem access. This partnership model reduces risk while accelerating capability development. The validator operation will generate SEI token rewards, creating a potential new revenue stream for the national fund. Ultimately, it represents a pragmatic fusion of statecraft and innovative technology. Contextualizing Bhutan’s Broader Blockchain Ambitions This validator launch is not an isolated event. It is a key component of Bhutan’s multi-year digital transformation agenda. The nation has previously explored blockchain applications for various civic functions. For instance, officials have discussed using distributed ledger technology for sustainable tourism credentials and carbon credit tracking. These applications leverage Bhutan’s strong brand as an environmentally conscious nation. The country famously measures Gross National Happiness alongside economic output. Operating a Sei validator provides hands-on, institutional learning. It allows Bhutanese technocrats to understand network mechanics, consensus models, and decentralized governance firsthand. This knowledge is transferable to other blockchain projects and digital public infrastructure. The choice of the Sei network is also strategic. Sei is a layer-1 blockchain specifically optimized for decentralized exchange (DEX) and trading applications. Its technical focus on high throughput and low latency makes it relevant for future financial infrastructure projects. Below is a brief comparison of Bhutan’s key digital initiatives: Initiative Focus Area Status (2025) Sei Network Validator Blockchain Infrastructure & Governance Operational Digital Ngultrum (CBDC Research) Central Bank Digital Currency Exploratory Phase Green Digital Credentials Sustainable Tourism & Carbon Tracking Pilot Stage National Digital Identity Citizen Services Under Development This structured approach demonstrates a clear, phased roadmap. The validator operation serves as a foundational layer for more complex applications. It builds the technical and regulatory experience needed for larger deployments. Moreover, it signals to global technology partners that Bhutan is a serious, capable collaborator in the Web3 space. Expert Analysis on Sovereign Blockchain Integration Financial technology analysts view Bhutan’s move as part of a growing trend. Several small, agile nations are leveraging blockchain to enhance economic resilience. Unlike larger economies, they can implement policies and adopt new technologies more rapidly. Dr. Anika Patel, a senior fellow at the Centre for Digital Governance, notes the strategic importance. “Bhutan’s validator operation is a textbook case of ‘learning by doing’ for sovereign states,” she explained in a recent research paper. “It mitigates risk through partnership while building indispensable in-house knowledge. This model could become a blueprint for other nations exploring digital asset infrastructure without excessive exposure.” The economic implications are multifaceted. In the short term, validator rewards contribute to DHI’s portfolio returns. In the medium term, the project develops local talent in blockchain engineering and cybersecurity. Long-term benefits could include attracting blockchain-native businesses to establish a presence in Bhutan. The nation offers political stability and a clear regulatory intent, which is valuable in the often-uncertain crypto industry. This initiative also diversifies Bhutan’s exposure to the digital asset class beyond mere treasury holdings. It represents an active, productive form of participation in the crypto economy. The Technical and Economic Mechanics of Validation To understand the significance, one must grasp what running a validator entails. On a proof-of-stake network like Sei, validators are responsible for: Processing Transactions: Validating and grouping transactions into new blocks. Participating in Consensus: Using the network’s consensus mechanism to agree on the state of the blockchain. Network Security: Staking a significant amount of SEI tokens as a security deposit, which can be penalized (slashed) for malicious or incompetent behavior. By performing these duties, the DHI validator earns SEI token rewards. These rewards come from network transaction fees and new token issuance. The operational setup requires robust, secure server infrastructure and continuous monitoring. This builds direct technical capacity within the country. It also gives Bhutan a formal voice in the Sei network’s decentralized governance processes. Validators often vote on network upgrade proposals. Therefore, Bhutan gains a seat at the table in shaping the network’s future development. The collaboration with the Sei Foundation is crucial. The foundation likely provides technical support, best-practice guidance, and initial staking assets. This de-risks the launch for DHI. For the Sei Foundation, having a national government as an active validator is a powerful endorsement. It enhances the network’s credibility and decentralization by adding a geographically and institutionally diverse participant. This symbiotic relationship highlights how public-private partnerships can drive blockchain adoption. Conclusion Bhutan’s decision to begin operating a Sei validator is a strategically astute move with layered implications. It advances the nation’s digital sovereignty, builds critical technical expertise, and creates a new model for state participation in blockchain networks. Through its partnership with Druk Holding and Investments and the Sei Foundation, Bhutan is taking a proactive, hands-on role in the future of digital infrastructure. This initiative transcends mere investment; it represents a committed step toward understanding and harnessing decentralized technology for national development. The global community will undoubtedly watch Bhutan’s Sei validator project as a potential case study for other nations navigating the intersection of blockchain and public policy. FAQs Q1: What is a blockchain validator? A validator is a critical participant on a proof-of-stake blockchain network. It is responsible for verifying transactions, maintaining network security by staking tokens, and helping achieve consensus on the state of the ledger. Q2: Why did Bhutan choose the Sei network for this project? Bhutan likely selected the Sei network due to its technical design as a high-speed blockchain optimized for trading. This aligns with potential future digital finance applications. The partnership with the Sei Foundation also provided essential support for a successful launch. Q3: What is Druk Holding and Investments (DHI)? DHI is the sovereign wealth fund of the Kingdom of Bhutan. It manages the commercial investments of the Royal Government and aims to drive sustainable national wealth creation and economic resilience. Q4: How does running a validator benefit Bhutan economically? Benefits include earning SEI token rewards, building in-house blockchain technical expertise, attracting tech businesses, and gaining a governance role in a growing network. It diversifies the national investment portfolio into productive digital infrastructure. Q5: Is Bhutan launching a central bank digital currency (CBDC)? While Bhutan has expressed interest in researching a Digital Ngultrum (a CBDC), the Sei validator is a separate initiative focused on blockchain infrastructure. The validator project could, however, provide valuable experience relevant to any future CBDC development. This post Bhutan’s Sei Validator Launch: A Strategic Move to Pioneer National Blockchain Sovereignty first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

21 Jan 2026, 07:54

Market Strategist Says XRP Will Pump Hard Soon. Here’s the Signal

Crypto analyst Steph Is Crypto has renewed focus on XRP by publishing a technical comparison that places the asset’s current market structure alongside its 2017 price behavior . The post emphasizes conviction in an imminent upside move while urging followers to remain disciplined and attentive. Rather than relying on broad market narratives, the analyst centers the argument on chart-based similarities, presenting historical and current price action side by side to support the outlook. The images shared with the post display two XRP/USD charts on a multi-day timeframe from the same exchange source. One chart highlights XRP’s price behavior leading into its 2017 rally, while the other reflects the structure observed through late 2025 and into early 2026. The comparison suggests that XRP may be approaching a phase comparable to the point that preceded its sharp acceleration during the previous cycle. $XRP will pump hard soon. Stay focused. pic.twitter.com/YEIglUifpK — STEPH IS CRYPTO (@Steph_iscrypto) January 19, 2026 Fractal Structure and Market Positioning In the 2017 chart, Steph Is Crypto points to a completed corrective sequence followed by a decisive upward expansion. The structure reveals a prolonged consolidation, a final retracement, and then a rapid move higher that ultimately led to XRP’s historic surge. This sequence is visually emphasized through numbered wave markings and a highlighted area that preceded the breakout. The current chart is presented with similar annotations. According to the analyst’s interpretation, XRP appears to be completing an equivalent corrective phase, positioned near what is identified as the final stage before expansion. The chart projection extends sharply upward, reflecting the expectation that a comparable impulse move could follow if historical patterns repeat. The emphasis is not placed on timing precision, but rather on structural alignment between the two periods. Steph Is Crypto’s message remains brief and assertive, reinforcing the view that patience and focus are required as the setup matures. The post does not reference external catalysts or fundamental developments. Instead, it relies almost entirely on technical continuity between cycles. Mixed Reactions From the Community Responses to the post reflect a divided audience. One commenter criticized the repeated bullish calls, referencing XRP’s decline from higher price levels and questioning the analyst’s consistency and credibility. The comment framed the ongoing bullish stance as repetitive and unproductive, suggesting that frequent predictions weaken their impact. Another user offered a more measured response, stating agreement with the long-term outlook while noting that repeated daily assertions reduce clarity around when the move actually begins. By revisiting the 2017 comparison, Steph Is Crypto reiterates the belief that XRP’s current structure closely resembles a historical pre-rally phase. Whether this alignment results in a similar outcome remains uncertain. However, the post underscores a continued reliance on historical price behavior as the primary basis for expectation. 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 Market Strategist Says XRP Will Pump Hard Soon. Here’s the Signal appeared first on Times Tabloid .

21 Jan 2026, 07:54

SkyBridge trims crypto holdings amid 30% Bitcoin slide

SkyBridge Capital is putting more money into macro trading strategies as uncertainty around President Donald Trump’s policies creates volatile market conditions, according to company founder Anthony Scaramucci. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos through the Reuters Global Markets Forum, Scaramucci explained that his firm has profited from recent market turbulence affecting interest rates, currencies and other assets. Firm shifts away from crypto holdings “Because of the volatility, the macro traders have done better,” Scaramucci said. SkyBridge’s investment mix demonstrates the strategy shift. By September 30, 2025, the macro allocation of the SkyBridge Opportunity Fund had grown to around 69%. According to regulatory documents, that represents a significant change from March 31, 2025, when digital assets and cryptocurrency accounted for almost 65% of the fund. Even after prices significantly declined from last year’s peak, Scaramucci continued to have a bullish attitude on Bitcoin despite withdrawing from cryptocurrency investments. “This is more of a timing issue than a direction issue. I don’t think the fundamental story for Bitcoin has changed . If anything, you’ve seen a lot of consolidation,” he said. Bitcoin experienced dramatic price swings in 2025. The digital currency climbed to a record high above $126,000 in October before crashing in a massive selloff. The decline forced more than $19 billion in liquidations as traders with borrowed money had to close their positions. Delays in regulations lead to a cautious approach Bitcoin was down almost 30% from its October peak as of Wednesday, trading close to $88,000. Traders who had anticipated more seamless policy changes from Washington were shaken by the decline. Scaramucci acknowledged that following last year’s elections, the cryptocurrency market anticipated regulatory developments too quickly. Businesses and investors expected the government’s handling of digital asset regulations to evolve more quickly. The GENIUS Act , which established a foundation for stablecoins, was passed by the US in July 2025. The Clarity Act, a more comprehensive piece of market structure reform, is still blocked in the Senate. As a result of the delay, exchanges and businesses now have to deal with a slower regulatory timeframe than anticipated. This regulatory holdup explains why SkyBridge maintains a careful approach despite remaining optimistic about Bitcoin’s future prospects. “I’m cautiously optimistic. I think we’ll have an OK year,” Scaramucci said. Beyond managing SkyBridge funds, Scaramucci and his son AJ have made personal investments in Bitcoin businesses. Solari Capital, started by AJ Scaramucci, led a $220 million funding round in July for American Bitcoin, a mining and treasury company connected to Trump . The Scaramuccis told Fortun e th ey have invested over $100 million in the firm. The smartest crypto minds already read our newsletter. Want in? Join them .

21 Jan 2026, 07:48

Trump’s crypto advisor confident crypto market structure bill will pass senate

Patrick Witt, President Trump’s crypto advisor, is confident that the US Senate will eventually pass a crypto market structure bill. Witt stressed that while some in the industry advocate for “no bill is better than a bad bill,” the reality is that legislation is inevitable. The key question, he says, is not if a bill will pass, but when. Patrick Witt @patrickjwitt · Follow “No bill is better than a bad bill.”What a privilege it is to be able to say those words thanks to President Trump’s victory, and the pro-crypto administration he has assembled. But let’s not kid ourselves. There *will* be a crypto market structure bill — it’s a question of 6:22 AM · Jan 21, 2026 1.0K Reply Copy link Read 153 replies Current political landscape offers a rare opportunity With a pro-crypto president, Republican control of Congress, and experienced regulators at the SEC and CFTC, the timing is ideal for passing legislation favourable to the industry. Witt warned that delaying the bill could allow Democrats to draft harsher rules, especially following a potential financial crisis. According to Witt, assuming a multi-trillion-dollar industry can continue operating indefinitely without comprehensive regulation is unrealistic. He believes that accepting compromises now is far better than risking punitive legislation in the future. Witt’s comments reflect growing frustration with companies like Coinbase, which have withdrawn support from the CLARITY Act over certain provisions. The crypto advisor specifically criticised the idea of holding out for a perfect bill, arguing that “perfect should not be the enemy of the good.” What the CLARITY Act proposes The CLARITY Act, the focal point of these debates, aims to provide clarity in crypto regulation. It defines key terms such as “digital asset,” “digital commodity,” and “blockchain,” creating a clear framework for regulators. The bill delineates jurisdiction between the SEC and CFTC. The SEC would oversee securities and investment offerings, while the CFTC would regulate commodities and trading platforms. Tokens that begin as securities could transition to commodity status if they achieve sufficient decentralisation. The legislation also includes registration requirements for exchanges, brokers, and dealers under the CFTC, as well as disclosure obligations for issuers. Mature blockchain networks would face lighter regulatory burdens, while self-custody rights for investors are explicitly protected. The CLARITY Act also encourages fundraising, allowing projects to raise to $75 million annually without full SEC registration if they meet decentralisation milestones. Industry reactions and the legislative challenges Despite its comprehensive design, the CLARITY Act has faced criticism. Some consumer advocates argue it weakens investor protections, while others warn that splitting oversight between the SEC and CFTC could create confusion. Certain Democratic lawmakers have expressed concern that the bill favours industry interests over strict regulatory safeguards. Nonetheless, Witt believes these debates highlight the need for compromise. He argues that passing the bill now under favourable conditions is preferable to risking a delayed, more restrictive version later. Witt’s message is consistent: progress is more important than perfection, and legislative action is necessary for the long-term stability of the crypto market. The CLARITY Act has already passed the House and is now awaiting its fate in the Senate. Patrick Witt remains optimistic that the Senate will pass the bill, citing both political opportunity and the practical necessity of regulation. The post Trump’s crypto advisor confident crypto market structure bill will pass senate appeared first on Invezz