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18 Jan 2026, 11:49

Beijing to crack down on Chinese tech firms using price wars to gain market share

Xi Jinping wants China’s tech companies to stop tearing each other apart with endless price cuts. Platforms keep slashing costs to beat each other, and now regulators are getting involved. Beijing doesn’t want another year of businesses throwing subsidies at users just to win market share. The government is under pressure to stop this, especially with deflation hanging over the economy and prices falling for more than three years straight. The main watchdog, SAMR, is picking off companies one by one. First, it went after food delivery services. Then this week, it announced an investigation into China’s biggest travel booking site, Ctrip. Ctrip joins food delivery groups under investigation Ctrip is now under official investigation, which SAMR made public on Wednesday, saying that it came right after earlier probes into Meituan and Alibaba’s delivery businesses. Regulators are trying to stop what’s being called “involution;” basically, when companies go all-in on cutting prices and launching discounts just to stay relevant, without any real long-term plan. It’s a problem across China, from tech to electric cars to solar panels. Trip.com, Ctrip’s parent company listed in Hong Kong, dropped over 20% in the past week. Ctrip put out a statement saying it’ll cooperate with the probe and that its operations are still running like normal. SAMR’s new energy isn’t coming out of nowhere. For years after the 2021 tech crackdown, enforcement slowed down. Companies had room to breathe. But now, things are ramping up again . Experts say SAMR feels more confident now, but it’s still understaffed. So instead of launching complex cases, it’s calling in execs for warnings and asking the State Council (China’s top government body) to support its efforts publicly. Price war in food delivery pushes regulators to act The food delivery space is where this really exploded. Last year, Alibaba and JD.com started crowding into Meituan’s territory. Everyone started throwing money at discounts; cheap burgers, free drinks, whatever it took. Platforms bled money. Restaurants had to slash prices too. Regulators called in the platforms for a meeting in July and told them to chill. But the battle didn’t stop. Subsidies kept flowing all summer. One executive said it’s tough to end the fight unless the government starts handing out real fines. But officials are nervous. These companies hire millions of workers and feed thousands of restaurants, so they’re treading lightly during a weak job market. Chelsey Tam at Morningstar said the big discounts seem to be slowing down now, but it took too long. And that lag showed how bad the relationship between tech and the regulators has gotten. Tensions are high. Last month, things got physical. SAMR staff showed up at PDD Group’s Shanghai office. They were there to gather info on pricing and how suppliers were being treated. According to local media, a fight broke out between employees and regulators during the inspection. One source allegedly said SAMR saw PDD’s behavior as arrogant. That kind of reaction could lead to even harsher action later. So far, no fine’s been announced. But if PDD keeps acting like this, it’s probably next in line. The smartest crypto minds already read our newsletter. Want in? Join them .

18 Jan 2026, 11:47

Why Crypto Sportsbooks Are Gaining Popularity Among NHL Bettors

Hockey has always been one of the most dynamic sports for betting. Fast pace, frequent scoring, constant momentum shifts — the NHL offers far more in-play opportunities than many other leagues. Over the past few seasons, a growing number of hockey fans have started to bet on the NHL using crypto , and this shift is no coincidence. Crypto sportsbooks like Dexsport are increasingly becoming the preferred choice for NHL bettors who value speed, flexibility, and full control over their wagering experience. NHL Betting Is Growing — And So Is the Crypto Audience The NHL has a massive and expanding global audience. Beyond North America, hockey attracts strong viewership across Europe, Scandinavia, and Eastern Europe — regions where crypto adoption is already high. This overlap explains why NHL crypto betting is growing so quickly. Crypto allows fans to place bets instantly, without relying on banks or regional payment systems. As a result, more bettors are turning to platforms built specifically for digital assets rather than adapting to traditional sportsbooks. Why Hockey Is Perfect for Crypto Betting Hockey is uniquely suited for crypto sportsbooks due to the nature of the game itself. NHL matches feature: High scoring frequency compared to many other sports Rapid shifts in momentum Short intervals between goals Constant action across all three periods This creates an environment where live betting thrives. Bettors aren’t limited to a single pre-match wager — instead, they can adjust strategies throughout the game. On platforms like Dexsport, this translates into a wide range of in-play options, making crypto bets on NHL games far more engaging than traditional fixed markets. In-Play NHL Markets Drive Crypto Betting Demand One of the main reasons NHL crypto betting sites are gaining popularity is the sheer number of live markets available during a game. Popular NHL live betting options include: Who scores the next goal Total goals by period Team to score first or last Puck line and totals adjusted in real time Outcome after specific time intervals Because goals can come in quick succession, bettors need platforms that update odds instantly and allow fast bet placement. Crypto sportsbooks are naturally better suited for this environment, especially when combined with non-custodial infrastructure. Frequent Games and Non-Stop Betting Opportunities Unlike many leagues with limited weekly schedules, the NHL runs multiple games almost every day throughout the regular season. This frequency is another key driver behind the rise of crypto betting in hockey. For bettors, this means: Continuous betting opportunities Easier bankroll rotation Ability to spread risk across many matches Dexsport supports this style of betting by offering fast settlements and uninterrupted access, allowing users to move smoothly from one NHL game to the next without delays. Big Odds and Unpredictable Outcomes Hockey is notoriously unpredictable. Underdogs often outperform expectations, and even top teams can collapse within minutes. This volatility is exactly what attracts experienced bettors looking for value. Crypto sportsbooks amplify this advantage by: Allowing quick reactions to changing odds Supporting flexible bet sizing Enabling early profit locking through Cash Out For players seeking the best crypto sportsbook for NHL betting, unpredictability isn’t a risk — it’s an opportunity. Dexsport : A Crypto-Native Platform Built for NHL Betting Dexsport approaches NHL betting from a crypto-first perspective. Rather than adapting traditional sportsbook models, the platform is designed around blockchain transparency and user control. Key features for NHL bettors include: Full support for Bitcoin, USDT, and multiple major cryptocurrencies Non-custodial betting with on-chain transparency Live NHL markets with Cash Out functionality No mandatory KYC, allowing private and unrestricted access Fast deposits and withdrawals across multiple networks Dexsport’s structure suits bettors who actively engage with NHL games, especially those who focus on live markets and dynamic in-play strategies. Why NHL Bettors Are Moving to Crypto Sportsbooks The growing shift toward NHL crypto betting is driven by practical advantages rather than trends or marketing narratives. Hockey is fast, unpredictable, and packed with live betting opportunities — and crypto sportsbooks are simply better equipped to handle that pace. With frequent games, volatile odds, and constant in-play action, NHL bettors increasingly favor platforms that offer speed, flexibility, and full control over funds. Dexsport fits naturally into this environment by combining non-custodial betting, real-time markets, and unrestricted access — making it a logical choice for modern hockey bettors who value efficiency over friction.

18 Jan 2026, 11:44

Where to Bet on Valorant and StarCraft with Crypto: BTC & USDT Platforms

Esports betting has matured far beyond casual wagers. Today, experienced players are looking for speed, control, and flexibility — and that’s exactly why betting with BTC and USDT has become the preferred option for many esports bettors. Titles like Valorant and StarCraft 2 demand fast settlements, reliable live markets, and platforms that work globally without friction. In this guide, we break down where to bet on Valorant and StarCraft with crypto, what to look for in a Bitcoin esports betting platform, and which sites stand out for serious crypto-native players. Why Crypto Betting Makes Sense for Esports Esports audiences are global by nature, and traditional fiat sportsbooks often struggle to keep up. Crypto betting platforms solve many of these issues by design. When you bet with BTC, you get: Faster deposits and withdrawals Borderless access without banking restrictions Greater privacy compared to fiat sportsbooks Better suitability for live and in-play esports betting This is especially relevant for esports betting with Bitcoin, where odds change quickly and timing matters. Using USDT adds stability for players who want predictable bankroll management while still benefiting from crypto-native infrastructure. What to Look for in a Crypto Esports Betting Platform Before choosing where to place your bets, experienced players usually evaluate platforms based on a few critical factors: Esports coverage: Valorant and StarCraft 2 should be supported consistently Bitcoin & USDT support: Core currencies for esports betting Live betting & cash out: Essential for fast-paced matches Anonymity & KYC policy: Flexibility matters for global players Settlement speed & transparency: Especially important when betting with BTC Not every crypto betting platform delivers equally across these areas, which is why platform selection matters. Best Platforms to Bet on Valorant and StarCraft with Crypto Dexsport — Best Non-Custodial Crypto Betting Platform for Esports Dexsport stands out as a non-custodial crypto betting platform designed for players who want full control over their funds. Unlike traditional custodial sportsbooks, Dexsport operates with on-chain transparency, allowing users to verify wagers directly on the blockchain. For esports bettors, Dexsport offers: Support for Bitcoin, USDT, Ethereum, BNB, and TRON Fast deposits and withdrawals across multiple networks Live betting with Cash Out, ideal for in-play Valorant matches Full anonymity with no mandatory KYC Transparent betting activity visible via a public betting desk Dexsport’s structure appeals to players who prefer betting with BTC without surrendering custody of their funds. Valorant markets are well-integrated into the esports offering, while StarCraft 2 fits naturally into the platform’s broader competitive betting ecosystem. Rather than positioning itself as a casual entertainment casino, Dexsport caters to experienced bettors who value flexibility, privacy, and real-time control. Cloudbet — Established Bitcoin Esports Sportsbook Cloudbet is one of the longest-running crypto sportsbooks and remains a solid option for esports betting with Bitcoin. Founded in 2013, the platform offers deep liquidity and a wide selection of esports markets. Key strengths include: Support for BTC, USDT, and 30+ cryptocurrencies Strong coverage of Valorant, CS2, Dota 2, and other major esports High betting limits suitable for volume players Reliable live betting functionality However, Cloudbet may request KYC verification in certain cases, especially for large withdrawals, which may not suit players seeking full anonymity. Thunderpick — Esports-Focused Crypto Betting Platform Thunderpick is built primarily around esports and performs especially well for Valorant crypto betting. The platform emphasizes live markets and offers a streamlined betting experience tailored to competitive gaming. Highlights: Crypto-only deposits and withdrawals Strong focus on Valorant and other top esports titles Regular promotions and esports-specific markets Accessible interface for esports-first bettors Thunderpick is a good choice for players focused almost exclusively on esports, though withdrawal processing times can be slower compared to non-custodial platforms. Valorant Crypto Betting: Markets and Live Strategy Valorant has quickly become one of the most popular esports for crypto betting. Common markets include: Match winner Map winner Total maps Handicap betting Live round-based markets Because matches evolve rapidly, esports betting with Bitcoin works best on platforms that support fast in-play updates and early cash out options. This is where crypto-native sportsbooks outperform traditional betting sites, especially for players actively managing positions during live matches. StarCraft 2 Esports Crypto Betting: A Niche for Experienced Players StarCraft 2 remains a more analytical and strategy-driven esport. While liquidity is lower than in Valorant, SC2 markets often offer higher value for informed bettors. The best StarCraft 2 esports crypto betting platforms are those that: Offer consistent match coverage Settle bets quickly Support BTC-based wagering without unnecessary friction For players comfortable betting with BTC on niche esports, StarCraft 2 can still be a profitable environment — particularly when using platforms built for flexible crypto wagering. BTC vs USDT for Esports Betting Choosing between Bitcoin and USDT depends on your betting style: BTC: Preferred by long-term crypto holders and players comfortable with volatility USDT: Ideal for stable bankroll management and predictable stake sizing Many experienced bettors use both — BTC for selective high-conviction bets and USDT for frequent live wagering. Final Thoughts Crypto has reshaped how esports betting works. Platforms that support betting with BTC, fast settlements, and live market flexibility now define the standard for Valorant and StarCraft wagering. For players who value transparency, anonymity, and non-custodial control, Dexsport represents a modern approach to esports betting with crypto. Others may prefer established custodial platforms or esports-first sportsbooks depending on their priorities. Ultimately, the best choice comes down to how you want to manage risk, control funds, and engage with esports markets — and crypto betting platforms now give players more options than ever before.

18 Jan 2026, 11:41

Vitalik calls for a ‘garbage collection’ function to stop Ethereum bloat

Vitalik Buterin warns that Ethereum’s push to add new features while preserving backward compatibility is inflating protocol complexity, calling for a “garbage collection” process.

18 Jan 2026, 11:38

RWA Tokens Price Outlook While Institutions Stay Active, What Comes Next

The shifting dynamics in the crypto arena have put a spotlight on Real World Asset (RWA) tokens. As institutions continue to engage actively, many are left wondering about the future price movements of these digital assets. With so much at stake, which coins are poised for growth in this evolving landscape? Dive in to explore potential winners. Ondo (ONDO) Shows Signs of Potential Rebound After Recent Drop Source: tradingview Ondo's current price hovers between 37 and 45 cents, showing slight movement within this narrow range. Although recent months have seen a nearly 9% dip in the last month and over 63% drop in half a year, there's potential for upward movement. Its immediate challenge lies in the 50-cent resistance. If ONDO breaks past this, it eyes a climb toward 58 cents. This represents a potential rise of about 29% from the top of the current range. With an RSI below 40, ONDO appears undervalued, which may attract buyers. Yet, traders should watch for price settling above short-term moving averages to boost confidence in upward potential. Algorand Price Hovers with Potential for a Modest Rebound Source: tradingview Algorand (ALGO) is currently trading between 13 and 14 cents, showing a slight dip over the past week but a notable gain in the past month. The nearest resistance level is set at 15 cents, while support is nearby at 12 cents. This suggests a potentially cautious upward trend if the resistance is broken. Algorand has gained over 10% this month, indicating a glimmer of recovery. However, over the past six months, it remains down by more than half of its value. If the coin successfully breaks through the second resistance at 17 cents, it could see a growth of around 30% from its current levels. Avalanche (AVAX) Eyes Potential Surge Amid Recent Price Movements Source: tradingview Avalanche's price is currently drifting between $13.18 and $14.50. It hints at a cautious optimism as it nears the resistance level of $15.31. Traders may find comfort that the coin recently gained over ten percent this past month. Yet, the journey isn't without bumps, seeing a big drop of nearly forty-four percent over half a year. If AVAX can overcome its nearest hurdles and touch $16.63, it could mean a rise of over twenty percent from its current low. The crypto still has room to grow, but it walks a tightrope between resistance and support levels. Stellar Price Eyes Modest Rally Amidst Lingering Uncertainty Source: tradingview Stellar's current price dances between 21 and 25 cents, resting near its 10-day moving average. It's coming off a slight drop over the past week, down a bit more than 1%. This coin is testing waters close to its support line at 20 cents, suggesting some stability. Challenges remain with resistance near 27 and 30 cents. If momentum picks up, Stellar might aim for these levels, eyeing potential growth over its month-long uptrend of around 3.5%. Still, long-term watchers note a steep 50% fall over six months. With more balance in relative strength and a subdued MACD, Stellar seems tentatively optimistic about its near future. Conclusion Institutions remain active in the crypto market. ONDO and ALGO show strong potential for steady growth. AVAX's unique features continue to attract attention. XLM maintains its appeal due to its focus on financial inclusion. These coins are likely to play significant roles in the evolving market. Each offers unique value propositions, making them interesting to watch for future developments. Consistent interest from institutions could indicate sustained growth for these tokens. Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

18 Jan 2026, 11:36

Nvidia's CEO predicts 'God AI' is on the way

Even if the CEO of Nvidia maintains that such technology is well beyond our current capabilities, his comments regarding a hypothetical “God AI” that might exist on “biblical” or “galactic” timelines have generated controversy. The leader of the massive chip manufacturer, Jensen Huang, made the comments when talking about artificial intelligence’s future. He defined this hypothetical “God AI” as something that could achieve ultimate mastery over human language, genes, chemical structures, proteins, amino acids, and physics. Huang, however, was eager to refute any idea that such technology is either available or will be available very soon. No company close to creating such technology “God AI is not showing up next week, I’m fairly certain of that,” Huang said. “And God AI isn’t going to show up next year, but the whole world needs to move forward next week, next year, next decade.” The Nvidia CEO emphasized that no company currently believes it’s anywhere close to creating such powerful AI, and researchers lack any reasonable ability to build it. Despite the dramatic terminology, Huang stressed that society doesn’t need to wait for this hypothetical technology to make progress. The statements come as generative AI continues to garner hundreds of billions of dollars in funding , with supporters predicting it will revolutionize society more than any other human innovation. Huang positioned AI as the next important step for the computing industry, stating that businesses will need to integrate these systems into their operations, just as many already rely on AI for daily chores. Meanwhile, other industry executives have made various forecasts about AI’s future. Demis Hassabis of Google DeepMind has warned that artificial general intelligence, or AI with human capabilities, may arrive before society is prepared for the consequences. In contrast, OpenAI’s Sam Altman has stated that achieving this condition may have a lower societal impact than many expect. Last year, podcast presenter Joe Rogan sparked debate by claiming that if Jesus did return, he would “absolutely” do so as artificial intelligence. Growing concerns about advanced AI risks The discussion around advanced AI comes against a backdrop of growing concern about the technology’s risks . Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates recently called for intervention through guardrails and regulation to govern AI development and deployment. Gates warned that the technology could enable the creation of bioterrorism weapons posin g gr eater danger to humanity than the COVID-19 pandemic. Huang’s remarks have sparked debate about whether such predictions represent genuine warnings about technology’s future direction or simply serve as marketing to maintain Nvidia’s position in the competitive AI market. The company manufactures chips that power much of the AI industry’s infrastructure. The discussion underscores broader concerns about where AI development is headed and if current controls are sufficient. While some regard discussions of “God AI” as innocent speculation or corporate propaganda, others see them as reminders that rapid AI growth may lead to events that mankind is unprepared to handle. According to Huang, the concept is currently only a theory rather than a reality. According to the executive’s timeframe, any such advancement will occur far beyond the present generation’s lifetime, if at all. The smartest crypto minds already read our newsletter. Want in? Join them .