hodler

16 Jan 2026, 15:36

Vault curators hit peak activity as Morpho drives DeFi lending growth

Vault curators are reaching peak levels of activity, becoming a key growth driver for DeFi. Curators have been growing their footprint, expanding the value locked in the Morpho protocol. Vault curators are becoming a notable element in the growth of DeFi. The rise of top curators boosted the value locked on Morpho, leading to a greater expansion of DeFi lending. As Cryptopolitan reported earlier, risk curators or vault curators took off in 2025, but faced stress tests for some of the vaults. Vault curators had to be careful about resource utilization and the risks of their high-yield vaults. Steakhouse Finance increased its value under management, with most inflows into its USDC vaults. | Source: Token Terminal The growth of the sector boosted all curators, though specific risk managers noted even larger growth for their own activity. Curators are no longer just technically spreading funds to different vaults, but are actively managing risks. Based on Token Terminal data , curators saw a rapid increase in total deposits, with some of the top projects doubling their value locked. Steakhouse leads vault curators Steakhouse is the leading vault curator, with the highest value locked. Around 52.5% of the value deposits are in USDC, with smaller vaults using USDT or ETH. Steakhouse recently broke above $1.8B on all its vaults, extending its growth despite short-term shocks and several smaller vaults that suffered from low liquidity. The Steakhouse vaults have actively unrolled to Coinbase users, with new apps and wallets added as partners. The expansion of USDC and demand for passive yield turned Steakhouse into the top risk curator. The Steakhouse USDC vault on Morpho has a top safety profile, with a 3.6% yield. The vault holds $436.95M , with over $110M in available liquidity, remaining accessible to borrowers, as well as lenders that may want to withdraw their stake. Morpho added $1.1B in January Morpho reflected the attractiveness of curated vaults. The role of Steakhouse, Gauntlet, Spark, and Smokehouse was to attract new users. Morpho locked in $6.91B in mid-January, up from a local low of $5.79B at the end of 2025. The growth also happened with the rise of Morpho V2. The new version will allow even more flexible lending by also bringing off-chain lending agreements to the protocol. Morpho V2 also allows custom rates, terms of the loan, grace periods, and collateral adjustments. Onchain lending is expected to expand in 2026, driven mostly by Aave and Morpho. In total, risk curators carry $6.58B , as the value locked recovered in early 2026. Just behind Steakhouse Financial, Gauntlet, Sentora, MEV Capital, and others are still expanding their influence. If you're reading this, you’re already ahead. Stay there with our newsletter .

16 Jan 2026, 15:30

BTCC tokenized gold trading hits $5.7B in 2025 as Q4 volume surges 809%

Cryptocurrency exchange BTCC has captured a striking wave of investor demand for gold trading on blockchain networks, crossing the $5.7 billion mark in annual tokenized gold volume during 2025. This surge reflects a broader institutional pivot toward “real-world assets,” traditional investments like commodities and precious metals converted into digital tokens, as traders increasingly view gold as a hedge against geopolitical uncertainty and market turbulence. The milestone underscores how crypto platforms are evolving beyond pure digital currencies into full-fledged alternatives to traditional commodity trading. Gold’s explosive growth outpaces broader crypto markets The numbers tell a striking story. BTCC’s gold trading volume skyrocketed 809% between the first and fourth quarters of 2025, with Q4 alone generating $2.74 billion, nearly half the year’s total. That’s not incremental growth; it’s market acceleration driven by genuine structural shifts in how traders access precious metals. What’s more revealing is gold’s dominance within BTCC’s ecosystem. While the exchange processed $53.1 billion in total futures volume across all asset classes in 2025, tokenized gold captured 10.7% of that pie. Q4 alone saw a 130% quarter-over-quarter increase in gold product volume. More importantly, it was the fastest-growing segment, expanding roughly eight times over the year. For context, few asset classes on crypto platforms achieve such growth rates without fundamental catalysts. Why gold? Macro headwinds and policy uncertainty Marcus Chen, BTCC’s Product Manager, attributed the surge to “gold’s rally driven by geopolitical tensions and policy uncertainty.” As gold prices hit record highs, our tokenized products give our users direct access to trade precious metals with cryptocurrency on the BTCC platform Throughout 2025, gold prices climbed toward record highs as investors hedged against risks including trade wars, regional conflicts, and unpredictable central bank policies. When traditional markets feel shaky, gold historically becomes the safe harbor. BTCC capitalized on this by offering three different tokenized gold products: GOLDUSDT for spot price exposure, PAXGUSDT backed by Paxos’ regulated physical gold token, and XAUTUSDT linked to Tether’s on-chain gold offering. The variety matters. Different products serve different trader preferences; some want pure price exposure, others want the comfort of physical backing, and some need on-chain liquidity for decentralized finance activities. BTCC’s results hint at where the cryptocurrency industry is heading. Regulators and institutional investors have long demanded that crypto platforms offer “real” assets, things with tangible value outside the digital realm. Tokenized commodities deliver exactly that. The exchange signaled bigger ambitions ahead. Chen noted that “gold is just the beginning” and that BTCC is exploring other commodities and traditional finance products. We’re actively working on expanding into other commodities and traditional finance products. With what we’ve built here, BTCC is ready to bring tokenization to a much wider range of assets and make them accessible to traders everywhere For a crypto industry still fighting legitimacy battles, that diversification could prove decisive in attracting mainstream capital. The post BTCC tokenized gold trading hits $5.7B in 2025 as Q4 volume surges 809% appeared first on Invezz

16 Jan 2026, 15:30

Iranians Turn to Crypto as Economic Crisis and Sanctions Deepen

As Iran’s economy continues to strain under heavy sanctions, high inflation, and a weakening currency, many citizens are turning to crypto as an alternative financial lifeline. Related Reading: Bitcoin Tailwind: Cathie Wood Sees ‘Reaganomics On Steroids’ Ahead Recent blockchain data shows a sharp rise in Bitcoin withdrawals and transfers to personal wallets, particularly during periods of unrest and internet restrictions. For many Iranians, digital assets now serve both as a hedge against currency collapse and a way to move funds beyond government-controlled systems. The Iranian rial has lost around 90% of its value against the U.S. dollar since 2018, while inflation has hovered between 40% and 50%. In response, crypto usage has grown steadily, with Iran’s total cryptocurrency activity reaching an estimated $7.78 billion in 2025, according to Chainalysis. BTC's price trends sideways on the daily chart. Source: BTCUSD on Tradingview Bitcoin Use Rises During Protests and Internet Blackouts Crypto activity surged during mass protests that began in late December 2025, triggered by rising living costs and currency devaluation. As demonstrations spread, authorities imposed internet shutdowns and tightened financial controls. During this period, blockchain data showed higher average daily transaction values and a notable increase in transfers from Iranian exchanges to self-custodied Bitcoin wallets. Smaller withdrawals, often associated with individual users, recorded some of the strongest growth. Medium and large transfers also increased, suggesting that both households and businesses were seeking to move funds out of local platforms. Bitcoin’s appeal lies in its ability to be stored and transferred without relying on domestic banks or state oversight. For Iranians facing restrictions on access to cash, foreign currency, or international transfers, crypto offers a way to preserve value and maintain some financial mobility. Crypto’s Dual Role: Citizens and State Actors While ordinary Iranians are using cryptocurrencies to protect savings, state-linked actors are also active in the digital asset space. Wallets associated with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) accounted for more than half of the country’s crypto transaction value in the final quarter of 2025. These wallets received over $3 billion during the year, up from around $2 billion in 2024. Western authorities believe the IRGC uses cryptocurrencies to bypass sanctions, move funds across borders, and support regional operations. Chainalysis notes that these figures likely underestimate the true scale, as many affiliated wallets and networks remain unidentified. At the same time, spikes in Iranian crypto activity have closely followed major political and security events, including the Kerman bombings in 2024, missile strikes in October 2024, and a 12-day conflict in June 2025 that disrupted Iran’s largest crypto exchange and a major state bank. A Growing Dependence on Digital Assets For many Iranians, cryptos have become more than a speculative asset. They are increasingly used as a tool for financial survival in an economy marked by inflation, sanctions, and limited access to global markets. Bitcoin’s censorship resistance and portability make it especially attractive during periods of unrest or capital controls. Related Reading: XRP In A ‘Super Cycle’? SuperTrend Suggests Another Story As economic pressures persist and geopolitical tensions remain high, blockchain analysts expect crypto usage in Iran to continue rising. Whether as a means of preserving personal wealth or navigating sanctions, digital assets are now a central part of Iran’s financial landscape. Cover image from ChatGPT, BTCUSD chart from Tradingview

16 Jan 2026, 15:30

Ethereum Spot ETFs Pull $164M as XRP Adds $17M Despite Price Dips

Ethereum and XRP spot ETFs took in fresh money on Jan. 15, even as prices slid across the crypto market. Ethereum funds led the day with about $164 million in net inflows, while XRP products added $17.06 million. Ethereum Sees $164M ETF Inflows on Jan. 15 Ethereum spot exchange traded funds recorded about $164 million in net inflows on Jan. 15, according to daily flow data across major U.S. issuers. The gains marked one of the stronger single day inflow totals this month, driven mainly by BlackRock’s ETHA, which added roughly $149 million, while Grayscale’s ETH product contributed about $15 million. Most other listed Ethereum ETFs reported flat activity during the session, showing that inflows remained concentrated in a small number of funds. Ethereum ETF Inflows Jan. 15. Source: The Farside Investors The Jan. 15 result followed several volatile sessions earlier in the month, when Ethereum ETFs alternated between sharp inflows and outflows. Despite that uneven pattern, cumulative net inflows across all Ethereum spot ETFs have climbed to nearly $12.9 billion, highlighting sustained institutional interest since launch. The data also show that recent inflows came without broad participation from smaller issuers, suggesting selective positioning rather than a market wide surge. XRP ETFs Add $17M in Daily Inflows Meanwhile, U.S. spot XRP exchange traded funds recorded $17.06 million in net inflows on Jan. 15, according to market data tracking daily fund activity. The inflows lifted cumulative net inflows to about $1.27 billion, while total net assets across XRP ETFs reached roughly $1.51 billion, representing about 1.21% of XRP’s market capitalization. Trading activity remained moderate, with total value traded near $22 million during the session. XRP ETF Net Inflows Jan. 15. Source: SoSoValue Flows varied across issuers, showing uneven participation. Bitwise’s XRP ETF led daily inflows with $7.16 million, followed closely by Grayscale’s GXRP , which added $7.20 million. Franklin Templeton’s XRPZ contributed $3.36 million, while Canary’s XRPC posted a $659,000 outflow. Meanwhile, 21Shares’ TOXR reported no change on the day, keeping its daily net flow flat. Despite the positive fund flows, XRP ETF prices declined alongside the broader market. Most products closed lower on the session, with daily price drops ranging between 3% and 4%, even as assets under management held steady. The divergence between inflows and price movement suggests continued allocation into XRP ETFs, even as short term market pressure weighed on prices.

16 Jan 2026, 15:28

Arthur Hayes-Backed RIVER Coin Skyrockets 1,200% in Three Weeks

Chain-abstraction stablecoin system River (RIVER) has quietly done more than a 10x since Christmas Day, outperforming the digital asset markets. RIVER Reaches a $3.8 Billion FDV After Suddenly Exploding Into New Year River, launched in September of last year, is a chain abstraction system that is powered by the omni-CDP stablecoin satUSD, which users can

16 Jan 2026, 15:25

Bitcoin Mining Stocks Soar: JPMorgan Reveals How BTC Price Rise and Lower Hash Rate Fuel Remarkable Rally

BitcoinWorld Bitcoin Mining Stocks Soar: JPMorgan Reveals How BTC Price Rise and Lower Hash Rate Fuel Remarkable Rally NEW YORK, January 2025 – A comprehensive JPMorgan analysis reveals a remarkable surge in Bitcoin mining stocks, directly linking their performance to a modest BTC price increase and a significant decline in network hash rate. The bank’s January 16 report documents how these fundamental shifts, combined with strategic diversification into artificial intelligence, created perfect conditions for mining companies to deliver exceptional returns to investors during the year’s opening weeks. Bitcoin Mining Stocks Experience Unprecedented Growth JPMorgan’s research team meticulously tracked fourteen U.S.-listed Bitcoin mining companies throughout early January. Consequently, they observed a staggering $13 billion increase in combined market capitalization. This growth elevated the total valuation to approximately $62 billion within just two weeks. The report clearly identifies two primary catalysts for this explosive performance. First, Bitcoin’s price demonstrated steady appreciation during this period. Second, the network’s hash rate experienced a noticeable cooling trend. These simultaneous developments created ideal conditions for mining operations. Mining profitability depends directly on both Bitcoin’s market value and operational costs. Lower hash rates typically reduce mining difficulty and energy consumption. Historically, mining stocks exhibit higher volatility than Bitcoin itself. They amplify both gains and losses from underlying cryptocurrency movements. However, the current scenario presents unique characteristics. The hash rate decline provides an additional efficiency boost beyond simple price appreciation. This dual effect explains the disproportionate stock gains compared to Bitcoin’s modest price increase. Bitcoin Mining Stock Performance Metrics (Early January) Metric Value Impact Combined Market Cap Increase $13 Billion 26% Growth Total Market Capitalization $62 Billion Record High Number of Companies Tracked 14 U.S.-Listed Miners Primary Catalysts 2 Price Rise & Hash Rate Decline Hash Rate Dynamics and Mining Profitability The Bitcoin network’s hash rate represents the total computational power securing the blockchain. Mining companies contribute this power to validate transactions and earn block rewards. When hash rate increases, competition intensifies and profitability typically decreases. Conversely, hash rate declines reduce competition and operational costs. JPMorgan’s analysis highlights how the recent hash rate cooling directly improved mining margins. This development occurred alongside Bitcoin’s price appreciation. The combination created a powerful profitability multiplier. Mining companies suddenly generated more Bitcoin with lower relative energy expenditure. Simultaneously, each mined Bitcoin held greater dollar value. Several factors potentially contributed to the hash rate decline: Seasonal energy price fluctuations in key mining regions Infrastructure upgrades causing temporary operational pauses Geographic redistribution of mining operations Efficiency transitions to newer generation hardware The report suggests this trend could continue through early 2025. If sustained, it would maintain favorable conditions for mining profitability. However, analysts caution that hash rate typically follows cyclical patterns. The current decline might represent a temporary adjustment rather than a permanent shift. Expert Analysis of Mining Economics Industry experts emphasize the delicate balance between hash rate and profitability. Mining operations maintain complex financial models incorporating multiple variables. These include electricity costs, hardware efficiency, Bitcoin price, and network difficulty. The recent alignment of favorable conditions across several variables created exceptional circumstances. Historical data reveals that mining stock performance often leads Bitcoin price movements. Investors anticipate improved earnings before they materialize in quarterly reports. The current rally suggests strong confidence in sustained favorable conditions. However, experienced analysts recommend monitoring several key indicators. First, Bitcoin’s price stability remains crucial. Second, energy cost trends in primary mining regions require observation. Third, technological advancements in mining hardware could alter competitive dynamics. Finally, regulatory developments might impact operational costs or revenue recognition. Strategic Diversification into AI and HPC Beyond core mining operations, JPMorgan identified another significant trend. Many mining companies now diversify revenue streams into artificial intelligence and high-performance computing. This strategic shift provides multiple benefits. It reduces dependence on Bitcoin’s volatile price cycles. Additionally, it leverages existing infrastructure and expertise. Bitcoin mining operations already maintain substantial computational resources. These resources can sometimes repurpose for AI training or scientific computing. The transition requires careful planning and investment. However, successful implementation creates more stable revenue models. Investors increasingly value this diversification in their valuation assessments. The report notes that companies announcing AI or HPC initiatives experienced additional stock appreciation. This suggests investors reward strategic foresight beyond immediate mining results. The diversification trend represents a maturation within the cryptocurrency mining industry. Companies evolve from pure-play Bitcoin miners to diversified technology firms. Key diversification strategies include: Partnerships with AI research organizations Infrastructure sharing agreements with cloud providers Dedicated HPC divisions within mining companies Energy arbitrage between mining and computing workloads Market Implications and Future Outlook JPMorgan’s analysis carries significant implications for cryptocurrency investors. The mining sector now represents a substantial segment within digital asset markets. Its performance influences broader sentiment and capital allocation decisions. The recent rally demonstrates how specialized analysis can identify unique opportunities. The report suggests the mining stock rally could accelerate under specific conditions. Bitcoin price stability remains paramount. Continued hash rate moderation would further support profitability. Successful diversification initiatives would enhance long-term valuations. However, several risk factors require consideration. Potential challenges include: Sudden Bitcoin price corrections Rapid hash rate recovery increasing competition Regulatory changes affecting operations Technological disruptions in mining hardware Energy market volatility impacting costs Despite these risks, the current environment appears favorable for mining operations. The alignment of multiple positive factors creates rare conditions. Investors should monitor quarterly earnings reports for confirmation. These documents will reveal whether improved conditions translate to actual financial performance. Conclusion JPMorgan’s comprehensive analysis reveals the complex dynamics driving Bitcoin mining stock performance. The convergence of BTC price appreciation and hash rate decline created ideal profitability conditions. Strategic diversification into artificial intelligence provided additional valuation support. These factors combined to generate remarkable returns for mining stock investors during early January. The Bitcoin mining sector continues evolving from pure cryptocurrency operations to diversified technology enterprises. This transformation, coupled with favorable market conditions, suggests continued relevance for mining stocks within balanced digital asset portfolios. However, investors must remain vigilant regarding the inherent volatility and competitive dynamics characterizing this innovative industry. FAQs Q1: What exactly is Bitcoin mining hash rate and why does it matter? The Bitcoin network hash rate represents the total computational power dedicated to securing the blockchain and processing transactions. Higher hash rates indicate greater security but also increased competition among miners, which typically reduces individual profitability. Lower hash rates decrease competition and can improve mining margins when Bitcoin prices remain stable or increase. Q2: How does Bitcoin price affect mining company profits? Mining companies earn revenue primarily in Bitcoin through block rewards and transaction fees. When Bitcoin’s dollar value increases, each mined coin generates more revenue. However, mining costs (primarily electricity) typically remain fixed in local currencies. This creates operational leverage where price increases disproportionately boost profitability, especially when combined with efficiency improvements. Q3: Why are mining companies diversifying into artificial intelligence? Bitcoin mining operations require significant computational resources and energy infrastructure. These same resources can sometimes repurpose for AI training or high-performance computing tasks. Diversification reduces dependence on Bitcoin’s price volatility, creates additional revenue streams, and potentially improves valuation multiples from investors seeking more stable business models. Q4: What risks do Bitcoin mining stocks carry compared to Bitcoin itself? Mining stocks typically exhibit higher volatility than Bitcoin due to operational leverage and company-specific factors. They face business risks including regulatory changes, energy cost fluctuations, technological obsolescence, and management execution challenges. However, they also offer potential advantages including dividend policies, diversification benefits, and exposure to mining efficiency improvements. Q5: How can investors track mining profitability trends? Several public metrics help monitor mining profitability including network hash rate, mining difficulty adjustments, Bitcoin price, and public mining company financial reports. Specialized websites aggregate real-time profitability estimates based on electricity costs and hardware efficiency. Investors should also follow energy market trends in primary mining regions and technological developments in mining hardware. This post Bitcoin Mining Stocks Soar: JPMorgan Reveals How BTC Price Rise and Lower Hash Rate Fuel Remarkable Rally first appeared on BitcoinWorld .