Winklevoss twins, the co-founders of Gemini Space Station, Inc.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/GEMI" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/GEMI">GEMI</a></a>), donated over $1 million to support the privacy-focused Zcash&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ZEC-USD" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(CRYPTO:&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/zec/usd" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ZEC</a>)&nbsp;cryptocurrency on Tuesday.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">&#8216;Unstoppable Private Money&#8217;</h2>



Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss donated 3,221 ZEC tokens, worth $1.4 million, to Shielded Labs, an independent organization that supports the development of the Zcash network.



Cameron Winklevoss described Zcash as &#8220;unstoppable private money,&#8221; adding that he and his brother are committed to supporting its mission.



&#8220;Privacy is the next frontier in crypto. It&#8217;s the point at which government and corporate overreach end and your freedom and self-sovereignty begin,&#8221; he added.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Privacy is the next frontier in crypto. It&#39;s the point at which government and corporate overreach end and your freedom and self-sovereignty begin. <a href="https://twitter.com/ShieldedLabs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShieldedLabs</a> is committed to building Zcash — unstoppable private money. That&#39;s why <a href="https://twitter.com/tyler?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tyler</a> and I are supporting their mission. <a href="https://t.co/Y63ynX0TGY">https://t.co/Y63ynX0TGY</a>&mdash; Cameron Winklevoss (@cameron) <a href="https://twitter.com/cameron/status/2013677529626710214?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2026</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Winklevoss Twins Double Down On Privacy Coins</h2>



Shielded Labs said that the donation will support its &#8220;core initiatives,&#8221; aimed at strengthening the long-term&nbsp;security, sustainability, and scalability of&nbsp;the Zcash network.



The Winklevoss twins have made a significant investment in Zcash, betting on its role as a leading privacy protocol.



They back a cryptocurrency treasury company, Cypherpunk Technologies Inc. <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="CYPH" data-exchange="NASDAQ" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CYPH" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CYPH">CYPH</a>)</a>, which has amassed a large ZEC position. It currently holds 290,062 ZEC, valued at over $103 million.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Star Performer Of 2025</h2>



Zcash&nbsp;was one of the top performers last year, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/12/49273382/bitcoin-ethereum-and-dogecoin-erased-their-2025-gains-but-this-privacy-focused-coin-is-this-years-best-performing-crypto-with-over-600-returns">skyrocketing more than 600%</a> in a rally supported by a broader interest in privacy-focused cryptocurrencies



Unlike Bitcoin, ZEC transactions by default do not reveal the sending and receiving addresses or the amount being sent.&nbsp;However, there is an option to disclose this data for auditing or regulatory compliance.



Price Action: At the time of writing, ZEC was exchanging hands at $357.10, down 1.25% over the last 24 hours, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ZEC-USD">data from Benzinga Pro</a>. Year to date, the coin has plunged 30%.



Shares of Cypherpunk fell 1.27% in after-hours trading after closing 13.21% lower at $0.9216&nbsp;during Tuesday&#8217;s regular trading session.



The stock maintains a stronger price trend over the medium and long terms, but struggles in the short term, according to Benzinga&#8217;s Edge Stock Rankings.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CYPH"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="573" height="191" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/21021303/image-363.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1267790" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/21021303/image-363.png 573w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/21021303/image-363-300x100.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 573px) 100vw, 573px" /></a></figure>



 Photo Courtesy: Stanslavs on Shutterstock.com

Winklevoss Twins Donate $1.4 Million To Support Zcash Network: 'Privacy Is The Next Frontier In Crypto'

Renowned investor Kevin O&#8217;Leary emphasized the significance of owning energy infrastructure in the cryptocurrency realm on Tuesday, adding that at the right price, electricity can hold greater value than Bitcoin <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="BTC" data-exchange="CRYPTO" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BTC-USD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</a> itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why Energy Control Is Crucial For Bitcoin Mining</h2>



O&#8217;Leary took to X, adding a clip from a recent interview, in which he highlighted how Bitzero, a Canadian energy infrastructure firm where he serves as a strategic investor, is leasing power for high-performance computing and Bitcoin mining activities.



&#8220;When you control infrastructure and energy, you can choose: lease the power or mine Bitcoin. Either way, it works,&#8221; the "Shark Tank" star said.



He claimed that the cost to mine one BTC at Bitzero is $56,000, significantly lower than the market price.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">People misunderstand Bitcoin. At the right power cost, electricity is more valuable than the coin itself. When you control infrastructure and energy, you can choose: lease the power or mine Bitcoin. Either way, it works. At <a href="https://twitter.com/bitzerodotcom?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bitzerodotcom</a> , our cost to mine is far below market… <a href="https://t.co/O9i7PDrnrm">pic.twitter.com/O9i7PDrnrm</a>&mdash; Kevin O&#39;Leary aka Mr. Wonderful (@kevinolearytv) <a href="https://twitter.com/kevinolearytv/status/2013743796459032734?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2026</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Will Regulatory Clarity Propel Bitcoin Prices?</h2>



O&#8217;Leary, also known as &#8220;Mr Wonderful,&#8221;&nbsp;said that Bitcoin mining&#8217;s profitability stems from low-cost electricity.



&#8220;At the right power cost, electricity is more valuable than the coin itself,&#8221; he added. 



O&#8217;Leary argued that until Bitcoin achieves regulatory clarity and rises to between $150,000 and $200,000, this is how value is captured.



He also dismissed altcoins as lacking institutional appeal, forecasting that once the CLARITY Act gets passed, institutions will have &#8220;no reason to own them.&#8221;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">O&#8217;Leary&#8217;s Formula</h2>



This isn&#8217;t the first time O&#8217;Leary has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/12/49177791/kevin-oleary-says-he-likes-to-bet-on-crypto-as-well-as-the-underlying-infrastructure-why-wouldnt-you-own-the-entity-that-mines-bitcoin">stressed the importance of owning the underlying infrastructure</a> that powers cryptocurrencies. 



He has been a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/08/47204253/kevin-oleary-made-big-bets-on-crypto-infrastructure-firms-like-circle-coinbase-and-robinhood-now-aims-to-bring-playbook-to-ai" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">known investor in cryptocurrency infrastructure companies</a>, including&nbsp;Circle Internet Group Inc.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CRCL" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CRCL">CRCL</a></a>),&nbsp;Coinbase Global Inc.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/COIN" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(NASDAQ:</a> <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/COIN" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COIN</a>), and&nbsp;Robinhood Markets Inc.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/HOOD" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/HOOD">HOOD</a></a>).



O&#8217;Leary said previously that owning Bitcoin and Ethereum <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="ETH" data-exchange="CRYPTO" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ETH-USD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>)</a> alone is sufficient to capture 97.5% of the cryptocurrency market&#8217;s<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/09/47736001/mr-wonderful-kevin-oleary-says-bitcoin-ethereum-enough-to-capture-the-promise-of-crypto-advises-against-irrelevant-tokens" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> volatility and yield</a>. He also argued that altcoins will struggle to recover after market corrections, as they lack utility.



Price Action: At the time of writing, BTC was exchanging hands at $89,732.31, down 1.94% in the last 24 hours, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BTC-USD">data from Benzinga Pro.</a>



Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/apis?utm_source=benzinga.com&amp;utm_campaign=article-bottom" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank"></a>



Photo: Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com

Kevin O'Leary Says Until Bitcoin Hits This Level And Gets 'Fully Regulated,' Owning Electricity Will Be More 'Valuable' Than BTC Itself

Coinbase Global Inc.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/COIN" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/COIN">COIN</a></a>)&nbsp;CEO Brian Armstrong celebrated the inaugurations of Abigail Spanberger as Governor of Virginia and Mikie Sherrill as Governor of New Jersey, framing it as a win for pro-cryptocurrency politicians



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Armstrong Congratulates &#8216;Pro-Crypto&#8217; Advocates</h2>



In an X post, Armstrong congratulated the new governors, describing it as a &#8220;milestone moment&#8221; for pro-cryptocurrency advocates in office.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Another milestone moment for pro-crypto advocates taking office. Congrats <a href="https://twitter.com/SpanbergerForVA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@spanbergerforVA</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/MikieSherrill?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mikiesherrill</a> on your inaugurations. Great to see so many pro-crypto advocates in office across the country!&mdash; Brian Armstrong (@brian_armstrong) <a href="https://twitter.com/brian_armstrong/status/2013750870572163390?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2026</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Spanberger&#8217;s Complex Stance On Crypto Policy</h2>



Spanberger made history last year, defeating Republican nominee Winsome Earle-Searsto to become <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/11/48643743/zohran-mamdani-wins-nyc-mayor-race-abigail-spanberger-becomes-virginias-first-female-governor-in-historic-democratic-win">Virginia&#8217;s first female governor</a>.



Her positions show a mixed record on cryptocurrency issues. As a House Representative, she voted in favor of the pro-cryptocurrency <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/05/39004550/exclusive-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-fit21-crypto-bill">FIT21 bill</a> but went against the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/content/47712634/gops-last-ditch-move-cbdc-ban-quietly-added-to-major-crypto-bill">CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act</a>, which aimed to prohibit central bank digital currencies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sherrill Supported The House Clarity Act</h2>



Sherrill&nbsp;emerged victorious last year, defeating Republican&nbsp;Jack Ciattarelli to become the first female Democrat to serve as Governor of New Jersey. 



Like Spanberger, Sherill voted in favor of the FIT21 bill but opposed the Anti-CBDC Act. She also voted in support of the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/25/07/46480331/the-us-just-took-a-big-step-toward-crypto-regulation-heres-what-the-clarity-act-actually-says">CLARITY Act,</a> a bill that seeks to establish a clear regulatory framework for cryptocurrency markets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Coinbase Champions Crypto Regulatory Framework</h2>



Armstrong&nbsp;has been actively engaging with the White House and Congress&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/26/01/49984815/coinbases-brian-armstrong-says-white-house-super-constructive-despite-crypto-bill-fallout" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">to advance the cryptocurrency market structure bill</a>, the Senate&#8217;s version of the CLARITY Act.



Notably, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/Opinion/26/01/49931241/coinbase-withdraws-support-for-crypto-bill-over-stablecoin-rewards-ban" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coinbase withdrew its support</a>&nbsp;for the cryptocurrency market structure bill, hours before lawmakers were set to vote on the legislation. The withdrawal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/26/01/49926587/tim-scott-says-everyone-remains-at-the-table-in-good-faith-as-senate-delays-crypto-bill-markup-after-opposition-from-coinbase" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">led to an indefinite postponement&nbsp;</a>of the bill&#8217;s markup.



Despite the legislative fallout, Armstrong said that the White House <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/26/01/49984815/coinbases-brian-armstrong-says-white-house-super-constructive-despite-crypto-bill-fallout">has been &#8220;super constructive&#8221;</a> and has even asked Coinbase to engage in negotiations with banks.



Price Action: Coinbase shares fell 0.32% in after-hours trading after closing 5.57% lower at $227.73&nbsp;during Tuesday&#8217;s regular trading session, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/COIN" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.&nbsp;



The stock maintains a stronger price trend over the short, medium, and long terms with a very high Growth ranking, according to Benzinga&#8217;s Edge Stock Rankings.



Photo Courtesy: Thrive Studios ID on Shutterstock.com



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/COIN"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="987" height="202" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20231152/image-351.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1267499" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20231152/image-351.png 987w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20231152/image-351-300x61.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20231152/image-351-768x157.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 987px) 100vw, 987px" /></a></figure>

New Governors Abigail Spanberger, Mikie Sherrill Congratulated By Brian Armstrong: Coinbase CEO Calls It 'Another Milestone' For Pro-Crypto Advocates

World Liberty Financial (WLFI) co-founder Donald Trump Jr. announced Tuesday the World Liberty Forum, a gathering for major influencers in technology and finance, to be held at Mar-a-Lago next month.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Trump Family-Backed Event</h2>



In a video posted on X by the World Liberty Financial team, Trump Jr. marketed the event, scheduled for Feb. 18, as the &#8220;most exclusive&#8221; in technology and finance. 



&#8220;We&#8217;re bringing together a select group of the smartest people we know and respect from finance and technology — people who are building and leading the best companies, moving serious money, and driving American innovation forward,&#8221; Trump Jr. said.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">GM &#x261d;&#xFE0F; family — BIG ANNOUNCEMENT! Watch what our co‑founder <a href="https://twitter.com/DonaldJTrumpJr?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DonaldJTrumpJr</a> has to say about the World Liberty Forum. <a href="https://t.co/rkTocmlkem">pic.twitter.com/rkTocmlkem</a>&mdash; WLFI (@worldlibertyfi) <a href="https://twitter.com/worldlibertyfi/status/2013632434613481610?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2026</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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The event is invitation-only, with requests accepted for attendees, speakers and media. David Solomon, CEO of Goldman Sachs, and CFTC Chair&nbsp;Michael S. Selig have been confirmed as speakers, according to details on the World Liberty Forum Website.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trump Family&#8217;s Crypto Power Play</h2>



The Trump family is deeply invested in World Liberty Financial, with President Donald Trump&nbsp;listed as Co-Founder Emeritus, while his sons,&nbsp;Eric Trump,&nbsp;Trump Jr.&nbsp;and&nbsp;Barron Trump,&nbsp;serve as co-founders.



Earlier this month, the company launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/26/01/49856752/trump-affiliated-world-liberty-launches-lending-platform-a-conflict-of-interest">World Liberty Markets</a>, a lending platform for its World Liberty Financial USD (USD1) stablecoin. It has also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/26/01/49773888/eric-trump-posts-bald-eagle-emoji-after-world-liberty-financial-applies-for-national-trust-bank-charter">applied for a U.S. national banking license</a> to issue and custody the dollar-pegged stablecoin.



An October report found the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/10/48260371/trump-family-reportedly-1-billion-in-profit-from-crypto-ventures">Trump family earned hundreds of millions</a> from World Liberty Financial and related token sales in the first half of 2025.&nbsp;



Price Action: At the time of writing, WLFI was exchanging hands at $0.1643, down 0.82% in the last 24 hours, according to data from Benzinga Pro. Year-to-date, the token has rallied 14%.



Photo Courtesy: Lev Radin on Shutterstock.com

Trump Jr. Says He's Bringing Together The 'Smartest People' For A World Liberty Financial Event

Leading cryptocurrencies fell alongside stocks on Tuesday as President Donald Trump&#8217;s tariff threats threw risk-on markets into a tailspin.



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><thead><tr><th>Cryptocurrency</th><th>Gains +/-</th><th>Price (Recorded at 8:20 p.m. ET)</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</td><td>-3.95%</td><td>$88,951.35</td></tr><tr><td>Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td><td>-6.76%</td><td>$2,965.89</td></tr><tr><td>XRP (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xrp/usd">XRP</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td><td>-3.42%</td><td>$1.91</td></tr><tr><td>Solana (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/sol/usd">SOL</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td><td>-4.57%</td><td>$127.45</td></tr><tr><td>Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td><td>-2.23%</td><td>$0.1254</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Crypto Market Goes Into &#8216;Extreme Fear&#8217;</h2>



Bitcoin plunged below $88,000, with trading volume surging 76% over the last 24 hours.



The market sell-off spread widely, driving Ethereum&#8217;s price below $3,000 for the first time in three weeks. XRP and Dogecoin also recorded sharp declines.



Shares of cryptocurrency-related companies, including Strategy Inc. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LMT">(</a>NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MSTR">MSTR</a>)&nbsp; and Coinbase Global Inc. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/COIN" target="_blank" class="ticker-link" data-ticker="COIN" data-exchange="NASDAQ" rel="noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/COIN">COIN</a>)</a>, closed down 7.76% and 5.57%, respectively



Roughly $1.7 billion was liquidated from the market in the last 24 hours, <a href="https://www.coinglass.com/LongShortRatio">according </a>to Coinglass, with a billion worth of levered longs evaporated.



Bitcoin's open interest fell 1.22% in the last 24 hours, while total funds locked in Ethereum futures slid 3.22%.



The market sentiment worsened from "Fear" to "Extreme Fear," according to the Crypto Fear &amp; Greed Index.



Top Gainers (24 Hours)&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><tbody><tr><td>Cryptocurrency (Market Cap&gt;$100 M)</td><td>Gains +/-</td><td>Price (Recorded at 8:20 p.m. ET)</td></tr><tr><td>Axie Infinity (AXS )&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td><td>+19.02%</td><td>&nbsp; &nbsp; $2.10</td></tr><tr><td>River (RIVER )&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td><td>+15.35%</td><td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; $35.31</td></tr><tr><td>Story (IP ) &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td><td>+14.44%</td><td>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; $2.67</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



The global cryptocurrency market capitalization shrunk 4% to $3 trillion in the last 24 hours.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Stocks Crack on Trade Tensions</h2>



As anticipated, the stock market tumbled on Tuesday, marking its worst session in more than three months. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 870.74 points, or 1.76%, to finish at 48,488.59. The S&amp;P 500 dipped 2.06% to end at 6,796.86, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite lost 2.39% to close at 22,954.32.



With equities falling, investors sought refuge in safe havens. Spot gold rose 0.48% to a new all-time high of $4,785 an ounce.



The risk-off sentiment intensified amid <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/26/01/49994455/trump-says-no-going-back-on-greenland-after-very-good-call-with-nato-chief-for-national-and-world-security">Trump's tariff threats on Europe</a> if they don't back his bid to acquire Greenland. The President asserted that there "can be no going back" on this issue, reiterating that the island is key for national and global security.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Is This A Long-Term Bullish Signal?</h2>



Despite the sell-offs, Bitcoin whale investors have not stopped accumulating, according to on-chain analytics firm Santiment.



Addresses holding between 10 and 10,000 BTC have grabbed 36,322 tokens over the last 9 days, an increase of 0.27%.



"Optimal conditions for a crypto breakout are when smart money accumulates, and retail dumps," Santiment stated. "Geopolitical issues aside, this pattern continues to be great for a long-term bullish divergence."



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">&#x1f4ca; Bitcoin&#39;s price has fallen back down to $89.4K as gold &amp; silver continue to surge. That said, Bitcoin&#39;s whales &amp; sharks continue to accumulate. &#x1f433; Wallets with 10-10K <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24BTC&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$BTC</a>: Accumulated +36,322 tokens in the past 9 days (+0.27%) &#x1f990; Wallets with under 0.01 <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24BTC&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$BTC</a>: Dumped -132… <a href="https://t.co/RnVOgVl3j2">pic.twitter.com/RnVOgVl3j2</a>&mdash; Santiment (@santimentfeed) <a href="https://twitter.com/santimentfeed/status/2013696839363551380?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2026</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



Michaël van de Poppe, widely followed cryptocurrency analyst and trader, noticed dense on-chain activity for Ethereum between $2,772 and $3,119, calling it a "key area of support."



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Most recent on-chain activity for Ethereum <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24ETH&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$ETH</a> clustered between $3,119 and $2,772, reinforcing this zone as a key area of support. <a href="https://t.co/W9cA0qdp6k">https://t.co/W9cA0qdp6k</a> <a href="https://t.co/4e6i8QrQ9K">pic.twitter.com/4e6i8QrQ9K</a>&mdash; Ali Charts (@alicharts) <a href="https://twitter.com/alicharts/status/2013645444036104368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2026</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



Photo: KateStock / Shutterstock

Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Dogecoin Crash Alongside Stocks Amid Trump's Greenland Tariff Threats: Analyst Sees 'Optimal Conditions' For BTC Breakout

Bitcoin\s <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="BTC" data-exchange="CRYPTO" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BTC-USD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</a> longtime skeptic Peter Schiff on Tuesday warned that Bitcoin holders who bought for the same reasons he bought gold will lose money, even when their economic forecasts prove correct.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Schiff&#8217;s Warning: Right Thesis, Wrong Asset</h3>



Schiff <a href="https://x.com/PeterSchiff/status/2013650319146651688">posted</a> on X that Bitcoin holders who prepared for the economic crisis by buying BTC instead of gold face a &#8220;frustrating and unfortunate&#8221; outcome.



&#8220;It&#8217;s going to be very frustrating for Bitcoin HODLers, who actually bought Bitcoin for the same reasons I bought gold and silver, to see all the economic forecasts we had in common come true, but to end up losing more money than people who did nothing to prepare,&#8221; Schiff wrote.



Bitcoin and gold buyers share similar views on dollar debasement, inflation, and financial crisis risks, but gold will preserve wealth while Bitcoin crashes when those predictions materialize, according to Schiff.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">2026 Crisis Will Be &#8220;Much Worse&#8221; Than 2008</h3>



Schiff <a href="https://x.com/PeterSchiff/status/2013666542332875103">escalated</a> his warnings by predicting a 2026 financial crisis that will be worse than 2008, with one critical difference—this time, the damage stays contained to the U.S.



He argues the rest of the world will actually improve as countries stop propping up American consumer spending through cheap exports and Treasury purchases.



Schiff blames Trump&#8217;s economic policies for severing the relationship between the U.S. and its creditors. 



He says the administration fundamentally misunderstands that foreign nations have been subsidizing American consumption by accepting dollars in exchange for real goods.



Schiff&#8217;s argument: when those countries stop financing U.S. deficits and accepting depreciating dollars, Americans face a currency crisis and collapse in living standards while the rest of the world redirects production to their own economies.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Gold Outperformance Validates Schiff&#8217;s Thesis</h3>



Schiff further <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/26/01/49991911/peter-schiff-warns-of-spectacular-bitcoin-crash-as-analyst-flags-key-level-to-avoid-a-bear-market">argued</a> Bitcoin&#8217;s failure to keep pace with gold undermines the &#8220;digital gold&#8221; narrative.



He said markets have had ample time to price in a bullish breakout, and Bitcoin&#8217;s continued underperformance increases the risk of a &#8220;spectacular crash&#8221; rather than a rally to new highs.



Prominent crypto analyst Kevin pushed back, noting capital flows don&#8217;t yet support Bitcoin tracking gold higher. 



Historically, Bitcoin benefits after gold peaks as capital rotates from safe havens into riskier assets.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Bitcoin Breaks Triangle Support On Massive Outflows</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="700" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20143210/image-348-1024x700.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1267093" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20143210/image-348-1024x700.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20143210/image-348-300x205.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20143210/image-348-768x525.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20143210/image-348.png 1316w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



BTC collapsed below $92,000 support, breaking the symmetrical triangle that compressed price since November.



The token rallied 21% from $80,576 in November to $97,843 in early January, then reversed violently and gave back most gains in two weeks.



Bitcoin trades below the 20-day EMA at $92,250, 50-day at $92,236, 100-day at $95,725, and 200-day at $99,243. All moving averages now act as resistance.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20142942/image-347-1024x700.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1267087"/></figure>



The breakdown came with $356.64 million in net outflows—one of the largest single-day exits in recent months.&nbsp;



That level of institutional selling during a 3.19% decline signals conviction that lower prices are coming.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Levels That Matter</h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Critical support: $88,000-90,000 ascending trendline&nbsp;</li>



<li>Breakdown target: $85,000-86,000 measured move from triangle&nbsp;</li>



<li>Major breakdown: Loss of $84,000 risks cascade to $80,576 November low or $78,000-80,000</li>



<li>Resistance levels: $92,236 (50-day average) $95,725 (100-day average) $97,843 (SAR indicator) $99,243 (200-day average)</li>
</ul>



Image: Shutterstock

Bitcoin Holders Have The Right Thesis But The Wrong Asset, Peter Schiff Says

Bitcoin fell below $90,000 on Tuesday as renewed tariff threats weighed on risk assets, triggering more than half a million liquidations across the crypto market.



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><tbody><tr><td>Cryptocurrency</td><td>Ticker</td><td>Price</td></tr><tr><td>Bitcoin</td><td><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BTC" target="_blank" class="ticker-link" data-ticker="BTC" data-exchange="CRYPTO">(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</a></td><td>$89,648.91</td></tr><tr><td>Ethereum</td><td><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ETH" target="_blank" class="ticker-link" data-ticker="ETH" data-exchange="CRYPTO">(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>)</a></td><td>$2,997.69</td></tr><tr><td>Solana</td><td><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SOL" target="_blank" class="ticker-link" data-ticker="SOL" data-exchange="CRYPTO">(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/sol/usd">SOL</a>)</a></td><td>$127.30</td></tr><tr><td>XRP</td><td><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/XRP" target="_blank" class="ticker-link" data-ticker="XRP" data-exchange="CRYPTO">(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xrp/usd">XRP</a>)</a></td><td>$1.90</td></tr><tr><td>Dogecoin</td><td><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DOGE" target="_blank" class="ticker-link" data-ticker="DOGE" data-exchange="CRYPTO">(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>)</a></td><td>$0.1240</td></tr><tr><td>Shiba Inu</td><td><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SHIB" target="_blank" class="ticker-link" data-ticker="SHIB" data-exchange="CRYPTO">(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/shib/usd">SHIB</a>)</a></td><td>$0.057771</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



Notable Statistics:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Coinglass data shows 163,275 traders were liquidated in the past 24 hours for $693.07 million.       </li>



<li>In the past 24 hours, top losers include Monero, Dash and Hyperliquid.</li>
</ul>



Notable Developments:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/26/01/50008193/two-countries-just-banned-polymarket-in-48-hours-what-is-going-on">Two Countries Just Banned Polymarket In 48 Hours—What Is Going On?</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/26/01/50013377/bitcoin-stuck-at-90000-for-2-months-where-did-all-the-volatility-go">Bitcoin Stuck At $90,000 For 2 Months—Where Did All The Volatility Go?</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/26/01/49994382/ethereum-co-founder-slams-ripple-ceo-brad-garlinghouse-for-not-oppposing-latest-crypto-bill-draft-take-the-chaos-and-fight-for-whats-right">Ethereum Co-Founder Slams Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse For Not Opposing Latest Crypto Bill Draft: &#8216;Take The Chaos And Fight For What&#8217;s Right&#8217;</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/26/01/50012793/bitmines-eth-holdings-hit-14-5b-but-bmnr-plunges-7">BitMine&#8217;s ETH Holdings Hit $14.5B, But BMNR Plunges 7%</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/26/01/50015881/trumps-cftc-chief-launches-future-proof-initiative-heres-what-changes">Trump&#8217;s CFTC Chief Launches &#8216;Future-Proof&#8217; Initiative—Here&#8217;s What Changes</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/26/01/50001736/ethereum-frozen-above-3000-resilience-or-is-the-worst-yet-to-come">Ethereum Frozen Above $3,000: Resilience Or Is The Worst Yet To Come?</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/26/01/50006250/michael-saylor-teases-bigger-orange-and-strategy-buys-2-1b-in-bitcoin">Michael Saylor Teases &#8216;Bigger Orange&#8217; — And Strategy Buys $2.1B In Bitcoin</a></li>
</ul>



Trader Notes: Entrepreneur and Bitcoin investor Lark Davis <a href="https://x.com/LarkDavis/status/2013667591882186850">said</a> Bitcoin faced a sharp rejection at the 50-week exponential moving average, a technical setup often referred to as a "kiss of death."



He noted that price is now sitting on key trendline support, and that even a fresh $2 billion in buying from Michael Saylor has failed to lift the market, underscoring strong overhead resistance and persistent weakness.



Trader and investor Crypto Rand <a href="https://x.com/cryptorand/status/2013680037162037386">pointed</a> to a potential early bullish signal, noting that the 30-day moving average is crossing above the 90-day moving average for the first time since May 2025. The crossover suggests short-term sentiment may be improving faster than the broader trend, though confirmation is still needed.



Coin Bureau co-founder Nic Puckrin <a href="https://x.com/nicrypto/status/2013677509594796036">said</a> Bitcoin broke down after losing a former resistance level that had briefly acted as support. He added that BTC has now slipped below its 50-day moving average.



Puckrin highlighted a key CME gap between $88,000 and $88,700, warning that a decisive break below that zone could open the door to a move toward the yearly open near $87,500.



Image: Shutterstock

Bitcoin Slips Below $90,000 As Ethereum Falls Under $3,000, Dragging XRP, Dogecoin Lower

Comments from U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent at the World Economic Forum in Davos have reignited speculation around a formal U.S. Bitcoin <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="BTC" data-exchange="CRYPTO" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BTC-USD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</a> reserve, driving a sharp jump in Polymarket betting odds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">U.S. Bitcoin Reserve Plans Gain Momentum After Bessent's Davos Remarks</h2>



Speaking at Davos, Bessent reiterated that the U.S. government's crypto strategy has shifted toward making America the most attractive jurisdiction for digital assets and innovation. 



"We want to be the best regulatory regime for digital assets and creativity to spark innovation," he said.



According to journalist and host Christine Lee, Bessent also <a href="https://x.com/christinenews/status/2013587526146019611">reaffirmed</a> the administration's commitment to a strategic Bitcoin reserve, outlining a clear policy sequence: first halt the sale of seized crypto assets, then add forfeited Bitcoin to a national digital asset reserve once legal processes are complete. 



"The policy of this government is to add seized bitcoin to our digital asset reserve after the damages are done," Bessent stated.



The remarks reinforce President Donald Trump's stance on crypto. 



An executive order signed in March 2025 specified that Bitcoin in the reserve would initially come from criminal and civil asset forfeitures and, crucially, that BTC deposited into the reserve cannot be sold.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Polymarket Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Odds Surge</h2>



Polymarket data shows traders rapidly repricing the odds of a U.S. National Bitcoin Reserve becoming reality. 



The probability of such a reserve being established before 2027 has climbed to 35%, up from just 23% in early January.



The U.S. crypto reserve is estimated to be worth between $17 billion and $20 billion, positioning the country among the world's largest sovereign Bitcoin holders. 



Nearly half of these holdings reportedly stem from the recovery of assets tied to the 2022 Bitfinex hack, underscoring how law enforcement seizures have become a key source of government-owned BTC.



Taken together, Bessent's comments and rising prediction-market odds suggest growing confidence that the U.S. is moving closer to formalizing Bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset rather than treating it as something to be routinely liquidated.



Image: Shutterstock

Did Scott Bessent Give Away The Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Plan In Davos?

Dogecoin <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="DOGE" data-exchange="CRYPTO" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DOGE-USD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>)</a> is down 4%over the past 24 hours, despite the Dogecoin Foundation&#8217;s corporate arm launching a new payments app called &#8220;Such&#8221; designed to make DOGE practical for everyday commerce.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The &#8220;Such&#8221; App Targets Real-World Payments</h3>



House of Doge and merger partner Brag House Holdings Inc. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TBH" target="_blank" class="ticker-link" data-ticker="TBH" data-exchange="NASDAQ" rel="noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TBH">TBH</a>)</a> unveiled &#8220;Such,&#8221; a mobile app designed to make Dogecoin payments practical for everyday commerce.



The app launches with three core features: a self-custodial wallet for managing DOGE, a real-time transaction feed showing where coins are moving, and &#8220;Hustles&#8221;—merchant tools letting small businesses accept Dogecoin payments.



&#8220;We want to enable anyone to start their hustle with Dogecoin through the Such app,&#8221; said Timothy Stebbing, CTO of House of Doge and Dogecoin Foundation Director.&nbsp;



&#8220;We&#8217;re planning to enable anyone to start selling their hustle in as few clicks as possible,&#8221; he added.



A team of 20 developers in Melbourne, Australia began building the app in March 2025 using open-source technology from the Dogecoin Foundation.&nbsp;



The goal: reduce friction on both sides of transactions by helping holders spend DOGE easily while giving merchants a practical way to accept it.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">From Meme To Merchant Ecosystem</h3>



Lavell Juan Malloy II, CEO of Brag House, described the app as bridging the gap between social communities and real economic activity.



The platform aims to let users turn their engagement with Dogecoin into actual earning opportunities, treating the cryptocurrency as a functioning payment system rather than just a speculative asset.&nbsp;



Brag House sees this as democratizing access to commerce through digital tools that convert community participation into economic value.



House of Doge is developing additional features beyond the initial launch, though details remain undisclosed.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Timing Problem: DOGE Breaks Critical Support</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="700" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20121953/image-343-1024x700.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1266793" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20121953/image-343-1024x700.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20121953/image-343-300x205.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20121953/image-343-768x525.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20121953/image-343.png 1316w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Despite the utility news, DOGE crashed through $0.1215—the December low that held multiple tests over the past six weeks.



The breakdown confirms the failure of the descending channel that&#8217;s compressed DOGE since September&#8217;s $0.27 peak.&nbsp;



The token has now collapsed 54% from that high with no technical support visible until $0.10-0.11.



Additionally, DOGE trades below every moving average: 20-day at $0.13636, 50-day at $0.14107, 100-day at $0.15606, and 200-day at $0.17603. The SAR indicator sits at $0.14796 as overhead resistance.



For the utility narrative to matter, DOGE needs to reclaim $0.1215 immediately and hold $0.12 as a floor.&nbsp;



Otherwise, the next stop is likely $0.10-0.11 regardless of how promising the &#8220;Such&#8221; app might be for future adoption.



Image: Shutterstock

DOGE Foundation Unveils 'Such' Payment App But Dogecoin Drops 4%

Bitcoin <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="BTC" data-exchange="CRYPTO" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BTC-USD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</a> is holding near $90,000 as sentiment indicators flash a potentially bullish signal, even while analysts remain cautious following a sharp rejection from higher levels.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sentiment Index Flashes A Bullish Signal</h2>



Bitcoin's Fear &amp; Greed Index has printed a technical crossover, with the 30-day moving average moving above the 90-day average for the first time since May 2025. 



This "golden cross" suggests short-term sentiment is improving relative to the broader trend, CryptoQuant <a href="https://x.com/cryptoquant_com/status/2013513592692232542">data</a> shows.



Historically, this signal tends to appear after prolonged fear phases, when skepticism remains elevated and price is consolidating rather than topping. 



In prior cycles, Bitcoin has often seen constructive price action in the weeks that followed, particularly when the signal coincided with higher lows and an absence of heavy distribution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Is A Golden Cross A Reliable Indicator?</h2>



The crossover works best as confirmation, not a standalone buy signal. 



Sustained separation between the two averages would support trend continuation, while a failed crossover would point to shallow optimism and raise the risk of renewed defensive selling.



Despite the improving sentiment signal, Bitcoin recently faced a sharp rejection near the top of its bear flag and inside the critical $95,700–$106,800 resistance zone. 



The move highlights Bitcoin's ongoing structural issue: persistently net-negative money flows. 



The bounce from recent lows has lacked meaningful participation, a weakness clearly visible in capital flow data.



The $88,000–$91,000 region is now pivotal. 



This area aligns with the top of a higher-timeframe golden pocket and must hold to preserve the short-term bullish structure. 



A decisive break below it would increase the risk of the bear flag resolving to the downside, opening the door to much lower measured-move targets.



While 4-hour momentum indicators are attempting to turn higher, the absence of sustained inflows remains the core concern. 



Until money flow turns decisively positive, Bitcoin may struggle to defend current levels and avoid a deeper corrective move.



Image: Shutterstock

Bitcoin's Fear And Greed Index Flashes Golden Cross: What Does It Mean?

Wall Street tumbled on Tuesday, reopening after the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday, as risk-off sentiment intensified following President Donald Trump's aggressive new <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/26/01/49994455/trump-says-no-going-back-on-greenland-after-very-good-call-with-nato-chief-for-national-and-world-security">trade stance toward Europe</a>. 



The S&amp;P 500 fell 1.5% to 6,840, eyeing its worst session since late November, led lower by consumer discretionary and technology stocks. The Nasdaq 100 dropped 1.4%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.3%, while the Russell 2000 eased 0.8%. 



Trump threatened several European countries with an additional 10% tariffs starting Feb. 1 if negotiations over Greenland control fail, with duties potentially rising to 25% from June. 



European officials warned of retaliation that could affect up to 25% of U.S. exports to Europe, potentially including services, and floated the possibility of reducing Treasury holdings. Trump also warned French President Emmanuel Macron that tariffs as high as 200% could be imposed on French wines and champagne. 



Markets are now focused on Trump's appearance on Wednesday at the World Economic Forum in Davos.



Risk-off sentiment spilled into fixed income. Long-dated Treasury yields climbed to their highest levels since late September, with the 30-year yield rising 6 basis points to 4.90%. The iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="TLT" data-exchange="NASDAQ" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TLT" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TLT">TLT</a>)</a> fell about 1%. 



Safe-haven demand pushed precious metals to fresh highs. Gold jumped 1.9% to $4,760 per ounce, while silver surged nearly 5% to $94.50 an ounce. Meanwhile, colder-than-expected weather forecasts sent U.S. natural gas prices soaring more than 24%, marking the biggest one-day gain since late October 2024.



In crypto markets, Bitcoin <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BTC-USD" target="_blank" class="ticker-link" data-ticker="BTC" data-exchange="CRYPTO" rel="noopener">(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</a> sunk over 3% below $90,000, sending shares of Strategy Inc. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MSTR" target="_blank" class="ticker-link" data-ticker="MSTR" data-exchange="NASDAQ" rel="noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MSTR">MSTR</a>)</a> tumble nearly 8%.



All major companies reporting before the open topped estimates, but investor reaction remained cautious. 3M Company <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="MMM" data-exchange="NYSE" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MMM" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MMM">MMM</a>)</a> slid more than 7% after the company warned that tariff uncertainty is clouding its outlook. DR Horton Inc. <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="DHI" data-exchange="NYSE" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DHI" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DHI">DHI</a>)</a> slipped 0.5% despite stronger-than-expected results. 



Bucking the trend, U.S. Bancorp <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="USB" data-exchange="NYSE" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/USB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/USB">USB</a>)</a> gained 0.5%, while Fifth Third Bancorp <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="FITB" data-exchange="NASDAQ" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/FITB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/FITB">FITB</a>)</a> rose 2% following earnings beats. 



After the close, investors are awaiting results from Netflix Inc. <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="NFLX" data-exchange="NASDAQ" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NFLX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NFLX">NFLX</a>)</a>, United Airlines Holdings Inc. <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="UAL" data-exchange="NASDAQ" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/UAL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/UAL">UAL</a>)</a> and Interactive Brokers Inc. <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="IBKR" data-exchange="NASDAQ" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/IBKR" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/IBKR">IBKR</a>)</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Monday&#8217;s Performance In Major US Indices, ETFs </h2>



<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><thead><tr><th>Index</th><th>Price</th><th>Chg</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Russell 2000</td><td>2,658.50</td><td>-0.7%</td></tr><tr><td>Dow Jones</td><td>48,727.77</td><td>-1.3%</td></tr><tr><td>Nasdaq 100</td><td>25,177.62</td><td>-1.4%</td></tr><tr><td>S&amp;P 500</td><td>6,840.93</td><td>-1.4%</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Updated by 1:10 p.m. ET</figcaption></figure>



According to Benzinga Pro data:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>The iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/IWM">IWM</a>) fell 0.7% to $264.01.</li>



<li>The SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DIA">DIA</a>) slid 1.3% to $486.89.</li>



<li>The Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/QQQ">QQQ</a>) dropped 1.6% to $611.56.</li>



<li>The Vanguard S&amp;P 500 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/VOO">VOO</a>) declined 1.5% to $626.33.</li>



<li>The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/XLP">XLP</a>) led gains, up 0.4% to $82.46, while the Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/XLY">XLY</a>) sank 2.1% to $119.78.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Russell 1000&#8217;s Top Gainers</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><thead><tr><th>Stock</th><th>% Change</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Acadia Healthcare Company, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ACHC">ACHC</a>)</td><td>+23.29%</td></tr><tr><td>Qiagen N.V. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/QGEN">QGEN</a>)</td><td>+18.80%</td></tr><tr><td>BellRing Brands, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BRBR">BRBR</a>)</td><td>+9.26%</td></tr><tr><td>Lumentum Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LITE">LITE</a>)</td><td>+8.58%</td></tr><tr><td>Sandisk Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SDNK">SDNK</a>)</td><td>+7.76%</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Russell 1000&#8217;s Top Losers</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><thead><tr><th>Stock</th><th>% Change</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Strategy Inc. </td><td>-7.92%</td></tr><tr><td>Roblox Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/RBLX">RBLX</a>)</td><td>-7.82%</td></tr><tr><td>Globant S.A. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/GLOB">GLOB</a>)</td><td>-7.80%</td></tr><tr><td>3M Company </td><td>-7.71%</td></tr><tr><td>NetApp, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NTAP">NTAP</a>)</td><td>-7.40%</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



Image: Shutterstock

Stocks Tumble, Treasury Yields Jump To 5-Month Highs: What's Moving Markets Tuesday?

CFTC chairman Michael S. Selig has launched a &#8220;Future-Proof&#8221; initiative to rewrite crypto regulations and end enforcement-based policymaking that drove U.S. companies offshore.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">CFTC Shifts From Lawsuits To Rule-Writing</h3>



Selig on Tuesday <a href="https://x.com/ChairmanSelig/status/2013613395837149505?s=20">announced</a> the agency will stop using enforcement actions to set crypto policy and instead write formal rules through public notice-and-comment processes.



The difference matters because formal rules are permanent and future administrations cannot easily reverse them.



Biden-era agencies used guidance documents and enforcement actions, which Trump regulators erased on day one.



&#8220;We will end regulation by enforcement and ensure new markets flourish at home with tailored rules,&#8221; Selig wrote in a Washington Post <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2026/01/20/cftc-trump-administration-markets-regulation/">op-ed</a>.



The CFTC will review all existing regulations designed for agricultural futures contracts and modernize them for blockchain assets, AI-powered trading, and prediction markets.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Why Crypto Companies Left The U.S.</h3>



The Biden administration&#8217;s enforcement-first strategy forced many crypto businesses to move operations overseas to avoid unclear legal risks.



Selig blamed this approach for costing &#8220;everyday Americans&#8221; as innovation and jobs fled to jurisdictions with clearer rules.



The digital asset market has grown to over $3 trillion, but regulatory uncertainty kept institutional money on the sidelines and pushed entrepreneurs abroad.



Now the CFTC positions itself as the primary U.S. crypto regulator if Congress passes pending legislation that would formalize the agency&#8217;s role overseeing digital asset spot and derivatives markets.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Prediction Markets And Perpetual Futures Included</h3>



Selig specifically called out prediction markets and perpetual futures as areas getting updated rules.



Prediction markets have surged in popularity as tools for hedging portfolio risks and forecasting outcomes.&nbsp;



The timing matters as platforms like Polymarket face bans in multiple countries while potentially finding clearer legal ground in the U.S.



The CFTC hired Michael Passalacqua, a crypto lawyer who worked at exchange CrossTower and major law firms, to help develop the framework.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The &#8220;Minimum Effective Dose&#8221; Approach</h3>



Selig says the CFTC will provide the &#8220;minimum effective dose of regulation—nothing more and nothing less.&#8221;



That means ditching arbitrary rules that don&#8217;t fit new products and creating tailored frameworks for blockchain-native markets, prediction platforms, and AI trading systems.



An Innovation Advisory Committee will guide the process, though Selig hasn&#8217;t announced members or specific timelines yet.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What This Means For Markets</h3>



The initiative creates a path for crypto businesses to operate legally in the U.S. under clear rules instead of navigating enforcement risk.



If Congress passes digital asset legislation, the CFTC gets broad authority over crypto spot markets and derivatives—potentially unlocking institutional capital that&#8217;s waited for regulatory clarity.



Selig promised &#8220;additional policy changes in the days ahead&#8221; but the core message is clear: the CFTC wants to be the crypto-friendly regulator that keeps innovation in America instead of driving it offshore.



Image: Shutterstock

Trump's CFTC Chief Launches 'Future-Proof' Initiative—Here's What Changes

Trump Media &amp; Technology Group Corp. <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="DJT" data-exchange="NASDAQ" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DJT" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DJT">DJT</a>)</a> shares are trading higher on Tuesday as the company outlined plans <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/26/01/g50001487/trump-media-announces-record-date-for-digital-token-initiative" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tied to its digital token initiative.</a>



 • Trump Media &amp; Technology stock is charging ahead with explosive momentum. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DJT" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">What&#8217;s behind DJT gains?</a>



The operator of Truth Social and Truth+ set Feb. 2, 2026, as the cut-off date for its recently unveiled digital tokens.



Shareholders must own at least one full DJT share by the record date to qualify for the token rollout.



The company will work with brokers to identify holders but warns that certain ownership designations may slow information sharing.



Trump Media is advising investors to check their broker status to ensure they are listed as non-objecting beneficial owners. The firm also said moving shares to a direct registration system could speed verification of eligible holders.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Blockchain Partnership</h2>



Once the record date passes, the company will team with Crypto.com to mint tokens on the blockchain <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/12/49650770/trump-media-crypto-com-partner-for-shareholder-token-airdrop" rel="noreferrer noopener">and hold them until distribution</a>.



The firm confirmed it plans to provide periodic incentives tied to the token program for record-date holders.



Those rewards may include perks or discounts connected to Truth Social, Truth+ and the Truth.Fi financial unit.



"We look forward to leveraging&nbsp;Crypto.com&#8217;s blockchain technology consistent with Securities and Exchange Commission guidance to benefit our shareholders and promote transparency, including by obtaining a clear picture of bona fide beneficial ownership as of the record date," said Devin Nunes, CEO and chairman of Trump Media.



DJT Price Action: Trump Media shares are trading higher by 4.65% to $14.52 at publication on Tuesday.&nbsp;



Photo by Piotr Swat via Shutterstock

What's Going On With Trump Media Stock Today?

Bitcoin <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="BTC" data-exchange="CRYPTO" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BTC-USD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</a> has been trading in a range for two months, with traders left wondering in what direction the next impulse move will come.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Is BTC Repeating A 2022 Pattern?</h2>



Cycle analyst Cryptollica <a href="https://x.com/Cryptollica/status/2012804623254303107">challenges</a> the bear market narrative by looking beyond crypto-native history and comparing Bitcoin to long-term macro assets. 



Drawing on Mark Twain's idea that history "rhymes," the analysis highlights a striking fractal similarity between Bitcoin's price evolution since 2008 and Japan's Nikkei 225 during its 1950–1990 economic expansion.



Both assets appear to follow a four-cycle structure, with the possibility of entering a fifth, hyper-growth phase. 



According to Cryptollica, Bitcoin is currently positioned at a technical level like where the Nikkei stood in the mid-1980s, just before a powerful parabolic run.



While critics point to Bitcoin's break below the 50-day moving average as a classic bear signal, the analysis argues this is a trap rather than a top, suggesting this cycle is structurally different from past ones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Supercycle Or Bear Market?</h2>



Analyst Garrett <a href="https://x.com/GarrettBullish/status/2013223672396558338">adds</a> that comparing today's Bitcoin market to 2022 is misleading because it ignores critical macro and structural differences.



In 2022, Bitcoin peaked amid soaring inflation, aggressive rate hikes, tightening liquidity, and a clear risk-off environment, conditions that drove distribution and a prolonged bear market.



By contrast, today's setup features stabilization and absorption across key zones, particularly between $80,850 and $62,000, improving the bullish risk–reward profile. 



A true 2022-style bear market, Garrett argues, would require a fresh inflation shock, renewed aggressive monetary tightening, and a sustained breakdown below major support levels, none of which are currently evident.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Structural Shift In The Investor Base</h2>



Perhaps the most important difference is who owns Bitcoin today. The 2020–2022 cycle was dominated by retail speculation and high leverage. 



Since 2023, spot Bitcoin ETFs have brought in long-term institutional holders who lock up supply, dampen volatility, and provide steadier demand.



This shift has fundamentally changed Bitcoin's volatility regime and market behavior, marking a structural inflection point. As a result, analysts argue that direct comparisons to the 2022 crypto-native bear market are analytically flawed.



Whether Bitcoin ultimately enters a super cycle or simply continues a slower expansion, the conditions driving price today are not the same ones that defined the last major downturn.



Image: Shutterstock

Bitcoin Stuck At $90,000 For 2 Months—Where Did All The Volatility Go?

BitMine Immersion Technologies Inc. <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="BMNR" data-exchange="NYSE" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BMNR" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BMNR">BMNR</a>)</a> on Tuesday dropped 7% despite revealing it now owns 4.203 million Ethereum <a class="ticker-link" data-ticker="ETH" data-exchange="CRYPTO" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ETH-USD" target="_blank" rel="noopener">(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>)</a>, representing 3.48% of all ETH in existence.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">BitMine Now Owns 3.48% Of All Ethereum</h3>



BitMine <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/bitmine-immersion-technologies-bmnr-announces-eth-holdings-reach-4-203-million-tokens-and-total-crypto-and-total-cash-holdings-of-14-5-billion-302665137.html">disclosed</a> total crypto and cash holdings of $14.5 billion as of January 19, comprised of 4.203 million ETH at $3,211 per token, 193 Bitcoin <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BTC-USD" target="_blank" class="ticker-link" data-ticker="BTC" data-exchange="CRYPTO" rel="noopener">(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</a>, $22 million in Eightco Holdings <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ORBS" target="_blank" class="ticker-link" data-ticker="ORBS" data-exchange="NASDAQ" rel="noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ORBS">ORBS</a>)</a>, and $979 million in cash.



The company acquired 35,268 ETH in the past week alone, maintaining aggressive accumulation despite the stock&#8217;s 80% collapse from June&#8217;s $140 peak.



BitMine now controls 3.48% of Ethereum&#8217;s total supply of 120.7 million tokens—nearly 70% of the way to chairman Thomas &#8220;Tom&#8221; Lee&#8217;s stated goal of acquiring 5% of all ETH.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Shareholders Approve Share Increase Despite Stock Collapse</h3>



Despite the stock trading near lows, BitMine stockholders voted overwhelmingly to support management&#8217;s plans at the January 15 annual meeting.



A critical vote to increase authorized shares passed with 81% approval, representing 52.2% of all outstanding shares voting in favor.



&#8220;We view the fact that 81% of votes cast favored increasing authorized shares as a message from BitMine stockholders that they understand our accretive ETH accumulation strategy,&#8221; Lee said.



The company has now over 500,000 individual stockholders and emphasized it has not sold shares below modified net asset value (mNAV), a key metric for treasury companies.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">$200M Beast Industries Investment Adds Creator Economy Exposure</h3>



Beyond crypto accumulation, BitMine <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/26/01/49934861/mr-beast-receives-200-million-investment-by-tom-lees-bitmine">invested</a> $200 million into Beast Industries on January 15, targeting the creator economy through MrBeast, whose bi-monthly videos average 250 million views—matching Super Bowl audiences.



Lee noted MrBeast&#8217;s content scores 13.1 in usage metrics versus Disney&#8217;s 9.7 and Netflix&#8217;s 8.7.&nbsp;



&#8220;His audience is 35% larger than all of Disney&#8217;s media and 50% larger than Netflix,&#8221; Lee said.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Staking Revenue Could Hit $374M Annually</h3>



BitMine has staked 1.838 million ETH worth $5.9 billion, up 581,920 ETH in the past week.



Once all 4.2 million ETH gets staked through MAVAN (Made in America Validator Network) launching Q1, the company projects annual staking revenue of $374 million—over $1 million per day.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Why ETH Over Bitcoin</h3>



Lee explained the Ethereum bet centers on Wall Street&#8217;s adoption of tokenization and institutional use cases being built on Ethereum&#8217;s blockchain.



&#8220;Ethereum&#8217;s price ratio to Bitcoin, or ETHBTC, has been steadily climbing since mid-October,&#8221; Lee said.&nbsp;



&#8220;This reflects investors recognizing tokenization and other use cases being developed by Wall Street are being built on Ethereum,&#8221; he added.



The Ethereum Foundation listed 35 examples of major financial institutions building on Ethereum recently.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Stock Breaks Triangle Support Despite Bullish Holdings Data</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="700" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20105100/image-342-1024x700.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1266615" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20105100/image-342-1024x700.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20105100/image-342-300x205.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20105100/image-342-768x525.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/20105100/image-342.png 1316w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Despite the positive announcements, BMNR dropped around 7% and broke below $31 support that held since December.



The stock formed a descending triangle between $28-34. Today&#8217;s breakdown confirms bearish continuation, projecting targets toward $24-26.



BMNR trades below all moving averages: 20-day at $31.04, 50-day at $33.95, 100-day at $36.24, and 200-day at $33.18.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Critical levels for BMNR Ahead</h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Immediate support: $28.99</li>



<li>Major support: $24.43 (December low)</li>



<li>Breakdown risk: $20 if $24 fails</li>



<li>First resistance: $31.04 (must reclaim immediately)</li>



<li>Major resistance: $34.74, then $36.37</li>
</ul>



The stock needs to reclaim $31 immediately to invalidate today&#8217;s breakdown. Loss of $28.99 opens a direct path to retest $24.43.



Image: Shutterstock

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