Sunday, April 30, 2023

Just Bitcoin or diversify? 5 cryptocurrencies to watch in the next few days

If Bitcoin price breaks above $30,000, several altcoins such as SOL, ATOM, ICP and HBAR are well-positioned for a rally of their own.

Risky assets marginally extend their up-move in April. The S&P 500 Index rose around 1.5% in April while Bitcoin (BTC) is on track to end the month with gains of more than 4%. Could the rally continue in May or is it time for a pullback?

The recovery could face headwinds if the United States banking woes escalate further. JPMorgan Asset Management chief investment officer Bob Michele said in an interview with Bloomberg that the turmoil at First Republic Bank is unlikely to be limited to the bank only, and could cause a domino effect.

Crypto market data daily view. Source: Coin360

If that happens, then the U.S. equity markets may witness a correction. However, it is difficult to predict how Bitcoin will react to such a crisis because, in the past few days, BTC price rose while legacy banking troubles deepened. But in case of a major upheaval in the U.S. banking sector, it is possible that Bitcoin will also face a correction sooner or later.

In the near term, Bitcoin and select altcoins are showing strength. Let’s study the charts of five cryptocurrencies that may outperform over the next few days.

Bitcoin price analysis

After two days of low volatile trading in Bitcoin, the bulls are trying to assert their supremacy on April 30.

BTC/USDT daily chart. Source: TradingView

The 20-day exponential moving average ($28,783) has started to turn up gradually and the relative strength index (RSI) is in the positive zone, indicating that the path of least resistance is to the upside.

If bulls kick Bitcoin's price above $30,000, the BTC/USDT pair may climb to the overhead resistance zone of $31,000 to $32,400. Buyers may face formidable resistance at this zone but if it is crossed, the pair can soar toward $40,000.

The 50-day simple moving average ($28,026) is the important support to keep an eye on. If BTC price collapses below this level, the bears will sense an opportunity and try to sink the pair to $25,250.

BTC/USDT 4-hour chart. Source: TradingView

The bears tried to yank the pair below the 20-EMA but the bulls held their ground. This may have attracted further buying and the bulls will next try to drive the price above $30,000. If they succeed, Bitcoin can rise to $30,500, or even $31,000.

Conversely, if the price turns down and breaks below the 20-EMA, it will suggest that bears are selling near overhead resistance levels. The pair may then slip to the 50-SMA.

The bulls will try to protect this level but if bears overpower them, the next stop is likely to be $27,000. Buyers are likely to defend the zone between $27,000 and $25,250 with all their might.

Solana price analysis

The bulls did not allow Solana (SOL) to break back below the downtrend line during the most recent leg of the correction, indicating demand at lower levels.

SOL/USDT daily chart. Source: TradingView

Buyers will next try to propel the price to the overhead resistance at $27.12. This remains the key resistance to watch for in the near term because if bulls catapult the price above it, the SOL/USDT pair may accelerate toward $39.

This bullish view could invalidate in the near term if the price turns down and breaks below the moving averages. The pair could then plummet to the crucial support at $18.70. If the price rebounds off this level, it will signal that the pair may oscillate inside the large range between $18.70 and $27.12 for some time.

SOL/USDT 4-hour chart. Source: TradingView

The moving averages on the 4-hour chart have started to turn up and the RSI is in the positive territory, indicating that buyers are in control. The bears are trying to stall the recovery at $24 but if bulls overcome this barrier, the pair may pick up momentum and rally toward $25.50.

If the bears want to prevent the rally, they will have to quickly tug the price back below the 20-EMA. The 50-SMA will be the support level to watch here if price begins to slide.

Cosmos price analysis

The long tail on Cosmos’ (ATOM) April 26 candlestick shows that the bulls are fiercely defending the support at $10.20.

ATOM/USDT daily chart. Source: TradingView

Buyers have pushed the price above the moving averages and will try to reach the downtrend line. This is an important level to keep an eye on because a break and close above it will open the doors for a potential rally to $13.50 and then to $15.50.

On the other hand, if the ATOM/USDT pair reverses direction from the downtrend line, it will suggest that bears are trying to form a descending triangle pattern. A decline below the moving averages will open the doors for a possible retest of $10.20.

ATOM/USDT 4-hour chart. Source: TradingView

The 20-EMA on the 4-hour chart has turned up and the RSI is near the overbought zone, indicating that bulls are in control. There is a minor hurdle at $12.13 but that is likely to be crossed. ATOM price may then rise to test the downtrend line.

Instead, if the price turns down from $12.13, the bears will again try to sink the pair below the 20-EMA. If they manage to do that, it will suggest that the buyers may be losing their grip. The pair then risks a slide to the 50-SMA.

Related: ‘Good luck bears’ — Bitcoin traders closely watch April close with BTC price at $29K

Internet Computer price analysis

Internet Computer (ICP) slipped below the 50-day SMA ($5.38) on April 26 but that proved to be a bear trap. The price turned up on April 27 and started a strong recovery.

ICP/USDT daily chart. Source: TradingView

The 20-day EMA ($5.74) has started to turn up and the RSI has jumped into positive territory, indicating that bulls have a slight edge. If the price does not give up much ground from the current level or rebounds off the 20-day EMA, it will suggest that the bulls are buying the dips.

That will enhance the prospects of a rally to the downtrend line where the bears will again mount a strong defense. On the downside, a break below the 50-day SMA will tilt the advantage in favor of the bears.

ICP/USDT 4-hour chart. Source: TradingView

The 4-hour chart shows that the ICP/USDT pair is in a corrective phase. The first support is at the 20-EMA, which is close to the 38.2% Fibonacci retracement level of $6.14. If the price bounces off this support, the pair may rally to $7.23 and eventually to $7.70.

Contrary to this assumption, if the price continues lower and breaks below the 20-EMA, it will suggest that the short-term bulls may be booking profits. That could pull the price to the 50-SMA, which is near the 61.8% retracement level of $5.72.

Hedera price analysis

The bears repeatedly tried to sink Hedera (HBAR) below $0.06 but the bulls held their ground. The failure to break the support attracted buyers who will try to push the price above the downtrend line.

HBAR/USDT daily chart. Source: TradingView

The 20-day EMA ($0.06) is flattening out and the RSI has climbed above the midpoint, indicating that the selling pressure is reducing. If buyers thrust the price above the resistance line, the bullish momentum may pick up and the HBAR/USDT pair could rally to the overhead resistance at $0.08.

Contrarily, if the price turns down from the current level or the resistance line, it will suggest that the bears remain active at higher levels. That increases the possibility of a break below $0.06.

HBAR/USDT 4-hour chart. Source: TradingView

The 4-hour chart shows that the bulls flipped the moving averages into support and have launched an up-move that is likely to reach the resistance line. This level is expected to act as a strong resistance but on the way down, if the pair rebounds off the 20-EMA, it will suggest a change in sentiment from selling on rallies to buying on dips.

The pair may then break above the resistance line and start its journey to $0.07 and subsequently to $0.08. If the bears want to gain the upper hand, they will have to quickly pull HBAR price below the moving averages.

This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.



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Mineflation: Cost to mine one Bitcoin in the US rises from $5K to $17K in 2023

New Mexico is the cheapest US state to mine Bitcoin in terms of average electricity cost, while Hawaii is the by far the most expensive.

It now costs Bitcoin (BTC) miners at least $17,000 to produce one BTC in the U.S. versus the $5,000-10,000 range a year ago, according to Bitcoin mining data resource Hashrate Index and Luxor.

Bitcoin hashprice has dropped 58% in a year

Unsurprisingly, soaring electricity rates across the U.S. states have contributed to rising Bitcoin mining costs.

Notably, between January 2022 and January 2023, the commercial electricity tariff surged at an average of 10.71% per U.S. state, higher than the average consumer price index surge of 6.4%.

Average industrial rate rise between January 2022 and 2023. Source: EIA/Hashrate Index/Luxor

Coupled with Bitcoin's downward performance in 2022, which saw a maximum drawdown from around $48,000 to below $15,000, it is evident that active miners generated consistent losses due to the increase in operational costs and lower returns.

But this changed in Q1 of this year as the miners' hashprice, or the USD price per tera-hash per second per day (TH/s/d), rose 31% thanks to Bitcoin's price recovery toward $30,000.

"Bleak as the new year looked at the outset, the lowest day for hashprice on a USD basis in Q1 was January 1," noted researchers at Hashrate Index, adding:

"It was only up from there as a 70% rise resuscitated Bitcoin’s price over the quarter, and along with it, hashprice."
Bitcoin hashprice (in the dollar terms). Source: Hashrate Index/Luxor

Which state is cheapest, most expensive to mine Bitcoin in? 

New Mexico emerged as the cheapest and, in turn, more profitable state for Bitcoin miners in Q1 at $16,850 to mint one BTC. On the other hand, Hawaii was the most expensive at around $114,590.

Regionally, the south and the midwestern US states are the most attractive for miners in terms of electricity.

Power cost to produce 1 BTC across U.S. states. Source: EIA/Hashrate Index/Luxor

More recently, some U.S. states, including Arkansas, MontanaMissouri, Mississippi, and others, have take concrete steps to protect crypto miners from excessive taxes and regulations. On the other hand, Texas has amended its utilities and tax codes, bolstering restrictions for crypto mining companies.

Energy deflation could boost miners' profitability 

Furthermore, the researchers anticipate the Bitcoin mining margins to grow further based on the U.S. Energy Information Association's (EIA) expectations of energy price deflation

Related: Bitcoin advocates rally at Texas State Capitol to oppose bill cutting mining incentives

For instance, the agency expects the demand for electricity to drop by 1% in Q2, citing additional generation from renewable sources and cheaper natural gas prices. It further anticipates that natural gas prices will remain below $3 in 2023 from 2022's $6.45 average.

Forecasts for wholesale electricity prices in the U.S. Source: Hashrate Index/Luxor/EIA

Bitcoin mining stocks shine

Lower operational costs could help otherwise cash-strapped Bitcoin mining companies survive in 2023. For example, the stock price of Core Scientific, an already bankrupt Bitcoin mining firm, has jumped over 450% YTD.

Similarly, the HI Crypto Mining Stock Index has soared by more than 100% this year , showing a return of investor appetite for mining socks.

Bitcoin mining stocks performance in 2023. Source: Hashrate Index/Luxor/EIA

Hashrate Index researchers noted:

"If the bitcoin price was to increase by an additional 40% to reach $42k this year, most mining stocks would rise by more than 50% from today’s level, while the four-to-five biggest gainers would soar by more than 150%."

This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.



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First Republic’s crisis is not an isolated incident - suggests JPMorgan exec

The CIO of JPMorgan Asset Management said it’d be “naive to say that this is just limited to First Republic.”

An executive at JPMorgan Asset Management is unsure how United States regional banks are “going to operate” when the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) emergency lending programs expire – warning that the possible collapse of First Republic Bank may cause a domino effect.

In an April 27 Bloomberg television interview, Bob Michele, CIO of JPMorgan Asset Management said that the impact of First Republic's liquidity issues caused by significant deposit outflows isn’t “just limited” to the bank itself, but could potentially affect the entire banking industry.

Michele emphasized that this is not an isolated incident, when asked if he sees this as a “First Republic problem or a banking problem.” He stated:

“Well, I think we have both, I think it’s somewhat naïve to say that this is just limited to First Republic.”

He added that the liquidity issues faced by First Republic “should never have happened,” as banking is the “most heavily regulated capitalized industry on the planet.”

Michele believes there needs to be “continuous progress to some sort of resolution” for the impact of First Republic’s downfall to be contained, or “ringfenced,” and prevented from spreading throughout the broader financial system.

Michele blamed the “high price of everything” as a major factor leading to the recent banking crisis events, as the “bottom quartile of earners” in the United States have been “most punished,” forced to deplete their deposit balances “just to live.”

He stated that "most people’s" deposit balances are now even lower than before the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Michele believes that a resolution is urgently needed as regional banks are “heavily dependent” on both the FDIC and FHLB.

“I think the regional banks are heavily dependent on the FDIC, they are heavily dependent on the federal home loan bank to get additional cash, we don’t know how they are going to operate when those two programs expire.”

During the last quarter of 2022, both Signature Bank and Silvergate Bank reportedly received substantial loans from the FHLB – a consortium of 11 regional banks across the United States that provides funds to other banks and lenders – totalling nearly $10 billion and at least $3.6 billion, respectively.

However, despite the financial assistance, both banks eventually collapsed due to significant deposit outflows.

Related: Bitcoin price jumps in the wake of First Republic Bank price crash

Ryan Selkis, CEO of blockchain research firm Messari, suggested in a tweet to his 322,000 followers on April 29 that unless the government recognizes that the Federal Reserve's (Fed) policies "are to blame and not crypto," more banks may face collapse in the future.

This comes after “people with knowledge” told Bloomberg on March 21 that Treasury Department staff members are reportedly studying ways to expand the current deposit insurance beyond the maximum cap of $250,000 to cover all deposits in the United States.

According to the FDIC, domestic U.S bank deposits totalled $17.7 trillion as of December 31.

Magazine: Unstablecoins: Depegging, bank runs and other risks loom



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Saturday, April 29, 2023

FDIC pins Signature Bank's failure on poor governance and illiquidity

FDIC blamed SBNY’s board of directors and management for pursuing “unrestrained growth” using uninsured deposits without implementing liquidity risk management strategies.

The United States Federal Deposit Insurance Corp’s (FDIC) post-mortem assessment of Signature Bank of New York (SBNY) revealed poor management and inadequate risk management practices as the root cause for its collapse.

Signature Bank was shut down by federal regulators on March 12 in a bid to protect the U.S. economy and strengthen public confidence in the banking system. FDIC was appointed to handle the insurance process.

On April 29, FDIC’s report on the matter highlighted the collapse of major US banks — Silvergate Bank and Silicon Valley Bank — caused illiquidity due to deposit runs. The regulator further stated:

“However, the root cause of SBNY’s failure was poor management. SBNY management did not prioritize good corporate governance practices, did not always heed FDIC examiner concerns, and was not always responsive or timely in addressing FDIC supervisory recommendations (SRs).”

FDIC blamed SBNY’s board of directors and management for pursuing “unrestrained growth” using uninsured deposits without implementing liquidity risk management strategies. The final nail in the coffin for Signature Bank was when it could not manage liquidity, which was required to fulfill large withdrawal requests.

Correlation of SBNY’s stock price to crypto-industry events. Source: FDIC

The report also revealed that Signature Bank often denied addressing FDIC’s concerns or implementing the regulator’s supervisory recommendations. Since 2017, FDIC sent numerous supervisory letters to SBNY citing regulatory, audit or risk management criticisms, as shown below.

Proposed SRs from targeted review Supervisory Letters in process at the time of SBNY’s failure. Source: FDIC

Due to non-compliance with the recommendations, the FDIC had downgraded SBNY’s Liquidity component rating to “3” starting in 2019, further highlighting the need to improve its funds management practices.

Related: ‘Ludicrous’ to think Signature Bank’s collapse was connected to crypto, says NYDFS head

Two government bodies were reportedly investigating Signature Bank for money laundering prior to its collapse. A report from March 15 highlighted that Justice Department was investigating the bank for potential money laundering.

In addition, a parallel probe by the Securities and Exchange Commission was reportedly underway. However, it remains unclear how the investigations aided the bank’s closure.

Magazine: Whatever happened to EOS? Community shoots for unlikely comeback



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Visa stablecoin plan, debt’s ceiling effect on Bitcoin price: Hodler’s Digest, April 23-29

Circle launches cross-chain transfer protocol, Visa shares plans for stablecoin product, Kraken fights back in court, and more.

Top Stories This Week

Circle launches cross-chain USDC transfer protocol

Circle launched a cross-chain protocol that enables USDC transfers between the Ethereum and Avalanche blockchains. The protocol works by burning the selected amount of native USDC on the source chain, and minting an equivalent amount of new USDC on the intended destination chain. The protocol essentially makes USDC transfers between the two networks faster and more user-friendly, as prior to its launch, people had to use third-party bridges or a Circle partner to facilitate transfers between the two networks. Additional support for Solana and other blockchains will be added later in 2023.

Stablecoin payments: Visa shares plans for ambitious crypto product

Cuy Sheffield, the head of crypto at Visa, announced a new cryptocurrency-related project, on April 24, focused on stablecoin payments. Details are sparse at this stage; however, Sheffiled shared a job listing relating to the project, with the description noting that the Visa Crypto Team is building the next generation of products to facilitate commerce in everyone’s digital and mobile lives. The job listing is seeking candidates with a good understanding of layer-1 and layer-2 solutions, alongside experience with writing smart contracts using the programming language Solidity, among other things.

Kraken asks San Francisco court to intervene against IRS demands

Crypto exchange Kraken has fought back against the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) over what it feels is an unjustified treasure hunt for users trading info. According to court documents, the firm requested a federal court in San Francisco to intervene and ask the IRS to back off. The IRS issued a summons in February demanding additional information on Kraken users who traded $20,000 or more in any single year from 2016 to 2020. 

Metaverse divisions $4B loss drags on positive first quarter for Meta

Meta disclosed in its Q1 earnings report that its metaverse unit, Reality Labs, posted a loss of around $4 billion during the quarter. In what has been a costly venture for the firm, the $4 billion loss adds to the $14 billion Reality Labs loss over the entirety of 2022. Still, Meta posted a profit totalling roughly $5.7 billion in Q1 overall, with the firms work on artificial intelligence somewhat curbing the losses. Mark Zuckerberg was also not phased by the loss from Reality Labs, as he reiterated that we continue to expect Reality Labs operating losses to increase year-over-year in 2023 as the firm eyes growth in the long term.

Viral clips of Securities and Exchange Commision chair Gary Gensler started circulating this week, showing him take a highly contradictory stance on crypto compared to what he holds now. As it stands, Gensler thinks almost every crypto asset apart from BTC is a security, and has pushed hard to regulate the crypto sector from that viewpoint. However, in a snippet from one of his Blockchain and Money lectures from 2018 while he was working as a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Gensler said, Three quarters of the market is non-securities, it’s just a commodity, cash, crypto. He even suggested Ether was not a security, despite repeatedly suggesting otherwise over the past couple years.

Winners and Losers

At the end of the week, Bitcoin (BTC) is at $29,275, Ether (ETH) at $1,900 and XRP at $0.47. The total market cap is at $1.2 trillion, according to CoinMarketCap.

Among the biggest 100 cryptocurrencies, the top three altcoin gainers of the week are Render Token (RNDR) at 40.91%, Cronos (CRO) at 13.47% and Injective (INJ) at 10.49%. 

The top three altcoin losers of the week are PancakeSwap (CAKE) at 19.13%, Zilliqa (ZIL) at 12.41% and Optimism (OP) at 11.26%.

For more info on crypto prices, make sure to read Cointelegraphs market analysis.

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Most Memorable Quotations

Its a critical moment here in the U.S. and, as I like to say, its really a moment for Congress to step up.

Jeremy Allaire, CEO of Circle

I think its probably not a coincidence that youre seeing all these concerns about de-dollarization at the same time they’re cracking down on crypto.

David Sacks, co-host of the All-In podcast

[Blockchain] is about helping different groups of people come together to be able to trust each other more, to collaborate across larger distances on many different kinds of projects.

Vitalik Buterin, Ethereum co-founder

The fights about mining arent really about mining. Its not really about environmental concerns. What its really about is controlling energy use.

Perianne Boring, CEO of the Chamber of Digital Commerce

While DeFi has immense potential, more education is needed to quell the confusion and fear plaguing mainstream users.

 Julian Hosp, CEO and co-founder of Cake DeFi

Prediction of the Week 

Analysts at odds over Fed, US debt ceiling impact on Bitcoin price

After the House Republicans scarcely passed their bill to increase the U.S. debt ceiling on April 26, market analysts promptly started weighing up its potential impact on the price of Bitcoin (BTC). Analysts such as the chief operating officer of investment firm Onramp, Jesse Meyers, believe that raising the debt ceiling will likely prompt the Federal Reserve to print more money, thus boosting capital inflows into risky assets like BTC.

When the debt ceiling is lifted and credit-contraction leads to economic crisis… They will have to print money on a massive scale, he noted. #Bitcoin was the winner during the last round of stimulus.

FUD of the Week 

Ordinals Finance has conducted a $1M rug pull: CertiK

Ethereum-based decentralized finance protocol Ordinals Finance, was accused of performing a rug pull. The protocol enables users to lend and borrow inscriptions. However, blockchain security firm CertiK reported that the protocols developer abruptly pulled 256 million OFI tokens out of its smart contracts using a safuToken function. According to CertiK, another 13 million OFI was then removed through an ownerRewithdraw function, bringing the total number of withdrawn tokens to 269 million. In total, the reported loss to investors was estimated to be around $1 million, almost half of the total OFI market cap.

One crypto wallet launched 114 dodgy memecoins in two months

According to research from pseudonymous blockchain sleuth ZachXBT posted, on April 26, one specific wallet address launched 114 memecoin scams over the previous 45 days. ZachXBT tracked the 0x739c58807B99Cb274f6FD96B10194202b8EEfB47 address, and found that stolen funds from scams are continually sent to this address. ZachXBT was unable to calculate how much the funds equated to, as the alleged scammer used multiple wallets to split up funds. I suspect there are more too. These are just ones sent to that deposit address lol, ZachXBT wrote.

Google Ads data: $4M stolen through crypto phishing URLs

According to Google Ads data coupled with blockchain analytics, over $4 million has been stolen from people that clicked on malicious phishing websites that mimic legitimate crypto platforms. It marks a concerning trend for the crypto community, given that these dubious websites are promoted on Google search results and closely replicate real platforms.

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Whatever happened to EOS? Community shoots for unlikely comeback

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Decentralands District X dispute, showing no mercy to autoclickers, spending Sunday afternoon in a virtual Irish pub.

Elizabeth Warren wants the police at your door in 2024

Senators Elizabeth Warren and Roger Marshall want to make your crypto wallet illegal and their plan runs contrary to the principles they campaigned on.



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Friday, April 28, 2023

Venmo will enable fiat-to-crypto payments in May

Users of the mobile payment service will also be able to receive crypto through a QR code or external crypto address.

Users of mobile payments service Venmo will soon be able to buy cryptocurrencies and send them to other Venmo users or external wallets beginning in May, according to an April 28 announcement from PayPal executive Jose Fernandez da Ponte. PayPal is the parent company of Venmo.

At a Consensus 2023 interview titled “PayPal’s Next Chapter in Crypto,” da Ponte explained how the new feature will work:

“Starting in May, we are going to be enabling on-chain transfers from Venmo wallets, meaning that you can buy crypto on Venmo and send it to another Venmo user; you can send it to a PayPal user; you can send it to [an] external wallet; you can send it to your hardware wallet.”

The executive said this feature would expand the choices available to Venmo users, which he said has proven successful when implemented on PayPal. It would also provide a “use case” for digital assets because now crypto will be used for “fast and free near-instant transfers between Venmo wallets and PayPal wallets, which is basically connecting two of the largest networks and wallets in the country.”

Related: From PayPal to Web3: Digital identity could play key role in adoption

An April 28 help page from Venmo’s website states that verified users will also be able to receive crypto from external addresses through a “crypto address QR code.”

Venmo started allowing crypto purchases in April 2021, and the app's mobile version currently lists Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), and Bitcoin Cash (BCH) as options. Crypto features do not appear to be available on the desktop version.

PayPal has partnered with other companies to expand its crypto service offerings. In December, the payment provider integrated with MetaMask, allowing MetaMask users to purchase crypto through their PayPal personal accounts and have it sent directly to their self-custodial wallets.



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Tax law researchers propose IRS framework for deducting crypto losses

A recently published study appears to advocate for the isolation of crypto assets from other tax deductions where losses are concerned.

Researchers at Indiana University and the University of Maine recently published a study examining the current state of cryptocurrency tax law in the United States. The research concludes with recommendations for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that, if adopted, would prevent taxpayers from weighing crypto losses against other capital gains.

The paper, dubbed simply “Crypto Losses,” seeks to define the various forms of loss that can be accrued by businesses and individuals invested in cryptocurrency and proposes a “new tax framework.”

Current IRS guidelines concerning cryptocurrency are somewhat nebulous. For the most part, as the researchers point out, cryptocurrency losses tend to follow the same taxation rules as other capital assets. They’re typically deductible against capital gains (but not other gains such as income), but there are some distinctions as to when and in what amounts deductions may occur.

Related: New tax rules could mean a US exodus for crypto companies

Cryptocurrency losses that accrue from specific cases defined as “sale” or “exchange,” for example, would be subject to deduction limitations. However, in other situations, such as having crypto stolen or instances where holders abandon their assets (through burning or other destructive means), taxpayers could deduct the losses in their entirety.

This is based on the information provided in IRS publication 551, as cited in topic 409:

“Almost everything you own and use for personal or investment purposes is a capital asset. Examples include a home, personal-use items like household furnishings, and stocks or bonds held as investments.”

According to the researchers, cryptocurrency losses should be regulated differently than other capital assets. The initial claim made in their research is that “the government is essentially sharing in the risk created by the investors’ activities” by offering a deductible against capital gains.

Their argument concludes that a new tax framework should be built wherein cryptocurrency losses may only be deducted from cryptocurrency gains.

According to the researchers, “losses from one type of activity should not be used to offset or shelter income from another activity.” Essentially, this suggests that cryptocurrency should be disenfranchised from other capital gains deductions.

However, the researchers acknowledge that other capital losses are not given similar treatment, stating that, currently, a “loss from the sale or exchange of any capital asset can offset gain from the sale or exchange of any other capital asset."

As to why cryptocurrency losses shouldn’t be given the same taxation consideration, the authors state that by sharing risks with cryptocurrency investors in offering loss deductions on capital gains, the government may be stifling the economy and harming the cryptocurrency market:

“This risk-sharing can encourage investment in cryptocurrency and away from other investment activities of valuable economic significance. Risk sharing can also encourage investors to suddenly exit the crypto industry, which can harm legitimate exchanges and remaining investors."

Despite the apparently subjective conclusion, the authors acknowledge that preventing taxpayers from applying cryptocurrency losses to other capital gains could harm investors who, under the status quo, would otherwise be entitled to the same taxation relief and recovery as those suffering similar asset losses unrelated to cryptocurrency.



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How would a US debt default impact Bitcoin?

Cointelegraph analyst and writer Marcel Pechman explains how a U.S. debt default could impact Bitcoin and the larger cryptocurrency market.

Macro Markets, hosted by crypto analyst Marcel Pechman, airs every Friday on the Cointelegraph Markets & Research YouTube channel and explains complex concepts in layperson’s terms, focusing on the cause and effect of traditional financial events on day-to-day crypto activity.

The risks of a United States debt default are the first topic of this week’s show, which comes from none other than Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. Yellen warned of potential mass unemployment, payment failures and broad economic weakness if the U.S. failed to pay its debts. This issue emerges every couple of years, creating some tension within Congress, but at some point, they agree to raise the debt limit. So, no harm done, right?

That’s partially true because if the government doesn’t have a majority, which happens to be the case, the opposition has the upper hand to bargain their demands. In this case, Republicans want President Joe Biden to drop $4.5 trillion in unsound projects, such as letting go of some of the student debt or hiring thousands of Internal Revenue Service employees.

Pechman explains how the event, whatever the outcome, is bullish for Bitcoin (BTC) and discusses the odds of a government debt default and how the debt ceiling increase drives liquidity to the markets, favoring scarce assets.

The next segment of Macro Markets focuses on Tesla, the EV automaker controlled by Elon Musk. Firstly, he’ll go over its importance for Bitcoin holders and the cryptocurrency sector then proceed to summarize the company’s financial conditions and why the 9,200 BTC held by Tesla doesn’t pose a risk for Bitcoin’s price.

The show concludes by examining how short-selling works. Unlike futures contracts, to sell a stock on margin, one needs to borrow it from a holder. Typically, those rates are negligent, maybe between 0.3% and 3% per year. However, when there’s excessive betting against the stock price and the demand for shorts increases, this rate can go as high as 50% per year or become unavailable.

In the semi-failed First Republic Bank’s case, which saw net redemptions of $100 billion in the previous quarter, short sellers are having trouble borrowing the stock, but Pechman explains how that does not pose a problem to those interested in betting on the bank’s stock price decline. According to Marcel, the bailout of First Republic Bank can further catapult Bitcoin above $30,000.

If you are looking for exclusive and valuable content provided by leading crypto analysts and experts, make sure to subscribe to the Cointelegraph Markets & Research YouTube channel. Join us at Macro Markets every Friday.



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Cointelegraph accelerator program welcomes Brickken: A new step in asset tokenization

By participating in Cointelegraph’s Accelerator Program, Brickken aims to support companies through the entire tokenization cycle.

As digitalization takes over the financial industry, tokenization is becoming an integral part of tomorrow’s capital market. While making use of blockchain technology, tokenization securitizes assets in a digital way and creates a flurry of opportunities for assets, markets and potential investors.

The continuously growing tokenization market is expected to reach $16 trillion by 2030 in the illiquid segment alone, according to the Boston Consulting Group. In addition, the World Economic Forum predicted that up to 10% of global GDP will be managed on-chain by 2025. A similar figure was provided by banking giant HSBC, which estimates that up to 10% of all assets will be tokenized by 2030.

Without wasting any time, some market players like Brickken have already taken the first steps to capitalize on the growing demand. Brikken is a tokenization platform that is part of the Spanish-based company Brick Token, S.L. and aims to provide an all-in-one tokenization solution for businesses, entrepreneurs and investors focused on managing their digital assets.

Recognizing the company’s promising business model and long-term prospects, Cointelegraph Accelerator, a startup booster that leverages Cointelegraph’s capabilities as a media and strategic partner, will support Brickken with a wide range of content, branding, marketing, education, networking and investor relations solutions. As part of the alliance, Brickken will join Cointelegraph’s Accelerator Program, which was launched earlier this year.

One place to rule them all

Brickken’s flagship product, the Token Suite, helps companies convert real-world assets into blockchain-based digital assets using Ethereum and enables them to raise efficiencies during IPOs. The feature also supports companies through the entire tokenization cycle, from creation to launch and management of digital assets, and offers tools for compliance, investor relations, corporate actions and optimization.

When it comes to investors, the Token Suite solution can be a comprehensive resource for opportunities through tokenized company shares. Investors gain access to an easy-to-use interface to manage assets and engage with invested companies. Over $200 million in assets are waiting to be tokenized via the Token Suite by year-end, creating opportunities for companies and investors alike. In just a few months, the Token Suite solution is used by more than 30 active customers who have raised more than $2 million.

Brick by brick

To sustain its growth and make use of the talented team, Brickken has thought out a $350,000 grant from Neotec, a Spanish-based fund launched by the European Investment Fund (EIF). Brickken received exclusive access to Spain’s financial regulatory sandbox and has raised approximately $3 million in total. Furthermore, it was awarded the SME Seal of Innovation by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation. The interest from high-profile institutions and the partnership with Chainlink helped Brickken jump-start its tokenization business.

The Brickken ecosystem is fueled by the native token BKN, with the community round commenced within three months, during which the company distributed 25 million BKN at $0.08 per unit. Brickken’s first public round sold 6 million tokens, and the second round will be live until May 31.



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Mauritius planning to launch pilot project for retail digital rupee late this year

The governor of the Bank of Mauritius told a meeting of central bank technologists about the development of the island nation’s CBDC ambitions.

Mauritius plans to launch the pilot phase of a digital rupee in November, Bank of Mauritius governor Harvesh Kumar Seegolam announced. Many of the parameters of the perspective central bank digital currency (CBDC) are already in place.

Speaking at the International Monetary Fund/World Bank Community of Central Bank Technologists meeting held on the main island, Seegolam said he prioritized CBDC development when he took office in 2020:

“As a central banker, I need not stress upon the determining role that CBDCs can play, not only in protecting monetary sovereignty but also in assisting central banks and regulatory authorities on the front of AML/CFT [Anti-Money Laundering/Combatting the Financing of Terrorism].”

Consultations with International Monetary Fund (IMF) experts began the same year and resulted in the production of a feasibility report. According to Seegolam, Mauritius was the first country to benefit from IMF technical assistance with its CBDC project.

Related: IMF offers Jordan’s central bank recommendations for implementing retail CBDC

The Bank of Mauritius set up a sandbox with an unnamed partner in December to explore potential features and “craft the Digital rupee based on the Mauritian specificities.”

The digital rupee should be “a payment instrument to be made available to one and all” that will be intermediated to “ensure that commercial banks continue to be fully-involved in our CBDC journey.” It will also make monetary policy easier to manage and support financial stability, Seegolam said. The digital rupee will be interest free.

Seegolam said the Bank of Mauritius “is contemplating” launching a digital rupee pilot phase in November. Phase 2 of the project will be the development of its use in cross-border transactions, he added.

Mauritius has been gradually adopting blockchain technology for several years. The country regulated digital asset custody licensing and security token offerings in 2019. It was at one time seen as an emerging hub for the technology.

Magazine: Bitcoin in Senegal: Why is this African country using BTC?



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Price analysis 4/28: BTC, ETH, BNB, XRP, ADA, DOGE, MATIC, SOL, DOT, LTC

Bitcoin and select altcoins continue to face selling at higher levels, a sign that the bears have not yet given up.

The cryptocurrency market witnessed sharp volatility on April 26 on rumors that large sums of Bitcoin (BTC) were on the move from the wallets linked to the defunct cryptocurrency exchange Mt. Gox and the United States government. A minor positive is that Bitcoin and select altcoins held their respective support levels.

After Bitcoin’s sharp rally in 2023, some traders seem to be planning to book profits. Coinglass reported that the Bitcoin balance held at Binance soared by 50,000 Bitcoin in the past 30 days.

While this could add to short-term pressure, bulls can take solace because the increase is not identical across exchanges. Coinglass said that the aggregate increase of Bitcoin balance across exchanges was 14,000 Bitcoin.

Daily cryptocurrency market performance. Source: Coin360

The next major event for the market is likely to be the U.S. Federal Reserve’s meeting on May 2 and 3. The FedWatch Tool projects a 90% probability of a 25 basis point rate hike in the meeting. Most analysts expect this to be the final rate hike before a pivot later in the year.

Could Bitcoin and select altcoins break above their respective resistance levels and resume the up-move? Let’s study the charts of the top-10 cryptocurrencies to find out.

Bitcoin price analysis

Bitcoin formed a long-legged doji candlestick pattern on April 26, indicating indecision among the bulls and the bears about the next directional move. This uncertainty resolved to the upside with a close above the 20-day exponential moving average ($28,619) on April 27.

BTC/USDT daily chart. Source: TradingView

The bears will try to pull the price back below the 20-day EMA while the bulls will attempt to flip the level into support. If buyers succeed, the BTC/USDT pair will try to challenge the overhead resistance zone between $31,000 and $32,400. This zone is likely to witness a tough battle between the bulls and the bears.

Contrary to this assumption, if the price turns down and slips below the 20-day EMA, it will indicate that the sentiment is turning negative and traders are selling on rallies. The pair may then retest the strong support at the 50-day simple moving average ($27,657). A break and close below this level could open the gates for a decline to $25,250.

ETH price analysis

The bulls kicked Ether (ETH) above the 20-day EMA ($1,905) on April 26 and 27 but they could not reach the psychological level of $2,000. This suggests that the bears are trying to halt the recovery below $2,000.

ETH/USDT daily chart. Source: TradingView

The 20-day EMA has flattened out and the RSI is near the midpoint, indicating a balance between supply and demand. This points to a possible range-bound action between $2,000 and $1,785 for a few days.

If that happens, it will be a positive sign because it will indicate that the bulls are not rushing to book profits. That will enhance the prospects for a potential rally to $2,200. This positive view will invalidate if the price turns down and breaks below $1,785. The ETH/USDT pair could then collapse to the 61.8% Fibonacci retracement level of $1,663.

BNB price analysis

The bulls propelled BNB (BNB) above the $338 overhead resistance on April 26 but they could not sustain the higher levels as seen from the long wick on the day’s candlestick.

BNB/USDT daily chart. Source: TradingView

The bulls again tried to overcome the obstacle at $338 on April 27 but the bears did not budge. The selling picked up momentum on April 28 and the bears are trying to sink the price below the 50-day SMA ($321). If they succeed, the BNB/USDT pair could dive to $300 and thereafter to $280.

Instead, if the price rebounds off the current level, it will indicate that bulls have not given up and are buying on dips. The bulls will have to surmount the hurdle at $350 to signal the start of a new uptrend toward $400.

XRP price analysis

XRP (XRP) bounced off the support at $0.43 on April 26, indicating that the bulls are fiercely guarding this level.

XRP/USDT daily chart. Source: TradingView

The price has reached the 20-day EMA ($0.48), which is an important level for the bears to defend in the near term. If the price turns down from this level, the sellers will again try to yank the price below $0.43. If they manage to do that, the XRP/USDT pair may plunge to $0.36.

Contrarily, if buyers kick the price above the 20-day EMA, the pair can reach the resistance line. A break and close above this level will suggest that the short-term corrective phase is over. The pair will then attempt a rally to $0.54 and subsequently to $0.58.

Cardano price analysis

Cardano (ADA) rebounded off the 50-day SMA ($0.38) on April 25 and 26, indicating that buyers are trying to start a recovery from this support.

ADA/USDT daily chart. Source: TradingView

The ADA/USDT pair has reached the neckline of the inverse head and shoulders pattern where the bears are trying to halt the recovery. If buyers overpower the sellers and sustain the price above the neckline, the pair should rally to $0.46.

Conversely, if the price turns down from the neckline, it will suggest that the bears are trying to prevent the reversal pattern from forming. The sellers will then make another attempt to sink the price below the 50-day SMA. If they can pull it off, the pair could dump to $0.34.

Dogecoin price analysis

The bears pulled Dogecoin (DOGE) below the support near $0.08 on April 26 but they failed to build upon the breakdown. Buyers purchased the dip and pushed the price back above the 50-day SMA ($0.08) on April 27.

DOGE/USDT daily chart. Source: TradingView

The next resistance to watch out for is the 20-day EMA ($0.08) and then the downtrend line. Buyers will have to propel the price above the downtrend line to clear the path for a possible rally to the $0.10 to $0.11 resistance zone.

Meanwhile, the bears are likely to have other plans. They will try to sink the price back below the support near $0.08. If they succeed, the DOGE/USDT pair may slide to the vital support near $0.07. The bulls are likely to protect this level with all their might.

Polygon price analysis

The long tail on Polygon’s (MATIC) April 25 and 26 candlestick shows that the bulls are defending the support at $0.94 with vigor but the bears have not yet given up.

MATIC/USDT daily chart. Source: TradingView

The downsloping 20-day EMA ($1.05) and the RSI in the negative territory indicate that bears have the upper hand. Sellers will try to halt the recovery in the zone between the 20-day EMA and the resistance line.

If the price turns down from the resistance line, it will signal the formation of a potential descending triangle pattern, which will complete on a break below $0.94. If this support cracks, the MATIC/USDT pair risks a plunge to $0.69.

Related: Bitcoin price holds $29K as US PCE data sparks 90% Fed rate hike bets

Solana price analysis

Solana (SOL) tried to break out of the tight range trading on April 26 but failed. The bulls are again trying to resolve the uncertainty in their favor on April 28.

SOL/USDT daily chart. Source: TradingView

If the price rises above the immediate resistance at $23.18, it will signal that the bulls have absorbed the supply. The SOL/USDT pair will then attempt a rally toward the stiff overhead resistance at $27.12, which remains the key level for the bulls to overcome. If they do that, the pair can start a new up-move and soar to $39.

If bears want to prevent the rally, they will have to quickly tug the price below the $18.70 support. That can sink the pair to the next support at $15.28.

Polkadot price analysis

The bears successfully defended the moving averages on April 26 but could not sustain the drop below the support at $5.70. This indicates that Polkadot (DOT) is finding buyers at lower levels.

DOT/USDT daily chart. Source: TradingView

The DOT/USDT pair can swing between $5.70 and the 50-day SMA ($6.20) for some time. If the consolidation resolves to the downside, the selling could intensify and the pair may fall to $5.15. This level is likely to attract buyers.

Alternatively, if buyers drive the price above the 50-day SMA, it will suggest that the bulls are on a comeback. The pair may first climb to $7 and if this resistance is scaled, the rally could stretch to $7.90.

Litecoin price analysis

Litecoin (LTC) witnessed a hugely volatile day on April 26, indicating that the bulls and the bears tried to gain complete control but failed.

LTC/USDT daily chart. Source: TradingView

Usually, large volatile days are followed by a range contraction for a few days. The flattish moving averages and the RSI just below the midpoint suggest a range-bound action in the near term. The LTC/USDT pair may oscillate between $85 and $96 for some time.

A break above $96 or below $85 will start the next leg of the trending move. If bears sink the price below $85, the pair may plummet to $75. On the other hand, a rally above $96 may open the gates for a possible rally to $106.

This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.



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Thursday, April 27, 2023

Ether price holds $1,820, but pro traders are skeptical about further gains

Ether traders have been neutral-to-bearish for the past week, indicating little confidence in ETH breaking above $2,000.

The Ether (ETH) price has held above $1,820 for the past three weeks, despite facing a 13.7% correction between April 18-21. Still, analyzing a broader time frame provides a more constructive view, as ETH gained 20.8% in three months while the S&P 500 stock market index stood flat. However, according to ETH options and futures metrics, the gains were not enough to make professional investors bullish.

Worsening macroeconomic conditions have driven cryptocurrencies’ positive momentum in 2023, including the ongoing banking crisis. According to Arthur Hayes, former CEO of crypto derivatives exchange BitMEX, if the government refuses to bail out First Republic Bank, it could set off a dangerous chain reaction of insolvencies.

Recession risks increased after the U.S. economy grew at a modest 1.1% annualized pace in the first quarter, well below the 2% expected. Meanwhile, inflation continues to hurt the economy, as the personal consumption expenditures price index rose 4.2% in the first quarter.

Driving the bearishness from whales and market makers is the diminishing total value locked (TVL) on the Ethereum network and average transaction fees above $4 since February. According to DefiLlama data, Ethereum DApps reached 15.3 million ETH in TVL on April 24. That compares with 22.0 million ETH six months prior, a 30% decline.

Ether’s inability to break above $2,000 could also reflect traders anticipating the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates again on May 3. Higher interest rates make fixed-income investments more attractive, while businesses and families face additional costs to refinance their debts, creating a bearish environment for risk assets, including ETH.

Ether futures show lack of buying appetite

Ether quarterly futures are popular among whales and arbitrage desks. However, these fixed-month contracts typically trade at a slight premium to spot markets, indicating that sellers are asking for more money to delay settlement.

As a result, futures contracts in healthy markets should trade at a 5% to 10% annualized premium — a situation known as contango, which is not unique to crypto markets.

Ether 3-month futures annualized premium. Source: Laevitas.ch

Ether traders have been cautious in the past few weeks, and even with the recent breakout above $2,100 on April 14, there has been no surge in demand for leveraged longs.

Furthermore, the Ether futures premium has worsened from its recent peak of 4.7% on April 1 to its current 1.8% level. This suggests that buyers are avoiding leveraged longs and there is a moderate demand for short (bear) positions using futures contracts.

Ether option traders flirted with bearishness

Traders should also analyze options markets to understand whether the recent correction has caused investors to become more optimistic. The 25% delta skew is a telling sign when arbitrage desks and market makers overcharge for upside or downside protection.

In short, if traders anticipate an Ether price drop, the skew metric will rise above 7%, and phases of excitement tend to have a negative 7% skew.

Related: 11 industry leaders discuss effective ways to ensure compliant staking

Ether 30-day options 25% delta skew: Source: Laevitas

Currently, the options delta 25% skew is neutral between protective puts and neutral-to-bullish call options. However, between April 24-26, the indicator briefly sustained levels above 7% as traders feared a sharp price correction was the most likely scenario.

This change indicates a slight increase in confidence, but over the past four weeks, moderate fear has been the prevailing sentiment according to the 25% options skew.

In essence, Ether options and futures markets suggest that pro traders are less confident compared to a week prior, but not excessively pessimistic. Consequently, if the ETH price breaks above $2,000, it would be a surprise for most, but at the same time, the indicators show no signs of stress.

This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.



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Hong Kong authorities remind banks not to be too hasty in rejecting digital asset clients

Increasing familiarity with virtual assets clients will make Anti-Money Laundering measures easier with time, and the firms should be treated reasonably, the HKMA says.

One size does not fit all when it comes to Anti-Money Laundering (AML), the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) reminded banks on April 27. Banks should not make it unnecessarily hard to open accounts. 

There has been a wave of companies opening bank accounts in Hong Kong to take advantage of business opportunities, HKMA deputy CEO Arthur Yuen wrote, and “comments” about the difficulties in the process have ensued. Yuen tied the increased activity to the end of the pandemic.

While carrying out AML due diligence, banks “should also treat customers fairly and enhance access to basic banking services by businesses through transparent, reasonable and efficient procedures,” Yuen wrote. Furthermore:

“There is no legal and regulatory requirement prohibiting banks in Hong Kong from providing banking services to virtual assets (VA) related entities.”

To the contrary, the Hong Kong government has a policy of promoting development of the virtual asset sector, and there is a regulatory framework in place to protect investors. While some virtual asset businesses pose higher AML risks than others, the Hong Kong banking industry will gain a better understanding of the sector over time. Therefore:

“We expect that regulated virtual asset service providers (VASPs) will be able to successfully apply for a bank account through a reasonable process.”

Yuen promised that a circular containing guidance and best practices would be released and that a roundtable would be held “for the banking industry and VASPs to exchange views” on April 28.

Related: Hong Kong court rules cryptocurrencies as property

Hong Kong is making a push to become a world crypto hub and is seen by some as the likely benefactor of the United States’ increasingly virulent anti-crypto crackdown. The region was the first jurisdiction in Asia to provide access to crypto exchange-traded funds. A proposal to license retail crypto exchanges is in its consultation period and guidelines for exchanges are expected in May.

Magazine: Hong Kong crypto frenzy, DeFi token surges 550%, NBA China NFTs — Asia Express



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