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Forget Solana, This Cryptocurrency Is Poised for an Incredible Run in 2024 – The Motley Fool

After rising by more than 900% last year, Solana (SOL 4.46%) might be the most deserving to hold the title of crypto's 2023 MVP. Yet, while the digital currency's monumental resurgence provided a much-needed respite after it fell to as low as $8, Solana's long-term prospects pale in comparison to one of crypto's household names: Ethereum (ETH 2.73%).

Here's why investors would be remiss to overlook Ethereum's potential while the market's focus remains elsewhere.

Image source: Getty Images.

In 2015, Ethereum arrived on the crypto scene with a bang. At the time, it was the first blockchain that allowed developers to build custom decentralized applications via smart contracts -- transactions that self-executive when certain terms are met -- making Ethereum the first programmable cryptocurrency.

Ethereum's pioneering of smart contracts meant that the majority of innovative crypto uses initially found a home on its blockchain. Things like non-fungible tokens (NFTs), decentralized finance (DeFi), and much more all started on Ethereum and represented a seismic shift in the trajectory of crypto's capabilities.

But like any iteration of technology, new versions eventually arose. Enter Solana. Building off of Ethereum's efforts, Solana arrived in 2017 offering developers and users a faster and cheaper alternative to Ethereum.

Fast-forward a few years, and Solana has assumed the title of Ethereum killer, gaining significant traction in the crypto economy thanks to its blazing speeds and extremely low fees. Today, it is the fifth-most-valuable cryptocurrency on the market with a total valuation of $41 billion.

Solana's rapid rise to become one of the most valuable cryptocurrencies has brought a wave of hype with it. Yet even with this, Ethereum remains nearly six times as valuable and supports 20 times more value across the DeFi economy.

While Solana optimists might paint a different picture, the reality is that Ethereum remains the epicenter of the decentralized economy. It has the largest developer community, has a proven track record of functionality, and continues to implement upgrades that will further increase the network's capabilities.

Most importantly, these upgrades are part of the reason Ethereum is poised for a run in 2024. In the second half of the year, Ethereum will launch EIP-41844, an upgrade that will lower transaction fees and increase its throughput.

For the entirety of Solana's existence, its primary advantage was that it is a cheaper and faster version than Ethereum. But what will happen if Ethereum levels the playing field?

With increased efficiency and scalability, the number of uses Ethereum can support will likely increase. Since one of the primary ways a cryptocurrency is valued lies in the utility it provides, EIP-41844 could bring new value to Ethereum's long-term prospects.

Best of all, though, EIP-41844 is just one of a series of planned upgrades over the coming years. Subsequent improvements will introduce new functionality such as greater security, increasing decentralization, and further streamlining of the network.

In totality, Ethereum's future upgrades hold the potential to solidify it as the most valuable smart-contract blockchain and squash any competition.

Like many markets in the world today, the DeFi economy will likely have several competitors. Take the smartphone market as an example. While Androids make up more than 80% of the global market, Apple's iPhone still holds a considerable portion.

A similar future in crypto is likely: one where Solana and Ethereum coexist, with each offering developers and users different options. However, when deciding which of the two is poised for a significant run, Ethereum looks more promising, especially over the long haul.

While Solana ran up more than 900% in 2023, Ethereum witnessed a measly 90% jump. As the second-most-valuable cryptocurrency on the market and home to more decentralized applications than any other blockchain, this lack of performance suggests that Ethereum has a bit of catching up to do.

Fortunately, Ethereum is no stranger to significant growth. During the last bull market, it rose by nearly 2,000% when it skyrocketed from around $200 to more than $4,800 over a year and a half. Whether a similar scenario unfolds remains to be seen.

But when considering the potential that will accompany EIP-41844, as well as future upgrades, don't be surprised if Ethereum becomes one of the best performers in your portfolio for years to come.

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Forget Solana, This Cryptocurrency Is Poised for an Incredible Run in 2024 - The Motley Fool

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Ethereum: BlackRock CEO Larry Fink Sees Value in ETH ETF – Watcher Guru

While speaking to CNBC, BlackRock CEO Larry Fink said he sees value in having a spot Ethereum (ETH) ETF (Exchange Traded Fund). Finks comments come on the heels of 11 spot Bitcoin (BTC) ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds) being approved by the US SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission). US investors have long asked for spot ETFs for the cryptocurrency space.

JUST IN: BlackRock CEO Larry Fink says they "see value in having an Ethereum ETF."

Also Read: Spot Ethereum ETF To Follow Spot Bitcoin ETF: Says Analyst

BlackRock, the worlds largest asset manager, has already applied for a spot ETH ETF. Other firms that have submitted applications include VanEck, 21Shares & ARK, Grayscale, etc..

The SECs final deadline for a decision on VanEcks spot ETH ETF application is May 23, 2024. The final deadline for BlackRocks application, on the other hand, is on Aug. 7, 2024.

According toBloombergETF analyst Eric Balchunas, there is a 70% chance that the SEC will approve an Ethereum (ETH) ETF by May 2024. According to the analyst, The Ether spot is tied to the hip of [the] Bitcoin spot for sure. Its gonna go wherever it goes. Its essentially on a 15-foot rope following it.

Also Read: Ethereum: SEC May Approve ETH ETF in May, Says Bloomberg

Balchunas was previously cautious about a spot Bitcoin (BTC) ETF. However, the analyst has since changed his stance. Balchunas is optimistic about an Ethereum (ETH) ETF and has a high approval chance.

On the other hand, digital asset lawyer Joe Carlasare believes a spot ETH ETF will receive approval from the SEC, but it may take longer than expected.

A spot Ethereum ETF could lead to significant institutional funding for the second-largest cryptocurrency. With a spot BTC ETF already approved, a spot ETH ETF could send the crypto market into a new bull run. However, there is a possibility that the SEC will postpone its decision due to technical reasons.

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Ethereum: BlackRock CEO Larry Fink Sees Value in ETH ETF - Watcher Guru

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Ethereum (ETH) vs Retik Finance (RETIK), Which Giant Will Give Better Returns in 2024? – Finbold – Finance in Bold

Press Releases are sponsored content and not a part of Finbold's editorial content. For a full disclaimer, please . If you encounter any issues, kindly report them to [emailprotected]. Crypto assets/products can be highly risky. Never invest unless youre prepared to lose all the money you invest.

Investors are constantly on the lookout for the next big opportunity that promises substantial returns. Ethereum (ETH) has long been regarded as the pioneer, revolutionizing the blockchain space with its introduction of smart contracts and the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). However, in recent times, a new player has emerged on the scene Retik Finance (RETIK), touted by many as the giant poised to deliver better returns in 2024.

Ethereum, often referred to as the world computer, has been a driving force behind the adoption and development of decentralized applications (DApps) and smart contracts. Its compatibility with the EVM has fostered a robust ecosystem of tokens and projects. Despite its success, Ethereum faces significant challenges.

One of the major hurdles Ethereum grapples with is scalability. As the popularity of the platform has surged, scalability issues have led to network congestion and higher transaction costs. High gas fees, the cost associated with processing transactions on the Ethereum network, have been a point of concern for users and developers alike. These challenges have prompted a search for alternative solutions within the crypto community.

Enter Retik Finance a decentralized finance (DeFi) project that aims to address the limitations of existing platforms. Retik Finance has quickly gained attention for its innovative approach, leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance scalability, reduce transaction costs, and provide a seamless user experience. At its core, Retik Finance is designed to be a community-driven platform, allowing users to actively participate in governance and decision-making processes.

Retik Finance distinguishes itself by focusing on scalability solutions. In a bid to overcome the scalability challenges faced by Ethereum, Retik Finance employs innovative technologies that enhance transaction throughput. This approach not only addresses the limitations of existing platforms but also positions Retik Finance as a potential disruptor in the DeFi space. Moreover, Retik Finance places a strong emphasis on community governance. Users have a significant role in shaping the direction of the platform, fostering a sense of ownership and inclusivity. This community-driven approach sets Retik Finance apart from more traditional, centralized financial systems. One of the significant draws of Retik Finance is its commitment to lowering transaction costs. By minimizing the fees associated with transactions, Retik Finance aims to make DeFi more accessible to a wider audience. This aligns with the broader goal of democratizing finance and ensuring that financial services are not only decentralized but also cost-effective for users.

The exceptional fundraising achievements of Retik Finance underscore the projects widespread appeal and investor confidence. Raising $1 million in just nine days and subsequently attracting almost $6 million in less than a month is a testament to the projects compelling value proposition and the communitys belief in its success. The presale model, featuring 10 stages with incremental token prices, has created a sense of urgency and exclusivity for early investors. Starting at an attractive price of $0.03 in the first stage and gradually increasing, the presale structure incentivizes early participation, allowing supporters to secure tokens at more favorable rates. In parallel, Retik Finances mega $333K Giveaway adds an extra layer of excitement to the project. The chance for users to become one of the 10 winners, each receiving $33,300 worth of RETIK, adds a dynamic and engaging element to the platforms community-building efforts.

Ethereums long-standing dominance is evident. However, increasing competition from other blockchains and layer 2 solutions poses a threat to its continued supremacy. Ethereum 2.0, an upcoming upgrade, aims to address scalability concerns by shifting to a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism. The success of this upgrade will play a crucial role in determining Ethereums trajectory in the years to come. On the other hand, Retik Finance is positioned as an emerging player with the potential to capture market share by providing innovative solutions to existing problems. Strategic partnerships and collaborations can further propel Retik Finance into the spotlight, attracting both users and developers looking for alternatives to traditional financial systems. Ethereums historical performance has been marked by periods of significant growth, often influenced by technical developments such as network upgrades. The anticipation and reaction of the market to these upgrades play a pivotal role in determining Ethereums price trajectory. Retik Finance, as a newer entrant, presents a different dynamic. Its potential for growth is driven by technological advancements and the support it receives from the community. However, investing in a newer project comes with inherent risks, and investors must weigh these risks against the potential rewards. As we enter into the future of cryptocurrency in 2024, Retik Finance stands as a promising project in the arena. Its commitment to addressing scalability issues, reducing transaction costs, and fostering a community-driven ecosystem positions Retik Finance as a potential giant poised to deliver superior returns. While Ethereum has solidified its place in the history of blockchain technology, the competitive landscape is evolving, and investors must carefully consider the strengths and weaknesses of both Ethereum and Retik Finance to make informed decisions in this dynamic market. The journey ahead promises exciting developments, and the stage is set for Retik Finance to make a significant impact in the years to come.

Retik Finance (RETIK) is a cutting-edge decentralized finance (DeFi) project revolutionizing global transactions with its innovative suite of financial solutions. Introducing futuristic DeFi Debit Cards, a Smart Crypto Payment Gateway, AI-powered Peer-to-Peer (P2P) lending, and a Multi-Chain Non-Custodial Highly Secured DeFi Wallet.

Click Here To Take Part In Retik Finance Presale

Visit the links below for more information about Retik Finance (RETIK):

Website: https://retik.com

Whitepaper: https://retik.com/retik-whitepaper.pdf

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/retikfinance

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Ethereum (ETH) vs Retik Finance (RETIK), Which Giant Will Give Better Returns in 2024? - Finbold - Finance in Bold

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2 Cryptos To Perform the Best in 2024: Ethereum (ETH) and Retik Finance (RETIK) – Techpoint Africa

Two cryptocurrencies poised for exceptional performance are Ethereum (ETH) and Retik Finance (RETIK). Ethereum, recognized as the pioneering force in smart contracts and decentralized applications, continues to solidify its standing with the Ethereum 2.0 upgrade, addressing scalability concerns and fostering sustainability. On the other hand, Retik Finance emerges as a rising star, boasting innovative features like futuristic DeFi Debit Cards and rapid fundraising success, having gained $1 million in just nine days and nearing $6 million in less than a month. As both Ethereum and Retik Finance contribute distinctive strengths and fresh perspectives to the cryptocurrency space, they stand out as promising projects for investors seeking diversified opportunities in the dynamic market of 2024.

Ethereum, often hailed as the "world computer," has been a stalwart in the cryptocurrency space since its inception. As the first platform to introduce smart contracts, Ethereum has played a transformative role in shaping the decentralized finance (DeFi) and decentralized application (DApp) landscapes. In 2024, Ethereum's continued prominence is driven by several key factors. Firstly, Ethereum 2.0 represents a major upgrade that addresses scalability concerns by transitioning to a proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism. This upgrade aims to enhance transaction speed and reduce energy consumption, making Ethereum a more sustainable and efficient blockchain platform. Secondly, Ethereum's thriving ecosystem remains a key driver of its success. The platform hosts a multitude of decentralized applications, from decentralized exchanges (DEXs) and lending platforms to non-fungible token (NFT) marketplaces. The versatility and adoption of Ethereum position it as a reliable and robust choice for developers and users alike.

Retik Finance emerges as a rising star in the cryptocurrency space, showcasing innovation and ambition in the decentralized finance sector. The project introduces a range of groundbreaking features that aim to redefine global transactions. As we look ahead to 2024, several factors contribute to Retik Finance's potential to perform exceptionally well. One of Retik Finance's standout features is its futuristic DeFi Debit Cards, which bring a new level of accessibility and security to financial transactions. The platform also offers a Smart Crypto Payment Gateway, AI-Powered Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Lending, and a Multi-Chain Non-Custodial Highly Secured DeFi Wallet, catering to a diverse set of financial needs within the crypto community. Retik Finance's rapid fundraising success further underscores its potential. Raising $1 million in just nine days and approaching $6 million in less than a month, the project has captured the attention and trust of the crypto community. The ongoing presale, structured across 10 stages, has seen significant participation, surpassing $8.34 million in total funds raised.

While Ethereum and Retik Finance operate within the broader cryptocurrency space, they bring distinct features and strengths to the table. Ethereum's established reputation, widespread adoption, and ongoing upgrades position it as a reliable and foundational choice. On the other hand, Retik Finance's rapid ascent, commitment to innovation, and privacy-centric approach appeal to users seeking fresh perspectives within the DeFi landscape. As we step into 2024, Ethereum and Retik Finance emerge as compelling choices with unique strengths and innovations. Ethereum, with its proven track record and ongoing upgrades, remains a cornerstone of the cryptocurrency space. Meanwhile, Retik Finance's rapid ascent, innovative features, and privacy-centric approach position it as a disruptor in the DeFi landscape. Whether investors opt for the reliability of Ethereum or the potential growth of Retik Finance, both cryptocurrencies contribute to the dynamic and ever-evolving narrative of the crypto market in the coming year.

Retik Finance (RETIK) is a cutting-edge decentralized finance (DeFi) project revolutionizing global transactions with its innovative suite of financial solutions. Introducing futuristic DeFi Debit Cards, a Smart Crypto Payment Gateway, AI-powered Peer-to-Peer (P2P) lending, and a Multi-Chain Non-Custodial Highly Secured DeFi Wallet.

Click Here To Take Part In Retik Finance Presale

Visit the links below for more information about Retik Finance (RETIK):

Website: https://retik.com

Whitepaper: https://retik.com/retik-whitepaper.pdf

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/retikfinance

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2 Cryptos To Perform the Best in 2024: Ethereum (ETH) and Retik Finance (RETIK) - Techpoint Africa

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Ethereum Price Could Reach $5k in 2024 If this Scenario Plays Out – crypto.news

Ethereum price has prodded above $2,500 on Jan. 15, further stretching its post-ETF approval lead over BTC, on-chain data trends provide vital insights into the underlying drivers.

Buy-the-rumor, sell-the-news is a popular trading strategy where speculators make acquisitions ahead of a material news event in hopes of selling at a profit when news is confirmed. BTC speculators capitalized on this trading strategy to earn historic gains in the build-up to the spot Bitcoin ETF approval verdict. Vital on-chain data trends now reveal that Ethereum (ETH) has also begun to show early signs of a similar phenomenon.

The Bitcoin spot ETF approval quest suffered multiple setbacks recently, with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) citing market manipulation, oversight, and liquidity concerns.

However, on June 15, 2023, things turned positive when BlackRock (NASDAQ: BLK) officially filed for a spot Bitcoin ETF with the SEC. With over $13 trillion in assets under management (AUM), BlackRock is one of the largest asset management firms in the world.

BlackRocks entry into the fray raised optimism about Bitcoin derivatives and effectively spun the rumor mill.

As of June 15, Blackrocks official filing date, Bitcoin price was trading around $24,800. Within the first two weeks, speculators who aped-in early on the rumor sent Bitcoin price rallying 25% to hit $30,000 for the first time in 12 months, dating back to June 2022.

Between June 15 and Jan. 11, when the SEC eventually confirmed the news, Bitcoin price nearly doubled, moving from $24,800 to a local top of $48,890. This effectively sent speculators who bought the rumor after BlackRocks filing into 97% profit.

Unsurprisingly, the wave of profit-taking that ensued in the aftermath of the SEC approval has sent BTC price spiraling to 15% toward $42,500 as of Jan. 15. This affirms the full cycle of the buy-the-rumor, sell-the-news cycle on the spot Bitcoin ETF narrative.

With the Bitcoin ETF now at a conclusion, investors have switched focus to Ethereum. BlackRock had filed for spot Ethereum ETF on Nov. 16. In a recent interview on Jan. 12, BlackRock CEO Larry Fink re-emphasized the value of an Ethereum spot ETF as an asset class.

While the BTC price has dropped by 3.8%, Ethereum has increased by 13.5% in the past week. In effect, ETH price has outperformed BTC by approximately 10%.

Interestingly, in addition to this divergent interplay between ETH and BTC price movement over the past week, strategic on-chain movements from Ethereum whales since Jan. 11 also corroborate early signals of the buy-the-rumor strategy playing out in ETH markets.

On paper, Ethereum price has outperformed BTC by 10% in the past week, per Coin360 data. Looking beyond the price charts, a vital on-chain indicator has revealed that ETHs performance has been boosted by corporate entities and high net-worth investors who increased their buy pressure shortly after the Bitcoin ETF approval verdict.

Santiments supply held by top addresses metric shows a real-time snapshot of the aggregate balances currently controlled by the largest wallets in a crypto ecosystem.

The latest readings show that the top 1,000 Ethereum wallets held just 66 million ETH in cumulative balances as of Jan. 10.

But since the focus switched to spot Ethereum ETF, strategic ETH investors have entered a buying spree, adding 570,000 ETH to bring their balances to 66.5 million ETH at press time on Jan. 15.

Valued at the current price of $2,540, the Ethereum top holder supply chart above illustrates that the top 1,000 investors have added ETH coins worth $1.4 billion to their holdings in the last four days alone.

Intuitively, when the largest stakeholders increase their balances rapidly by hundreds of millions, it is interpreted as a strong bullish signal. Firstly, the buying trend among the largest stakeholders increases overall confidence within the cryptocurrencys ecosystem.

Given that large holders are often likely to hold longer than small-holder swing traders, this accumulation puts ETH in a prime position to score historic gains in the weeks ahead.

But more importantly, the timing of the recent buying spree suggests that investors are buying the rumor with optimism that Bitcoins ETF approval will increase the likelihood that ongoing ETH applications will also obtain a positive verdict from the SEC.

The Ethereum Dominance (ETH.D) chart further affirms this stance. Ethereum has cornered 14% more market share between Jan. 10 and Jan. 15, while Bitcoin price has declined at a nearly identical 15%.This suggests that speculative traders are selling the news on BTC, rapidly buying the rumor ahead of a possible spot ETH ETF approval verdict.

From the data points analyzed above, the large holder wallets accumulation and the rising ETH dominance suggest that the buy-the-rumor strategy is now widely in play in the Ethereum markets.

Given that Bitcoin had scored 97% gains in the build-up to the spot ETF approval verdict, a similar performance could put ETH in line to reach $5,000 in the instance of a positive outcome.

But in the short term, the ETH bulls will have to scale the $2,900 resistance to keep the momentum going. IntoTheBlocks Global In/Out of the Money chart, which highlights potential support/resistance points using the historical entry prices of current ETH holders, also supports this ETH prediction

It shows that with ETH prices currently trading above $2,500, 91% of all ETH holders are now in profit positions. With the ETH ETF approval process on the front burner, these holders could increasingly become less inclined to sell.

However, the 8.5 million Ethereum holders who bought 4.1 million ETH coins could pose significant resistance if they book early profits as prices approach their break-even point.

The bears could negate this bullish prediction if the ETH price unexpectedly retreats below $2,000. However, 7.9 million investors acquired 43.4 million ETH at the maximum price of $2,039.

Considering this is the largest cluster of ETH current holders, they will likely have enough in the tank to overturn such bearish pressure.

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Ethereum Price Could Reach $5k in 2024 If this Scenario Plays Out - crypto.news

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Ethereum Price Predictions: Can a Bitcoin ETF Take ETH to New Heights? – InvestorPlace

Source: Thaninee Chuensomchit / Shutterstock.com

Ethereum (ETH-USD) price predictions are a hot topic among crypto traders today as they reevaluate the potential of the token.

The big news that has crypto investors looking at ETH is the approval of several Bitcoin (BTC-USD) spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs). This has fans of Ethereum hopeful that ETH spot ETFs could be next for approval by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

While its unclear how the SEC will rule on Ethereum spot ETFs, we should have an answer sometime this year. The agency is set to tackle the subject in May, and that could be a major catalyst for the crypto.

With all of that said, it makes sense that crypto traders are looking at Ethereum price predictions today. Were helping with that with a look at some of the latest estimates below!

To put those price predictions in perspective, Ethereum is trading for $2,629.93 as of Thursday morning. Investors will also note that ETH is up 81.% over the prior 24-hour trading period as of this writing.

Investors looking for even more of the hottest market stories will want to keep reading!

We have all of the latest stock market news that traders need to know about on Thursday! A few examples include CricleIPOdetails and the latest news for Chesapeake Energy(NASDAQ:CHK) and Salesforce(NYSE:CRM) stock. You can catch up on these matters at the following links!

On the date of publication, William Whitedid not have (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article.The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.comPublishing Guidelines.

Article printed from InvestorPlace Media, https://investorplace.com/2024/01/ethereum-price-predictions-can-a-bitcoin-etf-take-eth-to-new-heights/.

2024 InvestorPlace Media, LLC

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Ethereum Price Predictions: Can a Bitcoin ETF Take ETH to New Heights? - InvestorPlace

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Why Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Dogecoin Are on the Move Higher Today – The Motley Fool

It's finally here. The long-awaited spot Bitcoin (BTC 0.96%) ETF has been approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), with 11 spot exchange-traded products officially getting the nod from regulators, after years of denials and a very hawkish regulatory stance. Since the Winkelvoss twins first proposed a spot Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) in 2013, investors have effectively been waiting for more than a decade for this product to be launched.

Bitcoin briefly surged to nearly $49,000 per token following this announcement, the highest level it's seen in almost two years. Ethereum (ETH 2.64%) and Dogecoin (DOGE 0.33%) saw similar spikes this morning, but have since given up some of these gains. As of 1 p.m. ET, Bitcoin is currently trading flat (having seen a big boost in its valuation yesterday prior to this announcement), but Ethereum and Dogecoin are 6.2% and 7.7% higher over the past 24 hours.

Let's dive into what this approval means for Bitcoin and other top-tier cryptocurrencies right now.

The potential impacts of this approval on Bitcoin are notable. A range of estimates for how much capital could flow into these ETFs has been put forward, but Standard Charter believes that number could be as high as $100 billion. That's a tremendous amount of money, and certainly could change the investing landscape for institutional funds looking to diversify their portfolios into these asset classes.

The SEC's official approval of a swath of ETFs could pave the way for future spot Ethereum exchange-traded products to be launched. That's a key driver of enthusiasm around the world's second-largest cryptocurrency, with Dogecoin rallying as it usually does in tandem with the sector, in a familiar higher-volatility fashion today.

The 11 spot Bitcoin ETFs approved by regulators include: Grayscale Bitcoin Trust, iShares Bitcoin Trust, Valkyrie Bitcoin Fund, Ark 21Shares Bitcoin Trust, Invesco Galaxy Bitcoin ETF, VanEck Bitcoin Trust, WisdomTree Bitcoin Trust, Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Trust, Bitwise Bitcoin ETF, Franklin Bitcoin ETF, and Hashdex Bitcoin ETF. These funds are now trading, and are seeing mixed performance.

Some of this divergence among Bitcoin exchange-traded funds can be linked to the rather wide range of fees offered by providers. Updated pricing provided by a number of funds ahead of today's approvals show many ETFs dropping fees substantially, to as low as 0.2%. Given the similar nature of each of these funds, that could indicate a race to the bottom in terms of management fees, which is great for investors.

Notably, crypto traders betting against Bitcoin have lost a substantial amount of money in the derivatives market. Estimates suggest closed short positions cost bears around $100 million.

The value these ETFs provide is notable. Bitcoin, as representative of crypto and digital assets as whole, gains legitimacy in the eyes of many investors. Additionally, investors now don't have to go through the trouble of setting up a wallet, researching how blockchain technology works, and jumping through what can be perceived as too many hoops to invest in crypto.

For institutional investors, these ETFs also provide liquidity, allowing for seamless integration within their portfolios, and allowing for things like model portfolios (which are investment products tailored to specific investors) to include some proportion of crypto. Being able to readily trade Bitcoin on the open markets is a big deal for asset managers, and I think the market is correct to assume this will lead to a tsunami of cash headed into this space.

Ethereum's prospects in terms of getting proposed spot ETFs approved may be more murky. Given the incredibly long lag between proposals and approvals for Bitcoin ETFs, these products could still have a ways to go. That said, these approvals do provide a blueprint for regulators looking at spot Ethereum ETFs, and given the SEC's rather favorable stance toward both Bitcoin and Ethereum, one might certainly surmise that the probability of future approvals has increased over the past 24 hours.

As is the case with many asset classes, investing in ETFs has its pros and cons. For those comfortable with buying Bitcoin directly, saving even 20 basis points each year can add up over the long term. That said, for those seeking simplicity and convenience, these products certainly look more intriguing than involving oneself in the rigmarole around buying and selling Bitcoin on exchanges. Personally, I think a race to the bottom in fees could make Bitcoin ETFs the preferred investing option for most investors, and I think these are certainly worth considering right now.

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Why Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Dogecoin Are on the Move Higher Today - The Motley Fool

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Ethereum And The Smart Contract Revolution Explained Ethereum’s Smart Contract Revolution The Crypto Basic – The Crypto Basic

Staying informed and educated about the latest developments in blockchain technology has become more important than ever, and that is precisely where The Crypto Basic plays a crucial role.

Dedicated to providing insightful and up-to-date information on all things crypto, we stand as a beacon for both novices and experts navigating the multifaceted panorama of cryptocurrencies.

In this comprehensive article, we delve deep into one of the most groundbreaking aspects of blockchain technology: Ethereums smart contract revolution; our aim is to demystify the concept of smart contracts, explain their significance in the Ethereum ecosystem, and explore how they are reshaping the world of digital transactions and contracts.

Join us on this informative journey with The Crypto Basic, your trusted source for crypto news, as we unravel the intricacies of Ethereum and its pioneering smart contract technology.

A smart contract is a revolutionary concept in the blockchain and cryptocurrency world; it is essentially a computer program stored on a blockchain that automatically executes, controls, or documents legally relevant events and actions according to the terms of a contract or an agreement.

The concept of smart contracts was proposed by Nick Szabo in 1994, long before Bitcoin was created; his idea was to use a decentralized ledger to store contracts, which would then self-execute and self-maintain, ensuring that all parties involved adhere to the contract terms.

Ethereum, launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and his team, was the first blockchain platform designed specifically for creating and executing smart contracts.

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Its not just a cryptocurrency like Bitcoin Ethereum is a platform for decentralized applications (dApps) where smart contracts are used as the building blocks; these contracts are written in Ethereums native programming language, Solidity, and are compiled into bytecode, which the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) can read and execute.

This technology has enabled Ethereum to become a leader in decentralized finance (DeFi) and other blockchain-based applications.

Ethereum smart contracts offer several key benefits:

They automatically execute the terms of the contract when predefined conditions are met.

Ethereum smart contracts are secure and immutable, reducing the risk of fraud and tampering.

By eliminating intermediaries, these contracts reduce transaction costs.

All transactions are visible on the blockchain, ensuring transparency and trust among parties.

Smart contracts automate processes and significantly reduce transaction times.

The core of Ethereums functionality lies in its ability to execute smart contracts securely this is achieved through the EVM, which serves as the runtime environment for smart contracts in Ethereum.

The EVM is isolated from the main network, providing a sandboxed environment where smart contracts can run without affecting other operations on the blockchain.

Security is a paramount concern in Ethereums design: the decentralized nature of the blockchain ensures that the contracts are resistant to hacking, and the use of cryptographic techniques provides additional layers of security; however, its crucial to note that the code quality of a smart contract determines its security, making thorough testing and auditing essential.

Ethereum smart contracts offer several advantages over traditional contracts:

They operate in a trustless environment, meaning parties do not need to trust each other for the contract to be executed.

Ethereums decentralized nature allows smart contracts to be accessed and executed from anywhere in the world.

The immutability of smart contracts minimizes the risk of fraud and manipulation.

They streamline business processes by automating tasks that are traditionally done manually.

The Ethereum price and its prediction are crucial for investors and users alike: as Ethereum continues to develop, especially with the upcoming transition to Ethereum 2.0, its value is expected to reflect the growing utility of its network.

The platforms ability to support a wide range of applications, including DeFi, Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), and various dApps, contributes to its standing in the crypto market; however, like all cryptocurrencies, Ethereums price is subject to market dynamics and can be volatile.

The future of Ethereum and its smart contracts looks promising with advancements like Ethereum 2.0, which aims to increase scalability, security, and sustainability, the platform is poised for further growth.

The ongoing development in areas such as DeFi and NFTs will likely continue to drive innovation and adoption of Ethereum smart contracts.

Additionally, the increasing interest from enterprises in blockchain technology suggests a bright future for Ethereum in various sectors beyond finance.

Ethereums contribution to the blockchain space, particularly through its smart contract technology, is undeniably transformative.

As a pioneer and leader in this field, Ethereum has set the standard for decentralized applications and has opened the door to a range of possibilities across various sectors from creating new financial instruments in DeFi to facilitating unique digital ownership through NFTs, Ethereums impact is widespread.

As the platform continues to develop, particularly with the anticipated Ethereum 2.0 upgrade, its role in shaping the future of blockchain technology and digital transactions is expected to grow even more significant.

For anyone interested in crypto news concerning the intersection of technology, finance, and innovation, Ethereums journey is one to watch closely, as always, via The Crypto Basic.

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Disclaimer: This content is informational and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author's personal opinions and do not reflect The Crypto Basics opinion. Readers are encouraged to do thorough research before making any investment decisions. The Crypto Basic is not responsible for any financial losses.

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Ethereum And The Smart Contract Revolution Explained Ethereum's Smart Contract Revolution The Crypto Basic - The Crypto Basic

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Ethereum Gearing Up for More Than 35% Surge, According to Top Analyst Heres the Timeline – The Daily Hodl

A closely followed crypto analyst says Ethereum (ETH) is setting up for a sizeable rally after successfully completing a long consolidation phase.

The pseudonymous crypto analyst known as Pentoshi tells his 742,000 followers on the social media platform X that he believes Ethereum is on its way to the $3,500 range, the upper level of a range he sees ETH trading in.

ETH.

Went to the mid-range of the new range we are in.

Year-long consolidation into mid.

Expect the higher range sometime Q1 early Q2.

At time of writing, ETH is trading for $2,511.

Pentoshi is also keeping an eye on ETHs biggest rival, Solana (SOL). According to the popular analyst, SOL, which had a dramatic run in the latter part of 2023, needs to consolidate for some time before making any new moves.

He pinpoints the $70 level as potential support for Solana.

SOL.

Think this is just going to take time to play out. So far following squiggly [line]. While there is support just below here where it bounced from, think there has to be at least 30 days of consolidation somewhere. Even if we dont see that $70 area.

SOL is trading for $95.49 at time of writing.

Looking at Bitcoin, Pentoshi says that the recent approval of the spot BTC exchange-traded funds (ETFs) is a huge win for the crypto markets.

Day one volume record already broken on the BTC ETF. What [does it] mean?

And what does it mean for other digital currencies?

Will give a few hints:1. Others in line for ETF 2. This is a great advertisement for the space. A ton of new eyes and entrants will come as a result 3. You arent bullish enough long term.

Bitcoin is trading at $42,625 at time of writing.

Generated Image: Midjourney

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Ethereum Gearing Up for More Than 35% Surge, According to Top Analyst Heres the Timeline - The Daily Hodl

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Ether price jumps 20% vs. Bitcoin as BlackRock boosts Ethereum ETF bets – Cointelegraph

Ether (ETH) has gained more than 20% against Bitcoin (BTC) in 72 hours, and traders see further upside to come.

Data from Cointelegraph Markets Pro and TradingView shows ETH/BTC rising from yearly lows of 0.0478 on Jan. 9 to hit 0.0587 on the day.

ETH/USD is also busy breaking out, seeing levels absent from the chart since mid-2022.

Against Bitcoin, a bullish divergence on the moving average convergence divergence (MACD)indicator on weekly timeframes is currently a topic of interest for popular traders.

The largest altcoin joins several other large-cap tokens in beating Bitcoins returns this week even as the latter celebrates the United States launch of spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

Thus, Ethers turnaround threatens to leave Bitcoin in the shade, asCointelegraph reported, despite BTC/USD hitting its highest levels since the December 2021 post-ETF announcement.

Buzz around ETH getting its own U.S. ETF debut later in the year appeared to drive bullish momentum.

Larry Fink, CEO of asset manager BlackRock, which this week released its Bitcoin ETF, told CNBC on the day that he sees value in a copycat move for Ether.

Larry Fink is already beating the Ethereum drum. One day after the Bitcoin launch, trader, analyst and podcast host Scott Melker, known as The Wolf Of All Streets, responded on X (formerly Twitter).

Considering what might come next, Michal van de Poppe, founder and CEO of trading firm MNTrading, saw Ether continuing to gain ground against Bitcoin as a part of the combined cryptocurrency market cap.

Related:Heres what happened in crypto today

The Bitcoin dominance looks topped out prior to the Bitcoin halving, he told X subscribers.

Van de Poppe suggested that attention may thus focus away from BTC/USD until after the block subsidy halving in April itself known as a price catalyst, albeit not an immediate one.

Meanwhile, part of the ETF narrativeenvisages a major Bitcoin supply squeeze as institutions seek exposure to BTC in the long run.

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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