On February 10, a solo Bitcoin miner achieved a remarkable feat by successfully mining block 883,181, earning a reward of approximately 3.15 Bitcoin (BTC), valued at over $300,000. This block contained 3,071 transactions and was mined by an individual identified as “unknown.”
Bitcoin miner Marshall Long noted that the miner utilized an implementation of the CKPOOL but appeared not to be directly associated with it. He speculated that the miner might have employed a Bitaxe device, which can be used for solo mining or in mining pools where computational power is combined to enhance the likelihood of solving a block.
The current Bitcoin network hashrate stands at approximately 788.86 million terahashes per second (TH/s), reflecting a slight decrease from the previous day’s 795.29 million TH/s but marking a significant 53% increase compared to the same period last year. A higher hashrate necessitates greater computing power, leading to increased energy costs and longer verification times, which pose challenges for solo miners attempting to validate blocks independently.
Solo miners solving blocks is a rare occurrence due to the substantial hashrate requirements. Typically, large mining firms such as Bit Digital, Riot Blockchain, and Marathon Digital dominate block validation, given their extensive hash power.
As of now, over 19 million of the 21 million total Bitcoin supply have been awarded to miners through block rewards. This event coincides with a recovery in the cryptocurrency markets, following a temporary decline after U.S. President Donald Trump announced tariffs on aluminum and steel, escalating trade tensions. Bitcoin’s price has rebounded, currently trading above $98,000, though it remains below its all-time high of over $109,000 reached on January 20.
This instance underscores the unpredictable nature of Bitcoin mining, where even individual miners with limited resources can occasionally achieve significant rewards.
Michael Saylor, co-founder and executive chairman of MicroStrategy, has resurfaced on social media after a week-long break, sharing a Bitcoin price chart in his first post since his absence.
On Feb. 10, Saylor posted a Bitcoin chart on X (formerly Twitter) without any accompanying text, marking his return after an unusual period of inactivity. Prior to this, his last post was on Feb. 3, when he reaffirmed MicroStrategy’s long-term Bitcoin investment strategy, stating, “We are not sellers.”
Saylor’s social media presence is typically consistent, making his week-long absence stand out. His return to X has sparked speculation among Bitcoin supporters, with some interpreting his silence and subsequent post as a reflection of market developments.
MicroStrategy’s Growing Bitcoin Holdings
Saylor has been one of Bitcoin’s most vocal advocates, with MicroStrategy continually increasing its Bitcoin holdings. As of its most recent purchase, the company owns over 190,000 BTC, cementing its position as the largest publicly traded corporate holder of the asset.
Bitcoin’s price has seen significant fluctuations in recent weeks, briefly surpassing $48,000 before experiencing a pullback. Despite the volatility, institutional interest in Bitcoin remains strong, fueled in part by the approval of spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the U.S.
While Saylor did not provide any direct commentary on Bitcoin’s price action in his latest post, his chart post aligns with ongoing discussions about Bitcoin’s trajectory. The cryptocurrency recently approached key resistance levels, with analysts closely monitoring whether it can sustain momentum in the face of macroeconomic uncertainty.
Community Reactions and Speculation
Saylor’s return to X was met with intrigue from the crypto community, with many questioning the significance of his week-long silence. Some users speculated that he may have been finalizing new Bitcoin acquisitions for MicroStrategy, while others suggested he was simply taking a break.
“Well, if Saylor is back, something big must be coming,” one user commented, hinting at the possibility of an impending announcement from MicroStrategy. Others interpreted his chart post as a bullish signal, viewing it as a subtle endorsement of Bitcoin’s long-term growth potential.
Saylor has long maintained that Bitcoin is the most reliable store of value, frequently criticizing traditional fiat currencies for their inflationary risks. His consistent messaging has made him one of the most influential figures in the cryptocurrency space.
MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin Strategy Remains Unchanged
Despite market fluctuations, Saylor and MicroStrategy have remained steadfast in their approach, continuing to accumulate Bitcoin as part of their corporate strategy. The company’s decision to hold rather than sell its BTC holdings underscores its confidence in Bitcoin’s long-term value proposition.
With Bitcoin’s price movement attracting increased attention from both institutional and retail investors, Saylor’s reappearance on social media has reignited discussions about the asset’s future trajectory. While his week-long absence remains unexplained, his return with a Bitcoin chart suggests that his focus on the cryptocurrency remains as strong as ever.
The University of Austin is set to establish a pioneering Bitcoin investment fund, reflecting the increasing integration of cryptocurrency within U.S. academic institutions. The university plans to allocate over $5 million to this fund, which will be part of its $200 million endowment.
Chun Lai, the foundation’s chief investment officer, emphasized the institution’s proactive approach, stating, “We don’t want to be left behind when their [cryptocurrency’s] potential materializes dramatically.”
This initiative follows recent developments in higher education’s engagement with digital assets. Notably, Emory University recently disclosed a $15 million investment in Bitcoin through Grayscale’s spot Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF), marking it as the first U.S. university endowment to report such holdings.
The University of Austin intends to maintain its Bitcoin holdings for a minimum of five years. Chad Thevenot, senior vice president for advancement at the university, explained the strategy: “We think there is long-term value there, just the same way that we might think there is long-term value in stocks or real estate.”
Beyond academia, cryptocurrencies are gaining traction among retirement funds, indicating a broader shift in financial strategies. A recent Bitget Research report revealed that up to 20% of Gen Z and Alpha are open to receiving pensions in cryptocurrency. Furthermore, 78% of respondents expressed greater trust in “alternative retirement savings options” over traditional pension funds, highlighting a significant move towards decentralized finance and blockchain-based solutions.
Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget, commented on this trend: “Younger generations are no longer content with one-size-fits-all pension systems. They’re looking for modern solutions that give them more control, flexibility, and transparency.”
As of January 2025, 40% of individuals in these younger demographics had already invested in cryptocurrency, underscoring the growing acceptance and integration of digital assets in various sectors.
The University of Austin’s initiative signifies a notable step in the evolving relationship between higher education and cryptocurrency investments, potentially setting a precedent for other institutions to follow.
Florida Republican Senator Joe Gruters has introduced a bill advocating for the state to invest a portion of its funds in Bitcoin and other digital assets as a hedge against inflation. The proposal aligns with a growing trend among U.S. states exploring cryptocurrency investments.
“The state should have access to tools such as Bitcoin to protect against inflation,” Gruters stated in the bill introduced to the Florida Senate on Feb. 7. He emphasized that inflation has significantly weakened the purchasing power of state-managed funds, making alternative investments necessary.
Institutional Bitcoin Adoption on the Rise
Gruters pointed to the growing acceptance of Bitcoin among major financial institutions as a key reason Florida should consider adding the digital asset to its investment strategy. He cited firms such as BlackRock, Fidelity, and Franklin Templeton, which have embraced Bitcoin as a “hedge against inflation” and recognized its rising value and increasing global acceptance.
To facilitate this, the bill proposes granting Florida’s chief financial officer, Jimmy Patronis, the authority to allocate Bitcoin investments across various state-managed funds, including the general reserve fund, the budget stabilization fund, and select agency trust funds.
However, the bill includes a safeguard to limit Bitcoin holdings in any account to a maximum of 10%. This threshold is notably higher than Wyoming’s recent proposal, which caps Bitcoin allocations at 3%.
The proposal follows a push from Patronis himself, who previously urged the Florida State Board of Administration to consider integrating Bitcoin into the state’s retirement fund investments. In an Oct. 29 letter, he highlighted Bitcoin’s potential to “diversify the state’s portfolio and provide a secure hedge against the volatility of other major asset classes.”
A Growing Trend Among U.S. States
Florida’s move comes amid a broader wave of state-level interest in Bitcoin reserves. Just one day before Gruters’ bill was introduced, Kentucky became the 16th U.S. state to propose legislation aimed at establishing a Bitcoin reserve.
Kentucky State Representative Theodore Joseph Roberts introduced KY HB376 on Feb. 6, a bill that, if passed, would authorize the State Investment Commission to allocate up to 10% of excess state reserves into digital assets, including Bitcoin.
With multiple states now considering Bitcoin as part of their investment portfolios, the push for cryptocurrency adoption at the government level continues to gain traction. Whether Florida’s bill moves forward remains to be seen, but the discussion around digital assets in state funds is unlikely to slow down anytime soon.
Bitcoin’s price is at risk of a sharp downturn if it slips below a critical support level, which could trigger the liquidation of over $1.3 billion in leveraged long positions.
The leading cryptocurrency recently fell below the key psychological threshold of $100,000 on Feb. 4, as market sentiment weakened following rising global trade tensions. The United States and China both announced new import tariffs, creating uncertainty in financial markets and impacting Bitcoin’s price movement.
Key Support Levels to Watch
To prevent a deeper correction, Bitcoin must maintain a weekly close above the $93,000 support level, according to Ryan Lee, chief analyst at Bitget Research.
“Watch for Bitcoin’s support at $90,500, $93,000,” Lee said. “Dropping below $90,500 might indicate bearish trends. These levels could shape market sentiment depending on how Bitcoin trades around them.”
If Bitcoin falls below $93,000, it could face significant volatility. Coinglass data suggests a drop under this level would result in the liquidation of nearly $1.3 billion in leveraged long positions across crypto exchanges.
Trade War Tensions and Bitcoin’s Role
Global trade conflicts are adding further uncertainty, with potential consequences for Bitcoin’s price trajectory. While Bitcoin is often considered a hedge against financial instability, escalating trade disputes between the U.S. and China could still push the asset below $90,000 in the short term.
However, the long-term impact remains uncertain. Some analysts argue that prolonged trade conflicts could weaken fiat currencies, ultimately driving investors toward Bitcoin as an alternative.
“This is what Bitcoin was originally intended for, to be a hedge against fiat devaluation and inflation,” said James Wo, CEO of venture capital firm DFG. “We might see Bitcoin ultimately benefiting from the flight away from weakened fiat currencies, pushing its price higher over time.”
Delays in U.S.-China Trade Talks Add to Market Uncertainty
Investors are now closely monitoring an upcoming meeting between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, which is expected to have significant implications for global trade policy and financial markets.
Trump was initially scheduled to meet Xi on Feb. 11, as confirmed by top trade adviser Peter Navarro during a Politico Live event on Feb. 4. However, later the same day, reports emerged that the meeting had been delayed, citing unnamed U.S. officials.
The uncertainty surrounding these trade negotiations is likely to influence Bitcoin’s price in the coming weeks. If talks remain unresolved or tensions escalate, market sentiment may shift further, leading to increased volatility in both traditional markets and the cryptocurrency sector.
For now, Bitcoin’s ability to stay above key support levels will be crucial in determining whether it experiences a deeper correction or stabilizes amid the ongoing macroeconomic challenges.
Missouri lawmakers have introduced a bill that would allow the state to invest in Bitcoin as part of a strategic reserve fund. House Bill 1217, filed by State Representative Phil Christofanelli, aims to establish the “Missouri Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Fund,” making it one of the first such initiatives at the state level in the United States.
The bill proposes allocating a portion of state funds to Bitcoin, citing its potential as a long-term store of value. If passed, it would authorize the Missouri State Treasurer to invest in Bitcoin on behalf of the state, with the goal of strengthening Missouri’s financial position amid concerns about inflation and economic instability.
Bitcoin as a Hedge Against Inflation
Christofanelli emphasized the importance of adopting Bitcoin to protect state funds from economic uncertainties.
“Bitcoin is the best-performing asset of the last decade, and I believe it has a role to play in the financial future of our state,” he said.
Supporters of the bill argue that Bitcoin’s decentralized nature and fixed supply make it a strong hedge against inflation compared to traditional financial assets. The initiative follows similar moves by private institutions and foreign governments that have begun accumulating Bitcoin as part of their financial strategy.
Managing the Bitcoin Reserve Fund
Under the proposed legislation, the Missouri State Treasurer would be responsible for managing the Bitcoin reserve, ensuring the state’s investments are secure. The bill outlines measures to regulate how Bitcoin is purchased, stored, and utilized to prevent excessive risk.
Christofanelli stressed that the fund is intended as a long-term investment, stating that Bitcoin’s historical performance makes it a viable asset for state reserves.
“We’ve seen private companies and even some foreign nations move toward Bitcoin reserves, and Missouri should be ahead of the curve,” he added.
Concerns Over Bitcoin Volatility
While the bill has gained support from Bitcoin advocates, critics have raised concerns over the cryptocurrency’s price volatility. Bitcoin’s value has fluctuated significantly over the years, prompting some lawmakers to question whether it is a stable investment for government funds.
Despite these concerns, Christofanelli and other proponents believe Bitcoin’s long-term trajectory justifies the investment. They argue that Bitcoin’s adoption continues to grow, and its value is expected to appreciate over time.
A Growing Trend Among U.S. States
Missouri’s proposal comes as more U.S. states explore ways to integrate Bitcoin into their financial policies. States like Texas and Wyoming have introduced legislation supporting cryptocurrency use, while Florida has considered allowing residents to pay taxes in Bitcoin.
If Missouri’s bill is approved, it could set a precedent for other states to follow, further legitimizing Bitcoin as a viable financial asset at the government level.
The bill is currently under review and will need to pass through the state legislature before becoming law. If successful, Missouri would become one of the first states in the U.S. to officially hold Bitcoin as part of its financial reserves.
Asset management giant Franklin Templeton has filed an application with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to launch a new cryptocurrency exchange-traded fund (ETF), signaling further institutional interest in the digital asset space. The proposed ETF, named the Franklin Templeton Digital Asset Index Fund, would track a mix of major cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH).
According to the filing, the fund aims to provide investors with broad exposure to the crypto market by investing in BTC and ETH, the two largest cryptocurrencies by market capitalization. If approved, the ETF would trade on the Cboe BZX Exchange, a leading U.S. equities and derivatives exchange.
The move comes amid growing acceptance of cryptocurrency-based investment products, with several financial institutions seeking regulatory approval for ETFs that track digital assets. Earlier this year, the SEC approved multiple spot Bitcoin ETFs, allowing investors to gain exposure to BTC without holding the asset directly. Franklin Templeton was among the firms that launched a spot Bitcoin ETF, joining competitors such as BlackRock and Fidelity.
Industry analysts view the filing as another step toward the mainstream adoption of digital assets in traditional finance. Franklin Templeton’s decision to include both Bitcoin and Ethereum in a single index fund suggests confidence in the long-term viability of these assets.
Despite the positive momentum, regulatory uncertainty remains a key challenge for crypto-related financial products. The SEC has historically been cautious in approving ETFs tied to cryptocurrencies, citing concerns about market manipulation and investor protection. However, the recent wave of Bitcoin ETF approvals has set a precedent that could improve the chances of Ethereum and multi-asset crypto ETFs gaining regulatory approval.
Franklin Templeton’s filing also highlights the growing competition among asset managers to bring crypto-based products to market. Firms like Grayscale, BlackRock, and Fidelity have already established themselves in the space, with Ethereum-focused ETF applications currently under SEC review. If Franklin Templeton’s index fund receives approval, it could attract investors looking for diversified exposure to the two largest cryptocurrencies.
While Bitcoin has long been considered the dominant digital asset, Ethereum’s growing role in decentralized finance (DeFi) and smart contracts has made it a key player in the crypto ecosystem. The inclusion of ETH in the fund suggests that Franklin Templeton recognizes the importance of Ethereum’s network beyond just price speculation.
Franklin Templeton has been expanding its presence in the digital asset industry in recent years. The firm has explored blockchain technology for traditional financial services and previously launched blockchain-based tokenized funds. By filing for a crypto index ETF, the asset manager is doubling down on its commitment to integrating digital assets into mainstream investment portfolios.
The SEC has yet to provide a timeline for its decision on Franklin Templeton’s latest ETF proposal. If approved, the fund could mark another milestone in the institutional adoption of cryptocurrency, giving investors a regulated and familiar way to gain exposure to Bitcoin and Ethereum through traditional financial markets.
The cryptocurrency market has seen a major shift in 2024, with Bitcoin’s dominance surging to 71%, leading analysts to declare the end of the latest altseason. As capital continues to flow into Bitcoin at the expense of alternative cryptocurrencies, many investors are now questioning the future of the altcoin market in the near term.
Bitcoin dominance—measuring BTC’s market cap as a percentage of the total crypto market—has steadily climbed, reinforcing its position as the preferred digital asset for investors. The shift has coincided with a broader sell-off in altcoins, many of which have failed to sustain their gains from earlier in the year.
Prominent crypto analyst Rekt Capital noted that “altseason is over,” pointing to the sharp decline in altcoin performance relative to Bitcoin. “The market is cycling back into Bitcoin, and historically, when BTC dominance nears these levels, altcoins struggle to gain traction,” the analyst stated.
The term “altseason” refers to periods when altcoins significantly outperform Bitcoin, typically driven by speculative enthusiasm and capital rotation. However, this trend often reverses as market conditions shift, leading investors to consolidate their holdings back into Bitcoin, widely considered the safest bet in the crypto space.
Historically, Bitcoin dominance has fluctuated depending on investor sentiment and macroeconomic conditions. During the last major altseason in 2021, BTC dominance fell below 40% as Ethereum and other altcoins saw significant gains. However, the current market cycle has seen Bitcoin reclaim a commanding share, reflecting cautious investor behavior amid regulatory uncertainty and shifting liquidity conditions.
Ethereum, the largest altcoin by market cap, has also struggled to keep pace with Bitcoin in recent weeks. While ETH remains a key player in the crypto ecosystem, its market share has declined as BTC continues to attract institutional interest, particularly following the approval of Bitcoin spot ETFs in the U.S. earlier this year.
The altcoin market, which includes thousands of smaller cryptocurrencies, has experienced increased volatility as Bitcoin continues its upward trajectory. Many smaller projects have faced sharp declines, leading some analysts to warn of a prolonged period of underperformance for altcoins.
Rekt Capital also highlighted that while individual altcoins may still see occasional breakouts, the overall trend suggests a prolonged phase of Bitcoin dominance. “Historically, when BTC dominance reaches these levels, it takes a significant shift in market structure to bring back altcoin momentum,” the analyst explained.
Bitcoin’s growing dominance is also tied to macroeconomic factors, including inflation concerns, central bank policies, and increased institutional adoption. With the next Bitcoin halving event scheduled for 2024, many investors anticipate continued strength for BTC, potentially extending the altcoin downturn.
Despite the current market trend, some traders remain optimistic that altcoins could see a resurgence later in the year if Bitcoin stabilizes and capital begins rotating back into smaller assets. However, for now, Bitcoin’s dominance remains firmly in place, signaling a more challenging environment for altcoin investors.
The cryptocurrency market witnessed a dramatic $10 billion liquidation event, with Bybit alone accounting for $1 billion in liquidated positions. The sudden market downturn led to a widespread sell-off, impacting traders who had leveraged positions across multiple exchanges.
Leverage trading in cryptocurrency allows investors to borrow funds to increase their position size, amplifying both potential gains and losses. However, it also carries significant risks, especially in highly volatile markets. When prices move sharply in the wrong direction, traders who use leverage may see their positions forcibly closed, or “liquidated,” as exchanges move to protect borrowed funds.
Bybit, one of the major cryptocurrency derivatives exchanges, saw over $1 billion in liquidations, reflecting the severity of the market crash. The broader crypto market experienced a total of $10 billion in liquidations, with Bitcoin and Ethereum leading the losses. The sharp declines came as unexpected price swings wiped out traders who were overleveraged.
“The scale of the liquidations shows just how fragile the market can be when leverage is involved,” noted a market analyst. High leverage levels can create a cascading effect, where initial sell-offs trigger further liquidations, leading to even greater price drops.
The incident highlights the risks associated with crypto leverage trading, which has become increasingly popular among retail and institutional investors. Many exchanges offer leverage of up to 100x, meaning traders can open positions far larger than their initial investment. While this can result in significant profits when the market moves in their favor, it also exposes traders to extreme losses if prices move against them.
A spokesperson for Bybit commented on the situation, stating that the platform had handled the high volatility efficiently. “Despite the unprecedented liquidations, our systems functioned smoothly, ensuring that risk management mechanisms were in place to protect traders and the broader market,” they said.
The impact of the liquidations was felt across the crypto industry, with Bitcoin dropping sharply before partially recovering. Ethereum and other major altcoins also saw significant price swings, as traders scrambled to manage their positions amid the turmoil.
Experts believe that the event underscores the need for caution when using leverage in crypto trading. “This kind of volatility is inherent in the crypto market, and leveraged traders need to be prepared for rapid price movements,” said a senior analyst at a trading firm.
Despite the massive liquidations, some market participants see potential buying opportunities. Historically, large liquidation events have been followed by price rebounds as the market stabilizes. However, uncertainty remains, especially with ongoing regulatory discussions and macroeconomic factors influencing investor sentiment.
The liquidation event serves as a reminder of the risks and rewards of leverage trading in crypto. While it can enhance profits, it can also lead to severe losses, particularly in a market known for its unpredictability. Traders are advised to use risk management strategies, such as stop-loss orders and lower leverage levels, to protect their investments from unexpected market swings.
Bitcoin has bounced back after a recent price dip, showing signs of recovery as a rare Relative Strength Index (RSI) pattern appears on the charts. The world’s largest cryptocurrency fell to multi-week lows before rebounding, with analysts closely watching the market for signs of a potential trend shift.
Bitcoin, often referred to as digital gold, is the first and most widely adopted cryptocurrency. Launched in 2009 by the pseudonymous Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin was designed as a decentralized form of money that operates without the need for a central authority. Over the years, it has become a store of value and a hedge against traditional financial risks, often reacting to macroeconomic trends and investor sentiment.
The recent price movement saw Bitcoin drop to its lowest level in several weeks, triggering concerns among traders. However, a rare RSI signal suggests that a possible reversal could be on the horizon. The RSI is a momentum indicator that measures whether an asset is overbought or oversold. When it falls to extreme lows, it can indicate that selling pressure may be exhausted and that a rebound is likely.
Market analysts have taken note of the unusual RSI reading, with some suggesting that Bitcoin could be gearing up for a recovery. “We are seeing a rare RSI structure, which historically has been a precursor to significant price reversals,” noted a trader. This has led to renewed optimism among investors who see the current dip as a buying opportunity.
Despite the recent decline, Bitcoin has a history of bouncing back from downturns, often fueled by institutional adoption and growing interest from retail investors. Over the past decade, Bitcoin has experienced multiple boom-and-bust cycles, with each dip eventually leading to new highs.
Traders are now watching key support and resistance levels to determine Bitcoin’s next move. “If Bitcoin manages to hold above its current support zone, we could see a strong recovery in the coming weeks,” said a crypto analyst. However, others remain cautious, citing ongoing market volatility and macroeconomic uncertainties.
Bitcoin’s price fluctuations are often influenced by broader economic factors, including inflation rates, interest rate policies, and investor sentiment in traditional markets. With central banks worldwide adjusting monetary policies, the crypto market remains highly sensitive to external financial events.
At the same time, Bitcoin’s long-term fundamentals remain strong. The upcoming Bitcoin halving event, expected in 2024, is another factor that could drive demand. The halving, which occurs approximately every four years, reduces the number of new Bitcoins entering circulation, historically leading to price increases due to reduced supply.
As the market digests the latest RSI signal and Bitcoin’s recent rebound, investors are closely monitoring price movements for confirmation of a sustained recovery. While short-term volatility remains a challenge, many believe that Bitcoin’s long-term outlook continues to be bullish, driven by increasing adoption and growing institutional interest.