The crypto world is abuzz as&nbsp;Donald Trump&#8216;s new Solana-based (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/sol/usd">SOL</a>) memecoin &#8220;OFFICIAL TRUMP&#8221; (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">TRUMP</a>), skyrocketed over 260% ahead of his inauguration on Jan. 20.



What Happened: Trump&#8217;s social media posts promoting the coin have sparked skepticism about the authenticity of the messages.



In a post on Saturday, Trump announced,&nbsp;"My NEW Official Trump Meme&nbsp;is HERE! It's time to&nbsp;celebrate everything we stand for:&nbsp;WINNING! Join my very special&nbsp;Trump Community. GET YOUR TRUMP&nbsp;NOW."



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">My NEW Official Trump Meme is HERE! It's time to celebrate everything we stand for: WINNING! Join my very special Trump Community. GET YOUR <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24TRUMP&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$TRUMP</a> NOW. Go to <a href="https://t.co/GX3ZxT5xyq">https://t.co/GX3ZxT5xyq</a> — Have Fun! <a href="https://t.co/flIKYyfBrC">pic.twitter.com/flIKYyfBrC</a>&mdash; Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1880446012168249386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



The memecoin, trading at $23.20, reached&nbsp;a market capitalization of more than $4 billion, according <a href="https://coinmarketcap.com/dexscan/solana/A8nPhpCJqtqHdqUk35Uj9Hy2YsGXFkCZGuNwvkD3k7VC/">to</a> data from Coinmarketcap. 



Crypto trader&nbsp;Edward Morra&nbsp;predicted potential market sell-offs, while commentator&nbsp;Daniel Got Hits&nbsp;expressed skepticism despite sensing legitimacy. Analyst&nbsp;Will Clemente&nbsp;noted Solana&#8217;s price surge of 4.12%, reaching $228, as investors rushed to buy TRUMP.



Why It Matters: Trump's return to the White House has sparked speculation about his potential impact on the cryptocurrency market.



Reports indicate that Trump plans to issue&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43073027/trump-plans-crypto-friendly-executive-orders-in-early-days-of-presidency-report">crypto-friendly executive orders</a>&nbsp;soon after taking office. These orders are expected to ease regulatory burdens on digital asset firms and promote cryptocurrency adoption.



Additionally, Trump is anticipated to establish a crypto advisory council, a concept he proposed earlier.



Moreover,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43062997/exclusive-how-donald-trumps-crypto-plans-will-bitcoin-xrp-solana">experts are divided</a>&nbsp;on the likelihood of immediate executive actions, though many are optimistic about the short-term market outlook.



The potential for Trump to mention cryptocurrency during his inauguration speech is also being closely watched, with a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43065423/donald-trump-to-mention-bitcoin-or-crypto-at-the-inauguration-polymarket-traders-say-theres-a-chance">31% chance</a>&nbsp;according to Polymarket traders.



Price Action: At the time of writing, TRUMP was trading at $23.20, gaining over 260% over the past 24 hours, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro data</a>.



Read Next:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/43073185/mark-zuckerberg-is-copying-elon-musks-playbook-amid-donald-trumps-comeback-but-chamath-palihapitiya-thinks-i">Mark Zuckerberg Is Copying Elon Musk&#8217;s Playbook Amid Donald Trump&#8217;s Comeback, But Chamath Palihapitiya Thinks It Is Opportunistic</a></li>
</ul>



Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

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Politics

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$SOL

'Official Trump' Memecoin Jumps Over 260% Ahead Of President-Elect's White House Inauguration: Market Cap Reaches Whopping $4 Billion Within 8 Hours Of Launch

TikTok has announced that it will cease operations in the U.S. on Sunday unless the Biden administration provides assurances to tech giants like Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Alphabet Inc.'s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google that they will not face legal repercussions once a ban on the app takes effect.



What Happened: TikTok&#8217;s statement was released&nbsp;hours after the Supreme Court&nbsp;upheld a law banning the app in the U.S. on national security grounds.



This decision, if enforced, would affect the platform&#8217;s 170 million American users and put the app&#8217;s future in the hands of President-elect Donald Trump, who has promised to save TikTok after his inauguration on Monday.



See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42931704/tiktok-users-call-on-trump-to-deliver-immediately-on-his-promise-to-save-app-from-us-ban-we-dont-need-the-supreme-court-to" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TikTok Users Call On Trump To ‘Deliver Immediately' On His ‘Promise' To Save App From US Ban: ‘We Don't Need The Supreme Court To…'</a>



"Unless the Biden Administration immediately provides a definitive statement to satisfy the most critical service providers assuring non-enforcement, unfortunately TikTok will be forced to go dark on January 19," TikTok said in a statement.



The law, passed last year with bipartisan support and signed by President Biden, could result in hefty fines for companies like Apple, Google, and&nbsp;Oracle&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>)&nbsp;if they continue to provide&nbsp;services to TikTok after the&nbsp;ban takes effect.



Subscribe to the&nbsp;<a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a>&nbsp;to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.



Despite the Supreme Court&#8217;s decision, a growing number of lawmakers who initially voted for the ban are now advocating for TikTok&#8217;s continued operation in the U.S.



ByteDance, TikTok&#8217;s Chinese parent company, has made little progress in selling the app before the Sunday deadline. However, the app&#8217;s shutdown might be temporary as President Trump has indicated&nbsp;plans to take action to&nbsp;save the app.



Why It Matters: TikTok&#8217;s CEO Shou Zi Chew is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/43047509/tiktok-ceo-shou-chew-to-join-trumps-inauguration-alongside-musk-bezos-and-zuckerberg-amid-looming-us-ban-report">set to attend</a> President-elect Trump's inauguration.



This comes amid the Supreme Court&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/43060894/supreme-court-upholds-tiktok-ban-ahead-of-trumps-inauguration">decision to uphold the TikTok ban</a>. The ban, if enforced, could potentially free up billions in ad revenue and user engagement, with companies like Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/43072303/mark-zuckerberg-stands-to-gain-from-tiktoks-us-ban-analysis-shows-meta-could-reap-billions-in-ad-revenue">standing to gain significantly</a>.



Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link</a>.



Read Next:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42931807/t-mobile-sued-over-massive-data-breach-impacting-79-million-americans-sensitive-information-included-names-addresses-and-more">T-Mobile Sued Over Massive Data Breach Impacting 79 Million Americans: Sensitive Information Included Names, Addresses, And More</a></li>
</ul>



Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Social Media

Tech

AAPL

GOOG

GOOGL

ORCL

TikTok Says It Will Be 'Forced To Go Dark' In US On Jan 19 After Supreme Court Upholds Ban

A benign December inflation report was all it took to ignite another strong rally on Wall Street, with major indices delivering their best weekly performance since the post-election <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/01/43064144/wall-street-roars-ahead-of-trumps-inauguration-intel-rallies-bitcoin-tops-105000-whats-driving-markets-friday">surge in early November.</a>



Heading into the week, markets were gripped by concerns over inflation and interest rates, pricing in just one rate cut by year-end while the 30-year Treasury <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/01/42990155/5-yields-fuel-demand-treasury-etfs-despite-bond-market-pain-relief-rally">yield hovered around 5%.</a>



Fresh data showed inflation rising for the third straight month up to 2.9%, yet right in line with forecasts. A softer core reading — excluding food and energy — gave traders hope that the Fed might cut rates at <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/01/43003047/stocks-rise-on-core-inflation-slowdown-banks-rally-after-strong-q4-earnings-treasury-yields-plummet">least twice this year.</a>



Adding fuel to the bull run, major banks kicked off the fourth-quarter 2024 earnings season with blowout results.



Financial stocks — as tracked by the Financials Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLF#NYSE">XLF</a>) — jumped 6% for the week, their best <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/01/43007354/big-banks-crush-q4-earnings-forecasts-financial-stocks-set-for-biggest-1-day-rally-since-trumps-election">rally since October 2023.</a> Goldman Sachs Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>) led the charge among big players, surging 11% to hit record highs.



In commodities, oil briefly touched $80 per barrel before retreating after the approval of a ceasefire deal in Gaza <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/01/43055426/oil-dips-as-israeli-security-cabinet-approves-gaza-ceasefire-yet-experts-warn-red-sea-risks-persist">between Israel and Hamas.</a>



In cryptocurrency markets, Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) continues to defy gravity, surpassing $100,000, fueled by optimism over crypto-friendly policies under the incoming Donald Trump administration.



Trump will officially take office as the 47th U.S. president on Monday.



You might have missed&#8230;



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Bessent&#8217;s Economic Vision</h1>



Scott Bessent, Trump's Treasury secretary nominee, laid out his economic agenda before the Senate, emphasizing tax cuts, deregulation, energy expansion and tougher trade policies — particularly targeting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/43041207/5-things-investors-need-to-know-about-scott-bessents-economic-policies-as-he-faces-senate-grilling-for-treasury-job">China, Russia and Iran.</a>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Bitcoin Reserve Talks</h1>



Reports suggest Trump is open to the idea of a U.S. strategic Bitcoin reserve, a move that could reshape fiscal policy and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43035888/donald-trump-reportedly-open-to-us-crypto-reserve-as-bitcoin-reserve-chatter-gathers-steam">spark industrywide debate.</a>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Detroit EV Surge</h1>



Ford Motor Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>) and General Motors Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GM#NYSE">GM</a>) reported a sharp rise in electric vehicle sales, with the Mustang Mach-E and Cadillac Lyriq emerging <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/01/42978236/us-electric-vehicle-sales-hit-record-1-3-million-units-in-2024-despite-tesla-declines-top-10-bestselling-models-list">as top sellers in 2024.</a>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">TikTok Ban Upheld</h1>



The U.S. Supreme Court upheld a law forcing ByteDance to sell the TikTok app by Jan. 19 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/43060894/supreme-court-upholds-tiktok-ban-ahead-of-trumps-inauguration">over national security concerns.</a> Trump could attempt to roll back the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/43018125/trump-considers-executive-order-to-save-tiktok-from-being-banned-in-4-days">ban after taking office.</a>



Read Now: 



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43062563/imf-lifts-us-growth-outlook-betting-markets-raise-odds-on-trump-led-economic-boom">IMF Lifts US Growth Outlook, Betting Markets Raise Odds On Trump-Led Economic Boom</a></li>
</ul>



Photo: Shutterstock

Trading Ideas

$BTC

Wall Street Rallies As Inflation Fears Recede, Banks Smash Earnings, Bitcoin Reclaims $100,000: This Week In The Markets

President Joe Biden prioritized <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/25/01/43054504/biden-commutes-sentences-of-nearly-2500-convicted-of-non-violent-drug-offenses-no-mention-of-cannabis-prisoners">freeing non-violent drug offenders</a> during his final few days in the White House, but TikTok? That's President-elect Donald Trump's problem now. 



According to the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-trump-executive-order-1e95d9836bf6f8c0c245ed1c3234d968">Associated Press</a>, Biden has no intention of enforcing the ban, which takes effect on his last full day in office, Jan. 19, and one day <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42995328/trump-inauguration-from-elon-musk-jeff-bezos-to-barack-obama-george-bush-and-bill-clinton-who-all-will-attend">before Trump&#8217;s inauguration</a>.



With a deadline looming, the app's fate lands in the hands of the so-called People's Bid for TikTok—backed by none other than Kevin O'Leary of &#8220;Shark Tank&#8221; and billionaire Frank McCourt. Apparently, TikTok's U.S. assets are still up for grabs, but no word yet on the price tag or whether a deal can realistically get done <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/43060894/supreme-court-upholds-tiktok-ban-ahead-of-trumps-inauguration">in a few days</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bankruptcy Block</h2>



Joann Inc. is stitching together a bankruptcy plan for the second time within 12 months. The Ohio-based fabric and crafts retailer is seeking a buyer for its portfolio of some 800 stores. 



Gordon Brothers Retail Partners emerged as the &#8220;stalking horse&#8221; bidder, but Joann remains hopeful for better offers—perhaps from someone who knows how to thread the needle.



Previously, the 82-year-old retailer was under the stewardship of private equity firm Leonard Green &amp; Partners, which acquired it via a $1.6 billion leveraged buyout in 2011. The firm buried the company under a pile of debt (<a href="https://wolfstreet.com/2024/03/18/brick-and-mortar-meltdown-fells-another-retailer-joann-inc-files-for-bankruptcy-3-years-after-ipo/">reportedly</a> $921 million in long-term debt as of Oct. 31, 2020) and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/21/03/20048728/ipo-preview-roblox-coupang-joann-lead-busy-week-of-offerings">sent it public in 2021</a>. 



Joann went private again in <a href="https://apnews.com/article/joann-bankruptcy-chapter-11-filing-75093d4032907c59a45e472dd4e23229">March</a> 2024 while under Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The company managed to reduce its $1 billion total debt by about $500 million at the time.



Despite efforts to save itself last year, Joann is joining the growing quilt of recent retail casualties: Party City, Big Lots, LL Flooring, The Body Shop and The Container Store <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/24/12/42710619/deal-dispatch-party-city-wraps-big-lots-goes-bust-container-store-continues">to name a few</a>.



Kirkland &amp; Ellis is handling legal matters, while Centerview Partners LLC offers financial advice. Alvarez &amp; Marsal North America, LLC is overseeing the restructuring process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New On The Block</h2>



<ul>
<li>Investment firm KKR &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KKR#NYSE">KKR</a>) hired Goldman Sachs (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>) to run an auction for its minority stake in Philippine fintech company Maya, Reuters reported. </li>



<li>New York-headquartered KKR owns more than 20% of Maya and the potential sale, if it goes through, could value Maya at more than $2 billion, one of the sources said.</li>



<li>DuPont de Nemours, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DD#NYSE">DD</a>) is looking to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/25/01/43028181/chemical-company-dupont-electronics-business-separation-retains-water-business">jettison its electronics business</a>. The Wilmington, Delaware-based company expects the transaction to be completed by Nov. 1. DuPont also decided to retain its water business after evaluating strategic alternatives.</li>



<li>Ingevity Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NGVT#NYSE">NGVT</a>) is shopping its Performance Chemicals Industrial Specialties segment, which includes divesting parts of its North Charleston, South Carolina site. The company hopes to improve earnings cash flow and conclude the review process by year-end. Whether a transaction comes about <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/43027745/ingevity-explores-strategic-options-for-performance-chemicals-segment-to-strengthen-portfolio-projects-fy24-revenue-at-1-40-billion">remains to be seen</a>. </li>



<li>S&amp;W Seed Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SANW#NASDAQ">SANW</a>) is up for sale. It&#8217;s also considering a merger or recapitalization as part of a larger strategic review. The Longmont, Colorado-based company has already sold its Australia subsidiary. &#8220;We continue to support all initiatives that optimize shareholder value and will consider the full range of potential strategic alternatives to ensure S&amp;W Seed is best positioned for future success,&#8221; chairman Alan Willits said.</li>
</ul>



See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43046722/starship-explodes-during-flight-test-elon-musk-says-success-is-uncertain-but-entertainment-is-guaranteed">Starship Explodes During Flight Test, Elon Musk Says: &#8216;Success Is Uncertain, But Entertainment Is Guaranteed!&#8217;</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Updates From The Block</h2>



<ul>
<li>Lourenco Goncalves raised eyebrows during a Monday press conference. According to <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-14/cliffs-ceo-rips-evil-japan-and-doubles-down-on-america-first">Bloomberg</a>, the CEO of Cleveland-Cliffs Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CLF#NYSE">CLF</a>) called Japan, a U.S. ally, &#8220;evil&#8221; and accused it of teaching China harmful practices like dumping and overproduction. His comments came as Cleveland-Cliffs eyes a new bid for U.S. Steel (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/X#NYSE">X</a>), following Biden&#8217;s decision to block Nippon Steel&#8216;s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NPSCY#OTC">NPSCY</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/01/42787508/biden-blocks-14-9b-us-steel-takeover-shares-plunge">$14 billion acquisition attempt</a>. While positioning his company as a potential buyer, Goncalves&#8217; rhetoric escalated tensions within the steel industry. Nippon is now looking to Trump to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42994950/nippon-steel-eyes-trump-administration-to-revive-15b-us-steel-deal-blocked-by-biden-well-do-whatever-it-takes">help close the deal</a>. </li>



<li>T-Mobile (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TMUS#NASDAQ">TMUS</a>) will buy Vistar Media for $600 million. The telecom company expects the deal to strengthen its advertising business, Reuters reported. </li>
</ul>



Deals in the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors piled up this week. Here&#8217;s a sample of Benzinga&#8217;s coverage:



<ul>
<li>Biogen Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BIIB#NASDAQ">BIIB</a>) submitted an unsolicited bid to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Sage Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SAGE#NASDAQ">SAGE</a>) that it does not already own <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42957657/biogens-push-for-sage-therapeutics-could-strengthen-its-neurology-strategy-analysts-say">for $7.22 per share</a>. Goldman Sachs analyst Salveen Richter believes the proposal makes strategic sense, considering the financial success of the Zurzuvae launch for postpartum depression (PPD).</li>



<li>GSK plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GSK#NYSE">GSK</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42950025/gsk-to-buy-us-based-stomach-cancer-drug-developer-for-over-1-billion">agreed to acquire</a> IDRx, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company focused on precision therapeutics for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), for $1 billion. The deal may require an additional $150 million from GSK after certain regulatory approval milestones. </li>



<li>Eli Lilly (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>) scooped up Scorpion Therapeutics&#8217; early-stage <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42949261/eli-lilly-scoops-up-scorpion-therapeutics-early-stage-cancer-program-for-25-billion">cancer program for $2.5 billion</a>. </li>



<li>Like Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMY#NYSE">BMY</a>) and AbbVie Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>), Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>) is seeking to bolster its neuropsychiatric portfolio<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/01/42948170/like-bristol-myers-squibb-and-abbvie-johnson-johnson-seeks-to-bolster-neuropsychiatric-portfolio-with-15-billion-deal"> with a $15 billion deal</a></li>



<li>Crown Laboratories (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CCK#NYSE">CCK</a>) offered to acquire all outstanding common shares of Revance Therapeutics (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RVNC#NASDAQ">RVNC</a>) at $3.10 per share.</li>



<li>Salarius Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SLRX#NASDAQ">SLRX</a>) agreed to a deal with Decoy Therapeutics, a preclinical biotech focused on peptide conjugate therapeutics. The merged entity will target unmet needs in respiratory diseases and GI oncology.</li>



<li>Lantheus Holdings Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LNTH#NASDAQ">LNTH</a>) strengthens its radiopharmaceutical position with<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/25/01/42937565/lantheus-strengthens-radiopharmaceutical-leadership-with-350m-acquisition-of-life-molecular-imaging"> $350 million acquisition of Life Molecular Imaging</a>.</li>
</ul>



For last week&#8217;s edition of Deal Dispatch, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/ma/25/01/42921113/deal-dispatch-td-bank-charles-schwab-eyenovia-smart-share-hit-auction-block">click here</a>.



Now Read:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/25/01/43055513/eccentric-billionaire-howard-hughes-former-miami-estate-on-market-for-55-5-million">Eccentric Billionaire, Legendary Filmmaker Howard Hughes&#8217; Former Miami Estate On Market For $55.5 Million</a></li>
</ul>



Image created with a photo from Shutterstock.

ABBV

BIIB

LNTH

NGVT

NPSCY

RVNC

SAGE

SANW

SLRX

TMUS

Deal Dispatch: Biden Punts TikTok Ban To Trump, Plus Another Legacy Retailer Goes Bankrupt

Despite his well-known disdain for cryptocurrencies, the &#8216;Oracle Of Omaha&#8217; &#8211; Warren Buffett&#8216;s Berkshire Hathaway Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) has invested in a company that supports the cryptocurrency market and has soared by 27.43% in 2024.



What Happened: Buffett&#8217;s Berkshire had <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/05/39093145/berkshire-hathaway-profits-f[%E2%80%A6]to-despite-warren-buffets-stance-on-not-buying-even-if-all-w">initially</a> invested $500 million in a Series G funding round and subsequently another $250 million in Nu Holdings Ltd (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NU#NYSE">NU</a>). 



Nu, a Brazilian digital banking company launched its cryptocurrency platform, Nubank Cripto, in 2022. Berkshire has since added 0.3% of this company&#8217;s shares in 18 months as of the quarter ended Sept. 30, 2024. 



Berkshire increased its holdings from 0.1% in the fourth quarter that ended Dec. 31, 2022, to 0.4% in the third quarter of fiscal 2025.



Initially supporting Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>), Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>), and Polygon (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/matic/usd">MATIC</a>), the platform, Nubank Cripto, now includes Uniswap (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/uni/usd">UNI</a>) and Chainlink (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/link/usd">LINK</a>). It allows users to send, receive, and convert cryptocurrencies, including stablecoins like USD Coin.



In 2018, during Berkshire Hathaway Inc.&#8217;s annual <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/03/37513063/warren-buffett-says-he-wouldnt-pay-25-for-all-the-bitcoin-in-the-world-he-considers-crypto-rat-poiso">shareholder</a> meeting, Buffett famously described Bitcoin as &#8220;probably rat poison squared&#8221;. On the contrary, Berkshire has profited substantially through its investment in Nu.



See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42908280/intel-aims-for-cpu-market-share-growth-ai-breakthroughs-citi-reiterates-neutral-as-new-ceo-appointment-expected-in-coming-months">Intel Stock Has Fallen Over 58% In 1 Year, But Citi Maintains &#8216;Neutral&#8217; Rating On Expected Replacement Of Pat Gelsinger In A &#8216;Couple Of Months&#8217;</a> 



Why It Matters: According to its 13F filings, Berkshire held 86.438 million shares of Nu valued at $1.179 billion, as of the end of the third quarter.



With data for the fourth quarter not available at the time of writing, assuming that Berkshire&#8217;s holdings in Nu don&#8217;t change during this period, the value of these shares would have declined by 24.10% as of the quarter ended Dec. 31, when the share price was $10.36, as compared to $13.65 on Sept. 30, 2024.



However, Nu&#8217;s shares have risen by 27.43% in 2024, according to the data compiled by <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13074755/nu-in-2024-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-730370" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13074755/nu-in-2024-1024x576.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13074755/nu-in-2024-300x169.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13074755/nu-in-2024-768x432.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13074755/nu-in-2024-1536x864.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13074755/nu-in-2024.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>



While Nu offers cryptocurrency services, one can argue in favor of Buffett that it&#8217;s not primarily a cryptocurrency company.



However, back in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/03/37513063/warren-buffett-says-he-wouldnt-pay-25-for-all-the-bitcoin-in-the-world-he-considers-crypto-rat-poiso">2018</a>, Buffett also said &#8220;In terms of cryptocurrencies generally, I can say almost with certainty that they will come to a bad ending.&#8221;



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/25/01/42938954/michael-saylors-microstrategy-faces-risk-if-mstrs-0-convertible-bond-lenders-recall-non-recourse-loans-due-to-covenant-breach-heres-what-it-means-for-investors">Michael Saylor&#8217;s MicroStrategy Faces Risk If MSTR&#8217;s 0% Convertible Bond Lenders Recall Non-Recourse Loans Due To Covenant Breach: Here&#8217;s What It Means For Investors</a></li>
</ul>



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Equities

Financing

Management

$ETH

$LINK

$MATIC

$UNI

LINK

Warren Buffett Openly Called Bitcoin A 'Rat Poison' In 2018. 7 Years Later, He Is Invested In This Crypto-Linked Stock Which Soared 27% In 2024

Chamath Palihapitiya weighed in on the actions of Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk amid the political resurgence of Donald Trump.



Palihapitiya suggests that while Musk&#8217;s decisions were driven by ethical considerations, Zuckerberg&#8217;s moves appear to be opportunistic.



What Happened: Palihapitiya remarked that Musk&#8217;s actions were made during a time when they were unpopular, indicating a moral stance rather than a focus on financial gain.



"Now the winds are blowing in a different direction, and I do think it&#8217;s the value-maximizing function," Palihapitiya said.



In contrast, he described Zuckerberg&#8217;s recent decisions as opportunistic, suggesting they align with the current favorable political climate following Trump&#8217;s victory in early November.



"Now that those winds have changed, and it&#8217;s clear Trump won in early November, the decisions you make in January are more reflective of the new conditions on the field coming into the inauguration."



Palihapitiya&#8217;s comments highlight a perceived shift in strategy by Zuckerberg, who seems to be adapting to the evolving political environment.



On the other hand, he believes Musk's decisions are geared towards maximizing benefits for humanity as a whole, rather than the shareholders of his companies.



"I don't think any other CEO leads this way. I do think Mark's a good person… Elon is different, and it creates an expectation that maybe we'll get that from everybody else," Palihapitiya added.



Why It Matters: This commentary comes in the wake of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42962037/elon-musk-urges-mark-zuckerberg-to-release-facebook-files-calls-it-good-after-meta-adopts-xs-communi">recent developments</a>&nbsp;where Musk urged Zuckerberg to release Meta&#8217;s content moderation communications with government officials.



This call for transparency followed Meta&#8217;s adoption of a Community Notes-like feature, which Musk supported.



The feature, however, will not <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43047212/metas-community-notes-to-exempt-paid-ads-leaving-marketers-puzzled-about-organic-content-risks-report">apply to paid advertisements</a>, leaving marketers puzzled about organic content risks.



Additionally,&nbsp;Mark Zuckerberg&nbsp;recently praised former Meta COO&nbsp;Sheryl Sandberg&nbsp;amid criticism of Meta&#8217;s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) program.



In a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43073009/mark-zuckerberg-lauds-sheryl-sandberg-amid-blame-for-metas-dei-program-she-did-amazing-work">post on Threads</a>, Zuckerberg commended Sandberg for her contributions, despite reports suggesting he blamed her for the DEI program&#8217;s shortcomings.



These actions and statements reflect the complex dynamics at play as tech leaders navigate the shifting political and social landscape.



The contrasting approaches of Musk and Zuckerberg underscore the varied motivations and strategies employed by influential figures in the tech industry.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="LA&#039;s Wildfire Disaster, Zuck Flips on Free Speech, Why Trump Wants Greenland" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/is1QAZ7ShRU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Consumer Tech coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link</a>.



Read Next:



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43073056/tiktok-says-it-will-be-forced-to-go-dark-in-us-on-jan-19-after-supreme-court-upholds-ban">TikTok Says It Will Be &#8216;Forced To Go Dark&#8217; In US On Jan 19 After Supreme Court Upholds Ban</a></li>
</ul>



Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.



Photos courtesy: Shutterstock

Mark Zuckerberg Is Copying Elon Musk's Playbook Amid Donald Trump's Comeback, But Chamath Palihapitiya Thinks It Is Opportunistic

On Friday, Cathie Wood-led Ark Invest made significant trades involving Tempus AI Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEM#NASDAQ">TEM</a>), CRISPR Therapeutics AG (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRSP#NASDAQ">CRSP</a>), UiPath Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PATH#NYSE">PATH</a>), Roblox Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RBLX#NYSE">RBLX</a>), Reddit Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RDDT#NYSE">RDDT</a>), Accolade Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ACCD#NASDAQ">ACCD</a>), and Ibotta Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBTA#NYSE">IBTA</a>).



The Tempus AI Trade



Ark Invest&#8217;s Ark Genomic Revolution ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARKG#BATS">ARKG</a>) and Ark Innovation ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARKK#NYSE">ARKK</a>) funds made substantial purchases of Tempus AI shares. The ARKG fund acquired 27,188 shares, while the ARKK fund bought a whopping 159,344 shares.



Based on the closing price of $35.15, the total value of these trades is approximately $6.57 million. This move aligns with Ark Invest&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42966790/cathie-woods-ark-invest-trims-palantir-again-as-peter-thiel-co-founded-firms-stock-tumbles-nearly-15-in-2025">recent trend of investing</a> in AI-driven companies.



The CRSP Trade



Ark Invest&#8217;s ARKG and ARKK funds also bought shares of CRISPR Therapeutics. The ARKG fund purchased 21,730 shares, while the ARKK fund added 125,690 shares.



Given the closing price of $40.53, the total value of these trades is approximately $5.96 million.



The PATH, RBLX, and RDDT Trades



On the other hand, Ark Invest sold shares of UiPath, Roblox, and Reddit. The ARKK fund offloaded 199,224 shares of UiPath, and 148,591 shares of Roblox, and the ARKW fund sold 5,215 shares of Reddit.



These sales indicate a shift in Ark Invest&#8217;s portfolio strategy.



Other Key Trades:



<ul>
<li>Ibotta Inc.: Ark Invest&#8217;s Ark Fintech Innovation ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARKF#NYSE">ARKF</a>) fund bought 4,364 shares of Ibotta.</li>



<li>Accolade Inc.: The ARKG fund sold 284,775 shares of Accolade.</li>
</ul>



Read Next:



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42966790/cathie-woods-ark-invest-trims-palantir-again-as-peter-thiel-co-founded-firms-stock-tumbles-nearly-15-in-2025">Cathie Wood's Ark Invest Trims Palantir Again As Peter Thiel Co-Founded Firm's Stock Tumbles Nearly 15% In First 2 Weeks Of 2025</a></li>
</ul>



Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.



Image via Benzinga YouTube and Unsplash

ETFs

ACCD

ARKF

ARKG

ARKK

CRSP

IBTA

PATH

RBLX

RDDT

Cathie Wood's Ark Invest Is Betting Big On This AI Darling And No It's Not Nvidia

Mark Cuban is leaving no room for doubt when it comes to Kevin O'Leary's plan to buy TikTok's U.S. operations. The billionaire investor and &#8220;Shark Tank&#8221; star <a href="https://x.com/mcuban/status/1879028970726826132">took to X</a> to critique the bid, calling it a long shot and warning O'Leary about the risks involved. Cuban's message to him is to think twice before diving into this deal, especially without a clear path to success.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">O'Leary and McCourt Make Their Move</h2>



Frank McCourt, the former owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, has teamed up with Kevin O'Leary to buy TikTok from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/25/01/42834240/kevin-oleary-joins-the-peoples-bid-for-tiktok-as-pending-ban-looms">Dubbed The People's Bid for TikTok,</a> their proposal aims to acquire TikTok's U.S. assets, rebuild the app with American-designed technology and ensure user privacy.



Don't Miss:



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<li>Maker of the $60,000 foldable home has 3 factory buildings, 600+ houses built, and big plans to solve housing —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/boxabl"> you can become an investor for $0.80 per share today.</a></li>



<li>Built on the trusted network of Fortune 500 companies, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/web3-enabler-the-most-boring-blockchain-company-partners-with-salesforce">this blockchain company partners with Salesforce to uproot lengthy and expensive B2B transactions, and you can invest with just $100.</a></li>
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The bid comes at a critical time. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42919029/supreme-court-hears-tiktok-oral-arguments">The Supreme Court is set to review</a> a U.S. law that could ban TikTok starting Jan. 19, 2025, unless it's sold. However, ByteDance has repeatedly said it's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/42994923/mrbeast-discussing-buying-tiktok-with-billionaires-to-prevent-us-shutdown-lets-see-if-we-can-pull-this-off">not interested in selling TikTok – </a>and experts are also questioning whether the platform can survive without its famous algorithm, which is excluded from any potential sale due to Chinese export controls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cuban's Concerns</h2>



Mark Cuban doesn't see O'Leary's plan working out. In his X thread, Cuban predicted that O'Leary would tell ByteDance and its bankers to accept the deal as a way to avoid TikTok being shut down in the U.S. However, Cuban doubts the viability of such a move, highlighting several major obstacles:



<ul>
<li>Ad revenue isn't what it used to be: Cuban argued that O'Leary's plan to rely on advertising revenue to sustain TikTok's U.S. operations isn't realistic in today's market.</li>



<li>User retention will be tough: Keeping users engaged without the original TikTok algorithm will be a significant challenge, especially with other platforms eager to poach its audience.</li>



<li>ByteDance likely won't sell: Cuban doubts ByteDance would agree to sell TikTok, calling it a $300 billion asset that wouldn't be off-loaded for a fraction of its value.</li>



<li>Competitors are ready to pounce: With every major platform eyeing TikTok's users, rebuilding from scratch will be an uphill battle.</li>
</ul>



Trending: ‘Scrolling To UBI' — Deloitte's #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">You can invest today for just $0.26/share with a $1000 minimum.</a>



Cuban ended his thread with a stark warning: "When you sit at the negotiating table, you always look for the sucker. If you don't see one …"



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Risky Plan to Rebuild TikTok</h2>



O'Leary and McCourt insist they don't need the original TikTok algorithm to succeed. They've proposed creating a new algorithm to power the platform, with backing from Guggenheim Securities and prominent technologists like Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the World Wide Web.



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<li>With 100+ historic trademark victories, this company holds IP for some of the highest-grossing characters in history. Now, they've propelled these icons into the future using next-gen patented AR, VR, and AI technology. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/elf-labs-1">There&#8217;s now a limited window for investors to claim shares at just $2/share with $980 minimum—but the clock is ticking.</a></li>



<li>According to Juniper Research, the total value of B2B cross-border payments stored on the blockchain is projected to exceed $4.4 trillion — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/web3-enabler-future-of-enterprise-transactions">Join the first company to bring blockchain payments to Salesforce early with just $100.</a></li>
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Mark Cuban Warns Kevin O'Leary About TikTok Purchase: If You Can't See The Sucker At The Negotiation Table, It's You

Cryptocurrency markets are surging on the last trading day before the presidential inauguration. 



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table style="overflow:auto; height: 90px; display: block;"><tbody><tr><td>Cryptocurrency</td><td>Price&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td><td>Gains +/-</td></tr><tr><td>Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</td><td>$105,607.81</td><td>+5.6%</td></tr><tr><td>Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>)</td><td>$3,426.67</td><td>+2.8%</td></tr><tr><td>Solana (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/sol/usd">SOL</a>)</td><td>$216.86</td><td>+1.7%</td></tr><tr><td>XRP (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xrp/usd">XRP</a>)</td><td>$3.24</td><td>-4%</td></tr><tr><td>Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>)</td><td>$0.4148</td><td>+7.6%</td></tr><tr><td>Shiba Inu (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/shib/usd">SHIB</a>)</td><td>$0.00002403</td><td>+7.5%</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



Notable Statistics:



<ul>
<li>IntoTheBlock data shows large transaction volume increasing by 6.4% and daily active addresses falling by 2.9%. Transactions greater than $100,000 are up from 11,601 to 12,233 in a single day. Exchanges netflows are down by 268%.</li>



<li>Coinglass data reports 94,646 traders were liquidated in the past 24 hours for $285.01 million.</li>
</ul>



Notable Developments:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43062518/2025-to-see-dogecoin-etf-strategic-bitcoin-reserve-microstrategy-of-ethereum-predicts-crypto-hedge-fund">2025 To See Dogecoin ETF, Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, &#8216;MicroStrategy Of Ethereum,&#8217; Predicts Crypto Hedge Fund</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43062997/exclusive-how-donald-trumps-crypto-plans-will-bitcoin-xrp-solana">EXCLUSIVE: How Donald Trump&#8217;s Crypto Plans Will Impact Bitcoin, XRP, Solana</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43053129/bitcoin-miners-consolidate-power-12-firms-now-control-30-of-network-hash-rate">Bitcoin Miners Consolidate Power: 12 Firms Now Control 30% Of Network Hash Rate</a></li>
</ul>



Top Gainers:



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table style="overflow:auto; height: 90px; display: block;"><tbody><tr><td>Cryptocurrency</td><td>Price&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td><td>Gains +/-</td></tr><tr><td>SPX6900 (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">SPX</a>)</td><td>$1.48</td><td>+43.1%</td></tr><tr><td>OKB (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">OKB</a>)</td><td>$57.26</td><td>+15.3%</td></tr><tr><td>THORChain (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/rune/usd">RUNE</a>)</td><td>$4.04</td><td>+14.4%</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



Trader Notes: Bitcoin has reached the $105,000 mark, fueled by speculation that President-elect Donald Trump may announce a &#8220;Strategic&#8221; Bitcoin Reserve.



Economist Peter Schiff <a href="https://x.com/PeterSchiff/status/1880301563450913059">expressed</a> concerns, hoping Trump won't compromise the country&#8217;s integrity just to benefit Bitcoin donors. 



He warns that such a reserve could lead to higher inflation and a weaker economy.



Crypto chart analyst Ali Martinez pointed out that Bitcoin has broken out of a cup-and-handle pattern, suggesting a potential upside target of $276,400.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24BTC&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$BTC</a> has broken out of a cup-and-handle pattern, signaling a potential upside target of $276,400! <a href="https://t.co/7FMhuiEBhS">pic.twitter.com/7FMhuiEBhS</a>&mdash; Ali (@ali_charts) <a href="https://twitter.com/ali_charts/status/1880274881989996750?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



Crypto trader Stoic observed that Bitcoin has reclaimed a key level from the Dec. 18 sell-off, now 5% above the HTF range value. 



He <a href="https://x.com/Stoiiic/status/1880322637882355791">believes</a> that if Bitcoin stabilizes, altcoins could have room to perform over the weekend.



Crypto trader Jelle highlighted a spot-driven rally that breached a key level, signaling strong momentum. He predicts that if Bitcoin closes the day around $104,738, the path will be clear for new all-time highs.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Level breached on a spot-driven rally. Just what I like to see. Very little resistance left &#8212; close the day anywhere around these levels and new all-time highs will come very, very soon.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> <a href="https://t.co/kAhrPCMa9x">pic.twitter.com/kAhrPCMa9x</a>&mdash; Jelle (@CryptoJelleNL) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoJelleNL/status/1880320231815671941?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43064882/bitcoin-etfs-outperform-in-first-year-but-solana-xrp-etfs-face-challenges-expert-says">Bitcoin ETFs Outperform In First Year, But Solana, XRP ETFs Face Challenges, Expert Says</a></li>
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Image: Shutterstock

$DOGE

$OKB

$RUNE

$SHIB

$XRP

Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Chasing New Highs But XRP Dwindling: 'Weekend Probably Gives Alts Breathing Room,' Trader Says

President-elect Donald Trump is set to move back into the White House on Monday after he officially assumes office, kicking off a flurry of speculation about immediate crypto-relation action, such as <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43035888/donald-trump-reportedly-open-to-us-crypto-reserve-as-bitcoin-reserve-chatter-gathers-steam">support for a U.S. crypto reserve</a>.



Benzinga talked to cryptocurrency experts, who are divided on the likelihood of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43047039/trump-planning-to-declare-cryptocurrency-as-national-priority-increase-engagement-with-industry-report">immediate executive orders</a>, but largely bullish on the near-term market outlook.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Will Trump Sign A Crypto Executive Order On Day 1?</h2>



The prospect of executive orders on day one is a source of debate among the experts, however, most agree that the move is highly probable in the near future.



Marcin Kazmierczak, co-founder &amp; COO of Redstone, stated his view that any orders will likely emerge in the weeks following the inauguration, rather than on day one, due to the numerous pressing issues new administrations face.



Vijay Pravin Maharajan, CEO and Founder of bitsCrunch, however, suggests that decisive early action, such as executive orders, could be a strategic move for the incoming President to project an image of immediate success and capitalize on the markets.



Aurelie Barthere, Principal Research Analyst at Nansen, indicated that the idea of a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43056350/maga-memecoin-leads-trump-meme-rally-as-strategic-bitcoin-reserve-speculation-intensifies">strategic Bitcoin reserve</a> is not likely to be a unanimous preference and will require building consensus in Congress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Trump 2.0 Means For The Crypto Markets</h2>



Concerning near-term market behavior, Kazmierczak expects a positive market response to what he calls favorable <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42997294/trumps-crypto-legislation-will-be-a-frankenstein-bill-of-mishmash-says-arthur-hayes-bitcoin-doesnt-need-government-support-to-flourish">regulatory changes</a>.



This sentiment is echoed by Maharajan, who predicts a post-inauguration rally, especially if Trump makes explicit pro-crypto statements. 



Barthere has stated that a drop in interest rates could provide a positive impulse for crypto, and the markets currently have &#8220;some juice&#8221; for risk assets.



James Toledano, Chief Operating Officer at Unity Wallet, highlighted the importance of factors beyond political influence and focused on "adoption, regulation and macroeconomic factors" as the real drivers of Bitcoin prices.



Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43059401/bitcoin-spikes-to-104000-traders-eye-130000-target-in-late-january">Bitcoin Spikes To $104,000, Traders Eye $130,000 Target In Late January</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Strategic Bitcoin Reserve: Yay Or Nay?</h2>



The possibility of a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/41770352/bitcoins-future-under-president-elect-donald-trump-a-look-at-his-crypto-policies">U.S. crypto reserve</a> is a notable point of discussion among the experts.



Kazmierczak highlighted the significant potential for Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) if it is recognized by the largest economy, adding that this could represent a fundamental shift in the market. 



Barthere stated her belief that such a move would provide a &#8220;very bullish&#8221; outlook for crypto, "legitimizing it as an asset class," and signaling potential action to institutional investors. 



Maharajan further added that this inclusion could reinforce the dollar's strength and signal commitment to leading the digital asset space.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Here&#8217;s Which Crypto Assets Experts Tip To Do Well</h2>



Kazmierczak stated he believes that the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/what-is-defi#:~:text=DeFi%20is%20possible%20through%20the,without%20anyone%20watching%20over%20them.">DeFi sector</a> may see outperformance, if the environment for the sector improves.



Barthere named BTC because of its ‘reserve currency' narrative, but also tips Solana (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/sol/usd">SOL</a>), Ripple (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xrp/usd">XRP</a>) Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) as well as the whole AI narrative to do well.



Maharajan suggested that Trump might favor U.S.-created crypto like XRP and Solana, in keeping with his &#8220;America First&#8221; ideology, adding, &#8220;Bitcoin will of course do extremely well.&#8221;



The consensus among the experts is that Trump's inauguration will be a significant event for the crypto market, with the potential for significant <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43033465/solana-is-a-stronger-investment-than-bitcoin-ethereum-crypto-asset-management-firm-states">price action and policy changes</a>.



Read Next:



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43053129/bitcoin-miners-consolidate-power-12-firms-now-control-30-of-network-hash-rate">Bitcoin Miners Consolidate Power: 12 Firms Now Control 30% Of Network Hash Rate</a></li>
</ul>



Image: Shutterstock

EXCLUSIVE: How Donald Trump's Crypto Plans Will Impact Bitcoin, XRP, Solana

Dogecoin's (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) market valuation has soared to $61.4 billion as the &#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/dogecoin-doge-price-prediction">king of memes</a>&#8221; spiked 10% overnight.



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table style="overflow:auto; height: 90px; display: block;"><tbody><tr><td>Cryptocurrency</td><td>Price&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td><td>Market Cap</td><td>24-Hour Trend</td><td>7-Day Trend</td></tr><tr><td>Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>)</td><td>&nbsp;$0.415</td><td>$61.4 billion</td><td>+10.4%&nbsp;</td><td>+23.7%&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Shiba Inu (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/shib/usd">SHIB</a>)</td><td>&nbsp;$0.00002438</td><td>$14.4 billion</td><td>+10.3%&nbsp;</td><td>+12.6%&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Pepe (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">PEPE</a>)</td><td>&nbsp;$0.00001999</td><td>$8.4 billion</td><td>+8.3%&nbsp;</td><td>+12.7%&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



Trader Notes: Prominent technical analyst Kevin has identified the $0.4155 level (0.786 Fibonacci) as the key target following Dogecoin's breakout. 



Breaking this resistance could pave the way for revisiting previous highs and potentially surpassing them. 



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Break the .786 at .4155 is the next mission here after the perfect breakout call. If we do then revisiting the highs and beyond is next. Patreon members are printing heavy of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dogecoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dogecoin</a>. We love some <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DOGE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DOGE</a> <a href="https://t.co/WFhtqVlBb4">pic.twitter.com/WFhtqVlBb4</a>&mdash; Kevin (@Kev_Capital_TA) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kev_Capital_TA/status/1880175090031292883?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



Johnny, another crypto trader, highlighted retail investors&#8217; recent success with XRP, which surged from $0.50 to $3.40 in mere weeks. 



He predicts DOGE could similarly trend higher, with retail enthusiasm potentially pushing it past $1. 



This rally may <a href="https://x.com/CryptoGodJohn/status/1880078238959239177">coincide</a> with Donald Trump's inauguration and Elon Musk's influence, igniting what he calls &#8220;Doge season&#8221; as early as Monday.



Prominent trader Unipcs <a href="https://x.com/theunipcs/status/1880180717709099155">echoed</a> this sentiment, forecasting DOGE to become the first $100 billion meme coin, riding momentum from the formation of the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/41734897/elon-musks-doge-department-mention-gives-dogecoin-boost-to-top-of-daily-gainers-memecoin-s">Department of Government Efficiency</a>.



Statistics: Whale Alert data shows around 600 million DOGE was transferred between unknown wallets in two different transactions.  



In <a href="https://x.com/whale_alert/status/1880140296039637264">one</a> 200 million DOGE, worth 77.3 million, and in the <a href="https://x.com/whale_alert/status/1880142435264729185">second</a> 400 million DOGE, worth $154.3 million, were transferred. 



Both transactions originated from addresses among the richest Dogecoin wallets, sparking potential price volatility.



Coinglass data shows open interest spiked 17.1% to $5.4 billion while DOGE derivatives volume maximized by 30.9% to $10.3 billion.



Read Next:&nbsp;



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43037301/dogecoin-surges-21-in-7-days-why-is-doge-going-up">Dogecoin Surges 21% In 7 Days: Why Is DOGE Going Up?</a></li>
</ul>



Image: Shutterstock

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