Daily News 19

Tag: CLARITY Act

  • Democrats Killed the Clarity Act

    Democrats Killed the Clarity Act

    Key Highlights:

    • No Senate Democrat voted last week to advance the Clarity Act, according to the source.
    • The legislation would have created rules for digital assets and aimed to reduce transaction costs for everyday Americans.
    • The source argues that Democratic tax proposals would increase costs for overtime, tips and Social Security recipients.

    Clarity Act stalls after Senate Democrats oppose advancement

    The Clarity Act failed to move forward last week after not a single Senate Democrat voted to advance the digital-asset legislation, according to the source. The bill was designed to establish clearer rules for digital assets and help lower transaction costs for everyday Americans.

    The vote came amid continued Democratic rhetoric about household costs and affordability. The source argues that Democrats’ opposition to the Clarity Act conflicted with those priorities and prevented the legislation from progressing.

    Read more: How months of work on the Clarity Act all fell apart

    Debate centers on household costs and taxes

    The source frames the policy debate through the impact that legislation could have on working families. It asks, Will this help single moms like the one who raised me? The argument is that policies affecting digital-asset transactions and taxes should be assessed by their effect on Americans trying to retain more of their income.

    According to the source, Democrats have long said they aim to support Americans in these circumstances, but their votes in Washington have repeatedly been portrayed as taking money from hardworking families. It specifically claims that Democrats voted to raise taxes on overtime, tips and Social Security.

    The source further states that, if Democrats’ proposals prevailed, Americans could pay hundreds of dollars more per month in taxes. Those claims are presented as part of a broader argument that voters want to keep more of their own money and that lawmakers should prioritize affordability in decisions involving taxation and digital-asset regulation.

    Why This Matters

    The Clarity Act vote highlights the continuing political dispute over how digital assets should be regulated and whether clearer rules could reduce transaction costs for consumers. The legislation’s failure to advance also shows that disagreements over taxes, affordability and financial regulation remain central to the Senate debate.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the Clarity Act?

    The Clarity Act is legislation intended to establish rules for digital assets and help reduce transaction costs for everyday Americans.

    What happened to the bill in the Senate?

    According to the source, not a single Senate Democrat voted to advance the Clarity Act last week, and the bill did not move forward.

    Which tax areas does the source say are affected?

    The source says Democrats voted to raise taxes on overtime, tips and Social Security, and argues that Americans could pay hundreds of dollars more each month if Democrats’ proposals prevailed.

  • Michael Saylor Issues Statement Following Recent Developments

    Michael Saylor Issues Statement Following Recent Developments

    Key Highlights

    • Strategy founder Michael Saylor unveiled a comprehensive policy framework advocating for Bitcoin’s integration into banking and insurance systems, including custody services and balance-sheet adoption.
    • Saylor proposes a “digital rights declaration” establishing five fundamental rights for digital asset creation, issuance, holding, transfer, and use, alongside simplified disclosure rules scaled to project size.
    • The framework calls for regulatory differentiation between client custody, Bitcoin-backed lending, and bank proprietary positions, while criticizing the Basel 1,250% risk weighting and the Clarity Act’s restrictive approach.

    Saylor Outlines Five-Pillar Digital Rights Framework

    Strategy founder and Executive Chairman Michael Saylor has published a sweeping policy framework for the digital economy, arguing that Bitcoin should be more broadly integrated into the banking and insurance systems. In his published article, Saylor stated that artificial intelligence will significantly increase the productivity of individuals and businesses, and that the digital asset era needs a “digital rights declaration.” According to Saylor, individuals and companies should have five fundamental rights regarding the creation, issuance, holding, transfer, and use of digital assets.

    Simplifying Issuance and Enabling Digital Dollar Competition

    Saylor, who advocates for simplifying the rules regarding digital asset issuance, said that applying different disclosure obligations based on project size could lower the cost of accessing finance for companies. Saylor suggested that this approach could help approximately 10 million new companies access capital. Saylor also stated that a clear regulatory path should be created to allow banks, fintech companies, and technology platforms to issue digital dollar products. He argued that organizations issuing digital dollars should also be able to compete on terms of yield.

    Bitcoin as “Digital Capital”: Banking and Insurance Integration

    Saylor, who described Bitcoin as “digital capital,” called for banks to be allowed to offer Bitcoin custody services and provide Bitcoin-backed loans. He also said that a viable regulatory framework should be created so that insurance companies can incorporate Bitcoin into their balance sheets and product designs. Saylor argued that the 1,250% risk weighting applied to some crypto asset risks under Basel regulations is too strict. He stated that regulations should differentiate between client-based custody services, Bitcoin-backed loans, and banks’ own Bitcoin positions, adding that bank adoption of Bitcoin could be a significant catalyst for the sector’s growth.

    Tokenized Securities, Privacy, and the Clarity Act Critique

    Saylor, also touching upon tokenized securities, said that simply moving existing securities onto the blockchain is not enough. He argued that investors should be able to store their assets directly, transfer them freely, and choose different custody or lending service providers. Regarding privacy, Saylor stated that ordinary and legitimate transactions under $10,000 should not be automatically reported to government agencies simply because they involve the transfer of money or digital assets. According to Saylor, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), the U.S. Treasury Department, banking regulators, and the White House will play a key role in advancing reforms over the next two years. Saylor, who also criticized the Clarity Act, argued that the regulation placed too much emphasis on restrictions.

    Why This Matters

    Saylor’s framework arrives amid intensifying debate over U.S. digital asset legislation, including the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act (FIT21) and stablecoin bills advancing in Congress. His proposals directly address three structural friction points: the Basel Committee’s punitive 1,250% risk weight for Group 2 cryptoassets, which discourages bank balance-sheet engagement; the lack of a clear charter for insurers to hold Bitcoin as a reserve asset; and the absence of a scaled disclosure regime that would lower compliance costs for smaller token issuers. By explicitly naming the SEC, CFTC, Treasury, federal banking agencies, and the White House as the entities that must drive reform over the next two years, Saylor is mapping a lobbying and legislative roadmap that aligns with Strategy’s corporate strategy of accumulating Bitcoin while advocating for the institutional infrastructure to support it. The critique of the Clarity Act signals industry concern that current legislative drafts may over-index on enforcement tools at the expense of market-making clarity.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are the five fundamental digital rights Saylor proposes?

    Saylor outlines rights covering the creation, issuance, holding, transfer, and use of digital assets, framed as a “digital rights declaration” for individuals and companies.

    How does Saylor propose to change Basel capital rules for Bitcoin?

    He argues the current 1,250% risk weighting is excessive and urges regulators to differentiate between client custody services, Bitcoin-backed loans, and banks’ own proprietary Bitcoin positions.

    Which U.S. agencies does Saylor identify as critical for implementing reforms?

    Saylor names the SEC, CFTC, U.S. Treasury Department, federal banking regulators, and the White House as the key entities that will drive policy changes over the next two years.

  • Ripple News and XRP Price Update: September 25

    Ripple News and XRP Price Update: September 25

    Key Highlights

    • Spot XRP ETFs have attracted roughly $1.75 billion in cumulative net inflows across 10 consecutive positive weeks, with new filings from T. Rowe Price and Exchange Listed Funds Trust signaling expanding institutional appetite.
    • Whales accumulated over 1.54 billion XRP tokens in approximately 96 hours following the CLARITY Act’s failure, viewing the resulting pullback as a strategic entry point.
    • Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin has reached a $2.37 billion market capitalization—ranking ninth among stablecoins—while XRP itself corrected 8% to $1.47 after touching a 2026 high near $1.65.

    Institutional Momentum Builds Around XRP ETFs

    Spot XRP exchange-traded funds continue to draw substantial capital from conservative investors, underscoring sustained institutional confidence in Ripple’s cross-border token despite recent price volatility. According to data reported by CryptoPotato, these financial vehicles have posted ten straight weeks of positive flows, pushing cumulative net inflows to approximately $1.75 billion. The past two sessions extended the streak, suggesting the upward trajectory remains intact. Current issuers include Bitwise, Franklin Templeton, Canary Capital, 21Shares, and Grayscale, while additional managers await regulatory clearance to launch their own products.

    The pipeline of forthcoming funds highlights growing sophistication in crypto-linked investment strategies. T. Rowe Price recently amended its crypto ETF filing to include a 9.15% allocation to XRP within a multi-asset basket. Separately, Exchange Listed Funds Trust submitted the “CYBER HORNER S&P 500® and $XRP 75/25 Strategy ETF” to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. If approved, the product would offer investors blended exposure to the broad equity benchmark and Ripple’s native token in a fixed 75/25 ratio, marking a notable convergence of traditional and digital asset structures.

    Whale Accumulation Signals Confidence Amid Regulatory Uncertainty

    Large-scale holders have seized on recent weakness to aggressively increase positions. Over a roughly four-day window last week, whales acquired more than 1.54 billion XRP units. The accumulation began shortly after the CLARITY Act failed to advance in the United States, an event that triggered a market pullback. On-chain behavior suggests these investors interpreted lower prices as a buying opportunity rather than a signal to exit, reinforcing the narrative that long-term conviction remains undimmed by legislative setbacks.

    Ripple Expands Stablecoin Strategy at MESA Forum

    Ripple’s institutional outreach took center stage at the MESA Forum, where Reece Merrick, Managing Director for the Middle East & Africa, appeared alongside representatives from financial heavyweights BlackRock and HSBC. The panel addressed stablecoins, tokenized deposits, and tokenized money-market funds—areas where traditional finance and blockchain infrastructure increasingly intersect. Merrick emphasized the strategic rationale behind Ripple’s dollar-pegged stablecoin, stating: “Stablecoins: The always-on layer moving value between institutions without existing relationships (why $RLUSD was built not to replace bank money, but to let it travel).”

    Merrick also signaled Ripple’s deepening footprint in the United Arab Emirates, noting the jurisdiction is “open for business” and “actively building.” In summer 2025, the Dubai Financial Services Authority formally recognized RLUSD as a crypto token within the Dubai International Financial Center. Since its December 2024 launch, the stablecoin has secured backing from prominent exchanges and institutions, propelling its market capitalization to $2.37 billion—making it the 43rd-largest cryptocurrency overall and the ninth-largest stablecoin by market value.

    Price Correction Tests Key Technical Levels

    After rallying to nearly $1.65 earlier this week—the highest level since the start of 2026—XRP succumbed to a broad-market correction, sliding approximately 8% to $1.47 according to CoinGecko data. Technical observers are now watching whether bulls can reclaim the $1.50 threshold to reignite upward momentum. Pseudonymous analyst Diana identified $1.61 as the critical resistance level that must be cleared to open a path toward the $1.70–$2.00 range. The token’s ability to stabilize above current levels will likely determine whether the recent ETF and whale-driven fundamentals can override near-term macro headwinds.

    Why This Matters

    The convergence of regulated ETF products, sovereign-grade stablecoin adoption, and persistent whale accumulation paints a picture of maturing institutional infrastructure around the XRP ecosystem. While legislative efforts like the CLARITY Act stall in Washington, market participants are advancing practical solutions—tokenized deposits, multi-asset ETFs, and cross-border stablecoin rails—that bypass the need for immediate regulatory perfection. Ripple’s engagement with entities such as BlackRock, HSBC, and the DFSA signals that major financial centers are treating blockchain-based value transfer as an operational reality rather than a speculative experiment. For investors, the key question becomes whether the current correction represents a healthy consolidation within a longer uptrend or a deeper repricing driven by macro liquidity conditions.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which firms have launched spot XRP ETFs so far?
    Bitwise, Franklin Templeton, Canary Capital, 21Shares, and Grayscale currently offer spot XRP ETFs. Additional issuers, including T. Rowe Price and Exchange Listed Funds Trust, have filed for new products awaiting SEC approval.
    What is RLUSD and how large has it grown?
    RLUSD is Ripple’s U.S. dollar-pegged stablecoin, launched in December 2024. It has reached a $2.37 billion market capitalization, ranking as the ninth-largest stablecoin and the 43rd-largest cryptocurrency overall. The Dubai Financial Services Authority recognized it within the DIFC in summer 2025.
    What price levels are analysts watching for XRP’s next move?
    After falling to $1.47, traders are monitoring a reclaim of $1.50 as the first step toward renewed bullish momentum. The key resistance sits at $1.61; a decisive break above that level could open the door to a $1.70–$2.00 target zone, according to technical analysis cited in the market.
  • BitGo Research Analyzes CLARITY Act Vote, SEC and CFTC

    BitGo Research Analyzes CLARITY Act Vote, SEC and CFTC

    Key Highlights

    • BitGo Research analysis indicates the SEC’s CLARITY Act vote and CFTC fallback will significantly reshape Bitcoin’s competitive positioning against other digital assets.
    • Regulatory uncertainty between the SEC and CFTC is creating mixed market signals and may influence institutional whale behavior and wallet movements.
    • Traders are advised to monitor SEC updates on the CLARITY Act and CFTC responses, as regulatory clarity could catalyze significant price movements across digital asset markets.

    Regulatory Crossroads: SEC and CFTC Navigate Digital Asset Oversight

    The cryptocurrency industry faces a pivotal moment as the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) continue to define their respective jurisdictions over digital assets. According to a recent analysis by BitGo Research, the SEC’s recent handling of the CLARITY Act vote—combined with the CFTC’s regulatory fallback—has introduced critical questions about the future regulatory framework governing cryptocurrencies. The research suggests these developments will materially impact Bitcoin’s market positioning relative to other digital assets, making it essential for market participants to track the evolving regulatory landscape closely.

    Market Dynamics Reflect Regulatory Ambiguity

    The broader crypto market is currently exhibiting mixed signals, with various assets demonstrating divergent momentum patterns. BitGo’s analysis underscores the pressing need for clearer regulatory frameworks, particularly as the SEC and CFTC navigate their overlapping and sometimes competing roles in cryptocurrency oversight. This regulatory uncertainty appears to be influencing institutional behavior, as large wallet movements—often attributed to whale activity—may signal preparations for anticipated shifts in market dynamics. The absence of reported trading volume for SEC-related assets suggests a wait-and-see posture among traders, though ongoing discussions around the CLARITY Act and SEC regulations could rapidly alter sentiment.

    The CLARITY Act and Classification Challenges

    The CLARITY Act aims to establish definitive guidelines for the classification of digital assets, a longstanding pain point for market participants and investors. The SEC, as the primary regulatory authority overseeing securities markets in the United States, extends its jurisdiction to cryptocurrencies when they are classified as securities. Meanwhile, the CFTC maintains oversight of commodities and derivatives markets, including certain digital assets. The lack of clear delineation between these regulatory domains has created compliance challenges for exchanges, issuers, and investors alike, contributing to the current environment of uncertainty that BitGo Research highlights.

    Why This Matters

    The outcome of the CLARITY Act legislative process and the subsequent regulatory coordination between the SEC and CFTC will likely determine the structural framework for U.S. cryptocurrency markets for years to come. Regulatory clarity could unlock increased institutional investment and trading activity in Bitcoin and other digital assets by reducing compliance risk and legal ambiguity. Conversely, prolonged uncertainty or fragmented oversight may provoke caution among investors, suppress liquidity, and drive innovation offshore. The stakes are particularly high for Bitcoin, which stands to either solidify its position as a regulated, institutional-grade asset or face competitive pressure from alternative digital assets operating under clearer jurisdictional parameters.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the CLARITY Act and why does it matter for cryptocurrency?

    The CLARITY Act is proposed legislation designed to provide clearer guidelines on the classification of digital assets, specifically addressing whether they fall under SEC jurisdiction as securities or CFTC jurisdiction as commodities. Its passage would reduce regulatory ambiguity that currently hampers market development and compliance efforts.

    How might the SEC and CFTC regulatory overlap affect Bitcoin specifically?

    BitGo Research indicates that the regulatory outcome will significantly impact Bitcoin’s positioning against other digital assets. Clear classification could enhance Bitcoin’s institutional appeal, while continued uncertainty may create competitive disadvantages relative to assets with more defined regulatory status.

    What should traders monitor in the coming weeks?

    Traders should watch for formal SEC updates regarding the CLARITY Act vote, any rulemaking or guidance from the CFTC in response, and large wallet movements that may signal institutional repositioning ahead of regulatory decisions.

  • Spot Bitcoin ETFs Attract Nearly $1 Billion Monday, Marking 9th Largest Inflow Ever

    Spot Bitcoin ETFs Attract Nearly $1 Billion Monday, Marking 9th Largest Inflow Ever

    Key Highlights

    • U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded a $998.95 million net inflow on Monday, the largest single-day haul since October 6, 2025, when Bitcoin traded near its all-time high of $126,200.
    • BlackRock’s IBIT led the surge with $381.37 million, followed by Ark’s ARKB ($289.12 million) and Fidelity’s FBTC ($238.84 million), marking the ninth-largest inflow day since the funds launched in January 2024.
    • The three-day winning streak lifts month-to-date inflows to $1.31 billion, extending August’s $3.52 billion pace and signaling sustained institutional conviction despite macroeconomic headwinds.

    Record-Breaking Inflow Signals Institutional Conviction

    U.S.-listed spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds posted a staggering $998.95 million in net inflows on Monday, according to data from SoSoValue, marking the most significant single-day capital allocation since October 6, 2025. That date coincides with Bitcoin’s previous all-time high of approximately $126,200, a level the asset has yet to reclaim. Monday’s haul also ranks as the ninth-largest daily inflow since the ETF suite debuted on January 11, 2024, underscoring the magnitude of institutional appetite returning to the digital asset space.

    BlackRock, Ark, and Fidelity Lead the Charge

    The inflow was broad-based but heavily concentrated among the market’s dominant issuers. BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) captured $381.37 million, maintaining its position as the primary vehicle for institutional exposure. Ark Invest’s ARKB attracted $289.12 million, while Fidelity’s Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC) drew $238.84 million. The combined strength across these three funds alone accounted for more than $900 million of the day’s total, reflecting a flight to liquidity and brand recognition among large allocators.

    Three-Day Streak Defies Legislative and Monetary Headwinds

    Monday’s print extends a three-day streak of positive flows—the first such run in two weeks—and arrives at a pivotal juncture. The cryptocurrency market recently absorbed a dual shock: a failed Senate cloture vote on the Clarity Act, which would have established a regulatory framework for digital assets, and a Federal Reserve interest-rate increase that typically pressures risk assets. Despite these headwinds, the persistent buying pressure suggests institutions are looking past near-term policy uncertainty and focusing on Bitcoin’s long-term portfolio role as a non-sovereign store of value.

    Monthly Momentum Builds on August’s Historic Pace

    The latest surge pushes month-to-date net inflows to $1.31 billion, building directly on August’s record-setting $3.52 billion tally. That two-month cumulative figure exceeds $4.8 billion, a pace that rivals the initial launch frenzy earlier this year. Analysts interpret the sustained flow data as evidence that allocators—ranging from registered investment advisors to hedge funds and corporate treasuries—are treating Bitcoin exposure as a strategic allocation rather than a tactical trade, even as fiscal debt concerns mount across advanced economies.

    Why This Matters

    The resilience of ETF flows amid legislative gridlock and restrictive monetary policy marks a maturation of the Bitcoin investment thesis. With the Clarity Act stalled, regulatory clarity remains elusive, yet capital continues to flow into the regulated ETF wrapper—a sign that institutions are comfortable navigating the current framework. The Fed’s rate hike cycle, while a traditional negative for non-yielding assets, has not deterred buyers, suggesting Bitcoin’s narrative as an inflation hedge and diversification tool is gaining traction in portfolio construction models. Upcoming catalysts include the next Federal Open Market Committee meeting, potential lame-duck session movement on crypto legislation, and the fourth-quarter rebalancing window that could amplify institutional positioning.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which Bitcoin ETFs saw the largest inflows on Monday?

    BlackRock’s IBIT led with $381.37 million, followed by Ark’s ARKB at $289.12 million and Fidelity’s FBTC at $238.84 million. These three funds accounted for the vast majority of the $998.95 million total net inflow.

    How does Monday’s inflow compare to historical levels?

    It was the largest single-day net inflow since October 6, 2025—the day Bitcoin hit its all-time high near $126,200—and ranks as the ninth-largest inflow day since the ETFs launched on January 11, 2024.

    What does the current flow trend suggest about institutional sentiment?

    The three-day winning streak and month-to-date total of $1.31 billion—following August’s $3.52 billion—indicate that institutions are maintaining conviction in Bitcoin despite the failed Clarity Act vote, a Fed rate hike, and broader fiscal debt concerns.

  • XRP Surges 8.7% as Peter Brandt’s Chart Analysis Points to $5.40 Target

    XRP Surges 8.7% as Peter Brandt’s Chart Analysis Points to $5.40 Target

    Key Highlights

    • Veteran trader Peter Brandt projects XRP could reach $5.40 based on long-term monthly chart analysis, implying approximately 251% upside from current levels.
    • XRP surged 8.7% to $1.54 in 24-hour trading, reaching a session high of $1.57 before pulling back, with the token trading in an 11% range between $1.41 and $1.57.
    • Institutional developments accelerated as South African banking giant Absa launched digital asset custody built on Ripple technology, while the U.S. Senate rejected cloture on the CLARITY Act in a 49-50 vote.

    Peter Brandt’s Technical Analysis and $5.40 Price Target

    Veteran commodity trader Peter Brandt shared a bullish long-term projection for XRP on September 21, posting a monthly chart on X that he says implies an eventual advance to $5.40. The target would represent a substantial premium over recent trading ranges, requiring approximately 251% appreciation from the $1.54 level where XRP traded at the time of publication.

    Brandt, who entered the commodity trading business in 1976 and founded Factor Trading in 1980, emphasized the distinction between a public chart presentation and an executed trade. “This is my long-term chart of $XRP It implies an eventual advance to $5.40.” he wrote. “A claim of a ‘call’ or simple presentation of a chart is $NOT a trade. People who claim ‘trades’ need to provide proof or else the claims are BS. An X post is $NOT proof,” he added. His use of the term “eventual” frames the $5.40 objective as a long-term technical target rather than a near-term prediction, and he explicitly noted that proving an actual trade would require verifiable records showing entry, exit, and result.

    XRP Price Action and Market Performance

    Bitcoin.com Markets data confirmed XRP trading at $1.54, up 8.7% or $0.12 over the preceding 24 hours. The token established a session low of $1.41 early in the period before climbing steadily through most of the trading day. The advance peaked at $1.57 late in the session, after which XRP eased back to the $1.54 level, leaving it approximately 2% below its 24-hour high and roughly 9% above its low. The session’s full trading range spanned about 11% from low to high, reflecting heightened volatility accompanying the price discovery.

    Institutional Infrastructure Expansion and Regulatory Context

    The price rally coincided with significant institutional infrastructure developments. South African lender Absa, one of Africa’s largest banking groups, launched Absa Digital Asset Custody on September 21, built on Ripple’s custody technology. The launch occurred 11 months after Ripple and Absa announced their partnership, marking a concrete step in institutional adoption across the African continent.

    Asset manager 21Shares outlined a four-pillar investment case for XRP centered on regulatory clarity, institutional access, measurable utility, and fixed supply. The firm noted that while expanding XRP Ledger (XRPL) activity may not directly translate into sustained XRP demand, growing network activity could support demand through transaction fees, account reserves, and bridge transfers. 21Shares cited approximately $4 billion in tokenized assets and roughly $1.6 billion in RLUSD supply, with more than half circulating on the XRPL.

    On the regulatory front, the U.S. Senate rejected cloture on the CLARITY Act in a 49-50 vote. Ripple maintained that the failed vote did not alter XRP’s established legal position or disrupt demand across payments, stablecoins, and institutional markets, suggesting the token’s regulatory framework remains intact despite legislative setbacks.

    Why This Matters

    The convergence of technical analysis from a respected veteran trader, meaningful price appreciation with elevated volume, and tangible institutional infrastructure deployment creates a multi-layered bullish narrative for XRP. Brandt’s $5.40 target, while framed as a long-term technical implication rather than a trading recommendation, draws attention to the monthly chart structure that has historically preceded major trend advances in commodity and digital asset markets. The Absa custody launch demonstrates Ripple’s expanding institutional footprint beyond North America into African financial markets, while 21Shares’ analytical framework highlights the fundamental metrics—institutional access, on-chain utility, and regulatory standing—that professional allocators increasingly prioritize. The Senate’s CLARITY Act outcome, while a legislative disappointment for broader crypto regulatory clarity, appears to have had minimal immediate market impact on XRP specifically, reinforcing Ripple’s assertion that the token’s legal classification is settled. Market participants will likely monitor whether XRP can sustain above the $1.50 psychological level and build a higher base for the next leg toward Brandt’s long-term projection.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is Peter Brandt’s track record in technical analysis?

    Peter Brandt has over 45 years of commodity trading experience, founding Factor Trading in 1980 after beginning his career in 1976. He has managed institutional trading operations and authored two books on commodity trading and classical chart patterns, establishing him as a recognized authority in traditional technical analysis applied to digital assets.

    Does the Absa Digital Asset Custody launch directly increase XRP demand?

    Not necessarily. The custody service is built on Ripple’s technology infrastructure, but 21Shares notes that expanding XRPL activity may not translate directly into sustained XRP demand. However, the firm argues that growing network activity could support demand indirectly through transaction fees, account reserves, and bridge transfer mechanisms on the ledger.

    How significant was the Senate CLARITY Act vote for XRP specifically?

    According to Ripple, the failed cloture vote on the CLARITY Act did not change XRP’s established legal position or disrupt demand across its core use cases in payments, stablecoins, and institutional markets. The token’s regulatory classification remains intact regardless of the legislative outcome.

  • Bitcoin Rally Driven by ‘Serious Institutional Money,’ Devere Says

    Bitcoin Rally Driven by ‘Serious Institutional Money,’ Devere Says

    Key Highlights

    • Devere Group CEO Nigel Green argues Bitcoin’s recovery is gaining durability from sustained institutional inflows into regulated U.S. spot ETFs, marking a shift from leveraged speculation to “patient capital.”
    • Despite a net inflow of approximately $6.1 million across five trading days through Sept. 18, the trend remains fragile after $746.3 million in withdrawals on Sept. 15–16 nearly offset recent gains.
    • The Federal Reserve’s Sept. 16 rate hike to 3.75%–4% raises the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding Bitcoin, while the CLARITY Act’s legislative stall delays regulatory clarity that Green says could unlock pension and wealth-manager allocations.

    Institutional Flows Signal Market Shift, Says Devere Group CEO

    Bitcoin’s recent price recovery is underpinned by a structural shift in market participation, according to Devere Group Chief Executive Officer Nigel Green. In comments issued Sept. 21, Green asserted that consistent purchasing through regulated investment products indicates buyers have regained control of the market. He characterized the current momentum as fundamentally different from previous rallies driven by leveraged speculation.

    “The market’s momentum has flipped, and this time there’s serious institutional money behind it,” Green said, adding:

    “Billions are flowing into regulated bitcoin products week after week. It’s patient capital that plans to stay, a very different animal from the leveraged speculation that fuelled past rallies.”

    ETF Data Shows Mixed Recovery After Volatile Week

    Flow data for U.S. spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) supports Green’s observation of renewed demand, though the net picture remains modest. Farside Investors’ rounded daily figures show the funds attracted $433 million in net inflows on Sept. 18, following $159.5 million the previous session and $159.9 million on Sept. 14. However, those purchases only narrowly offset withdrawals of $746.3 million recorded on Sept. 15 and 16, leaving approximately $6.1 million in net inflows across the five trading days.

    The recovery began Thursday, Sept. 18, when bitcoin ETFs returned to positive flows after two consecutive sessions of withdrawals. BlackRock’s IBIT led the rebound, while ether and XRP funds continued losing money. The divergence suggests renewed demand for bitcoin products has not yet translated into consistent buying across the broader crypto ETF market.

    Monetary Policy Creates Countervailing Pressure

    Green’s supply-side argument—that Bitcoin’s fixed cap of 21 million coins offers a hedge against currency debasement—runs against a tightening monetary backdrop. The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark target range to 3.75%–4% on Sept. 16, a unanimous quarter-point increase accompanied by language describing inflation as elevated. Higher interest rates increase returns on interest-bearing assets, raising the opportunity cost of holding Bitcoin, which pays no yield.

    A separate assessment from Grayscale characterized the latest increase as a limited adjustment within the current Fed cycle. The asset manager distinguished one or two potential increases in 2026 from the prolonged tightening cycle that began in 2022. That interpretation aligns with Green’s view that demand can remain resilient despite higher rates, though both assessments represent forward-looking market outlooks rather than established facts.

    Regulatory Uncertainty Tempers Optimism

    Green identified clearer U.S. crypto rules as a conditional catalyst that could encourage pension funds and wealth managers to increase exposure. His forecast depends on large allocators becoming more comfortable with the regulatory framework governing digital assets, which would extend demand beyond current ETF buyers into a wider pool of portfolio allocations.

    The legislative backdrop, however, delivered a setback on Sept. 15 when senators failed to advance the CLARITY Act toward floor debate. The procedural vote required 60 votes to move forward; its failure left the proposed market-structure framework unresolved. Green nevertheless expects a larger potential pool of buyers if regulation becomes clearer, while acknowledging that volatility and pullbacks will continue.

    “Once big allocators see rules they can work with, the next wave of demand could dwarf this one,”

    he described, elaborating:

    “The crypto winter looks to be ending. Every dip that gets bought strengthens the case that the floor has moved higher.”

    “Bitcoin is a permanent fixture in the global portfolio conversation, and the bulls know it,”

    the executive concluded.

    Why This Matters

    The interplay between institutional adoption, monetary policy, and regulatory progress defines Bitcoin’s current inflection point. Sustained ETF inflows—particularly from vehicles like BlackRock’s IBIT—signal growing acceptance among traditional financial intermediaries, yet the net flow figures remain marginal after sharp reversals. The Federal Reserve’s higher-for-longer rate posture introduces a persistent headwind for non-yielding assets, while the CLARITY Act’s stall underscores that U.S. regulatory certainty remains a work in progress. Market participants should monitor whether the “patient capital” Green describes withstands the dual test of rate sensitivity and legislative gridlock, or whether the recent rebound proves another bear-market rally.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What were the net flows into U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs for the week ending Sept. 18?

    According to Farside Investors data cited in the report, U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs saw approximately $6.1 million in net inflows across the five trading days through Sept. 18. This followed $433 million in inflows on Sept. 18, $159.5 million on Sept. 17, and $159.9 million on Sept. 14, which were largely offset by $746.3 million in withdrawals on Sept. 15–16.

    How does the Federal Reserve’s September rate hike affect Bitcoin’s appeal?

    The Fed raised its benchmark rate to 3.75%–4% on Sept. 16, increasing the opportunity cost of holding Bitcoin because the cryptocurrency does not generate interest income. Higher yields on bonds and cash equivalents make non-yielding assets comparatively less attractive, though some analysts, including Grayscale, view the hike as a limited adjustment rather than a return to aggressive tightening.

    What is the CLARITY Act and why does its failure matter for Bitcoin?

    The CLARITY Act is a proposed U.S. market-structure framework for digital assets. Its failure to advance past a procedural vote on Sept. 15—falling short of the 60 votes needed—leaves regulatory rules unresolved. Devere Group CEO Nigel Green argues that clearer rules would unlock allocations from pension funds and wealth managers, potentially driving a larger wave of institutional demand than current ETF flows.

  • Senate’s Clarity Act Repeal: Why Banks and Offshore Hubs Like Dubai Are Winners

    Senate’s Clarity Act Repeal: Why Banks and Offshore Hubs Like Dubai Are Winners

    Key Highlights

    • The failure to pass the Clarity Act leaves U.S. crypto regulation to be shaped by agencies rather than Congress, with the SEC and CFTC moving forward on separate rulemaking tracks.
    • The SEC issued a temporary conditional exemption allowing eligible venues to trade tokenized U.S. stocks via permissioned liquidity pools on public blockchains.
    • The UAE now hosts over 110 regulated virtual-asset businesses with roughly 20 more holding in-principle approvals, contrasting with U.S. regulatory uncertainty.

    Regulatory Vacuum Drives Agency Action After Clarity Act Stalls

    The immediate consequence of the legislative failure to pass the Clarity Act is that cryptocurrency regulation in the United States will continue to be crafted outside the halls of Congress. With the bill effectively stalled, federal agencies have stepped into the void, advancing their own frameworks at a rapid pace. The Securities and Exchange Commission moved swiftly following the vote, issuing a temporary conditional exemption that permits eligible trading venues to offer tokenized U.S. equities through permissioned liquidity pools operating on public blockchains. This move signals the SEC’s willingness to engage with tokenized assets under specific, controlled conditions while broader statutory authority remains unresolved.

    CFTC Advances Undisclosed Proposal to White House

    Hot on the heels of the SEC’s action, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission submitted a new crypto rule proposal to the White House for review. The agency has not disclosed the details of the submission, leaving the industry in the dark regarding which digital assets the proposal contemplates, what requirements exchanges would need to meet for licensing, what restrictions would apply, and how far the CFTC believes its jurisdictional authority extends. This opacity adds another layer of uncertainty for market participants awaiting a coherent federal framework.

    Industry Voices Highlight Legislative Void and Global Divergence

    The legislative impasse has drawn sharp commentary from industry observers. “Clarity Act is dead, at least for now,” Jesse Hamilton, CoinDesk’s deputy managing editor in charge of global policy and regulation, wrote in an analysis that explains what very few appear to know: what the Clarity Act actually is. The assessment underscows the knowledge gap surrounding the failed legislation even as its demise reshapes the regulatory landscape.

    The contrast with international jurisdictions is becoming a focal point for crypto businesses. “While the U.S. continues debating the Clarity Act, in the UAE we actually have clarity,” Irina Heaver, a Dubai-based crypto lawyer and founder of NeosLegal, said via Telegram. Heaver noted that more than 110 regulated virtual-asset businesses currently operate in the country, with about 20 more holding in-principle approvals, highlighting a fully operational regulatory regime that stands in stark relief to the fragmented U.S. approach.

    Why This Matters

    The death of the Clarity Act for this congressional session cements a reality where U.S. crypto policy is set through agency rulemaking, enforcement actions, and limited exemptions rather than comprehensive statute. This piecemeal approach creates compliance complexity for firms trying to navigate SEC securities law, CFTC derivatives oversight, and state-level money transmission rules simultaneously. Meanwhile, jurisdictions like the United Arab Emirates, the European Union under MiCA, and Singapore are offering defined licensing pathways, potentially accelerating a talent and capital migration that has been underway since 2022. The SEC’s tokenized stock exemption and the CFTC’s undisclosed White House submission represent the next immediate flashpoints; market participants will scrutinize both for clues on whether a dual-agency framework can provide the predictability that legislation failed to deliver.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the current status of the Clarity Act?
    The Clarity Act is dead for now, according to CoinDesk’s Jesse Hamilton, meaning it will not advance in the current congressional session and no comprehensive statutory framework for crypto market structure has been enacted.
    What did the SEC’s temporary conditional exemption authorize?
    The SEC’s exemption allows eligible venues to trade tokenized U.S. stocks through permissioned liquidity pools on public blockchains, providing a narrow, controlled pathway for on-chain equity settlement.
    How does the U.S. regulatory environment compare to the UAE’s?
    The UAE operates a live, comprehensive virtual-asset licensing regime with over 110 regulated businesses and roughly 20 additional firms holding in-principle approvals, offering regulatory certainty that contrasts with the U.S. reliance on agency-by-agency rulemaking.
  • Strategy Founder Michael Saylor Argues Clarity Act Collapse Is a Win

    Strategy Founder Michael Saylor Argues Clarity Act Collapse Is a Win

    Key Highlights

    • Strategy founder Michael Saylor contends the Senate’s failure to advance the Clarity Act benefits the digital asset industry by avoiding restrictive legislative provisions.
    • Despite the legislative setback, the SEC and CFTC are independently advancing rulemaking, including conditional relief for onchain trading of tokenized securities.
    • The Clarity Act fell one vote short of cloture on Tuesday (49-50), stalling a framework the industry had sought to resolve jurisdictional uncertainty between regulators.

    Saylor Reframes Legislative Defeat as Strategic Opportunity

    Strategy founder and Executive Chairman Michael Saylor argued Saturday that the Senate’s blockade of the long-awaited Clarity Act represents a net positive for the digital asset ecosystem. Writing on X, the Bitcoin treasury pioneer asserted that legislation carries the risk of cementing restrictions as easily as it enshrines rights, suggesting the industry may be better served by regulatory evolution driven by market innovation rather than statutory compromise.

    Regulators Advance Rulemaking Independently of Congress

    The Clarity Act, which aimed to formally delineate oversight between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), failed a procedural vote on Tuesday by a margin of 49 to 50. Despite the legislative impasse, both agencies are moving forward with independent rulemaking initiatives. The SEC has issued conditional relief for the onchain trading of certain tokenized stocks, while the CFTC Chair has signaled a willingness to act without the bill’s authority. Saylor contended these developments would deliver the regulatory clarity crypto companies require without the constraints embedded in the proposed legislation.

    Critique of Specific Bill Provisions

    Saylor specifically criticized provisions within the Clarity Act that would limit the ability to pay customers for holding payment stablecoins, arguing such restrictions would not benefit the crypto space. “We have an administration willing to modernize financial markets. We should use the next two years to put better financial products into people’s hands,” Saylor wrote. He continued: “Let the Digital Assets industry innovate rapidly in a free market and create the greatest possible value for the U.S. and global economy.”

    Political Context and Industry Background

    The bill’s collapse comes after President Donald Trump urged lawmakers to pass the measure last month, a call that helped spur a Bitcoin rally. Republicans had warned for months that Democrats were deliberately stalling the legislation. The digital asset industry has long advocated for a clear regulatory framework following an enforcement-heavy approach during the Biden administration, when regulators penalized numerous crypto companies with fines for allegedly selling unregistered securities. Strategy, formerly known as MicroStrategy, began accumulating Bitcoin in 2020 and has since become the largest corporate holder of the asset.

    Why This Matters

    The failure of the Clarity Act leaves a significant regulatory vacuum at the federal level, but Saylor’s perspective highlights a growing sentiment among some industry leaders that agency-led rulemaking may offer more flexibility than a legislative compromise negotiated in a polarized Congress. With the SEC and CFTC actively pursuing their own frameworks, the practical regulatory landscape for tokenized assets, stablecoins, and market structure will likely be shaped by administrative action and litigation in the near term. The episode underscores the ongoing tension between the industry’s desire for legislative certainty and its aversion to provisions perceived as limiting innovation or competitive dynamics.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What was the Clarity Act intended to do?

    The Clarity Act aimed to formally divide regulatory oversight of digital assets between the SEC and CFTC by establishing clear definitions for which assets qualify as securities, commodities, or stablecoins, resolving long-standing jurisdictional ambiguity.

    Why does Michael Saylor view the bill’s failure as positive?

    Saylor argues that legislation can permanently entrench restrictions alongside protections. He believes agency-led rulemaking—such as the SEC’s conditional relief for onchain tokenized stock trading and the CFTC’s independent action—can provide necessary clarity without codifying provisions he views as harmful, like limits on stablecoin yield incentives.

    What happens next for crypto regulation in the U.S.?

    With the Clarity Act stalled, the SEC and CFTC are expected to continue advancing their own rulemaking agendas. Market participants should monitor agency proposals, enforcement actions, and court rulings as the primary drivers of regulatory development in the absence of comprehensive legislation.

  • Crypto Traders Braced for Total Wipeout, But Bitcoin Defied Expectations

    Crypto Traders Braced for Total Wipeout, But Bitcoin Defied Expectations

    Key Highlights

    • Bitcoin demonstrated unexpected resilience, holding near $75,000 despite a Federal Reserve rate hike and the failure of the Clarity Act in the U.S. Senate.
    • Market analysts indicate Bitcoin remains insulated from legislative setbacks, with derivatives traders having largely priced in the Senate’s rejection of the crypto bill.
    • Bitfinex’s Jag Kooner notes the modest spot market reaction reflects a market that was not positioned for a legislative breakthrough.

    Market Defies Bearish Expectations Amid Macro and Legislative Headwinds

    Just one week ago, sentiment across the cryptocurrency sector bordered on panic. The prevailing consensus among market participants was that a dual catalyst—a Federal Reserve interest rate hike combined with the anticipated failure of the Clarity Act in the Senate—would trigger a sharp correction for Bitcoin and the broader digital asset complex. However, that predicted sell-off failed to materialize. Even as the Fed tightened monetary policy and the landmark crypto legislation stalled on Capitol Hill, Bitcoin not only stabilized but continued its ascent, brushing against the psychologically significant $75,000 level.

    Senate Vote Dynamics and Price Action

    The tension peaked on the night of September 14, as senators prepared to cast their ballots on the Clarity Act. In the hours leading up to the vote, Bitcoin experienced a dip driven by pre-vote jitters. Rumors of partisan gridlock—specifically concerning stablecoin yield provisions and ethics amendments attached to the bill—circulated rapidly through trading desks and social media, amplifying uncertainty. Despite this noise, the selling pressure proved shallow. By the time the Senate session commenced, Bitcoin had already recovered its footing, marching toward $75,000 and effectively shrugging off the legislative defeat once the final tally confirmed the bill’s failure.

    Derivatives Market Signals Resilience and Priced-In Outcomes

    The disconnect between the legislative outcome and the market’s muted reaction finds its clearest explanation in the derivatives arena. According to Jag Kooner, head of derivatives at Bitfinex, derivatives traders largely anticipated the Senate’s failure to approve the law. The modest spot reaction reflects a market that was already not positioned for a legislative breakthrough, he said. This insight suggests that sophisticated market participants had hedged or reduced exposure well in advance, neutralizing the potential for a cascading liquidation event. The data implies that the Clarity Act’s passage was viewed as a potential upside catalyst rather than a baseline expectation, meaning its failure represented a maintenance of the status quo rather than a negative surprise.

    Why This Matters

    The market’s ability to absorb simultaneous hawkish monetary policy and legislative disappointment signals a maturation of the Bitcoin market structure. It suggests that institutional participation and derivatives sophistication have created a buffer against binary political events that historically caused violent volatility. For investors, the key takeaway is that Bitcoin’s price discovery is increasingly decoupling from U.S. regulatory timelines, relying instead on global liquidity conditions and adoption metrics. The next critical inflection points will likely come from Federal Reserve policy signals regarding the terminal rate and incoming inflation data, rather than Congressional action on market structure bills.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Why did Bitcoin not crash after the Clarity Act failed in the Senate?

    Derivatives traders had largely anticipated the bill’s failure and adjusted positioning accordingly. The market was not priced for a legislative breakthrough, so the negative outcome was already reflected in prices, resulting in only a modest spot market reaction.

    What role did the Federal Reserve rate hike play in Bitcoin’s price action?

    Despite the Fed hiking rates—a traditionally bearish signal for risk assets—Bitcoin continued its upward trajectory toward $75,000. This suggests that current market dynamics, including derivatives positioning and supply constraints, are overriding traditional macro correlations in the near term.

    What is the significance of the $75,000 level for Bitcoin?

    The $75,000 level represents a key psychological and technical resistance zone. Bitcoin’s ability to approach and hold near this level amid adverse legislative and macro news is being interpreted by analysts as a sign of underlying structural strength and buying conviction.