Author: Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf

As traditional stock markets in the U.S. and Europe close their doors for Good Friday on April 18, the crypto markets remain open 24/7, highlighting one of the key advantages of digital asset trading. While exchanges like the New York Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange observe public holidays, cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) and Ethereum (CRYPTO:ETH) continue trading around the clock—without exception.

This uninterrupted trading access has become a defining feature of the crypto economy, providing investors with continuous flexibility, instant liquidity, and the ability to respond to real-time global events even when traditional markets are paused.

Why Crypto Markets Stay Open 24/7

The crypto markets’ 24/7 accessibility is made possible by blockchain technology, which is decentralized and doesn’t rely on a central authority to function. Unlike stock markets that operate during set trading hours and close on weekends and holidays, crypto assets are powered by networks of global computers running nonstop.

This infrastructure allows crypto exchanges like Coinbase (NASDAQ:COIN) and Binance to facilitate trades at any time—day or night—regardless of local business hours. For many investors, this round-the-clock operation is more aligned with today’s fast-moving global economy.

Benefits of 24/7 Crypto Markets

The ability to trade anytime gives crypto investors several advantages:

• Real-time market reactions: Crypto traders can instantly respond to breaking news, earnings announcements, or geopolitical events—even outside regular trading hours. 
• Inflation hedging: In times of economic uncertainty, like during recent inflationary cycles or the ongoing U.S.-China tariff tensions, crypto offers a way to reallocate capital quickly. 
• Global access: With no centralized closing bell, investors from any country can participate without being restricted by time zones or holiday schedules. 

For example, when traditional markets are closed for Good Friday, traders may still adjust their positions in Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) or Solana (CRYPTO:SOL), reacting to global developments without missing a beat.

Crypto’s Appeal During Market Closures

Market closures like Good Friday offer a stark reminder of how different the traditional and crypto worlds operate. On holidays, while major indices like the NASDAQ Composite (NASDAQ:IXIC) and the S&P 500 (INDEXSP:.INX) remain static, the crypto markets keep moving, often becoming more volatile due to lighter trading volumes and higher retail activity.

For active traders, this presents unique opportunities. Price swings during holidays can lead to profitable trades or strategic entries and exits that wouldn’t be possible in the stock market until after the holiday.

Additionally, for long-term investors, the open nature of crypto means they can rebalance portfolios or initiate positions at their convenience—not just during preset hours.

Risks of 24/7 Crypto Trading

While crypto markets open 24/7 provide unmatched flexibility, this constant access comes with risks. The lack of downtime can lead to investor burnout, and round-the-clock volatility may trigger emotional trading decisions. Furthermore, scams and hacks can happen at any time, making it crucial for traders to use secure platforms and follow best practices for protecting digital assets.

Still, for those who understand the landscape and manage their risk, the benefits often outweigh the downsides.

A Glimpse Into the Financial Future

The idea of financial markets that never sleep may seem futuristic, but it’s already a reality in the crypto world. The model of crypto markets open 24/7 reflects the growing demand for seamless, borderless financial participation.

As traditional finance continues to evolve, it’s possible we’ll see greater integration between these two worlds. Until then, cryptocurrency offers a unique advantage: staying open when others close—offering global financial opportunities, even on holidays.

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In a candid interview on The Journeyman podcast with financial strategist Raoul Pal, Barry Silbert—the founder of Digital Currency Group—delivered a jarring assessment of the crypto industry. According to Silbert, 99.9% of cryptocurrency tokens are worthless, offering no real value to the ecosystem. His statement sent shockwaves through the crypto world, igniting fresh debate on which digital assets truly have staying power.

These Barry Silbert crypto views carry weight. As one of the earliest institutional investors in Bitcoin, his voice resonates across the blockchain industry. Silbert, who began investing in Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) when it was trading at just $7 back in 2011, has witnessed every stage of the crypto market’s evolution—from fringe tech experiment to trillion-dollar asset class.

Most Crypto Tokens Are Doomed, Says Barry Silbert

Silbert explained that, despite his fascination with the innovation in the space, he has become increasingly skeptical of new tokens. “I’ve always been intellectually curious about everything else that’s coming out of our space. But for the most part, 99.9% of crypto tokens that are out there have no reason to exist and are worthless,” he said.

His crypto investment philosophy has shifted over time. Initially, he was drawn to Bitcoin for its disruptive potential. But after experiencing several boom-and-bust cycles, Silbert began focusing on investing in the infrastructure surrounding Bitcoin and blockchain tech rather than individual coins.

“Had I just held on to the Bitcoin, I actually would have done better than making those investments,” Silbert admitted. Still, his perspective offers a warning: the majority of tokens being hyped today may fade into obscurity.

Privacy Coins Still Catch Barry Silbert’s Eye

While Barry Silbert remains pessimistic about most of the crypto market, he’s still bullish on privacy-focused digital currencies like Zcash (CRYPTO:ZEC). These coins have lost significant ground over the past few years, but Silbert believes they fill a vital niche. “People are going to realize financial privacy is important to them. There’s a version of Bitcoin that’s private,” he noted, referring to Zcash and other similar projects.

This view aligns with the broader concerns about digital surveillance and the potential for overreach by governments and corporations. In Silbert’s eyes, privacy coins may still have a role in the decentralized future, even if the broader market continues to shrink.

Lessons from Silbert’s Crypto Journey

Barry Silbert’s early journey with Bitcoin is a textbook lesson in market psychology. At one point, he believed he had made a brilliant investment, only to later worry it was a mistake after the price plunged. Yet, as the asset recovered and soared to new highs, he doubled down—not just on Bitcoin, but on companies building around it.

His takeaway? Sometimes, the simplest investment is the most profitable one. While Silbert backed companies like Ripple and others building crypto infrastructure, he confessed that simply holding Bitcoin would’ve yielded higher returns.

It’s a rare moment of transparency from one of the crypto space’s most influential figures and reinforces his broader message: focus on the few strong players, and ignore the noise.

The Future of Crypto Through Silbert’s Lens

Barry Silbert’s crypto views offer a stark reality check in a market flooded with new tokens and speculative hype. He believes that most of today’s cryptocurrencies will not stand the test of time—and history may prove him right. However, his optimism about Bitcoin and select privacy coins shows that there’s still meaningful innovation and value in the space—just not where many expect to find it.

For investors navigating the volatile crypto market, Silbert’s insights are a reminder to look beyond hype and evaluate digital assets with a critical eye. While 99.9% of tokens may be worthless, the remaining 0.1% could define the future of finance.

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The idea of a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve is gaining traction inside Donald Trump’s digital assets advisory council, with a controversial funding method on the table—tariffs. Bo Hines, executive director of the newly formed council, floated the proposal during a recent interview with crypto podcaster Anthony Pompliano. His remarks suggest that the White House may be seeking creative ways to amass Bitcoin without tapping into taxpayer dollars.

Tariffs as a Crypto-Funding Tool

“We’re looking at many creative ways—whether it be from tariffs, whether it be from something else,” Hines said. His comments came in response to questions about how the United States could afford to buy Bitcoin at scale.

Hines also emphasized the goal is to “acquire as much as we can get” of the world’s leading digital asset. However, he was clear that the Bitcoin Strategic Reserve must not become a financial burden on the American public. The idea, according to Hines, is to fund Bitcoin purchases through indirect means, such as tariff revenue, rather than direct public spending.

The Birth of the Bitcoin Strategic Reserve

Donald Trump first unveiled the concept of a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve at the Bitcoin Conference in 2024. The initiative became more formal in early March 2025, when he signed an executive order establishing both the Bitcoin Strategic Reserve and a broader U.S. digital asset stockpile.

At this stage, neither entity has started buying crypto outright. Instead, the focus has been on consolidating digital assets already seized by U.S. law enforcement and laying the groundwork for potential future acquisitions.

While the initial rollout appeared mostly symbolic, Hines’ comments suggest a more proactive phase could soon begin. The former president’s team is now exploring ways to grow these reserves through state-led purchases—financed creatively.

Political and Economic Ramifications

The mention of tariffs as a funding mechanism comes amid a volatile period for global trade and markets. Trump’s fluctuating tariff regime has caused market uncertainty, especially in industries reliant on imported goods. Tariffs on basic items, such as clothing, could drive prices up by as much as 45%, according to NPR.

This strategy could serve a dual purpose: penalizing foreign exporters while funneling the proceeds into Bitcoin acquisitions. However, it raises questions about how such policies would affect U.S. consumers and trade relations globally.

John Nahas, vice president of business development at Ava Labs, highlighted the ongoing tension: “The irony is you went from complete regulatory uncertainty to regulatory certainty. But now there’s general market and geopolitical uncertainty.”

A Broader Digital Asset Strategy

The idea of a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve also signals a wider pivot in U.S. policy toward digital assets. While the Biden administration was known for its cautious regulatory stance, the Trump team is embracing a more assertive and strategic approach.

Under this model, the U.S. government could become an active player in the crypto space, not just a regulator. By investing in Bitcoin, the Trump administration would signal that it sees digital assets not merely as financial instruments, but as strategic economic assets—similar to gold or foreign currency reserves.

Such a move could have ripple effects across markets. Companies like Coinbase (NASDAQ:COIN), MicroStrategy (NASDAQ:MSTR), and even global financial players like Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA), which previously held Bitcoin on their balance sheets, may find new relevance if a national Bitcoin reserve becomes reality.

Final Thoughts

The notion of funding a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve through tariffs may sound unconventional, but it aligns with Trump’s broader political style—bold, nationalistic, and disruptive. Whether the plan moves forward depends on political will and economic feasibility. But one thing is clear: the United States is seriously exploring how digital assets can play a role in its financial and geopolitical strategy.

With Trump’s team openly seeking ways to build crypto reserves without dipping into taxpayer funds, the era of state-backed Bitcoin accumulation may be just beginning.

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Tether, the issuer of the world’s most popular stablecoin USDT, has made another big move—this time in the crypto payments app space. The company recently announced an investment in Hong Kong-based startup Fizen, a self-described “super app” that enables users to perform everyday transactions using cryptocurrencies. This marks Tether’s third major investment in 2025, reflecting its growing appetite for strategic bets in digital finance.

Fizen: A Super App for Crypto Utility

Fizen aims to simplify how consumers interact with cryptocurrencies. Rather than focusing on speculative trading, the crypto payments app allows users to pay for daily needs like mobile phone top-ups and movie tickets using crypto. The platform is designed to run seamlessly in the background, making it so intuitive that users may not even realize they are interacting with blockchain technology.

Leo Vu, CEO and founder of Fizen, said in a statement, “The technology infrastructure is already in place. We lack consumer-friendly applications.” Fizen’s goal is to bridge that gap—bringing crypto into the real world, without the technical friction.

Tether’s Strategic Shift Toward Practical Crypto Solutions

Tether’s investment strategy has taken a clear turn toward practical, utility-driven ventures. While the firm made headlines earlier this year for unconventional moves—like its acquisition of a stake in Italian football club Juventus (BIT:JUVE) and a $385 million bid for a South American farming company—its latest decision re-aligns with its crypto roots.

In March, Tether also took a 30% stake in media firm Be Water, further diversifying its holdings. But with Fizen, the focus is squarely back on crypto payments apps, signaling a renewed interest in supporting technologies that drive real-world blockchain adoption.

Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, stated, “Our investment in Fizen underscores our commitment to expanding global access to efficient and reliable digital financial solutions.”

Stablecoin Powerhouse

As the issuer of USDT, Tether dominates the stablecoin market, with $145 billion in circulation. That’s roughly 62% of the total market share. With reserves that generated $13 billion in profits in 2024 alone, the company has significant firepower for further expansion.

These profits are now being redirected into strategic ventures that align with Tether’s long-term vision: mass adoption of crypto in everyday life. The crypto payments app space, with its focus on functionality and ease of use, is a natural fit.

Fizen’s Backers and Business Model

Other investors in Fizen include blockchain development firm Sotatek, software company VNext, and layer-1 blockchain platform Viction (formerly TomoChain). Fizen’s previous funding came from token sales, although it is unclear whether Tether’s stake was in the form of equity, tokens, or a hybrid deal.

The entry of Tether into this investor pool adds credibility and financial muscle to Fizen’s expansion plans. The startup now has a powerful partner capable of accelerating its product development and market reach.

The Rise of Crypto Payment Infrastructure

Tether’s move comes amid a broader trend in financial technology. Earlier this year, U.S.-based crypto exchange Kraken launched Kraken Pay, a service offering payments in both crypto and fiat. UK fintech giant Revolut introduced a crypto payments card in 2024, and companies like Galaxy Ventures have predicted that payment infrastructure will become one of crypto’s most important battlegrounds.

As digital assets mature, the emphasis is shifting from trading and speculation to practical, everyday utility. The crypto payments app model embodies this transformation.

Final Thoughts

Tether’s investment in Fizen illustrates a growing focus on bringing crypto into mainstream use through seamless and practical applications. With strategic capital behind it and a rapidly evolving sector ahead, Fizen could become a leading name in how consumers interact with digital money—without even knowing they’re using crypto.

As more fintech and blockchain firms follow suit, expect the line between traditional and digital finance to blur even further.

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CartelFi is making waves in the crypto world as its presale has surpassed $500k in just 24 hours. This groundbreaking project is turning idle meme coins into yield-generating assets, attracting massive attention from investors. Could CartelFi be 2025’s biggest moonshot crypto? Let’s dive into why this innovative approach is capturing the spotlight.

CartelFi: Turning Meme Coins into Money Printers

Cryptocurrencies are constantly evolving, and CartelFi is bringing a fresh perspective to the market. By transforming idle meme coins into 24/7 income-generating assets, CartelFi has ignited significant interest. Memecoins, often seen as speculative assets with no inherent utility, are now being leveraged in a new way.

This innovation comes at a time when many crypto investors are looking for ways to gain passive yield without having to sell off their favorite tokens. CartelFi addresses this problem by allowing users to deposit their meme coins into custom-built liquidity pools within CartelFi’s Vaults, offering up to 10,000% annual percentage yield (APY) through single-sided staking. This unique model lets investors retain 100% price exposure while generating income from their tokens. The best part? Investors can still hold onto their memes and wait for that potential 100x, but now their assets are working for them.

A Deflationary Tokenomics Model: The Buyback Engine

CartelFi’s dual-model approach is a key reason behind the growing excitement surrounding the project. Along with the liquidity pools, CartelFi features a relentless buyback engine that utilizes up to 100% of platform fees to purchase CARTFI tokens. Half of these tokens are then burned, creating a deflationary effect. This model, referred to as “programmed scarcity” in CartelFi’s whitepaper, ensures that the token supply continuously shrinks, creating upward pressure on its value.

The more meme liquidity that enters the system, the greater the buybacks become. As the supply of CARTFI decreases, the demand increases. This creates a flywheel of scarcity that intensifies with every trade, stake, or swap. If CartelFi captures just 1% of the $40 billion memecoin market, the resulting $400 million in total value locked (TVL) could lead to millions in daily buy pressure for CARTFI token holders.

Bridging Memes and DeFi

Memecoins have long been viewed as speculative, with little to no real-world utility. However, CartelFi is changing the narrative by giving memes a purpose. For the first time, meme tokens are being transformed into yield-generating assets that can provide returns to holders. This innovative approach effectively monetizes memecoins, allowing users to make money while they sleep, as famously stated by Warren Buffett.

CartelFi applies this principle to the most chaotic corner of the crypto space, elevating meme coins from being “dumb money” to becoming intelligent capital. By offering a mechanism to create value from what was once a joke, CartelFi is bridging the gap between the fun side of crypto and serious financial mechanics. This shift could have far-reaching implications for the entire meme sector, which has historically been seen as volatile and unproductive.

Why CartelFi Could Outperform Every Meme Token in 2025

The CartelFi tokenomics model is one of the most exciting aspects of the project. Unlike other altcoins that typically inflate supply to reward insiders, CartelFi’s buyback and burn mechanics ensure that every interaction within the platform benefits the token holders. This approach ensures that value continuously flows back to investors, making CartelFi a compelling investment opportunity.

With its presale raising $500k in just one day, the demand for CartelFi is undeniable. As CartelFi continues to innovate and attract meme liquidity, it is poised to become a standout project in the crypto world. By combining institutional-style yield mechanics with the power of memecoins, CartelFi is set to kickstart another wave of meme mania.

In conclusion, the potential for CartelFi to become the next big thing in the crypto space is significant. With its deflationary tokenomics, unique yield-generation model, and the ongoing surge in presale interest, CartelFi is positioned to make a major impact in 2025.

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