Author: Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf

The appointment of David Sacks as the United States’ crypto czar marks a significant shift in the country’s approach to blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI). With the new administration prioritizing pro-crypto policies, Sacks is expected to lead efforts in crafting a favorable regulatory environment.

“For the last four years, the Biden administration has basically prosecuted and persecuted crypto companies, really driving them offshore,” Sacks recently stated on Fox Business.

On Tuesday, Sacks, a Silicon Valley venture capitalist with close ties to Elon Musk and Peter Thiel, will present his approach in Washington.

David Sacks and the PayPal Mafia

A key figure in the famous PayPal Mafia, Sacks played a pivotal role in the early days of PayPal Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:PYPL). The 52-year-old South African native, who earned a law degree from the University of Chicago, became the company’s first chief operating officer.

After eBay acquired PayPal for $1.5 billion in 2002, Sacks ventured into startups, founding and investing in companies such as:

Geni, a genealogy platform

Yammer, an enterprise communication tool later acquired by Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT)

Zenefits, a human resources software firm

In 2017, Sacks launched Craft Ventures, a venture capital firm backing startups in AI and blockchain, including BitGo, a major player in crypto custody, and Solana (CRYPTO:SOL) via an investment in Multicoin Capital.

The Political Shift: From Tech to Trump

Like Musk and Thiel, Sacks is vocal about his right-wing political stance. He has penned conservative opinion pieces and criticized U.S. foreign aid to Ukraine.

His political engagement intensified in 2023 when he hosted a fundraiser for Donald Trump, raising $12 million for the campaign. Sacks has since become a key policy advisor, particularly on crypto regulations and AI integration.

What’s Next for Crypto Under David Sacks?

Now holding one of the most influential roles in blockchain policy, Sacks faces high expectations from the industry. His priorities include:

Stablecoin Legislation – Pushing for clear regulations on stablecoins like Tether (CRYPTO:USDT).

Bitcoin Strategic Reserve – Exploring whether the U.S. should hold Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) as part of its reserves.

AI & Blockchain Synergies – Encouraging research on decentralized AI applications.

He will have support from other pro-crypto policymakers, including Paul Atkins, Trump’s pick for the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and Howard Lutnick, nominee for Secretary of Commerce, who has business ties to Tether.

As Sacks outlines his vision, the industry will be watching closely. His policies could determine whether the U.S. reclaims its dominance in crypto and AI innovation.

The Future of U.S. Crypto Regulation Under David Sacks

With David Sacks at the helm of crypto and AI policy, industry leaders are optimistic about a more innovation-friendly regulatory landscape. The previous administration’s approach led to regulatory uncertainty, prompting many crypto firms to move operations offshore. Sacks has made it clear that his objective is to bring these companies back and create a business-friendly environment in the U.S.

One of the most anticipated developments under Sacks is the possibility of the U.S. adopting Bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset. While nations like El Salvador have already taken steps in this direction, the U.S. embracing Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) on a national level would be a game-changer for institutional adoption.

Additionally, Sacks is expected to streamline SEC regulations under the leadership of Paul Atkins, reducing legal barriers that have stifled crypto exchanges and DeFi projects.

With AI and blockchain integration also on the agenda, Sacks’ policies could significantly impact sectors beyond finance, including cybersecurity, healthcare, and supply chain management.

As the Trump administration’s crypto czar, Sacks has a unique opportunity to shape the future of digital assets and AI in the U.S. The industry is now waiting to see how his vision translates into concrete policy actions.

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The recent Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) price crash to $91,200 has sparked debates over whether the crypto bull run is ending. While BTC recovered to $99,000 after news that U.S. tariffs on Mexico would be delayed, uncertainty looms over the market.

Bitcoin Faces Key Resistance Levels Amid Market Jitters

The ongoing market turbulence stems from former President Donald Trump’s aggressive trade policies, which many compare to the 1930 Smoot-Hawley tariffs that deepened the Great Depression.

Financial markets reacted swiftly, with the tech-heavy NASDAQ Composite (NASDAQ:IXIC) dropping 2.40% before recovering. Meanwhile, Bitcoin’s price movements have mirrored investor sentiment regarding the tariff impact.

Trump’s recent announcement that “pain” from tariffs is necessary caused Bitcoin to dip to $91,200, a critical support level. However, an agreement between the U.S. and Mexico postponed new tariffs by a month, prompting a recovery in risk assets, including crypto.

Still, BTC faces resistance at $100,000, $102,000, and $104,000. A rejection at these levels could lead to a retest of $91,200, or even a deeper correction toward $74,000, according to market analysts.

Traders remain cautious as Trump is set to hold discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Any negative developments could reignite selling pressure, particularly if tariffs expand to other major trading partners like China and the European Union.

Crypto Bull Run at Risk? Indicators Signal Market Weakness

While some investors believe the crypto bull run is intact, key indicators suggest caution.

The MVRV (Market Value to Realized Value) momentum indicator remains weak, signaling a potential cooldown. Historical data shows that a drop below $92,100 could trigger a deeper sell-off.

Additionally, the crypto market’s high leverage levels mean that liquidations can intensify downward moves. Over the past 24 hours, more than $2.2 billion in leveraged positions were wiped out, making this one of the largest liquidation events since the FTX collapse in 2022.

Smart Money Investors Shift Focus to Low-Cap Cryptos

Amid the uncertainty surrounding Bitcoin’s direction, institutional investors and high-net-worth traders are increasingly shifting their focus to low-cap cryptocurrencies.

For instance, Solana-based token Alpha (CRYPTO:ALPHA) surged 46% on Monday, defying the market downturn. This suggests that investors are hunting for alternative opportunities beyond large-cap assets.

Similarly, AI-driven meme coin Mind of Pepe (CRYPTO:MIND) is gaining traction. Unlike traditional meme coins, MIND leverages artificial intelligence to provide real-time market analysis and community-driven trading signals.

MIND’s ongoing presale has already raised nearly $5 million, highlighting strong investor interest despite broader market volatility. With its ability to self-manage social media trends, some traders believe MIND could deliver 10x to 100x returns in the coming months.

Altcoins Remain High-Risk, High-Reward Plays

Despite the resilience of select low-cap cryptos, large-cap altcoins remain vulnerable. Tokens like Fartcoin (CRYPTO:FARTCOIN), AI16Z (CRYPTO:AI16Z), and AIXBT (CRYPTO:AIXBT) continue to show strong correlation with Bitcoin, meaning another BTC dip could drag these assets lower.

However, traders who correctly time entries into high-demand altcoins could benefit from significant short-term rallies. Historically, the assets that bounce the hardest during market recoveries tend to have the strongest upside potential.

Final Thoughts: Should You Still Buy Bitcoin?

The crypto bull run may not be over, but investors should proceed with caution. Bitcoin must decisively break above $104,000 to confirm bullish momentum. Until then, volatility is likely to persist, with potential downside risks remaining.

For those seeking safer entries, dollar-cost averaging (DCA) may be a prudent strategy. Additionally, keeping an eye on alternative assets like low-cap cryptos and AI-driven projects could provide opportunities even in uncertain market conditions.

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Cryptocurrency markets have faced severe losses following former President Donald Trump’s tariff announcements, with leveraged positions amplifying the sell-off. Unlike traditional assets, crypto markets operate 24/7, leading to heightened volatility.

Crypto Tariff Impact Hits Digital Assets Hard

While global markets reacted negatively to the tariff news, digital assets took a particularly hard hit. Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) saw a decline of up to 6.8%, while other major tokens like XRP (CRYPTO:XRP) and Solana (CRYPTO:SOL) suffered double-digit losses.

Ethereum (CRYPTO:ETH) experienced the sharpest drop, losing as much as 25% before recovering slightly. This sell-off erased all of its post-election gains and pushed it to a five-month low.

Why Crypto Reacted More Sharply Than Stocks

Trump’s tariff policy announcement targeted Canada, Mexico, and China, affecting investor sentiment across various sectors. However, the crypto tariff impact was more pronounced due to three key factors:

Continuous Trading: Unlike stock markets, crypto never sleeps. The weekend sell-off accelerated, leading to further declines as markets reopened Monday.

High Leverage: Many traders use margin to amplify gains, but during downturns, forced liquidations accelerate losses.

Ethereum’s Role in DeFi: Ethereum is the backbone of decentralized finance (DeFi), meaning automated liquidations disproportionately affected ETH.

Massive Liquidations Triggered by Tariff Fears

According to Matt Mena, a crypto research strategist at 21Shares, more than $2.2 billion in crypto positions were liquidated within 24 hours. This figure surpasses liquidation events seen during the collapses of FTX and Terra Luna in 2022.

Zack Shapiro, head of policy at the Bitcoin Policy Institute, noted that Ethereum’s outsized losses stem from its deeper integration into DeFi platforms. Many decentralized exchanges and market makers rely on ETH, making it especially vulnerable.

Will Bitcoin Hold Above Key Support?

Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) has hovered near the critical $90,000 level. Standard Chartered has warned that if BTC drops below this threshold, it could trigger a broader market downturn.

Some analysts see this correction as a necessary market reset. Mena suggests that the crypto sector had been overheating, particularly with the rise of Trump-themed meme coins. He believes the current sell-off could help stabilize the market.

“Regardless, the market needed a cooldown, and this tariff-driven sell-off may have just been the catalyst to force a reset,” Mena said.

What’s Next for Crypto Markets?

Despite the sharp drop, some investors see opportunities. Historically, crypto has shown resilience, rebounding from major sell-offs driven by external shocks. Traders are now watching for signs of stabilization, particularly in Bitcoin, which often sets the trend for the broader market.

One key factor will be how institutional investors react. Firms like BlackRock (NYSE:BLK) and Coinbase (NASDAQ:COIN) have been increasing their exposure to digital assets through spot Bitcoin ETFs and custody services. If institutional demand remains strong, it could help support prices.

Additionally, regulatory clarity may play a role. Trump’s policies on tariffs have shaken markets, but his stance on crypto remains a wildcard. Some speculate that his administration could take a more favorable approach to digital assets, which might attract more institutional investors in the long run.

Investor Strategies in a Volatile Market

For investors navigating this volatility, risk management is crucial. Analysts suggest that dollar-cost averaging (DCA) could be a safer strategy during uncertain times. This method involves buying crypto in regular increments rather than making large, one-time purchases, reducing the risk of buying at peak prices.

Additionally, diversification remains key. While Bitcoin and Ethereum dominate the market, alternative assets such as stablecoins and blockchain-based equities, including companies like Marathon Digital Holdings (NASDAQ:MARA), could offer stability in turbulent periods.

Final Thoughts

The crypto tariff impact underscores how external economic policies can shake digital markets. While some analysts view the sell-off as a short-term correction, traders remain cautious as uncertainty around Trump’s trade policies continues.

Long-term investors may see this as a buying opportunity, while short-term traders brace for further volatility. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the market stabilizes or if another leg downward is in store.

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Interest in crypto investment skyrocketed last year, driven by soaring bitcoin (BTCUSD) prices and heightened demand for bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs). According to a recent survey by Bitwise and VettaFi, 96% of financial advisors reported receiving questions about cryptocurrencies from their clients—a significant jump from 88% the previous year. However, only 14% of advisors currently recommend crypto allocations in portfolios, citing concerns over volatility and risk.

Bitcoin’s Rally Fuels Investor Curiosity

Bitcoin’s meteoric rise in early 2024 fueled investor interest. Spot bitcoin ETFs entered the market, reducing barriers to entry and generating a frenzy of investment activity. Demand surged further when the U.S. presidential election brought hopes of crypto-friendly policies under the new Trump administration. By December, bitcoin prices reached a record $108,000, a dramatic increase from the $67,000 seen before the election.

Andrew Cook, partner at Berman McAleer, explains, “Whenever an asset delivers substantial returns, the fear of missing out (FOMO) can tempt investors. Bitcoin’s performance, coupled with the hype around new ETFs, intensified this sentiment.”

Notably, institutional investors are not immune to FOMO. Nearly half of the surveyed advisors working with pensions, RIAs, and wirehouses admitted to holding crypto assets in their personal portfolios.

Why Caution Still Prevails

Despite rising client inquiries, financial advisors urge caution with crypto investment. Bitcoin’s volatility remains a significant concern. Within a three-month span, its price fluctuated from $67,000 to over $108,000 before dipping below $90,000. Such rapid changes highlight the inherent risks of digital assets.

Justin Waring, senior total wealth strategist at UBS, advises clients to treat crypto as a speculative asset. “Only invest what you can afford to lose,” he warns. Waring often recommends placing crypto holdings in a separate “entertainment” account rather than a core investment portfolio.

Portfolio Allocation and Risk Management

Advisors generally suggest conservative crypto allocations—no more than 3% to 10% of a portfolio. Stephan Shipe, a certified financial planner (CFP) at Scholar Financial Advising, recommends trimming holdings when crypto becomes a disproportionately large portion of a client’s assets. “Reducing exposure helps mitigate the outsized risk,” Shipe explains.

Crypto ETFs provide a safer alternative for cautious investors. Unlike direct crypto ownership, ETFs offer simplified access without the risk of losing private keys or passwords. However, even these investment vehicles are subject to market volatility.

Regulatory Implications and Education

As crypto becomes more mainstream, regulatory developments will shape its future. The recent election raised expectations for favorable crypto legislation, but uncertainty remains. Advisors emphasize the need for comprehensive investor education to help clients distinguish between legitimate opportunities and speculative bubbles.

Conclusion

While the surge in crypto investment interest highlights its growing appeal, financial advisors continue to prioritize caution. Balancing the potential for high returns with the risks of extreme volatility is crucial. By focusing on prudent portfolio management, regulatory awareness, and investor education, individuals can navigate this dynamic market more safely.

Investors should also be aware of evolving technologies that influence the crypto market. Innovations like decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) bring additional complexity and risk to the space. Understanding these technologies requires thorough research and professional guidance. Advisors recommend ongoing education through reputable financial resources and consultation with experts specializing in digital assets.

Furthermore, diversification remains key. While crypto can be part of a portfolio, it should complement, not replace, traditional investment vehicles like stocks and bonds. Diversifying helps mitigate the impact of crypto’s unpredictable swings on overall financial health. Ultimately, a balanced strategy with clear goals and risk parameters ensures a more resilient investment approach.

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As social media continues to expand its influence, its impact on crypto investment behavior is becoming increasingly apparent. A recent study from the University of Georgia highlights the strong connection between social media usage and investment in digital currencies.

Cryptocurrencies, also known as “crypto,” are digital assets used for payments and speculative investments. Over the past decade, their popularity has surged, driven in part by online discussions and promotions on various platforms.

Crypto Investment and Social Media Platforms

The study found a notable correlation: approximately half of all social media users surveyed had invested in cryptocurrencies, compared to only 10% of those who do not use social media. Furthermore, the likelihood of investing increased with the number of platforms a user engaged with.

Among the most influential platforms were YouTube, Reddit, Twitter, and Clubhouse, where users actively discuss crypto markets and investment strategies. In contrast, Instagram users showed a lower tendency to invest in cryptocurrencies, likely due to its focus on visual content rather than in-depth discussions.

According to Lu Fan, an associate professor at the University of Georgia’s College of Family and Consumer Sciences, peer influence plays a significant role. “When people see friends, family, or celebrities they admire investing in crypto, it creates a sense of social proof that can drive investment decisions,” Fan explained.

Crypto Investment Patterns and Demographics

Men, younger adults, and individuals with higher risk tolerance were found to be more inclined toward crypto investment. Interestingly, those with advanced education levels were less likely to invest, indicating a complex relationship between knowledge, risk perception, and investment behavior.

Age also proved significant, with older individuals showing less interest in digital currencies. However, broader public awareness of cryptocurrencies has grown. In 2018, a survey by the National Financial Capability Study and Investor Survey revealed only 15% of participants had invested in crypto. By 2021, this number nearly doubled to 28%.

Despite increasing popularity, Fan advises caution. “Crypto markets are highly volatile. Investors need to ask, ‘Does this align with my financial goals? Is it the right investment for me?’ rather than simply following trends.”

Risk Factors in Crypto Investment

The study warns against relying solely on social media for financial decisions. Misinformation, scams, and overconfidence are prevalent risks, particularly for younger investors. Social media can foster a false sense of expertise, leaving many vulnerable to poor advice or fraud.

“Younger adults are both the majority of social media users and the most active crypto investors,” noted Fan. “Improving financial literacy and media literacy is crucial to help them differentiate fact from opinion and avoid common pitfalls.”

The researchers recommend that policymakers consider these findings when crafting regulations for cryptocurrencies and that educational initiatives promote critical thinking about financial content on social platforms.

The study, co-authored by Kyoung Tae Kim of the University of Alabama, was published in the International Journal of Bank Marketing.

Conclusion

Social media’s role in shaping crypto investment behavior highlights the need for responsible investing practices. While platforms like YouTube and Reddit offer valuable insights, it’s essential to balance online advice with sound financial judgment. By fostering better literacy and regulatory frameworks, investors can navigate the crypto market more effectively.

As the digital economy evolves, understanding the risks and benefits of cryptocurrencies becomes even more critical. Financial institutions, educators, and regulators must work together to promote responsible investment strategies. Increased transparency and accessible educational resources are key to empowering individuals, especially younger investors, to make informed decisions. By focusing on knowledge and risk assessment, society can harness the potential of crypto investments while mitigating pitfalls. Digital finance literacy programs, tailored to different age groups, will help build a generation of smarter, more resilient investors in the ever-changing financial landscape.

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